This release was issued under a previous government.

Teacher reads to students

The province is seeking input on how to strengthen and support the teaching profession with a one-day symposium, an online consultation, and the creation of a new advisory committee.

A Task Force for Teaching Excellence Symposium will be held in Edmonton on Monday, May 5. Teachers, parents and students will hear from the Task Force, which includes 16 members representing a wide range of Albertans, about its recommendations for the teaching profession.

“Teachers play a critical role in the success of our students. We need to ensure our teachers are well-trained and well-supported throughout their careers, so that our kids have every opportunity to reach their full potential. I look forward to hearing from teachers, parents and students about the Task Force’s recommendations and working together to make the vision of Inspiring Education a reality for kids.”

Jeff Johnson, Minister of Education

“The Task Force for Teaching Excellence heard from thousands of Albertans about how to ensure that for every child, in every class, there is an excellent teacher.  We shared a fundamental belief that teaching excellence is essential to the success of our children, and that the student needed to be at the centre of all discussion.  Our resulting recommendations are bold and far-reaching.  As we share our report with Albertans, including participants at the Symposium, we look forward to continued dialogue and discussion.”

Dr. Glenn Feltham, Chair, Task Force for Teaching Excellence

Following the Symposium, all Albertans will be invited to review the Task Force report and provide their feedback online.  Key education stakeholder organizations will also have the opportunity to comment on the Task Force report, including the newly established Teacher Development and Practice Advisory Committee (TDPAC).

The TDPAC is responsible for providing advice and recommendations to the Minister of Education that will help define and support the role of teachers and the profession.  The committee consists of 19 members – nine teachers representing the Alberta Teachers’ Association, and nine representing other education stakeholders.

Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.