Advocates are concerned that families in Alberta may face the risk of losing access to licensed preschool programs if changes are not made to the current child care funding model. According to a survey conducted by the Association of Canadian Early Learning Programs (ACE), a majority of preschool operators in Alberta are considering closing their schools either before or during the upcoming school year. These initial findings, although not comprehensive of the entire preschool sector, also indicate that many respondents are experiencing a decrease in enrollment.
Krystal Churcher, a Fort McMurray preschool owner and the chair of ACE, expressed frustration and sadness over the potential closures, emphasizing the importance of these programs to communities. She highlighted the significant investments made by operators to provide families with preschool options.
The funding model in question involves a discrepancy between daycare and preschool programs. Daycare programs receive full-time and part-time funding at a capped rate of $15 a day per child, while licensed preschools are allowed to set their own fees, typically ranging from $160 to $300 per month. This disparity incentivizes parents to opt for daycare programs due to lower fees, despite the structured learning curriculums offered by preschools to prepare children for school.
Alissa Donaldson, executive director of North Glenora Playschool, shared her concerns about the challenges faced by preschools under the current funding system. She highlighted the impact of the removal of a provincial subsidy program and emphasized the need for the government to address the financial attractiveness of daycares over preschools.
The Ministry of Education and Childcare in Alberta acknowledged the changes in the child care sector and emphasized the importance of a flexible system that supports different providers. The government stated its commitment to negotiating a long-term agreement that benefits families and providers while ensuring a sustainable early learning and child care system.
In response to the situation, Churcher called for a leveling of the playing field in terms of funding recognition under the affordability grant, which she believes would have a significant and immediate positive impact on the industry.