Unclear how N.S. is prioritizing where new schools are built, auditor general says

Nova Scotia’s auditor general, Kim Adair, recently highlighted the need for more transparency in the province’s spending on school infrastructure. In a comprehensive review of major school projects totaling $2 billion that were underway as of September 2024, Adair found that the decision-making process lacked grounding in evidence and required significant improvements.

Adair emphasized the importance of considering factors such as enrolment projections, modular and portable use, and upcoming housing developments in the planning of new schools. She expressed concerns about the subjective nature of the process and its long-term impact on students. One specific example cited in her report was the justification for four new schools in the Halifax area based on proximity to new housing developments, without clear criteria for selection.

The auditor general also raised alarm about the lack of answers and evidence to support decision-making, particularly in cases where the province could not clarify the basis for its choices. Adair noted discrepancies in the approval of new schools requested by the Halifax Regional Centre for Education, indicating a need for more systematic and transparent processes.

Furthermore, Adair highlighted the critical condition and delays in school infrastructure projects, with 30% of Nova Scotia’s schools in poor condition and 3% in critical condition. She emphasized the importance of using this information for planning purposes, as delays and escalating costs could result in schools that are no longer suitable for their communities.

In addressing concerns about political influence, Adair acknowledged improvements in the decision-making process since a previous review in 2016 but stressed the ongoing need to minimize subjectivity and external pressures. While she did not find direct evidence of political interference in recent projects, she emphasized the importance of ensuring transparency and accountability in school capital planning.

The report prompted six recommendations for improvement, all of which the province has accepted. Education Minister Brendan Maguire highlighted ongoing updates to the capital planning process, involving collaboration with various departments and stakeholders to enhance transparency and efficiency.

Overall, the auditor general’s findings underscore the critical importance of evidence-based decision-making and transparency in school infrastructure planning. By implementing the recommended improvements, Nova Scotia can ensure a more systematic and accountable approach to investing in its educational facilities for the benefit of future generations.