Incoming public school trustees in Calgary are advocating for increased funding to address class size issues and enhance the learning environment. If financial resources are prioritized for hiring more teachers, they believe the Calgary Board of Education (CBE) can creatively utilize non-traditional spaces for classrooms.
Utilizing Non-Traditional Spaces for Classrooms
Susan Vukadinovic, re-elected trustee for wards 8 and 9, emphasized that there are options for classroom allocation. Some schools have extra spaces available, while in the past, classrooms have been doubled up. For instance, Joane Cardinal Schubert High School presently holds certain classes at the YMCA. Additionally, outreach high schools are situated in commercial buildings, and two years ago, Connaught School shifted Grade Six classes to an office building.
Class Size Controversies
Class size has become a focal issue amid recent teachers’ strikes in Alberta. Educators have advocated for capping class sizes, aligning with previously set targets. However, Premier Danielle Smith has stated that insufficient infrastructure prevents the province from accommodating smaller classes.
New Trustee Mandate and Expectations
The re-elected and newly elected trustees are set to commence their roles on October 31. Among them, Laura Hack, a former teacher, aims to advocate strongly for increased per-student funding in Calgary. Currently, CBE allocates $10,342 per student, a figure cited as one of the lowest in Canada.
- Alberta’s funding is significantly below the national average.
- It would reportedly require $1 billion to match this average.
Prioritizing Support for Unique Learning Needs
Newly elected trustee Jenny Regal flagged the need for transparent funding discussions and class size data tracking. She stresses that these efforts are vital for ensuring that all students, especially those with unique learning needs, receive adequate support.
Data Transparency and Class Size Monitoring
Although Alberta previously had class size targets, reporting requirements were lifted in 2019, complicating transparency efforts. Vukadinovic expressed responsibility toward maintaining parental confidence in public education, asserting that CBE students consistently outperform provincial averages on diploma exams.
Addressing the Needs of Diverse Learners
Current trustee Patricia Bolger noted that approximately $50 million from the general student budget is directed toward aiding students with unique needs across various settings. She advocates for enhanced funding to support these complex learners effectively.
Cynthia Cordova, a new trustee from Ontario, recognizes the need for better communication regarding available information at CBE. She perceives a potential for improvement in I education within Calgary’s system compared to other regions.
Community Engagement and Classroom Dynamics
Trustee Charlene May, with a background in day care and oilfield reclamation, discussed the importance of ensuring schools maintain welcoming environments. She plans to monitor the implications of recent provincial regulations around gender identity and parental notification.
As this new cohort of trustees prepares to tackle class size issues, their commitment to exploring non-traditional classroom options and advocating for increased funding signals a proactive approach to education in Calgary.
