Page 1 of 75 2021 AGM Package Contents
Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2021 April 25
AGM Draft Agenda 2
President’s Report 7
AGM Proposed Rules of Order 12
AGM Order Paper of Proposed Resolutions 14
2020 RGM Draft Minutes 16
2019-2020 Audited Financial Statement Summary 30
2021-2022 Budget 44
AGM Draft Proposed Resolutions
Special Resolution to Amend Bylaws 46 Administrative Resolutions 49 Advocacy Resolutions 51
AGM Evaluation Form 75 ASCA 2021 AGM Evaluation Survey
LINKS TO ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS REFERENCED Alberta School Councils’ Association Objects of Incorporation Alberta School Councils’ Association Bylaws Alberta School Councils’ Association Board of Directors 2021-2024 Vision Path Alberta School Councils’ Association Advocacy Policy Manual Alberta School Councils’ Association Annual Advocacy in Action Update to Members
Sponsor Page 2 of 75
Draft AGENDA
ASCA Annual General Meeting, April 25, 2021
Room opens: 7:30 a.m. Call to Order: 8:00 a.m. Lunch break: 12:00-12:45 Reconvene: 12:45 p.m.
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7:30 Delegates/attendees Check-in, Welcome
7:45 ASCA Staff Housekeeping
7:58 Assembly National Anthem https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lZDXs3uuMc
8:00 President B. Rai Call to Order Territory Acknowledgement President’s Address
ASCA Staff Housekeeping
1. AGM Chair Test Vote President B. Rai
ASCA Member Voting Election Buddy Delegates
AGM Chair Declaration of results President Brandi Rai 2. AGM Chair Call for motion to Approve Parliamentarian President B. Rai
ASCA Member Voting “______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegates Delegate or Proxy Holder) moves that Becky Kallal be accepted as Meeting Moderator Parliamentarian.” No seconder required
ASCA Member Voting Questions, comments Delegates
AGM Chair Approval by Unanimous Consent President Brandi Rai OR Election Buddy: simple (+50%) majority required
Declaration of results 3. Parliamentarian Address Overview virtual meeting protocols and etiquette 4. AGM Chair Call for a motion to Approve the 2021 AGM Rules of Order President B. Rai
ASCA Member Voting “______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegates Delegate or Proxy Holder) moves that the 2021 AGM Rules of Order be Meeting Moderator accepted as presented.” No seconder required
ASCA Member Voting Questions, comments Delegates
AGM Chair Approval by Unanimous Consent President Brandi Rai OR Election Buddy: simple (+50%) majority required
Declaration of results
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5. AGM Chair Call for motion to Approve Agenda President B. Rai
ASCA Member Voting “______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegates Delegate or Proxy Holder) moves that the Agenda be approved as Meeting Moderator presented.” No seconder required
ASCA Member Voting Questions/comments concerning the Agenda. Delegates
AGM Chair Approval by Unanimous Consent OR President Brandi Rai Election Buddy: simple (+50%) majority required
Declaration of results 6. AGM Chair Call for motion to Approve the 2020 RGM Minutes President B. Rai
ASCA Member Voting “______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegates Delegate or Proxy Holder) moves that the 2020 Draft Regular General Meeting Moderator Meeting Minutes be approved, as presented.” No seconder required
ASCA Member Voting Questions/comments concerning the 2020 RGM Minutes Delegates
AGM Chair Approval by Unanimous Consent President Brandi Rai OR Election Buddy: simple (+50%) majority required
Declaration of results 7. Financial Reporter(s) Financial Report Director J. Surgenor 1. Audited Financial Statement, Auditor’s Report 2019-2020 fiscal Director S. Hobday year 2. Membership Fees 3. ASCA’s Current Reality 4. Board-approved 2021-2022 Budget
ASCA Member Voting Questions and comments for the Board from the membership Delegates regarding the Financial Report 8. Resolutions Facilitator(s) Credentials Report: Number of votes in the assembly Vice President S. Odishaw Director K. Scott 9. Resolutions Facilitator(s) Presentation and background on ASCA Board sponsored Special Vice President S. Odishaw Resolution SR21-01 Director K. Scott Resolutions Facilitator(s) Call for a motion to approve SR21-01 Vice President S. Odishaw Director K. Scott “______School Council, represented by (name of Voting ASCA Member Voting Delegate or Proxy Holder) moves that the Alberta School Councils’ Delegates Association Bylaws be amended as presented, and ______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegate or Proxy Holder) seconds the motion”. 3 | Page Draft ASCA 2021 AGM Agenda 04.25.21 Page 5 of 75
9. ASCA Member Voting Questions/comments/amendments re: SR21-01 Cont. Delegates Statement of final motion (as presented or amended) on SR21-01.
Closing remarks Resolution Mover.
Resolutions Facilitator(s) Statement of final motion. Vice President S. Odishaw Director K. Scott
AGM Chair Approval by Unanimous Consent President Brandi Rai OR Election Buddy: seventy-five percent (75%) approval required
Declaration of results 10. Resolutions Facilitator(s) Presentation and background of 2021 proposed Administrative Vice President S. Odishaw Resolutions A21-01 and A21-02 Director K. Scott Call for a motion on each A21-01 and A21-02, respectively.
ASCA Member Voting “______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegate Delegates or Proxy Holder) moves that Administrative Resolution A21 - ___ be approved as presented and ______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegate or Proxy Holder) seconds the motion”.
ASCA Member Voting Questions/comments/amendments Delegates Closing remarks Resolution Mover.
Resolutions Facilitator(s) Statement of final motion on each Administrative Vice President S. Odishaw Resolution, respectively. Director K. Scott
AGM Chair Approval by Unanimous Consent President Brandi Rai OR Election Buddy: simple (+50%) majority required
Declaration of results 11. Nominations Facilitator Overview of the nominations process, changes, confirmation, and Director R. Haggarty affirmation of nominations received for: Directors, five (5) positions; five (5) candidates
Candidate/Director speeches: 3 minutes each
12. Nominations Facilitator Announcement of Acclaimed Directors AGM Chair President Brandi Rai
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13. Resolutions Facilitator(s) Presentation and background of Proposed Advocacy Resolutions P21- Vice President S. Odishaw 01 to P21-11, followed by Emergent Resolutions as agreed upon by Director K. Scott Voting Delegates
Resolutions Facilitator(s) Call for a motion on each individually. Vice President S. Odishaw Director K. Scott
ASCA Member Voting “______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegates Delegate or Proxy Holder) moves that the request statements within Meeting Moderator Proposed Advocacy Resolution P21-xx be approved as presented.”
“______School Council, represented by (name of Voting Delegate or Proxy Holder) seconds the motion”.
Questions/comments/amendments (seconder required) P21 Proposed Advocacy Resolutions or Emergent Resolutions
Closing remarks Resolution Mover.
Resolutions Facilitator(s) Statement of final motion (as presented or amended) of each. Vice President S. Odishaw Director K. Scott
AGM Chair Approval by Unanimous Consent President Brandi Rai OR Election Buddy: simple (+50%) majority required
Declaration of results (for each of P21-01 – P21-11)
14. Resolutions Facilitator(s) First Call for Proposed 2022 Advocacy Resolutions Vice President S. Odishaw Director K. Scott 15. AGM Chair Closing Remarks and Adjournment President B. Rai
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2021 ASCA AGM PRESIDENT’S REPORT
April 25, 2021
ASCA Member School Councils, guests, and observers:
It is my pleasure to provide you with a written summary of the past year at Alberta School Councils’ Association (ASCA).
In the year since I was acclaimed as President in the first ever virtual AGM for ASCA, many events have occurred – within ASCA and across the globe – with so much impact in our lives.
In April, May, and June of 2020 we experienced the beginning stages of a pandemic that would forever influence so many aspects of our lives, including the education of our precious children. We have come together, over and over again, in so many ways, for so many reasons to help each other survive and thrive during this historical event.
Over the summer months, like so many others, ASCA did not rest. There were numerous things happening in the education landscape behind the scenes, preparing for an anticipated safe and healthy return to in-school learning. The hard work, dedication, and care of education staff combined with families working diligently to follow health protocols has seen us through a year none of us could have anticipated.
The activities of ASCA during September and early October were focused on providing resources, services and supports to school councils across Alberta. We planned for our virtual Regular General Meeting (RGM) in mid-October and represented the parents and school councils we heard from related to the return to in-school learning, to the Minister, stakeholders, and partners. While most students were grateful to be successfully back inside their school buildings, many were experiencing interruptions in their learning as their classes, or cohorts, were forced to isolate for two weeks, often on more than one occasion. The mental health and well- being of students, family and education staff has been stretched thin this year, and I want to acknowledge that this year has been a challenge for all of us, in many ways. Since we last gathered on October 17, 2020 for a virtual Regular General Meeting (RGM), ASCA has dealt with some fairly significant events.
Most of our Member School Councils are aware of the significant funding reduction ASCA received from Alberta Education in November. ASCA received just $170,000.00 instead of the $650,000.00 received in 2019. A major upset at any point in time, the fact that ASCA had continued its work of supporting school councils and school divisions, as well as channeling the parent voice through school councils into the education system, for a full 4.5 months before learning of the reduction, resulted in your Board of Directors needing to make some difficult, important, and impactful, decisions very quickly. Our organization worked hard to pivot, yet again, within one year. Our board utilized reserves while budgeting carefully to maintain services and support for school councils. We decided that a reduction in expenditures, for example moving away from a leased office space, while also reducing staffing costs and reallocating funds normally used for Board Operations to Member Services and Advocacy and Representation were necessary. Additionally, our Board worked through the challenges of building a team while we conducted all our board work virtually, and with the personal stressors of living through a global pandemic.
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2021 ASCA AGM PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Now here we are this weekend, continuing to put the voices of school councils first, while continuing to do our work virtually. Connection looks different this year, and it is just as valid and needed as in any other format we have experienced through our Conference and AGM. Our Board continued to be innovative with the direction of these opportunities.
Our Executive Director Wendy Keiver worked diligently and tirelessly with staff to coordinate our first ever entirely virtual Conference and continued the work of refining processes and protocol for another virtual AGM. The multitude of meaningful sessions, the variety of impassioned speakers, the community connection - all were constructed while the staff continued to serve school councils and while the Board continued to lead our Association and advocate on behalf of its Members. We owe a huge thank you to our Executive Director and the ASCA staff. I also owe a huge thank you to each of our Directors who have worked hard to juggle family lives, surviving a pandemic, and the work associated with our Board. Their support, their work, their voices have held me up this year. They have held our Association up this year, and they have worked to ensure that ASCA is here in spite of a global pandemic, and despite a significant funding reduction. I am grateful to have worked alongside:
Vice President Shelley Odishaw from Red Deer; Jacquie Surgenor from Sherwood Park; Hollie Tarasewich from Lethbridge; Sarah Rollingson from Red Deer; Krista Scott from Sherwood Park; Rich Haggarty from Spruce Grove; Sheila Hobday from Calgary; Lisa Arlint from Grovedale; and Rick Sakundiak from Sexsmith.
A sincere and heartfelt “Thank you” to the entire board!
ASCA knows the importance and power of parental voice in education through school councils. The education and empowerment of school councils across our province is meaningful work and necessary because we know the engagement of parents in the education system is vital for student success. We are grateful for the local support and advocacy that school councils offer their communities. Additionally, we are grateful for Members who are able to join us for our Conference and AGM; your empowerment and voice are needed and necessary.
In a year of challenges and triumphs, sorrows, and joys, ASCA has persevered. I will briefly provide some highlights in three key areas:
1) Representation of our members – also known as Advocacy,
2) Service and Support to our members, and
3) Stewardship of the Association on behalf of our members.
Available on our website you will find reports that provide a great deal of details regarding what the Association, and your Board, has been working on this year.
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2021 ASCA AGM PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Representation/Advocacy: Eighty-three (83%) percent of the school councils able to be an ASCA Member have done so this past year. We have over 1300 Member School Councils, out of a possible estimated 1574.
With the majority of the memberships being paid for by the school divisions, this is very strong evidence of the commitment of Alberta’s school boards to their school councils, the value they see in parent engagement, and of the voice and influence school councils have at a provincial level. ASCA greatly appreciates this show of support from school boards, as do the school councils who benefit from contributing to the advocacy executed by the Association on their behalf.
In all discussions and decisions, the ASCA Board of Directors strives to be as representative of our members, as our members are of their school communities. As individual Directors, we must set aside our personal perspectives and carefully consider what is in the best interests of all of Alberta’s students, as we have heard through the voices of our Member School Councils across Alberta.
In addition to the frequent “Re-launch during Covid” meetings coordinated by the Minister of Education, ASCA has been represented by volunteer Board Members or staff on 18 distinct Alberta Education or education partner/external stakeholder committees up until our funding reduction in mid- November, after which participation was decreased on only one (1) external stakeholder committee (Middle Years Out-of-School Time/Natural Supports Project: Big Brothers/Big Sisters) due to insufficient staffing resources to provide ongoing representation. Following the funding reduction, a shift from staff representation to ASCA volunteer Board representation occurred for approximately five (5) committees.
Representing our Member’s perspectives to Alberta Education, our education partners, stakeholders, and the general community, is a responsibility taken very seriously by your Board of Directors, and the provincial office staff. While the Advocacy Resolution process at our AGM is typically one way to hear from our Member School Councils, our Board of Directors recognizes that it must utilize a variety of methods to also hear your voices between AGMs. The School Council Engagement Task Force has helped us to do this, as have the efforts of Directors to reach into the community and connect with individual school councils or Councils of School Councils. This very important work of the Board will continue into 2021-2022, along with exploration of other methods the Association can use to hear from you.
Service and Support:
We are proud of the work our Association does in Alberta, and proud of the work our member school councils do in their local school communities. Although this year provided some uncertainty as a result of the funding we received from the Alberta Government, we worked hard to emphasize the value of ASCA and the work we do to support school councils.
As of March 3, 2021, ASCA staff had responded with 1220 emails or phone calls to 422 distinct school councils. During the same period in 2019-2020, ASCA staff had responded with 1355 emails or phone calls to 392 distinct school councils.
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2021 ASCA AGM PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Between July 1 and approximately November 15, 2020 ASCA provided 108 “services deliveries” (up from 88 during the same period in 2019) to school councils, school communities, education partners, school authority groupings of school councils, post-secondary education students and school authority teams of administrators. “Service deliveries” are defined by ASCA to include specific curriculum workshops, webinars and open virtual meetings with specific agendas hosted by ASCA, ASCA overview presentations, support at or with school council meetings, comprehensive or extensive email or phone support (exceeding 1 hour in total duration) and operating document reviews and recommendations.
