By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Eggen: Catholic schools ‘do a great job’

Aug 31, 2017 | 6:00 AM

As the debate rages on about whether Catholic schools should remain publicly funded in our province, Alberta’s education minister is taking a more diplomatic approach.

David Eggen says collaboration between public and Catholic school boards is the most important factor, especially when it comes to realizing cost and other efficiencies.

“We have a strong tradition of Catholic schools in the province. They provide an excellent level of education,” he says. “I, quite frankly, am proud of the work that they do. If it’s a question of efficiency, then we can, through collaboration and sharing certain things, I think do more. If it’s a question of quality of education, I certainly stand behind our Catholic school systems.”

In May, the board of Red Deer Public Schools voted 4-3 in favour of supporting a single publicly-funded education system, the first public school board in the province to do so.

Trustee Dianne Macaulay introduced the motion stating the argument is not about taking away choice.

“When you start talking about religion and changing schools, it starts to be personal. This is about being better stewards of taxpayer dollars,” Macaulay said following the vote.

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Red Deer Catholic Schools Board Chair Guy Pelletier called the vote disappointing, adding there’s no evidence to suggest any changes are required.

Asked what he thought about Red Deer Public’s vote, Eggen is quick to remind that Catholic school systems are enshrined not just in tradition, but in the constitution as well.

“I think boards are always trying to work in the best interest of children. That’s what I do too and quite frankly, I need to make sure I use all the resources I have available, so we’ve built pretty strong school systems — both public really — with the Catholic and public-proper,” he says.

“Over time, things evolve, but you go with your strengths, and quite frankly, both school systems are providing a very top-level of education for the city of Red Deer.”

by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Eggen: Catholic schools ‘do a great job’

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