Date: Thursday, September 19, 2024Victoria, BC – The Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board (VEPB) is pleased to see the Minister of Education and Child Care’s administrative Directive to School District No. 61 (SD61) to move forward with an updated, proactive and coordinated safety plan for students.“We welcome this order and are committed to moving forward with developing a collaborative plan that will create positive relationships, prevent criminal activity, address the current safety concerns, and proactively keep students safe,” says VEPB Board Chair Micayla Hayes.In May 2024, the VEPB voted to write the Minister of Education and Child Care requesting a review of safety in School District 61, in light of the SD61 Board’s reluctance to reinstate the School Police Liaison Officer program and the Ministry’s Safe and Caring School Communities policy.“We feel that this order sends a strong message that the current suite of programs, actions and policies in our schools are not enough to keep students safe. The consequences of not taking action are too significant for children and their families, and the VEPB believes that youth safety must become a top priority in our communities, including schools. It’s clear that the Ministry agrees, and we appreciate them taking action,” continued VEPB Chair Micayla Hayes.Following meetings with the SD61 Board this spring, the Victoria Police Department presented the SD61 Board with a draft Memorandum of Understanding on July 31. The VEPB looks forward to receiving a response soon.

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VEPB Statement On Ministerial Order To School District No. 61

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