January 15, 2021

What’s ahead for our public schools in 2021?

This week, our public schools welcomed back K-12 students to the classroom for in-person learning.

Our top priority remains protecting the health and safety of every single student and staff member in our classrooms, recognizing that students learn better in person. We also know that it’s been hard for them not to see their friends, even though they must continue to be physically distant for at least the next several months. This topic, like others, creates divisiveness and we must be mindful, respectful and show compassion for both sides of this ugly equation.

So, what’s ahead for our public schools as we begin 2021?

Our Association is cautiously optimistic about the year ahead, and we have a number of important projects that we are working on.

We are now into an election year, and this October – Monday, October 18 to be exact – we will have municipal and school board trustee elections. Our Association wants to make sure every voter who supports public schools takes the time to research their local public school board trustee candidates, and votes for the trustee – or trustees – who will best represent them and their interests. Trustees are the voice of their communities. We need to hear from residents in our communities on a regular basis so we can prioritize provincial K-12 education funding and make the decisions that are right for each community.

This is my last year as president, and I really want to make sure we are doing everything possible to benefit our members – locally-elected public school board trustees.

The voice of all our public school board members is foundational to our work. Our members led the development of our Association three-year Work Plan, and they told us that advocating for the importance of public schools in Alberta is one of their key priorities this year. Our members also value the professional development that comes with being a member of the PSBAA, as well as the united voice in support of public schools. We intend to deliver on these priorities.

Throughout this year, I will keep you updated on the exciting work ahead. It’s going to be a productive year, and we are looking forward to it. Thank you for your continued support!

Cathy Hogg,
President