Sd23


October 14, 2009

International Education

During this period of economic challenges, International students bring much needed funds into the School District and also boost the local economy. Below are some interesting facts:

  • Any international student is required to pay tuition fees to the school district. Tuition fees for the entire 2009/2010 school year are: $12,300.

  • International students do not cost the District or tax-payers anything and in fact, have become an important revenue source for the School District.

  • International students pay into the provincial medical services plan but typically do not require medical services since they must be in good health to obtain a study permit.

  • International students have not been placed in classrooms which are already at maximum capacity. International students are recruited to fill vacant space in our schools.

  • By actively recruiting International students, SD23 generates significant international exposure to the Okanagan which benefits numerous local businesses; students spend money on a range of goods and services.

  • International students pay varying fees depending on the length of their stay. A short program of six weeks can cost $3,000. A five-month program can cost $16,000 including homestay. All of this money supports the economy in the Central Okanagan.

  • Over the past three years the International Education program has produced a net income to the School District in excess of one million dollars. - SD23 is one of approximately 40 school districts in B.C. that enrol International students.

Approved by the Superintendent, Rick Oliver and Marsha Boyle on October 14, 2009

__________________________________________________________________________________________

For comments, please contact:

Rick Oliver, District Principal of International Education (250) 860-9729 ext. 6255

Marsha Boyle, Supervisor of International Education (250) 860-9729 ext.4517

Hugh Gloster, Superintendent of Schools, (250) 860-8888

For background information, please contact Lisa Harrison lharriso@sd23.bc.ca or 470-3284.