Dear New GCA Families,
I hope you are all staying well in this current crisis.
This situation is certainly unlike anything experienced in our lifetimes. From business closures to mass layoffs, the collision of health and economic crises have created unparalleled challenges in our work and family lives.
We know that all our GCA families are affected in one way or another, and we want to help.
Government funding impacts
In February, Alberta Education announced changes to the funding formula for all schools in the province, effective next school year. Then on March 28, the province cut funding for transportation and for support staff while schools are closed, effective this month. Together, these represent a notable reduction in funding for GCA.
Our Board of Directors and administration have reviewed ways to buffer the financial impact of lost government revenue. We are deferring non-essential capital expenditures and reducing operating costs where possible, for example not filling vacant positions.
Tuition relief
GCA has prudently managed our finances for many years. Administration has worked diligently on reducing our financial exposure to public funding by introducing and expanding other revenue streams such as facility rentals and non-government funded programs. We have budgeted conservatively, paid down debt and saved funds as part of our risk mitigation strategy. Now we are in the fortunate position that we can use some of those savings to provide some interim support for GCA families.
As such, we are cancelling the original four per cent (4%) tuition increase for the 2020-21 school year. Tuition will remain at 2019-20 rates.
Looking ahead, it is difficult to predict what the net financial impact of this crisis will be on our school. But we are steadfast in God’s Word, that He cares for every single one of His children, and for every family who is part of this community. Through these challenging days, we remain focused on our mission to Teach Truth, Inspire Excellence, Experience Christ and Serve Through Love.
May God bless and protect you all.
Riaan Kotze
Chair, GCA Board of Directors
Stan Hielema
GCA Head of School
