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Central Okanagan Public school bus (Image Credit: C.O.P.S.)
By Vernon Matters Staff
Time Change

Central Okanagan secondary schools shifting start and end times by 15 minutes

Jun 25, 2026 | 10:29 AM

Secondary school start and dismissal times across the Central Okanagan will shift by 15 minutes this fall after the school board approved changes aimed at improving transportation efficiency and reducing costs.

The board of education voted unanimously to move secondary school hours to 9:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. beginning in September 2026, excluding Central School. Instructional time will remain unchanged.

The district said the adjustment is expected to ease pressure on school bus routes, increase capacity within the existing system and cut transportation costs by nearly $500,000 dollars annually.

Board chair Valene Johnson said the decision followed broad public engagement involving more than 1,200 parents, students, staff and community members.

“We heard thoughtful feedback from all sides of this discussion,” Johnson said. She noted concerns raised around student well-being, transportation reliability, extracurricular activities and family schedules.

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The board acknowledged the later dismissal time may affect after-school employment, sports, childcare and family routines, but said those factors were weighed carefully in its decision.

While the shift is described as relatively small, Johnson said the board recognizes even minor changes can have real impacts on families. She said trustees ultimately concluded the benefits to transportation efficiency and system sustainability supported moving forward.

District staff said schools will work with families and community partners ahead of the change to support a smooth transition.

—

by Vernon Matters Staff
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