ASCA AGM Results to Education Minister 2024
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Dear Ms. Bodell:
Thank you for your recent letters to the Honourable Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta, and me regarding advocacy policies adopted during the association’s annual general meeting. It was a pleasure to meet with your team on June 4, 2024, to discuss some of the newly adopted policies, and I am pleased to have the opportunity to address policies ER24-01 and ER24-02 on behalf of the Premier.
ER24-01 – Opposing the Alberta Government’s Proposed Policies Re: “Preserving Choice for Children and Youth:” Alberta’s education system and legislation recognize the importance of acceptance and inclusion for all students and families. Under the Education Act, school authorities are required to ensure a welcoming, caring, respectful, and safe school environment for all students, parents, and staff. All courses and instructional materials must also respect diversity and promote understanding and respect for others. The policy changes announced by Premier Smith do not contemplate changes to these requirements that ensure safety for students in the classroom.
ER24-02 – Preserve Non-Partisan Elections for Alberta School Board Trustees: The Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2024 has introduced several changes to the Local Authorities Election Act and Municipal Government Act. Further details on how these changes will be implemented and how they will affect school board elections will be set out in supporting regulations, which have not yet been developed.
Thank you for your continued advocacy in support of Alberta students.
Best,
Demetrios Nicolaides ECA PhD
Minister of Educationcc: Honourable Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta