This release was issued under a previous government.

Students, parents, teachers and others interested in building education as the key to individual and community success are invited to participate in upcoming public consultations on the Education Act.  

“Education legislation is not reviewed very often and I am committed to getting it right,” said Education Minister Thomas Lukaszuk. “By opening up this discussion to the public, especially to students, we can ensure this legislation reflects Albertans’ vision for their education system and that it has a direct and positive impact on Alberta classrooms now, and for decades to come.”

One component of the Our Children, Our Future: Getting it Right consultations will be forums conducted in seven communities. The consultations will be exploring four themes:

  1. Making schools safe and welcoming
  2. Making learning relevant for all students
  3. Keeping students engaged in learning
  4. Setting students up for success in life

“I encourage Albertans to take part in these discussions,” said Lukaszuk. “For those who cannot participate, we will also be launching an online consultation shortly, so that everyone can have the chance to share their thoughts on the future of education in Alberta.”

Albertans can visit http://education.alberta.ca/engage to register for the opportunity to participate in the following forums.

Date

Location

Saturday November 26

Edmonton

Tuesday November 29

Red Deer

Thursday December 1

Calgary

Saturday December 3

Bonnyville

Monday December 5

Lethbridge

Wednesday December 7

Fort McMurray

Friday December 9

Peace River

While these meetings are open to all Albertans, space is limited. Therefore, confirmation emails will be sent to all who register confirming their space in the community forums. Priority will be given to parents, students and teachers.

Details on the additional elements of the consultation, including online submissions and events in schools, will be announced in the weeks ahead. The results of this public consultation will be incorporated into the new Education Act, to be introduced in the Legislature in Spring 2012.

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Media inquiries may be directed to:

Donna McColl
Communications
Education
780-422-5248
780-965-9210 (cell)
[email protected]

To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.