St. Joseph High School in Red Deer (rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

APRIL 27-MAY 1

Minister LaGrange marks Education Week amid ongoing concern from teachers

Apr 27, 2020 | 1:25 PM

April 27 to May 1 is Education Week in Alberta, and the minister responsible for that portfolio shared a statement Monday to mark the occasion.

“The theme of Education Week is ‘Learning is a Journey’ and educators and parents across Alberta have truly gone the extra mile to ensure their students and children continue to learn during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Minister Adriana LaGrange, a former board chair at Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools.

“While I realize our temporary normal is not the same as being in school, we will continue to put the safety of students and staff first, and give school authorities the flexibility to do what is best in their communities. Together, we will get through this.”

LaGrange also thanks Albertans for being collaborative and innovative the past several weeks, adding that everyone should take a moment to recognize the role Alberta’s education system plays in the province’s success.

“I appreciate the minister’s message of support for education in this province. By thanking Albertans, I assume she means public school teachers and assistants, for they are truly working their tails off to keep education in Alberta at such a high quality,” says Kelly Aleman, president of Alberta Teachers’ Association Local 60 for Red Deer Public.

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“Of course this would ring a bit more sincere if her government did not cut funding for education during a time of such upheaval, something that other provincial governments have chosen not to do.”

Aleman is referring to the removal of $128 million from the education budget which was announced after classes were cancelled in March due to COVID-19.

The decision from the provincial government caused the lay-offs of approximately 25,000 support staff, including educational assistants, substitute teachers and bus drivers. It also came after LaGrange said on March 15 that, “school authorities will receive their full allotment of funding for the 2019-2020 school year.”

The Government of Alberta went on to commit that those dollars will return to normal levels when in-person classes resume.

Different school divisions deferred their lay-offs until May 1 or June 1.

“Teachers, I am so proud to be a colleague. In these very challenging times, you continue to be an inspiration,” Aleman adds. “There are so many examples of how you go above and beyond to meet the needs of your students. I know you miss them, so do I. We will get through this, but in the mean time, stay safe, take care of yourselves and your families.”