Following the reduction in funding received from Alberta Education, the months of December, January and February had ASCA provide 15 school council related “service deliveries”, a significant decrease from 46 during the same period in 2019-2020. It is surmised that a plausible explanation for this is ASCA having to move to a “fee for service” structure for any service deliveries not directly related to the resources and materials modified to feature the alignment of school council work with the Assurance Framework. Simply put – school councils do not have money for professional development. Whereas some do raise small amounts of money through modest fundraising activities, those funds are most often earmarked for items and events that will contribute directly to students in their communities. School and division budgets also do not typically set aside any funds for the professional learning of school councils.
Nonetheless, the staff and Board of ASCA are committed to providing optimum learning and engagement opportunities for school councils and school communities through multiple and varied methods: service deliveries, education partner/stakeholder webinars, information and input sessions with Alberta Education personnel, survey feedback, resolution debate, and direct contact with staff and Board members, are but a few. Confirmed for the months of March, April and May were 25 specific curriculum workshops, several webinars and knowledge building meetings, and ASCA guest appearances at school authority groupings of school councils.
As parents continue to grow their knowledge, be aware of and engaged in the education of all children through connections to local school councils, school divisions and boards, and to the Ministry of Education, it is anticipated that their appetite for additional, meaningful ways to continue learning and engaging will increase. ASCA is well-positioned to meet their demands for these opportunities, and we continue to explore methods which will be of benefit to not only our members and primary audience, but for Alberta Education and stakeholders as well.
One such opportunity occurred in October 2020, as ASCA worked with the ATA to design a Parent Pandemic Pulse Survey focused on school ‘re-entry’, gathering over 30,000 responses, with a solid 21,000 completing the entire comprehensive questionnaire. While almost 27% (5778) of respondents indicated the school council at their child’s school is an ASCA Member School Council, a disappointing 69% (14,919) chose “do not know” as their response; a number that implies there is much work to be done in elevating the profile of school councils in their communities.
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2021 ASCA AGM PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Stewardship of the Association: Speaking of important roles, one belonging to your ASCA Board of Directors is to set the direction for the Association, and to ensure that the decisions of the Members and the Board can be acted upon with the processes, skills, tools, and resources available to the Association.
The Board of 2020-2021 reviewed and revised the long-term goals – articulated in the 2021-2024 Vision Path.
In addition, through very active and dedicated Board Committees, stewardship of the Association was always a top priority for your Board of Directors.
In Summary: As we go forward, not knowing what the education landscape will present us, you can be assured that the Mission and Vision of ASCA will continue to be the banner under which your Board of Directors will persistently move forward. We will ensure the long-term relevancy and sustainability of your provincial Association.
Thank you – our Member School Councils and the parents, teachers, principals, trustees, students, and others who serve them - for being the reason ASCA does the work we do!
Thank you.
ASCA 2021 AGM President’s Report Page 5 of 5 Page 12 of 75 PROPOSED 2021 ASCA AGM RULES OF ORDER *New or revised Rules of Order are highlighted
Rules of Order
1. Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the parliamentary authority in all cases not covered by the Bylaws of the Alberta School Councils’ Association (ASCA) or these Rules of Order; in particular, in the handling of resolutions and motions. 2. Each person attending the Virtual Annual General Meeting (AGM) shall sign in using their proper first and last name and use the Chat Window to identify the school council, community, location, school division or education organization they are representing. (i.e.: École Dickinsfield School Council, EPSB or Trustee, High Prairie SD) 3. Voting members are only those authorized Parent Delegates from ASCA Member School Councils who have submitted their signed Credential Voting Form prior to the deadline required by ASCA. 4. Voting by Parent Delegates shall be conducted by use of the Election Buddy digital voting platform only. 5. Voting Parent Delegates from ASCA Member School Councils are required to keep secure and confidential the unique Voting Access Key issued to them by Election Buddy. 6. Approval by Unanimous Consent will be used as deemed appropriate by the Chair. A Voting Parent Delegate may object to a request for Approval by Unanimous Consent by typing the school council, community, location or school division and the word “Object” in the Chat Window. 7. Only a Voting Parent Delegate may move or second any motion or Resolution by indicating – in the Chat Window – the name of the School Council they are representing and its location or school division (i.e.: Delwood School Council, Edmonton Public, moves; Fultonvale School Council, EIPS, seconds). After moving, and upon recognition by the Chair, the Voting Parent Delegate may speak to the Resolution or the motion or invite another delegate from his/her school council to speak on his/her behalf, for a maximum of three (3) minutes. 8. Upon recognition by the Chair, and if desired, the moving Voting Parent Delegate or his/her designate shall have a further two (2) minutes for closing comments. 9. Any delegate may speak only once to any Resolution or motion for a maximum of three (3) minutes. Those wishing to speak shall indicate such by typing their School Council name in the Chat Window and either “speaking in favour” or “speaking against” and waiting to be recognized by the Chair. 10. A delegate wishing to raise a Point of Order or Request for Information shall type “Point of Order” or “Request for Information” in the Chat Window for quicker recognition by the Chair. Upon recognition by the Chair, delegates shall state the name of their School Council and its location, and their full name, before making comments or asking questions. 11. Upon recognition by the Chair, and after properly identifying themselves as noted in #9 above, non-voting delegates may ask questions during discussions or speak to any motion, but they may not introduce motions or vote. 12. Upon recognition by the Chair, and after properly identifying themselves, a non-member or observer may ask for permission to address the Assembly. Permission will be granted at the discretion of the Chair, who may seek Approval by Unanimous Consent of the Assembly. 13. When time is of the essence, Voting Parent Delegates shall be given priority to speak over non-voting delegates, non-members or observers. 14. Any amendments or motions not already in writing in the AGM package must first be submitted through the Chat Window using the format indicated in #6 above and be seconded in the same manner. Upon recognition by the Chair, the Voting Parent Delegate may speak to the amendment or new motion.
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15. Procedural Motions, such as the adoption of the Rules of Order, Agenda, and Minutes, require only a mover. 16. Substantive Motions, such as those required for all Resolutions, require a mover and a seconder, and will be so noted on the Agenda where appropriate. 17. A Motion to divide one or more parts of a Resolution for separate consideration may be permitted by the Chair. 18. Emergent Resolutions introduced at the AGM must be approved by 66% (2/3) of the Voting Parent Delegates to be added to the order paper, with specific wording provided first in the Chat Window by a Voting Parent Delegate only. Upon recognition by the Chair, the Voting Parent Delegate may speak to the need to consider the Emergent Resolution. 19. Extraordinary Resolutions arising as a result of the business conducted at the AGM must be approved by 75% of the Voting Parent Delegates in order to be added to the order paper, with specific wording provided in the Chat Window by a Voting Parent Delegate only. Upon recognition by the Chair, the Voting Parent Delegate may speak to the need to consider the Extraordinary Resolution. 20. The Chat Window shall be used only to conduct business associated with the Annual General Meeting, unless otherwise directed. Improper use of the Chat Window may result in an attendee being removed from the AGM. 21. The Q&A feature shall be used to ask technical questions for ASCA staff to offer assistance, unless otherwise directed. Improper use of the Q&A feature may result in an attendee being removed from the AGM. 22. The Credentials Report delivered at the start of any General Meeting shall serve as the Credentials Report for the entire General Meeting and shall thus determine the Quorum. 23. No materials of any kind shall be distributed, sold, or displayed at or during the AGM, and no appeals for support or collections of any kind shall be made, without prior approval of the Alberta School Councils’ Association President.
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DRAFT ORDER PAPER 2021 ASCA AGM
# Title Sponsor Carried Carried with Tabled to Defeated Amendments Committee SR21-01 Amend ASCA Bylaws ASCA Board of Directors A21-01 Reaffirm Advocacy ASCA Board of Directors Policy: 79-1, 01-14, 01-11, 05-2, 10-7 A21-02 Amend Advocacy ASCA Board of Directors Policies: 10-1 P21-01 Continued Support ASCA Board of Directors REVISED and Advancement of Technology Funding to Support all Levels of Learning Throughout Alberta Schools P21-02 Acknowledgment of ASCA Board of Directors CoSC/DSC in the Alberta Education Act P21-03 Restore PUF Funding Elmwood School Council REVISED to Alberta Schools P21-04 Transportation – Ecole St. Paul Maximum Time Limit Elementary Community Students can be on School Council the Bus P21-05 Renewal of Alberta St. Michael’s School REVISED Curriculum Council
P21-06 Addressing Barriers Ecole St. Gerard School to Student-centred Council Public Education
P21-07 Respect for ASCA's Foundations for the REVISED Bylaws, Values, and Future Charter Members Academy, Southwest Elementary School Council P21-08 Education Ecole St. Gerard School Stakeholder Council Organizations Financial and Governance Accountability
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DRAFT ORDER PAPER 2021 ASCA AGM # Title Sponsor Carried Carried with Tabled to Defeated Amendments Committee P21-09 Equal Opportunity of Foundations for the Access to All Public Future Charter Schools Academy, Northwest Elementary School Council P21-10 Achieving Universal Foundations for the REVISED Public Education Future Charter Academy, Southwest Elementary School Council
P21-11 Allocating Public Sam Livingston School Funds to Public Council Education
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2020 REGULAR GENERAL MEETING MINUTES
2020 Alberta School Councils’ Association (ASCA) REGULAR GENERAL (VIRTUAL) MEETING MINUTES Page 17 of 75
NATIONAL ANTHEM The playing of the National Anthem was broadcast at 9:58 a.m.
CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. by the Chair of the RGM, President Brandi Rai
ATTENDANCE One Hundred Sixty-Six (non-staff) Attendees were present. A complete list of Meeting Attendees is attached.
TERRITORY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The Territory Acknowledgement was provided by President Rai
PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS At this time, I would like to take a moment to address our assembly today as President. In your delegate package there is a President’s message for you to read at your convenience, so I won’t take up much of your time. I want to speak to the spirit of resilience that exists in education. Our children are doing their best to maintain friendships, build relationships with new teachers, navigate new health protocols, and learn their curriculum. Our teachers are doing their best to maintain normalcy for our school communities, deliver meaningful lessons in innovative ways, and help our children remain healthy. Our parents are doing their best to balance family, and work while navigating raising children in a global pandemic. The teachers, principals, administrators, superintendents and trustees that work diligently every day so that we have the opportunity for resiliency in education this year are vital components and our students are lucky to have so many people working so hard for their success. ASCA is grateful for parents on school councils across this province who are engaging, supporting and collaborating within their local communities to keep students successful this year. I am grateful as President of this organization to serve families like yours in the work that we do. When I am at the tables representing ASCA, I am representing you, and the experiences of your precious children, and I want you to know that it is a responsibility I carry daily and with great care. Thank you for all that you do, locally and provincially, to help all students. Respectfully, Brandi Rai, ASCA President TEST VOTE Motion that future ASCA General Meetings be preceded with a fully catered hot breakfast buffet. [Moved: Hatem Hammad of Henry Wise School Council, Calgary Public School Division, Hatem Hammad attendee. Motion not allowed as it was declared that Mr. Hammad was not a credentialed voter.] Moved: Father Lacombe High School Council, Calgary Catholic School Division, Kayla Schlaugat Voting Delegate CARRIED
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APPROVAL OF PARLIAMENTARIAN Motion that Becky Kallal be accepted as Parliamentarian. Moved: Pine Street School Council of Elk Island Public School Division, Lesley Bowman Voting Delegate CARRIED
PARLIAMENTARIAN Becky Kallal gave an overview of the “Who, What, Why, When and How” of Amendments.
APPROVAL OF RULES OF ORDER ASCA 2020 RGM RULES OF ORDER 1. Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the parliamentary authority in all cases not covered by the Bylaws of the Alberta School Councils’ Association (ASCA) or these Rules of Order; in particular, in the handling of resolutions and motions. 2. Each person attending the Virtual Regular General Meeting (RGM) shall sign in using their proper first and last name and use the Chat Window to identify the school council, community, location, school division or education organization they are representing. (i.e.: École Dickinsfield School Council, EPSB or Trustee, High Prairie SD) 3. Voting members are only those authorized Parent Delegates from ASCA Member School Councils who have submitted their signed Credential Voting Form prior to the deadline required by ASCA. 4. Voting by Parent Delegates shall be conducted by use of the Election Buddy digital voting platform only. 5. Voting Parent Delegates from ASCA Member School Councils are required to keep secure and confidential the unique Voting Access Key issued to them by Election Buddy. 6. Only a Voting Parent Delegate may move or second any motion or Resolution by indicating – in the Chat Window – the name of the School Council they are representing and its location or school division (i.e.: Delwood School Council, Edmonton Public, moves; Fultonvale School Council, EIPS, seconds). After moving, and upon recognition by the Chair, the Voting Parent Delegate may speak to the Resolution or the motion or invite another delegate from his/her school council to speak on his/her behalf, for a maximum of three (3) minutes. 7. Upon recognition by the Chair, and if desired, the moving Voting Parent Delegate or his/her designate shall have a further two (2) minutes for closing comments. 8. Any delegate may speak only once to any Resolution or motion for a maximum of three (3) minutes. Those wishing to speak shall indicate such by typing their School Council name in the Chat Window and waiting to be recognized by the Chair. A delegate wishing to raise a Point of Order shall type “Point of Order” in the Chat Window for quicker recognition by the Chair. Upon recognition by the Chair, delegates shall state the name of their School Council and its location, and their full name, before making comments or asking questions. 9. Upon recognition by the Chair, and after properly identifying themselves as noted in #8 above, non-voting delegates may ask questions during discussions or speak to any motion, but they may not introduce motions or vote. 10. When time is of the essence, Voting Parent Delegates shall be given priority to speak over non-voting delegates. 11. Any amendments or motions not already in writing in the RGM package must first be submitted through the Chat Window using the format indicated in #6 above and be seconded in the same manner. Upon recognition by the Chair, the Voting Parent Delegate may speak to the amendment or new motion. 12. Procedural Motions, such as the adoption of the Rules of Order, Agenda, and Minutes, require only a mover. 13. Substantive Motions, such as those required for all Resolutions, require a mover and a seconder, and will be so noted on the Agenda where appropriate. 14. A Motion to Sever one or more parts of a Resolution for separate consideration may be permitted by the Chair.
