The Greater Victoria Board of Education has raised concerns about potential financial benefits received by individuals who opposed the board’s stance on having police officers in schools. The school board trustees were reinstated by the province on May 25, over a year after being dismissed due to disagreements regarding the School Police Liaison Officer (SPLO) program.
Upon their reinstatement, the board discovered that certain policies and procedures related to fiscal responsibility, accountability, and student safety had been altered without explanation during their absence. The board expressed worries about undisclosed financial benefits to those against their position on School Police Liaison Officers and irregular transactions outside standard processes.
The board is currently investigating these matters to ascertain the facts. When asked for further details, the board referred back to their initial statement. The district’s superintendent and other senior leadership members are currently on leave, although the reasons for their absence, whether voluntary, the start date, or the individuals involved, were not disclosed.
Despite the absences, the board remains committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring transparency and proper governance practices. The leave of the staff will not impact the return to school for students and faculty, as arrangements are in place to provide necessary assistance.
The Ministry of Education and Child Care stated that they cannot comment on the district’s human resources issues but emphasized that each school board is responsible for a smooth back-to-school transition. The saga involving the school board began when Education Minister Lisa Beare dismissed the board in January 2025 and appointed a sole trustee after disagreements over the SPLO program.
Following a legal battle, the board was reinstated after revelations of mishandled text messages and administrative errors by the province.
