Resolutions

Be it resolved that SUMA request of the Provincial Government that there be representation from the city sector, the town and village sector and northern municipalities on the committee reviewing the Foundation Grant formula.

Government has committed to develop and implement a provincial K-12 funding grant mechanism that is simpler, more transparent and more equitable. The current formula is unnecessarily complex and includes several differential rates that need to be assessed. Work on the grant is well underway and the first phase changes will be implemented on budget day 2006-07 with further changes to follow in 2007-08. The Foundation Operating Grant External Reference Committee has been used as government's sounding board for proposed changes. This committee is chaired by Saskatchewan Learning and includes representatives from the Saskatchewan School Board Association, Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation, Saskatchewan Association of School Business Officials and League of Educational Administrators, Directors, and Superintendents. All representatives have a detailed understanding of the grant and school division operations. As we work through the changes to the grant, we are guided by four principles: equity, transparency, simplicity and accountability. Government will continue to work closely with your association and all education partners as we look forward to the transition to new and sustainable school divisions, a revised provincial educational funding policy, and a long-term strategy on education property tax relief.