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15. Emergent Resolutions introduced at the RGM must be approved by 66% (2/3) of the Voting Parent Delegates in order to be added to the order paper, with specific wording provided first in the Chat Window by a Voting Parent Delegate only. Upon recognition by the Chair, the Voting Parent Delegate may speak to the need to consider the Emergent Resolution. 16. Extraordinary Resolutions arising as a result of the business conducted at the RGM must be approved by 75% of the Voting Parent Delegates in order to be added to the order paper, with specific wording provided in the Chat Window by a Voting Parent Delegate only. Upon recognition by the Chair, the Voting Parent Delegate may speak to the need to consider the Extraordinary Resolution. 17. The Chat Window shall be used only to conduct business associated with the Regular General Meeting, unless otherwise directed. Improper use of the Chat Window may result in an attendee being removed from the RGM. 18. The Q&A feature shall be used to ask technical questions for ASCA staff to offer assistance, unless otherwise directed. Improper use of the Q&A feature may result in an attendee being removed from the RGM. 19. No materials of any kind shall be distributed, sold, or displayed at or during the RGM, and no appeals for support or collections of any kind shall be made, without prior approval of the Alberta School Councils’ Association President.
Motion that the 2020 RGM Rules of Order be accepted as presented. Moved: Woodhaven Middle School Council of Parkland School Division, Ashley Southwood Voting Delegate CARRIED
WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSED EMERGENT RESOLUTION ER20-02 Notice Given by Blessed Marie Rose School Council of Calgary Catholic School Division, Edward Tu Voting Delegate that Proposed Emergent Resolution ER20-02 has been withdrawn
ADOPTION OF RGM AGENDA Motion that the agenda be adopted as presented. Moved: St. Margaret School Council of Calgary Catholic School Division, Chastine Taerum Voting Delegate CARRIED
APPROVAL OF 2020 AGM MINUTES Motion that the 2020 Draft Annual General Meeting Minutes be approved as presented. Moved: Pine Street School Council of Elk Island Public School Division, Lesley Bowman Voting Delegate CARRIED
VOTES IN ASSEMBLY Credentials Report Director Jacquie Surgenor Gaglione reported that there are 125 ASCA member school councils and votes represented at the RGM: 114 present and 11 proxy votes.
ADVOCACY RESOLUTIONS Vice President Shelley Odishaw and Director Jacquie Surgenor Gaglione directed discussion/voting for the 2020 Advocacy Resolutions:
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P20-01 Motion that P20-01 Provincial and Federal Legislation Related to Vaping Products be accepted as presented. Moved: Forestburg School Council, Battle River School Division, Whitney Badry Voting Delegate / Milk River Elementary School Council of Horizon School Division, Daria Snow Voting Delegate CARRIED
P20-02 Motion that P20-02 Diploma Exam Weighting be accepted as presented. Moved: Blessed Sacrament School Council of East Central Alberta Catholic School Division, Sheri White Voting Delegate / St. Rose of Lima School Council of Calgary Catholic School Division, Jessica Cuillerier Voting Delegate CARRIED
[Credential Report updated: there are 126 ASCA member school councils and votes represented at the RGM: 115 present and 11 proxy votes.]
P20-03 Motion that P20-03 Consistent, Negotiated Price, and Bulk Purchase/Distribution, of EpiPens be accepted as presented. Moved: École Marie Poburan School Council of Greater St. Albert Catholic School Division, Kim Ahing Voting Delegate / Dr. EP Scarlett High School Council of Greater St. Albert Catholic School Division Jayne Benham Voting Delegate CARRIED
P20-04 Motion that P20-04 Achieving Equitable Public Education be accepted as presented. Moved: Sam Livingston School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Cassandra Wyatt Voting Delegate / William Reid School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Jessie Muncaster Voting Delegate
Motion to Sever the clause “We further request that the Minister of Education integrate charter schools into the public education system making them accountable to locally elected trustees and school boards and ensuring access to all students” Moved: Blessed Sacrament School Council of East Central Alberta Catholic School Division, Sheri White Voting Delegate / St Rose of Lima School Council of Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Jessica Cuillerier Voting Delegate
Motion to Amend the motion to sever was proposed by New Horizon School Council, Charter School, Elizabeth Macve Voting Delegate / Foundations for the Future Charter Academy Northwest Elementary Campus, Calgary, Andrew Chu Voting Delegate by inserting the word “charter” immediately following “public,” in the first request statement, inserting the word “charter” immediately following “public,” in the second request statement, and severing the 4th request statement in its entirety.
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Motion to Amend denied by the Parliamentarian and noted that an amendment to a motion to sever cannot be allowed
Motion to Table the Motion to Sever Foundations for the Future Charter Academy Northwest Elementary Campus, Calgary, Andrew Chu Voting Delegate / Foundations for the Future Charter Academy Southwest Campus, Tanya Borthwick, Voting Delegate CARRIED
Motion to Amend by deleting “We further request that the Minister of Education reduce class sizes to bring them in line with the recommendations in the final report from Alberta’s Commission on Learning of 2003 and provide adequate supports and resources reflective of individual classroom composition and complexity.” Moved: A.E. Bowers School Council of Rocky View School Division, Shilo Nosyk Voting Delegate / Monsignor JS Smith School Council, Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Greg Kubasek Voting Delegate CARRIED
Motion to divide P20-04 into its separate requests Moved: École Notre Dame School Council of St Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic School Division, Dawn Miller Voting Delegate / Apostles of Jesus School Council of Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Heather Mckearney Voting Delegate CARRIED [Note: P20-04A through P20-04F are considered to have been moved by Sam Livingston School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Cassandra Wyatt Voting Delegate / William Reid School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Jessie Muncaster Voting Delegate under the original proposed motion P20-04]
P20-04A Definition of Public Education “We request that the Minister of Education define public education as the public, francophone and separate school systems.”
Motion to Amend to read “as the public, charter, francophone and separate school systems”. Moved: Foundations for the Future Charter Academy Northwest Elementary Campus, Calgary, Andrew Chu Voting Delegate / Aurora Academic Charter School, Edmonton, Jacqueline Kossick Voting Delegate Question Called by TD Baker School Council of Edmonton Public School Division, Greta Gerstner Voting Delegate / William Reid School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Jessie Muncaster Voting Delegate CARRIED DEFEATED [Amend P20-04A to include charter]
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Question Called by Chinook Park Elementary School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Medeana Moussa Voting Delegate / Ross Sheppard High School Council of Edmonton Public School Division, Shauna Gibbons Voting Delegate CARRIED Motion P20-04A CARRIED
[Floor was asked to vote on “Is your school council in favour of adjusting our adjournment time to 6pm? CARRIED]
P20-04B ASCA Definition of Public Education “We further request that ASCA define public education as the public, francophone, and separate school systems and use this definition when interpreting existing and new resolution statements such as “all schools” and “school boards”.” Question Called by Chinook Park Elementary School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Medeana Moussa Voting Delegate / Sunnyside School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Christie Hurrell Voting Delegate CARRIED Motion P20-04B CARRIED
P20-04C Integration of Charter Schools “We further request that the Minister of Education integrate charter schools into the public education systems making them accountable to locally elected trustees and school boards and ensuring access to all students.” Question Called by Willian Reid School Council, Calgary Public School Division, Jessie Muncaster Voting Delegate / TD Baker School Council, Edmonton Public School Division, Greta Gerstner Voting Delegate
Objection to P20-04C called by Foundations for the Future Charter Academy Northwest Elementary Campus, Calgary, Andrew Chu Voting Delegate DEFEATED
Remove From Table P20-04C [Noted that P20-04C must be removed from the table in order for the Call of the Question to go ahead] Moved: Ross Sheppard High School Council from Edmonton Public School Division, Shauna Gibbons Voting Delegate / Milk River Elementary School Council of St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic School Division, Daria Snow Voting Delegate CARRIED Call of Question CARRIED Motion P20-04C CARRIED
P20-04D Removal of Funding for Private Schools “We further request that the Minister of Education remove funding from all private schools except those that are designated special education private schools whose sole purpose is to serve students who are identified with a mild, moderate, or severe disability and reallocate those funds to public education.” Motion to Table P20-04D
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Moved: St. Joan of Arc School Council of Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Beverly Pilling Voting Delegate /Foundations for the Future Charter Academy Northwest Elementary Campus, Calgary, Andrew Chu Voting Delegate CARRIED
P20-04E and F Requests to Amend/Rescind ASCA Policies Due to changes that have occurred, Chair requested consensus to move these proposed resolutions to ASCA committee for discussion; consensus was achieved
P20-05 Motion that P20-05 Support for Addressing Class Size and Complex Classrooms be accepted as presented Moved: AE Bowers School Council of Rocky View School Division, Shilo Nosyk Voting Delegate/St Margaret School Council, Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Chastine Taerum Voting Delegate
Friendly amendment accepted from Janet Johnstone School Council with Calgary Public School Division, Michelle Wong Voting Delegate to change wording to read “continue to reinstate funding” CARRIED as amended
P20-06 Motion that P20-06 Informed, Adequate Funding for Classrooms and Schools be accepted as presented Moved: Nose Creek Elementary School Council from Rocky View School Division, Kristie Edwards Voting Delegate / Father Lacombe High School Council of Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Kayla Schlaugat Voting Delegate CARRIED
P20-07 Motion that P20-07 Access to Funding for Public Schools and Public School Fees be accepted as presented Moved: Ross Sheppard School Council of Edmonton Public School Division, Shauna Gibbons Voting Delegate/ Forestburg School Council of Battle River School Division, Whitney Badry Voting Delegate
Friendly amendment accepted from École Broxton Park School Council of Parkland School Division, Wing Li Witharana Voting Delegate to change wording to read “…restore Alberta’s education spending to no less than pre-2019 budget levels…” CARRIED as amended
P20-08 Motion that P20-08 Prioritizing Funding for Education in Areas of High Student Density be accepted as presented
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Moved: St. Joan of Arc School Council of Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Beverly Pilling Voting Delegate / St. Margaret School Council of Calgary Catholic School Division, Chastine Taerum Voting Delegate
Amendment to Remove “of high student density and allow students in these areas equitable access to K-12 education” and Replace with “in areas where extensive commute times create inequitable access to K-12 education” was proposed by Milk River Elementary School Council of Horizon School Division, Daria Snow Voting Delegate however the Chairs denied the amendment as it does not meet intent of motion
Amendment to Add “while maintaining equitable access to K-12 education for students across the province”. Moved: St Michaels School Council, Holy Spirit Roman Catholic School Division, Christy Gustavison Voting Delegate / St. Margaret School Council of Calgary Catholic School Division, Chastine Taerum Voting Delegate CARRIED
Friendly amendment accepted from St Joan of Arc School Council of Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Beverly Pilling Voting Delegate to change “prioritize” to “provide”
DEFEATED [P20-08]
P20-09 Motion that P20-09 Mental Wellness Curriculum Incorporation be accepted as presented Moved: McKenzie Towne School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Shawna MacKeen Voting Delegate / Forestburg School Council of Battle River School Division, Whitney Badry Voting Delegate Friendly amendment accepted from St Joan of Arc School Council of Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Beverly Pilling Voting Delegate adding words “and provide funding for” CARRIED as amended
P20-10 Motion that P20-10 Student Education Advocacy be accepted as presented Moved: McKenzie Towne School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Shawna MacKeen Voting Delegate / Prince of Wales School Council of Calgary Public School Division, Jayne Benham Voting Delegate CARRIED
ER20-01 Motion that ER20-01 Emergency Funding for COVID19 and other Emergencies Impacting Schools be accepted as presented Moved: École St Gerard School Council, Grande Prairie Catholic School Division, Mark Woods Voting Delegate / St Margaret School Council of Calgary Roman Catholic School Division, Chastine Taerum Voting Delegate
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CARRIED
ADJOURNMENT President Rai called for a Motion to Adjourn at 6:53 p.m. and to table the remainder of the Agenda to the 2021 AGM Moved: Dr. Martha Cohen School Council, Calgary Public School Division, Marissa Butler Voting Delegate / Crawford Plains Elementary School Council of Edmonton Public School Division, Tammy Farkes Voting Delegate CARRIED
President Rai adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Alberta School Councils’ Association Regular General Meeting October 17, 2020 Attendance Summary – Voting/Non-voting/Observer by Division
Attendance – Voting (including by Proxy) – Total 130 Vilna School Council Aspen View Central High Sedgewick Public School Council Battle River Forestburg School Council Battle River Mannville School Council Buffalo Trail Branton School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Canyon Meadows School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Chinook Park Elementary School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Coventry Hills School Council Calgary Public (CBE) David Thompson School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Dr. E. P. Scarlett School Council - Proxy Calgary Public (CBE) Dr. Martha Cohen School Council Calgary Public (CBE) École Sam Livingston School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Elboya School Council - Proxy Calgary Public (CBE) Ernest Manning School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Eugene Coste School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Hawkwood School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Hidden Valley School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Janet Johnstone School Council Calgary Public (CBE) John Ware School Council - Proxy Calgary Public (CBE) McKenzie Towne School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Mount View School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Nellie McClung School Council - Proxy Calgary Public (CBE) Prince of Wales School Calgary Public (CBE) Ramsay School Council Calgary Public (CBE)
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Richmond School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Sunnyside School Council Calgary Public (CBE) West Springs School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Western Canada High School Council Calgary Public (CBE) William Reid School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Wilma Hansen School Council - Proxy Calgary Public (CBE) Apostles of Jesus School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Bishop McNally School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Blessed Marie-Rose School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Divine Mercy School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Father Doucet School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Father Lacombe School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Guardian Angel School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Monsignor JS Smith School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Monsignor Neville Anderson School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Alphonsus School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Angela School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Brigid School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Gerard School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Gregory School Council - Proxy Calgary Roman Catholic St. Jean Brebeuf Junior High School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Jerome Elementary School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Joan of Arc School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. John Henry Newman School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Kateri Tekakwitha School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Margaret School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Mary's High School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Matthew School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Pius X School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Rose of Lima School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Teresa Of Calcutta School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Timothy School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Veronica School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Aurora Academic Charter School Council Charter Connect Charter School Council Charter Foundations for the Future Charter Academy Northwest Elementary Charter Foundations for the Future Charter Academy, Southwest Elementary Charter New Horizons School Council Charter Fox Run School Council Chinook's Edge Jessie Duncan Elementary School Council Chinook's Edge Penhold Elementary School Council Chinook's Edge Spruce View School Parent Council Chinook's Edge
