FAQ’s
- What is the Skills Enhancement Fund?
- Is there a deadline by which we must use our funds?
- What types of training will be approved by the SSEAC?
- Will there be more money available for us to access?
- Do we have to have pre-approval from the Committee before we go ahead with the training?
- When do we receive our funding?
- Where can I find more information?
1. What is the Skills Enhancement Fund?
The Skills Enhancement Fund flows from the Framework Letter of Understanding signed in May 2006. This Framework established the SSEAC and provided the committee with $3 million to support skills training, retraining or professional enhancement of support staff employees. In the fall of 2009, the SSEAC decided to re-allocate $3 million from the Workforce Adjustment fund to the Skills Enhancement allowing for a total of $6million to support skill development of support staff bargaining unit employees.
2. Is there a deadline by which we must use our funds?
No, there is no longer a formal deadline by which the funds must be used. Although there is no deadline, we are encouraging districts and locals to plan to use the funds over the course of the next school year (2010/11).
3. What types of training will be approved by the SSEAC?
It is important that the training support skill development of employees and that both the district and the local sign off on the identified training initiative. The committee has provided funds to support training such as: trades cross-training, IT upgrading, POPARD, enhanced bus driver, BCeSiS, upgrading Microsoft skills, or accounting courses.
4. Will there be more money available for us to access?
At this point, no there are no further funds. The $6 million have been allocated to all districts. Should some districts not use their allocated funds, the committee may re-distribute the funds.
5. Do we have to have pre-approval from the Committee before we go ahead with the training?
No, you do not need to have formal approval from the SSEAC before going ahead with the training. Both local parties must be in agreement with the training before proceeding.
6. When do we receive our funding?
Training is reimbursed upon completion of the initiative. We ask that you complete the following form and follow the instructions as outlined in the form.
7. Where can I find more information about the Skills Enhancement Fund’s use?
Below is a summary about the use of Skills Enhancement fund allocation and expenses.
