September is an exciting time for kids (and certainly for parents too!). New schools and new friends, all supported by tremendous teachers and staff. As kids head back to school, please drive carefully and remember playground zone speeds of 30 km/h are in effect daily, year-round from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm.
Here in Alberta we have a strong public education system that is accessible and offers high-quality programming to Alberta students. Our public education system is one of the best in the world and all efforts should be made to ensure it continues to improve. To that end, the Alberta Party Caucus 2018 shadow budget called for an increase in funding for K to 12 education over and above what the government proposed.
If we want to make Alberta successful and prosperous going forward, we must be prepared to invest more than they currently do in education. We need to reduce class sizes, support teachers with the resources they need, and continue to keep up with population growth. Additional funding will also allow us to implement programs in schools that promote the arts, mental health and physical well-being. We must make sure that wellness is just as much a priority for our students as academic achievement.
We also need to look at how we design and build school infrastructure. Money should be invested in forward looking educational facilities that will continue to serve the community and lifelong learners beyond the current typical school lifecycle. I have always been a believer that school buildings should be combined with public libraries, fitness facilities, community centres and seniors’ facilities wherever possible. This is not only a prudent use of tax dollars, it also creates a sense of community that keeps us connected and promotes overall wellness.
As always, I am very interested in hearing from you on this or any other issue. My constituency office can be reached at [email protected] or 403-252-0346.