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Steffie Woima School Council Chinook's Edge Blessed Sacrament School Council East Central Catholic École Holy Cross School Council Edmonton Catholic Monsignor Fee Otterson School Council Edmonton Catholic Sir John Thompson Catholic Junior High School Council Edmonton Catholic St. Lucy School Council Edmonton Catholic Avonmore School Council Edmonton Public Coronation School Council - Proxy Edmonton Public Crawford Plains Elementary School Council Edmonton Public Earl Buxton School Council Edmonton Public École Richard Secord School Council Edmonton Public Elmwood School Council Edmonton Public Inglewood School Council Edmonton Public Rio Terrace School Council Edmonton Public Ross Sheppard High School Council Edmonton Public TD Baker School Council Edmonton Public Victoria School Council Edmonton Public Westmount Junior High School Council Edmonton Public McKernan School Council Edmonton Public Archbishop Jordan High School Council Elk Island Catholic St. Luke Catholic School Council Elk Island Catholic Fultonvale Elementary Jr. High School Council Elk Island Public Pine Street Elementary School Council Elk Island Public École Dickinsfield School Council Fort McMurray Public École McTavish High School Council Fort McMurray Public Francophone School École Michaëlle-Jean School Council Francophone École St. Gerard School Council Grande Prairie Roman Catholic Bassano School Council Grasslands École Marie Poburan School Council Greater St. Albert Roman Catholic Sister Alphonse Academy School Council Greater St. Albert Roman Catholic CJ Schurter School Council High Prairie Georges P Vanier School Council High Prairie St. Michael's School Council Holy Spirit Roman Catholic DA Ferguson Parent Advisory Council Horizon Milk River Elementary School Council Horizon École Notre Dame Elementary School Council Lakeland Roman Catholic École Agnes Davidson Elementary School Council Lethbridge Willow Creek Composite High School Council Livingstone Range Crescent Heights High School Council Medicine Hat Medicine Hat High School Council Medicine Hat Public École Broxton Park School Council Parkland Millgrove School Council Parkland
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Prescott Learning School Council - Proxy Parkland Spruce Grove Composite High School Council Parkland Woodhaven Middle School Council Parkland Bezanson School Council Peace Wapiti Whispering Ridge School Council - Proxy Peace Wapiti JC Charyk Hanna School Council Prairie Land Youngstown School Council Prairie Land Eastview Middle School Council Red Deer Public Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School Council Red Deer Public Mountview School Council Red Deer Public Normandeau School Council Red Deer Public A. E. Bowers School Council Rocky View École Airdrie Middle School Council - Proxy Rocky View George McDougall High School Council - Proxy Rocky View Nose Creek Elementary School Council Rocky View École Secondaire Saint Maguerite d'Youville School Council St. Albert Joseph M Demko School Council St. Albert École Notre Dame Elementary School Council St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Centennial Elementary School Wetaskiwin Gwynne School Parent Association Wetaskiwin Lynn Lauren Early Education School Council Wetaskiwin Wetaskiwin Composite High School Council Wetaskiwin
Attendance – Non-Voting – Total 38 Central High Sedgewick Public School Council Battle River Captain Nichola Goddard School Council Calgary Public (CBE) CBE – no school council indicated on registration Calgary Public (CBE) Collingwood School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Henry Wise Wood School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Mount View School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Robert Warren School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Western Canada High School Council Calgary Public (CBE) Apostles of Jesus School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Holy Child School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Holy Name School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Dominic Fine Arts School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Gregory School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Isidore School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Joan of Arc School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Mary's High School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Pius X School Council Calgary Roman Catholic St. Sebastian School Council Calgary Roman Catholic Connect Charter School Council Charter Foundations for the Future Charter Academy SW School Council Charter New Horizons School Council Charter HJ Cody High School Council Chinook's Edge
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Crawford Plains Elementary School Council Edmonton Public Greenfield School Council Edmonton Public McKernan School Council Edmonton Public Nellie Carlson School Council Edmonton Public Sweet Grass School Edmonton Public Westminster School Council Edmonton Public Strathcona Christian Academy Elementary School Council Elk Island Public École Routhier School Council High Prairie St. Michael's School Pincher Creek School Council Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Winston Churchill High School Council Lethbridge École Broxton School Council Parkland A E Bowers School Council Rocky View École Airdrie Middle School Rocky View George McDougall High School Council Rocky View Muriel Clayton Middle School Council Rocky View Paul Kane School Council St. Albert
Attendance – Observing – Total 20 Black Gold School Division Black Gold Central Office Calgary Roman Catholic Central Office Calgary Roman Catholic Edmonton Catholic School Division Edmonton Catholic Edmonton Catholic School Division Edmonton Catholic Edmonton Catholic School Division Edmonton Catholic Edmonton Catholic School Division Edmonton Catholic Elk Island Public School Division Elk Island Public Grande Yellowhead School Division Grande Yellowhead High Prairie School Division High Prairie High Prairie School Division High Prairie High Prairie School Division High Prairie Learning Support Center (Central) High Prairie High Prairie School Division High Prairie Medicine Hat School Division Medicine Hat Public Medicine Hat School Division Medicine Hat Public Public School Boards' Association of Alberta Other, Education Stakeholder, Partner Magrath Elementary School Westwind Raymond High School Council Westwind Wetaskiwin School Division Wetaskiwin
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ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Financial Statements For The Year Ended June 30, 2020 Page 31 of 75
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
To the Directors of Alberta School Councils' Association
Opinion We have audited the financial statements of Alberta School Councils' Association (the Association), which comprise the statement of financial position as at June 30, 2020, and the statements of operations, changes in net assets and cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Association as at June 30, 2020, and its results of operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations.
Basis for Opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors' Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Association in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in Canada, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance for the Financial Statements Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Association's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters relating to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Association or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Association's financial reporting process.
(continues)
EDMONTON | LLOYDMINSTER | WHITECOURT | EVANSBURG 12840 ST. ALBERT TRAIL EDMONTON, AB T5L 4H6 | T: 780.489.9606 F: 780.484.9689 | METRIXGROUP.CA Page 32 of 75
Independent Auditors' Report to the Directors of Alberta School Councils' Association (continued)
Auditors' Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditors' report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:
Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Association’s internal control.
Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management.
Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Association’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditors' report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditors' report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Association to cease to continue as a going concern.
Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.
Chartered Professional Accountants
Edmonton, Alberta September 19, 2020 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 33 of 75 Statement of Financial Position As At June 30, 2020
2020 2019
ASSETS CURRENT Cash and cash equivalents (Note 2) $ 434,777 $ 405,744 Receivables (Note 4) 11,632 11,882 Prepaid expenses 19,477 7,608
465,886 425,234 LONG TERM INVESTMENTS (Note 3) 100,000 100,000 TANGIBLE CAPITAL ASSETS (Note 5) 2,096 720
$ 567,982 $ 525,954
LIABILITIES CURRENT Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 69,419 $ 86,919 Deferred membership fees revenue 13,522 41,277 Deferred contributions (Note 6) 33,380 373
116,321 128,569
NET ASSETS Unrestricted net assets 119,565 81,665 Internally restricted net assets (Note 7) 330,000 315,000 Invested in tangible capital assets 2,096 720
451,661 397,385
$ 567,982 $ 525,954
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD:
______Board President
______Executive Director
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 3 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 34 of 75 Statement of Operations For The Year Ended June 30, 2020
2020 2019
REVENUE Government of Alberta grant (Note 6) $ 616,993 $ 654,750 Membership fees 88,645 87,375 Interest 8,565 6,587 Parent Conference fees 1,846 131,220 Fees for service 1,357 3,002 Sponsorships and donations 403 4,823 Other 281 245 Annual General Meeting 75 3,900
718,165 891,902
EXPENSES Salaries, wages and benefits 372,797 454,081 Services 129,067 138,298 General and administrative expenses (Schedule 1) 68,218 84,834 Board expenses (Schedule 2) 46,896 77,087 Communications and marketing 18,715 7,824 Annual General Meeting 13,951 33,744 Advocacy and representation 13,672 9,315 Amortization 524 292 Parent conference 49 99,886 Donations - 580
663,889 905,941
EXCESS (DEFICIENCY) OF REVENUE OVER EXPENSES $ 54,276 $ (14,039)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 4 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 35 of 75 Statement of Changes in Net Assets For The Year Ended June 30, 2020
Internally Restricted Invested in Unrestricted Net Assets Tangible Net Assets (Note 6) Capital Assets 2020 2019
NET ASSETS - BEGINNING OF YEAR $ 81,665 $ 315,000 $ 720 $ 397,385 $ 411,424
Excess (deficiency) of revenue over expenses 54,276 - - 54,276 (14,039)
Amortization of tangible capital assets 524 - (524) - - Purchase of capital assets (1,900) - 1,900 - -
Transfers (15,000) 15,000 - - -
NET ASSETS - END OF YEAR $ 119,565 $ 330,000 $ 2,096 $ 451,661 $ 397,385
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 5 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 36 of 75 Statement of Cash Flows For The Year Ended June 30, 2020
2020 2019
OPERATING ACTIVITIES Excess (deficiency) of revenue over expenses $ 54,276 $ (14,039) Item not affecting cash: Amortization of tangible capital assets 524 292
54,800 (13,747)
Changes in non-cash working capital: Receivables 250 (513) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (17,500) 17,818 Deferred membership fees revenue (27,755) (7,603) Deferred contributions 33,007 - Prepaid expenses (11,869) 1,893
(23,867) 11,595
30,933 (2,152)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchase of tangible capital assets (1,900) - Purchase of investments (net) - (100,000)
Cash flow used by investing activities (1,900) (100,000)
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH FLOW 29,033 (102,152)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - BEGINNING OF YEAR 405,744 507,896
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - END OF YEAR (Note 2) $ 434,777 $ 405,744
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 6 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 37 of 75 Notes to Financial Statements For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
PURPOSE OF THE ASSOCIATION
The Alberta School Councils' Association (the "Association") is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Societies Act of the Province of Alberta. The Association's mission is to serve as a voice for parents and families committed to publicly funded education. The organization received registered charity status effective July 20, 2004. As a registered charity the Association is exempt from the payment of income tax under Section 149(1) of the Income Tax Act.
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of presentation
The financial statements were prepared in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not- for-profit organizations.
Revenue recognition
The Association follows the deferral method of accounting for contributions, which include donations and government grants. Restricted contributions are recognized as revenue during the year in which the related expenses are incurred. Unrestricted contributions are recognized as revenue when received or receivable if the amount to be received can be reasonably estimated and collection is reasonably assured.
Membership and parent conference fee revenue is recognized in the period it relates to. Memberships are for a one-year period.
Restricted investment income is recognized as revenue in the year in which the related expenses are incurred.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalent investments include items that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash, are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value, have a maturity of six months or less at acquisition, and are held for the purpose of meeting short-term cash commitments rather than for investing.
Tangible capital assets
Tangible capital assets are recorded at cost less accumulated amortization. Contributed tangible capital assets are recorded at fair value at the date of contribution. When a tangible capital asset no longer contributes to the Association's ability to provide services or the value of future economic benefits associated with the tangible capital asset is less than its net book value, the carrying value of the tangible capital asset is reduced to reflect the decline in the asset's value.
Tangible capital assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives at the following rates and methods:
Computer equipment 5 years straight-line method Computer software 5 years straight-line method Furniture and fixtures 5 years straight-line method
The Association regularly reviews its tangible capital assets to eliminate obsolete items.
(continues)
7 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 38 of 75 Notes to Financial Statements For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
Financial instruments
Measurement of financial instruments
The Association initially measures its financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value adjusted by, in the case of a financial instrument that will not be measured subsequently at fair value, the amount of transaction costs directly attributable to the instruments.
The Association subsequently measures all its financial assets and financial liabilities at amortized cost, except for investments in equity instruments that are quoted in an active market, which are measured at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized in net income.
Financial assets measured at amortized cost include cash and cash equivalents and receivables
Financial liabilities measured at amortized cost include accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
The Association has no financial assets or liabilities measured at fair value.
Impairment
Financial assets measured at cost are tested for impairment when there are indicators of impairment. The amount of the write-down is recognized in net income. The previously recognized impairment loss may be reversed to the extent of the improvement, directly or by adjusting the allowance account, provided it is no greater than the amount that would have been reported at the date of the reversal had the impairment not been recognized previously. The amount of the reversal is recognized in net income.
Measurement uncertainty
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not- for-profit organizations requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the recorded amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant areas requiring the use of management's estimates include the useful lives of tangible capital assets and the corresponding rates of amortization and the amount of accrued liabilities. All estimates are reviewed periodically and adjustments are made to the statements of operations as appropriate in the year they become known.
2. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 2020 2019
Savings account $ 150,787 $ 286,030 Guaranteed Investment Certificates 245,000 115,000 Operating account 38,645 4,369 Petty cash 345 345
$ 434,777 $ 405,744
Guaranteed Investment Certificates bear interest at rates between 1.46% and 2.02% maturing in November and December 2020.
8 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 39 of 75 Notes to Financial Statements For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
3. LONG TERM INVESTMENTS
2020 2019
Guaranteed Investment Certificates $ 100,000 $ 100,000
Guaranteed Investment Certificates bear interest at 3.05% and mature in October 2021.
4. RECEIVABLES
2020 2019
Accrued interest $ 7,126 $ 3,441 Goods and Services Tax 4,506 8,441
$ 11,632 $ 11,882
5. TANGIBLE CAPITAL ASSETS 2020 2019 Cost Accumulated Net book Net book amortization value value
Computer equipment $ 46,780 $ 45,260 $ 1,520 $ - Computer software 2,745 2,169 576 720 Furniture and fixtures 3,028 3,028 - -
$ 52,553 $ 50,457 $ 2,096 $ 720
9 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 40 of 75 Notes to Financial Statements For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
6. DEFERRED CONTRIBUTIONS
The purpose of the Government of Alberta grant is to provide funding in support of the Association's objectives as detailed in nature of operations. The remaining grant funding along with future funds are intended to assist the Association's operations until June 30, 2020.
The Government Organization Act, under which the grants have been provided, specifies that the grants must either be used for the purposes specified in the grant agreement, be used for different purposes if such different purposes are agreed to by the applicant and the respective Minister, or be returned to the Province of Alberta. Accordingly, in the event the Association does not utilize the funds in pursuit of its objectives, any unexpended grant monies remaining may have to be repaid to the Minister of Finance. The changes in deferred contributions for the year are as follows:
2020 2019
Balance, Beginning of Year $ 373 $ 373
Add: Government of Alberta grant 650,000 654,750
Less: Government of Alberta grant revenues recognized to fund expenses during the year (616,993) (654,750)
$ 33,380 $ 373
Deferred contributions are comprised of the following:
Government of Alberta grant $ 33,007 $ - Xerox Canada - shining student award 373 373
$ 33,380 $ 373
10 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 41 of 75 Notes to Financial Statements For the Year Ended June 30, 2020
7. INTERNALLY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS
2019 Additions Deletions 2020
Operations reserve $ 250,000 $ 15,000 $ - $ 265,000 Capital reserve 18,000 - - 18,000 Computer technology reserve 18,000 - - 18,000 Legal reserve 15,000 - - 15,000 Research and development reserve 14,000 - - 14,000
$ 315,000 $ 15,000 $ - $ 330,000
The Operations Reserve consists of funds designated for the Association's future general operations.
