What is the PSG?
The Parent Support Group (PSG) is made up of parents or guardians of current St. Andrews students. Every school year, the PSG is responsible to apply for and administer grant money available from the BC Gaming Commission that benefits our students.
What is the purpose of the grant money?
This grant is intended to benefit K-12 students in British Columbia through enhancement of extra-curricular opportunities and community involvement.
How much money does the PSG receive every year?
Currently the PSG receives $20 per student. Our school generally has 175 students so the average annual grant is expected to be $3,500. The amount per student is subject to change.
What is the money used for at St. Andrew's?
Historically, this money has paid for school buses that transport students to and from classroom field trips and Grade 7 outdoor education. Funds have also been used to pay for a Hip-Hop dance workshop.
Who determines where the money goes? Why do we need a PSG?
The BC Gaming Grant has specific guidelines that outline what the grant money can be used towards. The PSG at St. Andrew’s has two intake periods (September & February) where teachers submit a request form for a specific event or activity. The principal then reviews the request forms to confirm if additional fees are within or outside the school budget. The PSG then reviews each request, confirms compliance with grant guidelines, and awards or denies funds. The only way to apply for and receive this particular money from the province of BC is through the existence and running of an autonomous group whose membership consists of parents or guardians of students attending the school (i.e. the Parent Support Group).