VIDEO: Parents voice concerns but trustees aren't about to change their minds on grade reconfiguration

The reconfiguration of westside schools has become a heated issue over the past couple of months.

On Wednesday night, more than 50 parents and staff met at the Public School Board meeting in Rutland.

The issue of westside area grade reconfiguration was to be addressed during the public's 15-minute comments and question section. However, the time went well beyond the 15 minutes, as many stepped up to the microphone.

In September 2017 and in January 2018, parents were informed of the westside school capacity issue, but were told by the board no reconfiguration or consolidation would take place in the 2018-2019 school year.

In late February, trustees voted to act on reconfiguration this year instead of the proposed 2019 date, due to new research that came forward about a $1.8 million deficit.

Parents consistently say they were not involved in the swift consultation process and are calling out trustees for failing to follow the Robertson Rules of policies and procedures.

According to the board, a deficit of $1.8 million meant that if reconfiguration didn't happen soon, jobs and programs would be cut.

So far no new motions have been made to change the vote. Instead, assistant superintendent, Rick Oliver, said he's been meeting with students and teachers to get them ready for the upcoming changes.

We want to hear from you!

Whether you're a trustee, faculty member or parent, if you want to share your reaction to the outcome, please send us an email with your name and contact information at news@kelownanow.com.