The Capital Reserve consists of funds designated for providing funding for future capital projects.
The Computer Technology Reserve consists of funds designated for the Association's computer technology upgrades.
The Research and Development Reserve consists of funds designated for the Association's research and development activities.
The Legal Reserve consists of funds designated for the Association's potential legal costs.
8. ECONOMIC DEPENDENCE
The Association's primary source of revenue is grant funding from the Ministry of Education, Government of Alberta. The Association's ability to continue viable operations is dependent on this funding.
9. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Association is not exposed to significant interest, credit, market, currency or other price risk through its financial instruments. The following analysis provides information about the Association's risk exposure and concentration as of June 30, 2020.
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that an entity will encounter difficulty in meeting obligations associated with financial liabilities. The Association is exposed to this risk mainly in respect of its receipt of funds from the Ministry of Education, Government of Alberta and other related sources, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
The Association mitigates this risk by monitoring cash activities and expected outflows through budgeting and maintaining investments that may be converted to cash in the near-term if unexpected cash outflows arise.
10. COMPARATIVE FIGURES
Some of the comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the current year's presentation.
11 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 42 of 75 Schedule of General and Administrative Expenses (Schedule 1) For The Year Ended June 30, 2020
2020 2019
Office lease $ 37,446 $ 36,300 Professional fees 9,317 9,240 Insurance 4,419 3,698 Telephone 3,197 2,688 Computer technical support 3,103 7,489 Office supplies 2,458 4,871 Staff Development 1,859 721 Administrative fees 1,672 938 Information technology 1,616 64 Printing 1,265 1,991 Miscellaneous 825 302 Meals 298 1,567 Postage 293 330 Bank charges 211 234 Optimal fees and other 182 9,408 Computer maintenance 42 358 Travel and accommodation 15 3,568 Memberships - 215 Contracts/Fee for Service - 852
$ 68,218 $ 84,834
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 12 ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS' ASSOCIATION Page 43 of 75 Schedule of Board Expenses (Schedule 2) For The Year Ended June 30, 2020
2020 2019
Travel $ 30,948 $ 54,143 Meals 5,615 6,585 Professional fees and development 5,877 12,374 Virtual Venue 1,721 - Staff Recognition 1,419 - Awards 836 1,815 Internal committees 309 1,266 Miscellaneous 171 904
$ 46,896 $ 77,087
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 13 Alberta School Councils' Association Actual as at 2020-2021 2020-2021 2021-2022 Explanatory Notes Page 44 of 75 2021-22 Budget June 30, 2020 Original Budget Revised Budget Approved Mar 20
Line REVENUE 1 Project Grant (Alberta Ed.) 616,993 650,000 203,007 170,000 2 Other grants - - 20,000 - Anticipated FNMI anti-racism grant not successful. Will pursue other avenues 3 Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy(CEWS) - - 49,000 12,000 Hopeful Ext to Sept 2021 / Certain to June 2021 Previously allocated to Board Operations, Membership fees @ $100 each will be used to offset 4 Membership 88,645 87,000 127,000 130,500 expenses in other areas. Advertising/Interest/donations/project fees, etc. Forecasted donations have not been realized; 2021- 5 Miscellaneous Revenue 9,249 7,350 303,975 56,800 2022 budget reflects lower forecast 6 School Council Conference 1,846 119,500 35,000 45,000 Forecasting higher event registraton and vendor fees 8 AGM/Member Engagement Opportunities 75 6,500 500 500 9 Fee for Service Revenue 1,357 3,500 5,500 71,000 The new business model is based on fees-for-service resulting from reduced grants TOTAL REVENUE 718,164 889,100 753,982 495,800
EXPENSES
Board Operations Virtual AGM and Member Engagement Opportunities reduce expenses, and will be split between 11 AGM/Member Engagement Opportunities 13,951 29,820 7,000 4,500 Advocacy/Representation (20%) and Board Operations (80%). 12 Board Meetings 38,284 67,570 3,500 2,300 Accommodation, travel, meals, virtual meeting platform, etc. 13 Board Expenses - Miscellaneous 171 1,000 250 - 14 Board Recognition 1,419 2,100 800 200 15 Board Development 1,295 4,740 1,850 1,000 16 Awards 836 2,400 2,000 2,000 17 Board Professional Fees 4,582 2,500 600 1,000 Consultant and legal fees etc. There may be small costs incurred by a committee to fulfill its mandate i.e.: Legacy - printing or 18 Board Committees 309 500 - 250 copying Total Board Operations 60,847 110,630 16,000 11,250 2%
Advocacy and Representation 19 Alberta Education Initiatives 1,201 2,000 - 1,000 Stakeholder committee representatives, stakeholder consultations 20 Partner/Stakeholder Representation 3,756 16,000 1,400 1,000 ASBA FGM/SGM, PSBAA, ATA, CASS, ASBOA, ACSTA, PSBAA, etc Virtual AGM and Member Engagement Opportunities reduce expenses, and will be split between 21 AGM/Member Engagement Opportunities 8,715 15,180 150 1,000 Advocacy/Representation (20%) and Board Operations (80%). 22 Staff Salaries & Benefits 116,962 120,780 112,250 115,434 33% of overall Staff Salaries & Benefits is allocated to Advocacy/Representation Total Advocacy and Representation 130,634 153,960 113,800 118,434 24% Administrative Costs Amortization, membership in other associations, partner collaboration. Reduced activities during 23 Administrative Miscellaneous 524 1,880 700 1,150 pandemic resulted in decrease - anticipating increased opportunities in coming year 12% of overall Staff Salaries & Benefits is allocated to Adminsitration. ED reduction in salary resulting 24 Staff Salaries & Benefits 62,756 59,910 57,000 42,476 from reduced grant funding 25 Contract Services - - 8,900 10,000 Bookkeeping tasks previously done by former staff member 26 Telephone 3,197 2,800 2,250 1,600 27 Technology/IT 4,760 13,850 18,300 8,800 Creation of new Client Management System for tracking Members, Service Deliveries, etc. Office supplies, service fees (bank fees/payroll fees/online fees), postage, copying, materials, 28 Office Administration 11,326 26,410 15,025 15,050 advertising, insurance, and donations, etc. 29 Office Lease 37,446 38,000 21,000 - Partnership agreement with ATA 30 Administrative Professional Fees 9,317 9,800 11,100 10,000 Legal and auditor fees. 31 Total Office Expenses 68,430 92,860 77,575 47,100 Total Administrative Costs 129,327 152,650 134,275 89,076 18%
ASCA 2021-2022 Budget Page 1 of 2 Alberta School Councils' Association Actual as at 2020-2021 2020-2021 2021-2022 Page 45 of 75 2021-22 Budget June 30, 2020 Original Budget Revised Budget Approved Mar 20 Notes Member Services 32 Research (Stelmach parent survey) 14,000 33 Advertising - - 815 - 34 School Council Conference 28 115,100 12,300 30,000 Digital conference platform; delegate bags & postage; promotional materials 36 Digital Communications 4,617 6,270 5,800 17,800 Website (annual and monthly fees), Enews, Distributions, virtual meeting platform, social media Training/professional development, travel, accommodation, meals, fee for service, staff travel, etc. 37 Service Delivery 128,198 147,990 90,480 28,350 Virtual delievery only - no travel, meals, accomodations 38 Resource Development 1,300 1,200 21,500 8,500 Creation of new, or major revisions of existing, resources.
55% of overall Staff Salaries & Benefits is allocated to Member Services. Severance payment in 07.20 39 Staff Salaries & Benefits 194,937 201,300 225,500 192,390 required adjusting budget. 2021-2022 Budget reflects reduction in ED salary Total Member Services 343,080 471,860 362,695 277,040 56%
TOTAL EXPENSES 663,888 889,100 626,770 495,800
NET INCOME 54,277 - 127,212 -
Generated On: 03/25/2021
Summary of 2021-22 Budget
Revenue Conditional Grant $170,000 Other Revenue $195,300 Membership Revenue $130,500 Revenue Sub Total $495,800
2021 - 2022 TOTAL REVENUE $495,800
Expenses Board Operations (2%) $11,250 Advocacy/Representation (24%) $118,434 Administration (18%) $89,076 Member Services (56%) $277,040 Expenses Sub Total $495,800
2021 - 2022 TOTAL EXPENSES $495,800
Revenue less expenses (surplus/deficit) $0
ASCA 2021-2022 Budget Page 2 of 2 Page 46 of 75 Alberta School Councils’ Association 2021 Annual General Meeting
SR21-01 Special Resolution to Amend ASCA Bylaws
TO AMEND THE BYLAWS OF ALBERTA SCHOOL COUNCILS’ ASSOCIATION: (BYLAWS = THE RULES BY WHICH THE ASSOCIATION REGULATES ITSELF) SPECIAL RESOLUTION 21-01 SR21-01 Rationale/Background: The Bylaws of a Society, approved by its members, are considered the “rules” by which its governors – the Board of Directors – will direct the operations of the Society. Bylaws should be reviewed periodically for their relevancy and updated as needed. In recent months, the ASCA 2020 -2021 Governance Committee undertook to review and revise as needed the Alberta School Councils’ Association (ASCA) Bylaws. To be approved, the Societies Act requires 75% of ASCA Member School Councils in attendance to vote in favour of the changes. Once passed by ASCA Member School Councils, the approved Bylaw changes do not take effect until approved by Corporate Registry.
Proposed amended language is underlined; proposed deleted language is struck through. Be it resolved that the Alberta School Councils’ Association Bylaws be amended as follows:
HOUSEKEEPING: That all references within ASCA Bylaws to the School Act be replaced with Education Act. That all sequential numbering be amended to reflect the insertion of a new 3.31 (see below) ARTICLE 3 DEFINITIONS 3.13 Director - any Parent from an ASCA Member School Council in Good Standing elected or appointed to the Board of Directors, including the President and Vice President.
3.31 Regular Elected Position – an elected position to the Board of Directors at an Annual General Meeting (AGM)
3.34 School Education Act – the law, most recently R.S.A. 2000, c.S-14, Statutes of Alberta, 2012 Chapter E-0.3, as amended, or any substitute statute, passed in the Alberta Legislature outlining the requirements and expectations of K-12 education.
3.35 School Council – as described in the School Education Act Section 22 55.
3.36 School Councils Regulations – the rules or directives guiding the application of legislation relevant to school councils, most recently Alberta Regulation 113/2007 94/2019, as amended or any substitute Regulation, made and maintained by the Alberta Government.
ASCA 2021 AGM SR21-01 Page 1 of 3 Page 47 of 75 Alberta School Councils’ Association 2021 Annual General Meeting
ARTICLE 5 MEETINGS
Voting
5.8 A Voting Delegate at any General Meeting must be a Parent or guardian from a Member School Council in Good Standing. Each Member School Council holds one (1) vote. Business will be decided with a show of Delegate Cards, or by secret ballot, and/or secure electronic means. Five (5) Voting Delegates may request a secret ballot vote for any item of business. In such cases, the President or the presiding Chair may set the time, place, and method for a ballot vote. The result of the ballot vote is final. Voting Delegates may withdraw their request for a secret ballot vote.
ARTICLE 6 GOVERNANCE OF THE ASSOCIATION
Composition 6.1 The Board of Directors consists of a maximum of twelve (12) ten (10) elected persons: A President, a Vice President and up to ten (10) eight (8) Directors. Directors will not hold more than one (1) position on the Board at a time.
At the request of the continuing Board members, the immediate outgoing President may seek Affirmation from the Members to assist the Board in an Advisory and non-voting Board in a non- voting Advisory role of Past President for a one (1) year term. The requirements of the role will be determined by the incumbent President.
Election, Eligibility and Terms of Office of the Board of Directors
Election 6.2 At the Annual General Meeting in even numbered years, Voting Delegates elect the President, the Vice President and five (5) Directors by secret ballot vote. In odd-numbered years, five (5) Directors are elected by secret ballot vote.
At the Annual General Meeting Voting Delegates will elect a President and Vice President in even numbered years by secret ballot vote. Voting Delegates will elect Directors to available positions by secret ballot vote every year.
Terms of Office 6.4 The Term of Office for any elected position is approximately two (2) years, ending at the conclusion of the AGM which occurs two years after their election. A President and Vice President may be elected for a maximum of two (2) consecutive two (2) year terms in each position. Directors may be elected for a maximum of three (3) consecutive two (2) year terms.
A Director whose children or child exit(s) the public education system during the Director’s Term of Office may complete the current term but shall not stand for re-election without a Student enrolled in K-12 public education.
The Term of Office for a regularly elected position is approximately two (2) years. The term ends at the conclusion of the AGM which occurs two years after their election. The Term of Office for an elected position filling a vacant position ends at the conclusion of the following AGM.
ASCA 2021 AGM SR21-01 Page 2 of 3 Page 48 of 75 Alberta School Councils’ Association 2021 Annual General Meeting a) A President and Vice President may be elected for a maximum of two (2) consecutive two (2) year terms in each position. b) Directors may be elected for a maximum of three (3) consecutive two (2) year terms. c) A Director whose children or child exit(s) the public education system during the Director’s Term of Office may complete the current term but shall not stand for re-election without a Student enrolled in K-12 Public Education. d) A Director appointed or elected in a by-election to fill a vacancy on the Board will serve in that capacity until the next election, for which the Director can choose to be a candidate.
Vacancy 6.7 The Board may appoint a Parent from a Member School Council to fill any vacancy on the Board until a by-election can be held at the next AGM.
In the event of a vacancy on the Board, the decision to fill the vacant position via a by-election or an appointment will be at the discretion of the Board. Governance Policy 2 will assist the Board with decisions regarding vacancies that occur.
In the case that a by-election is called, without a candidate nominated, the vacant position may be filled by appointment.
Director(s) who are elected or appointed to complete the term of a vacated Director position will be eligible for re-appointment or re-election to a subsequent two-year term. The partial term will be considered to be the first term.
