Commentary: Education in Sooke

MapleLine Magazine: Aug.25, 2010 << Back to Breaking News

By Bev Berger, Councillor, District of Sooke

SOOKE, BC. The end of summer brings the beginning of a new school year. Through my children's eyes, back to school is an exciting time, filled with friendship reunions, new backpacks and school supplies. However, for our newly graduated EMCS students this time of year can be confusing and intimidating.

Sooke will yet again lose some of our talented and enthusiastic youth. We have a serious gap in our community, with regard to the 18- to 25-year-olds. As a community we offer little to these young adults.

As a councillor I feel it is our responsibility to explore the idea of bringing post-secondary education to Sooke, more so now during the economic downturn. The cost of sending our kids away from our beautiful community is one that everyone eventually pays for. The financial burden is of course on the shoulders of individual families, however Sooke itself eventually pays the price as well. We will have missed the opportunity to have these talented and energetic young adults in our community!

How do you feel about the idea of having post secondary education in Sooke? What kind of satellite program should council explore? I look forward to your comments: bberger@sooke.ca

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