FCSS-FESC Statement on Vancouver University Transition Program Pause

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VANCOUVER, BC – A longstanding gifted program paused admissions on February 28, 2024 following a decision by the B.C.’s Ministry of Education. The University Transition Program (UTP) provides students each year with the opportunity to complete high school within two years and prepares them for early entrance into university.

For many gifted students, the value of programs such as the UTP extend far beyond academic rigor - they provide an environment where these students’ unique social emotional needs are met. 

“This change will inevitably leave parents and gifted students with one less gateway to maximize their potential," said FCSS-FESC Executive Director Daniel Zhang. 

We strongly urge the B.C. Ministry of Education and the Vancouver School Board to consider resuming UTP admission and meaningfully increase mental health support for all students.

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Founded in 2012, the Federation of Canadian Secondary Students / Fédération des élèves du secondaire au Canada (FCSS-FESC) is an entirely non-partisan youth-led charity that strives to advocate for students in secondary schools and CÉGEPs across Canada. 

Media Contact:

Frank Li, Chief Communications Officer
frank.li@fcss-fesc.ca 
+1 (289) 408-8600 ext. 104