Duties and Responsibilities
Du�es and Responsibili�es of the Board 6.8 The Board will:
a) Abide by the ASCA Bylaws, Oath of Office and Code of Conduct; b) Hire an Executive Director to manage the Association, and set clear expectations for such management; c) Set goals and strategies for the Association; d) Make policies, rules and regulations for governing the Association, its facilities and assets; e) Approve the financial operations and annual budget for the Association, which may include raising, investing or borrowing monies; f) Maintain, protect, sell, dispose of, or mortgage any or all of the assets and properties of the Association; g) Promote membership in the Association; h) Communicate on a regular basis with the Membership and School Council networks; i) Communicate with the Minister of Education; j) Liaise with other education stakeholders; k) Establish committees such as are necessary to carry out its responsibilities. l) Ensure the duties and responsibilities of the Vice President are fulfilled in the event of absence, resignation, incapacity, or extended leave of absence of the Vice President.
ASCA 2021 AGM SR21-01 Page 3 of 3 Page 49 of 75 DRAFT 2021 ASCA AGM ADMINISTRATIVE RESOLUTIONS
Administra�ve (or Housekeeping) Resolu�ons:
Background
As per the approved Management of Advocacy Policies policy at the 2019 AGM, any Advocacy Policy which has not been reaffirmed, or revised and subsequently approved, by ASCA Member School Councils a�er its tenth (10th) anniversary, will be removed by the Board, and maintained within a public document for historical reference. The ASCA Board of Directors recommends policies be reaffirmed if the policy is s�ll relevant to the current educa�on climate as it is presented here. Housekeeping details are provided such as updates to �tles of current ministries, ministerial orders, pieces of policy accomplished, etc. A21-01 Motion to REAFFIRM (5 policies in one omnibus motion)
Policy Ra�onale
79-1 Research on Students (1980, 1985, 1989, Parents should always have a say in what happens with Revised 1993, 2006) their children should the opportunity arise in a school division for research or experimenta�on of any kind. That our right as parents is to be informed and aware of any school-based research or experimenta�on which involves our children as subjects of the experiment and parents have the right to opt out their children.
01-14 Maintaining Educa�onal Excellence & Equity in The new funding formula introduced in 2020, respec�ully, Small Rural Schools should take care of all three aspects of this advocacy policy. Un�l the funding formula is proven to be successful That Alberta Educa�on gives more aten�on to the over several years, this policy should be reaffirmed. plight of small rural schools where a few teachers are atemp�ng to deliver the core curriculum, elec�ves, and extracurricular ac�vi�es over a large number of grades. That Alberta Educa�on fund rural school districts adequately such that no schools should need to group more than two grades together for core subjects and no more than three Grades together for elec�ves. That Alberta Educa�on acknowledge in a tangible way that, in order to provide an equitable and excellent educa�on program, small rural schools require a larger grant per student than bigger urban schools. 01-11 School Libraries (2009, Revised 2014) The curriculum-based development of libraries / learning commons in schools will con�nue to be of importance for That the Minister of Educa�on ensures the commitment students at all grade levels and all jurisdic�ons. to quality K-12 public educa�on by providing designated support to school jurisdic�ons for ongoing development of integrated library programs/learning commons related to the currently mandated program of studies.
2021 AGM DRAFT Admin. Resolu�ons Page 1 of 2 Page 50 of 75 DRAFT 2021 ASCA AGM ADMINISTRATIVE RESOLUTIONS
05-2 Funding for Playground Facili�es Although some funding is provided to support the development of new-school playgrounds, con�nued That Alberta Infrastructure fund basic playground advocacy for funding to support the ongoing development, maintenance, and equipment based on maintenance, and/or required upgrading, of exis�ng established criteria. School communi�es that want playgrounds is recommended. more than the basics would have to raise the necessary funds. 10-7 Priori�zing Funding Efficiencies in spending educa�on dollars is important. Efficiencies should never come at the cost of meaningfully That Alberta Educa�on first examines any cost savings suppor�ng students. that may be acquired through changes to provincial educa�on system monitoring programs to keep poten�al cuts from affec�ng students in classrooms.
The ASCA Board of Directors recommends policies be revised if the policy is s�ll relevant to the current educa�on climate but requires minor changes to keep it relevant. Ra�onale is provided such as updates to �tles of current ministries, dele�ng �melines, current terminology, prac�ce, or understandings, etc. A21-02 Motion to REVISE
(Proposed revised or added language is in red; proposed deleted language is struck through.)
Exis�ng Policy Amended Policy Ra�onale
10-1 Accountability in all 10-1 Accountability and The current Funding and Assurance Provincially Funded Delivery Models Assurance in all Provincially Funded Framework gives rise to this change. of Educa�on Delivery Models of Educa�on That Alberta Educa�on ins�tute has That Alberta Educa�on ins�tute has the same basic requirements for the same basic requirements for accountability in all provincially accountability and assurance in all funded educa�on models including provincially funded educa�on the delivery of the provincially models including the delivery of the mandated curriculum. provincially mandated curriculum. That accountability for measures of That accountability and assurance for student achievement in all measures of student achievement in provincially funded education all provincially funded education delivery models specifically include delivery models specifically include the literacy and numeracy outcomes the literacy and numeracy outcomes in the Mathematics and English in the Mathematics and English Language Arts standardized tests. Language Arts standardized tests.
2021 AGM DRAFT Admin. Resolu�ons Page 2 of 2 Page 51 of 75
DRAFT 2021 ASCA AGM PROPOSED ADVOCACY RESOLUTIONS
Proposed Advocacy Resolu�ons
Related information: ASCA Advocacy Overview
Types of Resolu�ons
AGM Mee�ng Planning and Prepara�on
# Title Sponsor Contact
P21-01 Con�nued Support and ASCA Board of Directors Wendy Keiver REVISED Advancement of Technology [email protected] Funding to Support all Levels of Learning Throughout Alberta Schools
P21-02 Acknowledgment of ASCA Board of Directors Wendy Keiver CoSC/DSC in the Alberta [email protected] Educa�on Act
P21-03 Restore PUF Funding to Elmwood School Council Danielle Striemer REVISED Alberta Schools [email protected]
P21-04 Transportation – Maximum Ecole St. Paul Elementary Crystal Charbonneau Time Limit Students can be Community School Council [email protected] on the Bus
P21-05 Renewal of Alberta St. Michael’s School Christy Gustavison REVISED Curriculum Council [email protected]
P21-06 Addressing Barriers to Ecole St. Gerard School Mark Woods Student-centred Public Council [email protected] Education
P21-07 Respect for ASCA's Bylaws, Foundations for the Future Tanya Borthwick REVISED Values, and Members Charter Academy, [email protected] Southwest Elementary School Council
P21-08 Education Stakeholder Ecole St. Gerard School Mark Woods Organizations Financial and Council [email protected] Governance Accountability
ASCA 2021 AGM DRAFT Advocacy Resolu�ons Page 1 of 24 Page 52 of 75
DRAFT 2021 ASCA AGM PROPOSED ADVOCACY RESOLUTIONS
P21-09 Equal Opportunity of Access Foundations for the Future Bilal Rasool to All Public Schools Charter Academy, [email protected] Northwest Elementary School Council
P21-10 Achieving Universal Public Foundations for the Future Tanya Borthwick REVISED Education Charter Academy, [email protected] Southwest Elementary School Council
P21-11 Allocating Public Funds to Sam Livingston School Cassandra Wyatt Public Education Council [email protected]
P21-01 (Revised by Sponsor April 19, 2021)
Con�nued Support and Advancement of Technology Funding to Support all Levels of Learning Throughout Alberta Schools
Sponsor: ASCA Board of Directors
Contact: Wendy Keiver [email protected]
Background / Overview:
The following ASCA Advocacy Policies are among those set to expire and become archived at the 2021 ASCA AGM. The ASCA Board of Directors believes the inten�ons of these policies would be best suited under one umbrella resolu�on.
08-8 Advancement in Technology Funding
That Alberta School Council Associa�on request Alberta Educa�on increase funding for the cost of advancement of technology in our schools.
08-7 Adequate Funding for New School Equipment, Resources & Technology
That Alberta School Councils ’Associa�on urge Alberta Educa�on & Alberta Infrastructure to adequately fund a school that is built by providing appropriate funding for equipment, resources and technology so that School Boards do not have to divert funding from exis�ng staffing and programming. Adequate funding should include appropriate amounts for con�ngencies and cost escala�ons.
11-3 Technology Support for the 21st Century Learner
That Alberta Educa�on con�nue to provide technology funding for hardware and so�ware and in addi�on, provide technology funding for technical support and learning support in addi�on to the current basic per student grant.
ASCA 2021 AGM DRAFT Advocacy Resolu�ons Page 2 of 24 Page 53 of 75
DRAFT 2021 ASCA AGM PROPOSED ADVOCACY RESOLUTIONS
With the ever-increasing use and demand for technology-oriented learning with schools in Alberta, there is a need for ASCA Member direc�on on what ASCA would like the funding model / implementa�on plan to look like.
With the steady growth of the urban popula�on, there is a direct reflec�on in the number of new schools being built. Most new schools come equipped with supports to enhance technology-based learning. Thus, funding will follow to support these ini�a�ves. This is not the case in rural schools where school infrastructure cannot support new innova�ons. There are also compe�ng demands for provincial funding to ensure schools operate in a safe manner.
Alberta Educa�on should con�nue to provide technology funding for hardware and so�ware, as well as provide technology funding for technical support and learning support, as part of the base instruc�on grant, or services and support grant, currently in place in the Weighted Moving Average Funding Model.
There is a requirement for con�nued support for in place systems and there is a need for financial support to update and maintain equipment.
This is not limited to a certain grade but for all learners K-12 throughout all schools regardless of geographic loca�on.
There will be a need for further support when a new school is developed and systems within the school can support more up to date technology to enhance student learning.
Whereas: The students of all schools, regardless of loca�on, should be en�tled to the same learning opportuni�es.
Whereas: The Covid-19 pandemic has proven that internet access in many parts of Alberta is inadequate and unacceptable.
We request that the Minister of Educa�on recognizes the importance of technology for Alberta’s students by ensuring that funding is allocated to all school divisions to adequately provide current and relevant technology.
We further request that once technology is in place, funding from Alberta Educa�on should be con�nued to support and improve technology, and ensure equipment is maintained, thus ensuring students are learning on current and relevant equipment.
We further request that the Minister of Educa�on con�nue advocacy efforts at the Federal level un�l all Alberta students have equitable and consistent access to online learning, whether by choice or by force.
P21-02
Acknowledgment of CoSC/DSC in the Alberta Educa�on Act
Sponsor: ASCA Board of Directors
Contact: Wendy Keiver [email protected]
Background / Overview:
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School councils were legislated in 1995 under Alberta’s Educa�on Act and are mandatory for all schools in the public educa�on system, including charter schools. School councils are structured groups of parents, principals, teachers, secondary students, and community representa�ves who work together to effec�vely support and enhance student learning.
The school board develops three-year plans that must align with provincial goals as well as address local needs and issues. The school board is responsible for submi�ng an annual results report to Alberta Educa�on, which provides informa�on on the division and schools ’major accomplishments and results of the past year. It includes results from surveys, provincial achievement tests and diploma exams, along with other informa�on.
Councils of School Councils (COSC)/District School Councils (DSC) or groups of school council representa�ves that have division-wide membership are ideal forums for engaging district wide discussion and input into the development of the division’s three-year plan. By contribu�ng knowledge, perspec�ve, and ideas at COSC/DSC mee�ngs, parents are ac�vely contribu�ng to school community and school district success.
The iden�fica�on and valida�on of COSCs/DSCs within Alberta’s Educa�on Act will allow for and provide a means for greater parent engagement and stakeholder rela�onship growth. To be recognized as a stand-alone iden�ty with parent driven opera�ons provides another guaranteed avenue for suppor�ng and enhancing student learning.
Posi�on Statement Suppor�ng the Resolu�on:
For a Resolu�on to be both effec�ve and viable from an advocacy perspec�ve, it needs to be in line with our Vision, Mission, and Beliefs, as well as ar�culated within our Bylaws and the Associa�on's philosophy.
Des�na�on 2.3 of the ASCA Board of Directors Vision Path states; Support the development of Councils of School Councils allowing for school councils to contribute directly at a district level.
a) Ac�on: Promote knowledge and skill development opportuni�es to system leaders.
Interested Par�es: ASBA, ASBOA, ATA, CASS, Minister of Educa�on
Implementers: Alberta Ministry of Educa�on
Precedent:
In Bri�sh Columbia, District Parent Advisory Councils (DPAC), are recognized within the BC School Act, sec�ons 8.4 and 8.5, which acknowledge the implementa�on of such a council and the establishment, rela�onship with the district, and the level of purpose and opera�on.
Whereas in Alberta, the Northland School Division Act (2017) Sec�ons 5(2)(e) and 5(4) and 5(5) recognize the establishment, purpose, and structure of a Council of School Councils within Northland School Division.
We request that the Minister of Educa�on acknowledge the importance of Councils of School Councils, (COSC) and District School Councils (DCS) in suppor�ng the Assurance Framework and collabora�vely develop relevant legisla�on with ASCA and Educa�on Partners to ensure consistency with current school council legisla�on.
Resources:
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British Columbia School Act (1996) https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/education/administration/legislation- policy/legislation/schoollaw/revisedstatutescontents.pdf
Northland School Division Act (2017) https://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Acts/n05p1.pdf
P21-03 (Revised by Sponsor April 19, 2021)
Restore PUF Funding to Alberta Schools
Sponsored by: Elmwood School Council
Contact: Danielle Striemer, via email at [email protected]
Background / Overview:
In Spring 2020, The Alberta Government changed the funding structure for Program Unit Funding which impacts the early interven�on necessary for students aged 2-5 with mild, moderate, and severe needs. These cuts were significant and devasta�ng to many families who are struggling to find supports for their young children with developmental delays.
These children, who will be entering kindergarten with no prior interven�ons, are delayed and will require significant daily help in achieving kindergarten curriculum goals. Not only will these kids suffer, but the educators will not be able to deliver quality educa�on to those neurotypical children atending the same classes. This will ini�ate an effect that will grow over �me for all students. This effect will alter the trajectory of the standardized test results (such as the PISA) which keep Alberta Educa�on among the top educa�on systems in Canada as well as the world (Rieger, 2019). Making this investment into our young children is well worth the payout.
Because in the near future, there will be undue stress added to Alberta Kindergarten classes. Later, we will see the effects in standardized test scores dropping, impac�ng our high standings in Educa�on as compared to our country and world (based on PISA Scores).
