Insert Date

Cut and paste MLA/Minister name

Cut and paste MLA email address

Delivered by email

Dear MLA insert MLA/Minister Name,

Re: Transportation Funding

I am writing in support of the Foothills School Division’s (FSD) need for continued funding enhancements in transportation grants.

Foothills School Division is struggling to find enough spare bus drivers (some routes are vacant when drivers are sick or on leave), cope with increased inflation (fuel, parts, labour) pressures, and purchasing new buses (lower Canadian Dollar value and inflation).

Statistics Canada has reported a 10.3% increase in inflation, Transportation sector, from August 2021 to August 2022.

I am aware of the small increases to the transportation grant, but these are ineffective when the FSD’s Funding Profile has not increased from year to year. I am sure that the Board of Trustees is appreciative of the fuel rebate announced last spring and would hope that this is permanent funding moving forward. More action is required to ensure safe and adequate transportation for our students.

I am also asking for you to continue to advocate with your colleagues in Treasury and Caucus by asking them to make additional contributions to total board funding. This is in order to meet the diminishing ability of school divisions to meet the rising costs of operating.

Thank you for the opportunity to advocate for our school boards and partners. I trust you will advocate for the safety of our youth.

Respectfully,

Insert name