Former Principal at Britannia Accused of Stealing Donations

Photo Credit: Ben Nelms/CBC

The former principal of an elementary school in Vancouver is being sued for stealing more than $170,000 in school funds, much of which was intended to help students’ families in need.

Tricia Rooney, also known as Tricia Low, the ex-principal of Britannia Elementary School, is facing charges from the Vancouver School Board.

According to the VSB’s claim, Rooney had been writing and cashing in cheques made out to herself, using the school board credit card for personal purchases and to pay personal creditors, taking funds raised through events for herself, and cancelling events to keep the refunds.

Approximately 200 students are enrolled at Britannia Elementary School. About half the student body is Indigenous and many students’ families have trouble paying for food and clothing. Rooney would take gift cards donated with the intent of helping families in need for her personal use. 

In September 2019, a “routine budgetary report” showed a significant deficit, according to the claim. Rooney said that this was due to a delay in receiving a provincial grant, but provided no documentation to support this.

Eventually, in January 2020, the VSB launched a formal investigation, which uncovered more of Rooney’s wrongdoings. This investigation revealed Rooney’s unlawful actions dating back to at least December 2017, a little after she had become principal of the school.

The claim continues to mention Rooney’s lack of financial reports and lies about the revenue earned from fundraising activities and donations to the school, “with the objective of concealing the wrongful acts”.

The VSB seeks the $170,451.37 it alleges Rooney took, as well as special damages, punitive and exemplary damages, and court costs.