Because if we do not restore these early interven�ons in schools across the province, we will have a larger financial burden in the future. By inves�ng in our children, we invest in the future prosperity of Alberta.
Because early interven�on not only impacts academics but also “studies have found a number of long-term cost savings in terms of decreased grade repe��on, reduced special educa�on spending, enhanced produc�vity, lower welfare costs, increased tax revenues, and lower juvenile jus�ce costs” (Diefendorf & Goode, 2005).
We request that the Minister of Educa�on restore PUF funding for Early Interven�on Programs for all mild, moderate, and severely impacted children ages 2.5-5.5 - 6.5 (ensuring eligibility through the full kindergarten year) across Alberta to funding levels and students provided prior to budget 2020 (originally set by previous PC governments) to support the early interven�on of preschool aged children in the province of Alberta.
We further request that ASCA Advocacy Policy 01-10 be rescinded as its inten�on is captured in this proposed policy.
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Resources:
Pan, Q., Trang, K. T., Love, H. R., Templin, J., Hill, C., Kivlighan, D. M., ... & Acion, L. (2019). School Readiness profiles and Growth in academic achievement. htps://www.fron�ersin.org/ar�cles/10.3389/feduc.2019.00127/full
Diefendorf, M., & Goode, S. (2005). The long term economic benefits of high quality early childhood interven�on programs. NECTAC Clearinghouse on Early Interven�on and Early Childhood Special Educa�on. Chapel Hill, NC: NECTAC. htps://ectacenter.org/~pdfs/pubs/econbene.pdf
P21-04
Transporta�on – Maximum Time Limit Students can be on the Bus
Sponsored by: Ecole St. Paul Elementary Community School Council
Contact: Crystal Charbonneau, via email at [email protected]
Background / Overview:
Placing a maximum �me limit students can ride on the bus before and a�er school.
Ex: 45 minutes maximum
Because extended bus rides beyond 45 minutes impacts student learning.
Because children who are not old enough to complete homework on their own on the bus, cannot do it un�l they arrive home some�mes a�er 4:30 pm.
Because some students are awake at 6:15 am., ride the bus for 1-1.5 hours both in the morning and then the a�ernoon, and do not arrive home un�l 4:30 pm., resul�ng in a 10.75 hour day already and does not include having to do homework assigned by teachers.
Because children should not be penalized for living in the country or far distances from the school.
Because students across the province who live even 20 km from town face extended bus ride lengths.
We request that the Minister of Educa�on place a maximum �me limit of 45 minutes one-way that a student can ride the bus before or a�er school.
P21-05 (Revised by Sponsor April 20, 2021)
Renewal of Alberta Curriculum
Sponsored by: St. Michael’s School Council
Contact: Christy Gustavison, Chair via email at [email protected]
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Background / Overview:
Alberta Educa�on is renewing the provincial curriculum. It is unclear how parents and educa�on professionals will be engaged, what the new curriculum will reflect, and when it will be implemented.
Alberta Educa�on presented the dra� provincial curriculum for Kindergarten to Grade 6 on March 29, 2021 for public feedback. As of this revision (April 20, 2021), 29 out of 61 school boards, the ATA, the Associa�on of Deans of Alberta Educa�on, the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Na�on Chiefs, the Mé�s Na�on of Alberta, and many other professional groups are expressing concern or opposi�on to the dra�.
Because more engagement with parents and input from educa�onal professionals is needed to ensure the that any renewed new curriculum meets the needs of students today and the adults of tomorrow in Alberta.
Because the dra� curriculum as presented for public feedback is seriously flawed and should not be piloted nor implemented in its current form.
Because now Fall 2021 is not the �me to ask teachers to find, develop and implement anything new in the classroom for students, teacher, and administrators. curriculum as proposed for Fall 2021, the �me frame for roll out should be delayed due to ongoing effects of the pandemic.
Because Alberta students deserve a renewed curriculum that will reflects the needs of 21st century learners. The curriculum must one that is collabora�ve, inclusive and emphasizes innova�on, and cri�cal thinking, collabora�on, and ci�zenship, including the Truth and Reconcilia�on Commission of Canada Calls to Ac�on 62, 63 and 64. The curriculum should further be evidence-based, based on evidence and developed by na�onally recognized curriculum development experts in curriculum development and educa�on professionals, including the teachers in today’s classrooms who know our students best.
We request that the Minister of Educa�on ensure that the crea�on, pilo�ng, and implementa�on of all any renewed or new curriculum has opportuni�es for meaningful parental, teacher, and other educa�on professional engagement free of influence from elected officials and allow for adequate �me to plan implementa�on. This includes sourcing teaching resources, and staging pilots and implementa�on either by grade level or subject mater rather than the en�re curriculum across all grade levels.
We further request all new curriculum should reflect the needs of 21st century learners: emphasize innova�on and cri�cal thinking, diversity, and inclusion, including the recommenda�ons of the Truth and Reconcilia�on Commission of Canada: Calls to Ac�on 62,63, and 64. It should be evidence-based, developed by experts in curriculum and educa�on, and beter reflect the 2018 curriculum that has been in development since at least 2008, and in collabora�on with teachers, parents, provincial educa�on professional and other curriculum experts.
We further request that the Minister of Educa�on delay implementa�on of pilot planned for fall 2021 any dra� curriculum un�l it has broad support from educa�on professionals, teachers, parents, and ci�zens as all aten�on is on the pandemic at this �me.
Resources: htps://www.alberta.ca/curriculum.aspx?utm_source=google&utm_medium=sem&utm_campaign=K6curr iculum&utm_term=curriculum&utm_content=v1 ASCA 2021 AGM DRAFT Advocacy Resolu�ons Page 7 of 24 Page 58 of 75
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P21-06
Addressing Barriers to Student-centred Public Educa�on
Sponsored by: Ecole St. Gerard School Council
Contact: Mark Woods, via email at [email protected]
Background / Overview:
There are mul�ple organiza�ons within Alberta Educa�on working towards the same goal of advancing public educa�on; however, there are no official mechanisms for parents and students to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to confront barriers to student-centred educa�on.
Because Canada ra�fied the United Na�ons Conven�on on the Rights of the Child1 (“the Conven�on”) on December 13, 19912.
Because Ar�cle 28.1(b) of the Conven�on [in part] indicates that States Par�es shall: “Encourage the development of different forms of secondary education, including general and vocational education, make them available and accessible to every child….”3.
Because Ar�cle 29.1(a) of the Conven�on states: “Parties agree that the education of the child shall be directed to: (a) The development of the child's personality, talents and mental and physical abilities to their fullest potential.”
Because significant barriers to access in Alberta’s Educa�on system have been brought to public aten�on throughout 2019 and 2020 illustrates that choice may exist for some, but for an increasing number of Alberta families, there is no meaningful student-centred, public educa�on and the workflows to resolve this gap place the administra�ve burden on those underserved families.4
Because all Alberta educa�on organiza�ons should collaborate to put Alberta children first.
We request that the Minister of Educa�on jointly develop a policy and prac�ce framework for all educa�onal stakeholders to address barriers to student-centred educa�on including disputes between stakeholder organiza�ons within the sphere of influence of Alberta Educa�on.
We further request that ASCA nominate a sub-commitee or advisory panel from the membership to par�cipate in the joint development of the aforemen�oned policy and prac�ce framework as well as an organiza�onal chart offering a clear line of sight from parents to the Minister with a documented escala�on process.
We further request that, following the joint development of a policy and prac�ce framework for all stakeholders to address barriers to student-centred learning, ASCA undertake the development of a new workshop and content for School Councils to improve access to appropriate decision-making authori�es where they have experienced barriers in accessing student-centred educa�on.
Resources:
1 The Conven�on: htps://www.ohchr.org/en/professionalinterest/pages/crc.aspx
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2 Canada Conven�on on the Rights of the Child: htps://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/canada- united-na�ons-system/reports-united-na�ons-trea�es.html#a6
3 htps://cypcs.org.uk/rights/uncrc/full-uncrc/#28
4 CBC Ar�cle: htps://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/educa�on-minister-rally-1.5692581
P21-07 (Revised by Sponsor April 16, 2021) Respect for ASCA's Bylaws, Values, and Members Sponsored by: Founda�ons for the Future Charter Academy, Southwest Elementary School Council Contact: Tanya Borthwick, via email at ff[email protected]
Background / Overview: The following 3 2 Advocacy Resolu�ons were passed at the October 17th, 2020 ASCA Regular General Mee�ng becoming ASCA Advocacy Policy1:
20-04A Minister of Educa�on Defini�on of Public Educa�on
We request that the Minister of Educa�on define public educa�on as the public, francophone and separate, and charter school systems.
20-04B ASCA Defini�on of Public Educa�on
We request that ASCA define public educa�on as the public, francophone, and separate, and charter school systems and use this defini�on when interpre�ng exis�ng and new resolu�on statements such as “all schools” and “school boards”.
20-04C Integra�on and oversight of Charter Schools
We request that the Minister of Educa�on integrate charter schools into the public educa�on systems making them accountable to locally elected trustees and school boards and ensuring access to all students.
126 of 1265 ASCA members were represented at the Regular General Mee�ng.
Because ASCA states “We represent parents on school council to engage with Alberta’s Educa�on Ministry”2. Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are legally legislated3 to have a School Council which makes them eligible to be Vo�ng Members of ASCA according to ASCA Bylaw 4.14. Because Policies 20-04A, 20-04B, and 20-04C effec�vely remove parents on Charter School Councils from representa�on by ASCA when engaging with Alberta’s Educa�on Ministry.
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Because ASCA also has a Charter5, and excerpts of it state that (emphasis added): Core elements of the mission: 1. Parents have a voice through their school council and at general mee�ngs of the ASCA. Their collec�ve voice creates a larger, poli�cally important provincial consensus on educa�on issues. Values Respect: • For all individuals within the Associa�on • For diverse views and beliefs • For educa�on partnerships
Integrity: • In all endeavours, to operate above reproach in ac�ons and in words • In building trust and trustworthiness Teamwork: • In working together for common good • Within and between ASCA Board of Directors and staff • With the membership • With educa�on partners Because ASCA Advocacy Policies 20-04A, 20-04B, and 20-04C are contrary to the above emphasized sec�ons of ASCA’s charter. Removing recogni�on of a school system does not show respect for diverse views and educa�on partnerships. Removing recogni�on of a school system directly contravenes working together for common good, with membership and with educa�on partners. Removing recogni�on of a school system does not show integrity in all endeavours and does not build trust and trustworthiness. Because Policies Policy 20-04A and 20-04B contravenes ASCA Bylaw 3.274 which already defines the term “Public Educa�on” for ASCA as “any school in Alberta that is publicly funded including public, separate, francophone and charter school systems”. Because ASCA Bylaw 6.8 states that “The Board will: a) Abide by the ASCA Bylaws” Because ASCA Bylaw 54 states “All mee�ngs will be conducted in accordance with the ASCA Bylaws…” Because Robert’s Rules of Order states “ 6” and ASCA Policies Policy 20-04A and 20-04B were was introduced by a mo�ons that conflicted with the bylaws. No main motion is in order that con�licts with the corporate charter, constitution, or bylaws... We request that ASCA Advocacy Policies 20-04A, 20-04B, and 20-04C be rescinded. Resources:
12020 ASCA Advocacy Policy Manual: htps://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/public/download/files/40983 2htps://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/ 3Educa�on Act, Sec�on 55: htps://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Acts/e00p3.pdf 4ASCA Bylaws: htps://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/public/download/documents/40772 5ASCA Charter of the Associa�on: htps://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/public/download/documents/40773 6RONR (12th ed.), 10:26 (p. 102)
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P21-08
Educa�on Stakeholder Organiza�ons Financial and Governance Accountability
Sponsored by: Ecole St Gerard School Council
Contact: Mark Woods, via email at [email protected]
Because all educa�on stakeholder organiza�ons in Alberta may be in receipt of Alberta taxpayer funds, either through membership fees taken out of educa�on administra�on budgets, or provincial government funding, which are used to aid in the achievement of their vision, mission, beliefs, and programs.
We request that all educa�on stakeholder organiza�ons in receipt of membership fees or funding which has its origin at the provincial government level, be encouraged to increase their transparency to Alberta’s ci�zens with respect to use of taxpayer funds by making publicly available the records of their organiza�ons including, but not limited to, minutes, membership fee schedules, approved budgets and audited financial statements, and advocacy policies, statements or posi�ons. Educa�on stakeholder organiza�ons include, but are not limited to: Alberta Catholic School Trustees Associa�on (ACSTA), Alberta Independent Schools and Colleges Associa�on (AISCA), Alberta School Boards Associa�on (ASBA), Alberta School Councils’ Associa�on (ASCA), Associa�on of School Business Officials of Alberta (ASBOA), College of Alberta School Superintendents (CASS), Fédéra�on des parents francophones de l’Alberta (FPFA), Public School Boards’ Associa�on of Alberta (PSBAA), and The Associa�on of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS).
P21-09
Equal Opportunity of Access to All Public Schools
Sponsored by: Founda�ons for the Future Charter Academy, Northwest Elementary School Council
Co-sponsors: Calgary Arts Academy
Contact: Bilal Rasool, via email at school.council.nwe.ff[email protected]
Background / Overview:
Waitlists for schools have become a barrier to a student’s right to choice in educa�on. Parents and students may not be fully informed of the choices, and the quality of those choices, available to them.
Because A report about school choice and equity1 published by the OECD (that conducts the interna�onal PISA tests which have gained Canada recogni�on as an educa�on superpower2), states that:
“All parents must be able to exercise their right to choose the school of their preference; that means government and schools need to invest in developing their relationships with parents and local communities, and help parents make informed decisions.”
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“only through a concerted effort by central and local education authorities will school choice benefit all students.”
“Providing choice to parents without exacerbating segregation can be achieved by introducing specific criteria to the allocation of students across the set of local schools. Incentives can also be provided to schools for selecting disadvantaged students, for example, by weighting the funds received by the schools, depending on the socio-economic profile of their student populations.”
“school systems should ensure that all parents are provided with relevant information about the schools available to them, including a measure of the actual “value-added” of schools, meaning whether those schools succeed in improving the performance of all of their students.”
