By Sheldon Spackman

Calls To Reconsider

Red Deer Public objects to school council funding cuts

Nov 28, 2020 | 11:15 AM

News this month of a 75 per cent cut in funding for the Alberta School Councils’ Association has officials with Red Deer Public Schools expressing their concern over the decision.

In a release issued Friday, district officials admitted their surprise at the news, adding parents have an important voice as partners in education – perhaps the most important one.

“The Association, which supports the important role of school councils across the province, has always had support from the government to carry out its important work in supporting the voice of parents and building capacity,” reads the release. “Last year the government withdrew its funding, only to reinstate it after significant concerns from parents. Given that support, this year’s decision comes as a surprise.”

Government officials say the funding cut was needed to reduce spending on system supports, with the money to be redirected to schools.

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However, Red Deer Public officials note that the Association had requested $690,000 – less than $1.00 per student and in line with previous funding the Association received.

Instead, ASCA will get $170,000 or 22 cents per student, as a one year grant.

District officials say much of that request was to focus on parent engagement and contributions to student success, in alignment with the Alberta Education Business Plan ($510,000), as well as enhancing knowledge and supporting the success of First Nations, Metis and Inuit students ($15,000).

“For many years, Red Deer Public has been supporters of ASCA believing the organization has great value in helping our students be successful. Our parents have been very involved in ASCA by holding positions on the executive,” said Red Deer Public Schools Board Chair Nicole Buchanan.

District officials say Red Deer Public will continue to support ASCA and its goals, suggesting it’s an integral group that creates a full circle partnership between local government, provincial government, home and school.

“While ASCA has committed to continuing to support the important voice of parents on school councils and engaging parents as essential partners in Alberta’s education system, that work will be significantly impacted by the government’s decision,” added Buchanan. “I know the value Red Deer Public places on parent voices. ASCA has played a significant role in supporting that voice across Alberta. What a loss this will be.”

Red Deer Public Schools is calling on the province to review their decision and reconsider how they can continue to support ASCA and the value that it lends to students and their families.