GRANDE PRAIRIE, Alta. – A judge says an Alberta private school and home-schooling agency that was shut down by the province over allegations of misspending can continue operating temporarily, but without government money.
The decision that affects about 3,500 home-schooled students came after a Court of Queen’s Bench hearing in Grande Prairie.
READ MORE: Alberta home school group files injunction against province after being shut down
Trinity Christian School Association and the Wisdom Home Schooling Society want a judge to reverse a move by the NDP government last month that pulled their funding and accreditation.
Justice E.J. Simpson says his decision Friday will protect both students and taxpayers pending the outcome of a hearing set for Jan. 5.
READ MORE: Alberta government shuts down Cold Lake private school; province says insufficient accountability
Jay Cameron, a spokesman for Trinity, says he is pleased with the ruling, while government lawyers declined comment.
In a statement, Education Minister David Eggen said the province stands by its decision.
“I have been informed that the court in Grande Prairie has granted what the judge characterized as an interim-interim injunction until Jan. 5. It is important to note that today’s ruling was not a final determination on the merits of the case. We stand behind the actions that we have taken to date based on the evidence made public in the audit.
“Our priority, as always, is our students and ensuring that every public dollar is spent to ensure they are getting a high-quality education. We will continue to work with all home education providers in the province to support students and parental choice in education.”
The province pulled $5 million per year in funding after a report cited public money being used for lavish parties, alcohol, gift cards, funeral expenses and babysitting.
With files from CJXX and Global News
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