The nature kindergarten program that began at two Victoria schools in 2014 is losing its funding at the end of June. The program got students out of the classroom and into nature on a regular basis for learning experiences.
But last week the Greater Victoria School Board gave notice to parent advisory councils at South Park and James Bay Community schools that there will be no more money after this school year ends. Instead they'll share the $55,500 budgeted for next year to schools throughout the district.
Joanna Verano with South Park's Parent Advisory committee says it's disappointing, especially since there is such demand for the program, and it was considered a success:
"The people who were participating in that program definitely benefited from it. The way the school district is saying they want to spread out the outdoor education more to other schools as opposed to just specific locations I think indicates it wasn't a failed program. But I am curious to find out how that's going to roll over."
Verano says not all schools are close to nature and she wonders how they will be able to use the funds. Meantime she says since South Park is located near Beacon Hill Park, the beach and harbour, students will still be able to get outside to learn from time to time.
Meantime, Sooke School District 62 has had one nature kindergarten program running since 2012 and will be adding another in the fall.