FREDERICTON (GNB) – The 2023-24 budget for the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development was tabled today at the legislative assembly. The $1.7 billion budget features investments to support enrolment growth, inclusion and child care.

“Our children are the drivers of the future in New Brunswick and they deserve to have meaningful and rewarding learning experiences,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan. “The investments we are making through this budget will make a significant difference as we continue working toward building a better education system for all our children.”

To improve access to quality, inclusive and affordable child care, $37 million will be invested in the early learning and child-care sector through the Canada-New Brunswick Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.

This will bring the total investment up to $143 million for 2023-24. Additionally, $4 million has been committed outside this agreement to support the creation of additional preschool child-care spaces within the for-profit child-care sector.

To support enrolment growth in the K-12 system, the budget includes a $33.3 million investment to help schools meet the needs of students. The budget also includes a $30.8 million investment to improve the province’s inclusive education system.

Other highlights include:

  • $2.4 million for early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder;
  • $8.7 million in support for improved literacy and numeracy;
  • $4.4 million to support language acquisition for newcomer students;
  • $2 million for student access to healthy foods in schools which do not have an existing program; and
  • $14.8 million to address cost pressures associated with energy, transportation, and contract services.

“Investing in early learning and education means investing in the future,” said Hogan. “I am proud of the progress we have made, and I look forward to continuing to work with our partners across the province to best meet the needs of New Brunswick families.”

18-04-23