Because Alberta Educa�on uses the Provincial Achievement Tests, in conjunc�on with Sta�s�cs Canada's tax filer data and student inter-school mobility data, to calculate what is known as an SES Gap-Score. Alberta Educa�on states3 that:
“Socio-economic status (SES) is commonly defined as the position families within society occupy, in relation to others, based upon measures of income, education, and occupation. Educational research has demonstrated that SES is a significant positive predictor of student academic achievement. Schools and authorities that service students from lower SES communities generally face a greater than average challenge in obtaining strong achievement results and stakeholders regularly make reference to SES factors as significant determinants of student achievement. Nonetheless, research has demonstrated that it is possible for educators to improve the academic achievement of students from low SES populations.”
“Together, the SES index and gap-score provide valuable information:
• Authorities can identify schools with greater needs and plan school improvement programs and initiatives to target them.
• Schools with high positive gap scores can serve as exemplars as they are adding more than average value to students' academic achievement. Other schools may then be able to adopt these best practices.”
Because Alberta affirms United Na�ons Universal Declara�on of Human Rights (UDHR) Ar�cle 26.3 in the Preamble of the Educa�on Act, which states that “Parents have a right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children.”4
Because for resident students, Educa�on Act Sec�on 10(2) states that: “A board shall enrol a resident student of the board in the school operated by the board that is requested by the parent of the student if, in the opinion of the board asked to enrol the student, there are sufficient resources and facilities available to accommodate the student.”4
Because for resident students, Educa�on Act Sec�on 10(4) states that “A board shall, for that school year, enrol a resident student of another board in the school operated by the board that is requested by the parent of the student if, in the opinion of the board asked to enrol the student, there are sufficient resources and facilities available to accommodate the student”.4
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Because every individual who is en�tled to access an educa�on program in Alberta, as per Educa�on Act Sec�on 3, is en�tled to access a charter school in the same manner as they are en�tled to access regular and alterna�ve programs at any other public school.4
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools, as defined by Educa�on Act Part 2 Division 2, are a key contributor to the availability of choice in educa�on within the Alberta public educa�on system.4
Because Alterna�ve Programs, as defined by Educa�on Act Sec�on 19, are a key contributor to the availability of choice in educa�on within the Alberta public educa�on system.4
Because Separate Schools, as defined by Educa�on Act Part 5 Division 2, are a key contributor to the availability of choice in educa�on within the Alberta public educa�on system.4
Because Francophone Schools, as defined by Educa�on Act Part 5 Division 5, are a key contributor to the availability of choice in educa�on within the Alberta public educa�on system.4
Because public, separate, francophone, and charter schools have/may have to enact waitlists and loteries due to space and resource limita�ons, limi�ng choice in educa�on for Alberta families and students. (Table 1)
We request that the Ministry of Educa�on and all applicable cross Ministries ensure that ALL public, separate, francophone, and charter school authori�es have the facili�es and resources available to be accessible to all children on an equal opportunity basis, so as to eliminate waitlists and loteries.
We further request that the Ministry of Educa�on ensures that all school authori�es provide the parents and students that register with their schools relevant informa�on about other schools available to them, regardless of whether the school is a public, separate, francophone, or charter.
We further request that the Ministry of Educa�on creates a website where parents and students can enter a postal code or address to obtain a list of all school op�ons available to them.
We further request that the Ministry of Educa�on publishes the SES Index and Gap Score Reports for all schools so that parents can be provided with the relevant informa�on about the measure of the actual “value-added” of schools available to them.
We further request that the Ministry of Educa�on publishes the postal codes of all students that atend each school on its Open Data portal5 in order for the public to be able to analyse the student demographics of each school.
Resources:
1OECD (2019) Balancing School Choice and Equity: An Interna�onal Perspec�ve Based on PISA, PISA, OECD Publishing, Paris. htps://doi.org/10.1787/2592c974-en htps://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/docserver/2592c974- en.pdf
2How Canada became an educa�on superpower, BBC News htps://www.bbc.com/news/business-40708421
3SES Index and Gap Score, Page 17: htps://www.newhorizons.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Agenda-Package- for-Board-Mee�ng-of-2018-06-20.pdf
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4htps://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Acts/e00p3.pdf
5 Open Government Program htps://www.alberta.ca/open-government-program.aspx#toc-0
Table 1: Cross-jurisdictional sample of current capacity barriers to entry faced by parents enrolling children in kindergarten Note: Charter schools not listed do not have current capacity barriers to enrollment. The list of non-charter is not exhaustive. System School Capacity Barrier (kindergarten) Charter Almadina Language Charter Academy Waitlist CBE Auburn Bay School Lotery Charter Aurora Academic Charter School Waitlist Charter Boyle Street Educa�on Waitlist Charter Calgary Arts Academy Waitlist CBE Canyon Meadows School Lotery CBE Captain John Palliser Lotery EPSB Cogito (10 Schools) Lotery / Random Selec�on • Horse Hill School • Kameyosek School • Lymburn School • Malcolm Tweddle School • Meyokumin School • Mount Pleasant School • Northmount School • Pollard Meadows School • Richard Secord School • Stra�ord School CBE Dalhousie School Lotery EPSB Dr. Lila Fahlan Lotery Charter Founda�ons for the Future Charter Academy Weighted lotery CBE Highwood School Lotery CBE Lake Bonavista School Lotery CBE Langevin School Lotery CBE Midnapore School Lotery EIPS Mills Haven Elementary (German-Immersion) Waitlist CBE Stanley Jones School Lotery CCSD St. Isabella School Waitlist Charter Suzuki Charter School Lotery EPSB Sr. Margaret-Ann Armour Lotery EPSB Svend Hansen Lotery CBE Tradi�onal Learning Centres (8 Schools) Lotery • Brentwood School • Chief Jus�ce Milvain School • Chris Akkerman School • Colonel Sanders School • Dr. J.K. Mulloy School ASCA 2021 AGM DRAFT Advocacy Resolu�ons Page 14 of 24 Page 65 of 75
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• Glamorgan School • Le Roi Daniels School • Thorncliffe School CBE Valley View School Lotery Charter Westmount Charter School Waitlist
P21-10 (Revised by Sponsor April 16, 2021)
Achieving Universal Public Educa�on
Sponsored by: Founda�ons for the Future Charter Academy, Southwest Elementary School Council
Contact: Tanya Borthwick, via email at ff[email protected]
Background / Overview:
The following 3 2 Advocacy Resolu�ons were passed at the October 17th, 2020 ASCA Regular General Mee�ng becoming ASCA Advocacy Policy1:
20-04A Minister of Educa�on Defini�on of Public Educa�on
We request that the Minister of Educa�on define public educa�on as the public, francophone and separate, and charter school systems.
20-04B ASCA Defini�on of Public Educa�on
We request that ASCA define public educa�on as the public, francophone, and separate, and charter school systems and use this defini�on when interpre�ng exis�ng and new resolu�on statements such as “all schools” and “school boards”.
20-04C Integra�on and oversight of Charter Schools
We request that the Minister of Educa�on integrate charter schools into the public educa�on systems making them accountable to locally elected trustees and school boards and ensuring access to all students.
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are subject to the same accountability requirements to the Minister of Educa�on, as all other public schools are, as per Sec�on 67 of the Educa�on Act2 which states “A board shall disseminate any informa�on [...] produced under the repor�ng and accountability system it develops [...] to students, parents, electors or the Minister in the manner the Minister prescribes”.
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are subject to the same financial accountability requirements to the Minister of Educa�on, as all other public schools, as per Part 6 Division 1 of the Educa�on Act2.
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(a) prepare and submit to the Minister a budget for the fiscal year;
(b) submit to the Minister copies of
(i) the board’s financial statements,
(ii) the auditor’s report on the board’s financial statements, and
(iii) any written communications between the auditor and the board respecting the systems of internal control and accounting procedures of the board3
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are subject to the same curriculum and professional standards requirements as all other public schools are, as per Part 7 of the Educa�on Act2.
Because a locally elected divisional School Board elected by general elec�on is NOT a prerequisite of “Public Educa�on” in Canada as evidenced by the lack of such a model of governance in Nova Sco�a4 and Quebec5.
Because Alberta Public Charter School Boards are elected by the school communi�es they serve and are accountable to the Minister of Educa�on.
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are subject to addi�onal accountability that divisional school boards are not subject to, through regular reviews to renew their charter mandates conducted by the Ministry of Educa�on Field Services department and available for public scru�ny.
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are subject to accessibility reviews that divisional school boards are not subject to, by the Minister as per Sec�on 16(2) of the Charter Schools Regula�on6 which states “If an individual has been refused enrolment in a charter school, the individual or the individual’s parent may ask the Minister in writing to review the matter to determine the individual’s eligibility to be enrolled in the charter school”.
Because Canada ra�fied the United Na�ons Conven�on on the Rights of the Child (“the Conven�on”)7 on December 13, 19918.
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are subject to Sec�on 3 of the Educa�on Act2 to provide an equal opportunity for students to access their educa�onal programs, as is also a child’s right under Ar�cle 28.1 of the Conven�on7.
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools provide an op�on for diversity of socio-economic backgrounds, ethnici�es, languages, and opinions because atendance is not based on geography, religion, or mother tongue. (Figure 1)
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are available free to all, as much as any other public school is, as per Sec�on 26(5) of the Educa�on Act2 which states “A charter school shall not charge a fee that may not be charged by a board under this Act” and in the spirit of Ar�cle 28.1(a) of the Conven�on7 which states, “Make primary education compulsory and available free to all”. (Table 1)
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are subject to the same School Fees Regula�on11 as any other public school and must also provide policies and procedures to waive school fees.
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are progressively advancing Alberta’s Public Educa�on System as per 28.1 of the Conven�on7 and Sec�on 25(1) of the Educa�on Act2 which state Charter Schools “[have] the poten�al to ASCA 2021 AGM DRAFT Advocacy Resolu�ons Page 16 of 24 Page 67 of 75
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provide improvements to the educa�on system as a whole and to enhance educa�on research and innova�on in Alberta”.
Because Alterna�ve Program Charters are only issued to Alberta Public Charter Schools that demonstrate a learning style, teaching style, approach or philosophy or pedagogy that is not already being offered within a specific geographical area, as per Sec�on 25(1) of the Educa�on Act2. (Table 2)
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools help relieve capacity issues in divisional schools and help u�lize underu�lized divisional school buildings. (Figure 2)
Because ASCA bylaw 3.2712 defines public educa�on as “educa�on delivered by any school in Alberta that is publicly funded including public, separate, francophone and charter school systems.”
Because Ar�cle 29.2 of the Conven�on7 states: “No part of the present ar�cle or ar�cle 28 shall be construed so as to interfere with the liberty of individuals and bodies to establish and direct educa�onal ins�tu�ons, subject always to the observance of the principle set forth in paragraph 1 of the present ar�cle and to the requirements that the educa�on given in such ins�tu�ons shall conform to such minimum standards as may be laid down by the State.”
Because Alberta Public Charter Schools are established by individuals and bodies as per Sec�on 24(1) of the Educa�on Act2 “A person may apply to the Minister for the establishment of a charter school to be operated by a society incorporated under the Socie�es Act or by a company registered under Part 9 of the Companies Act” and as considered by Ar�cle 29.2 of the Conven�on7.
Because ASCA Advocacy Policy 20-04C interferes with the liberty of individuals and bodies to establish and direct educa�onal ins�tu�ons, contrary to Ar�cle 29.2 of the Conven�on7.
We request that ASCA Advocacy Policies Policy 20-04A and 20-04B be amended by replacing “francophone and separate” with “, separate, francophone and charter” to be consistent with bylaw 3.27.
We further request that ASCA Advocacy Policy 20-04C be amended by replacing “making them accountable to locally elected trustees and school boards.” with “by providing them adequate resources.”
Resources:
12020 ASCA Advocacy Policy Manual: htps://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/public/download/files/40983 2 Alberta Educa�on Act: htps://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Acts/e00p3.pdf 3 Part 6 Division 1 of the Educa�on Act - edited for space 4 Nova Sco�a Provincial Advisory Council on Educa�on: htps://www.ednet.ns.ca/PACE 5 Quebec Board of directors of a school service centre: htps://www.quebec.ca/en/educa�on/preschool- elementary-and-secondary-schools/school-governance/board-directors-school-service-centre/ 6 Alberta Charter Schools Regula�on: htps://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Regs/2019_085.pdf 7 OHCHR - Conven�on on the Rights of the Child: htps://www.ohchr.org/en/professionalinterest/pages/crc.aspx 8 Canada Conven�on on the Rights of the Child: htps://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/canada- united-na�ons-system/reports-united-na�ons-trea�es.html#a6
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9 Families in Calgary income data used is the 2017 Median Family Income by postal code rounded to the nearest $10,000. Families at FFCA income data is the median family income for their postal code. Family Data - Summary Census Family Income by Postal Area and Postal Walk, 2017 - Open Government (alberta.ca) 10 Transporta�on Grant is transferred to parents who enter into a transporta�on agreement with the school. 11 School Fees Regula�on: htps://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Regs/2019_095.pdf 12ASCA Bylaws: htps://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/public/download/documents/40772
Figure 1: 2017 Census Family Income by Postal Code: Calgary vs FFCA9
#Families in Calgary (left hand axis) #Families at FFCA (right hand axis)
90000 1000
80000 900
800 70000 700 60000 Please disregard this chart – new 600 50000 Figure 1 Chart inserted below. 500 40000 400
NUMBER OF FAMILIES 30000 300 20000 200
10000 100
0 0 70000 80000 90000 100000 110000 120000 130000 140000 150000 160000 220000
MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME BY POSTAL CODE TO NEAREST $10,000 ($CAD)
Figure 2: 9
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Table 1: Summary of publicly available information regarding 2020/2021 school fees grouped by jurisdiction
School Name Fees Public Charter Schools Almadina Language Charter Academy School Fees $0 Transporta�on Fees $250 Aurora Charter School School Fees $160 Transporta�on Fees $600 Boyle Street Educa�on Centre Fees $0 Calgary Arts Academy School Fees $555 Transporta�on Fees $800 Calgary Girls Charter School School Fees $160 Transporta�on Fees $850 Centre for Academic and Personal Excellence (CAPE) School Fees $750 Transporta�on Fees: $ - grant10 Connect Charter School School Fees $615 Transporta�on Fees $775 Founda�ons for the Future Charter Academy (FFCA) School Fees $195 Transporta�on Fees $855 Mother Earth's Children's Charter School Fees $0 New Horizons Charter School Society School Fees $0 Transporta�on Fees $325/$100 Suzuki Charter School Society School Fees $150 Transporta�on Fees: $ - grant10 Valhalla Community School School Fees $150 Transporta�on Fees $0 Westmount Charter School School Fees $285 Transporta�on Fees $850 Non-Charter Public Schools* Edmonton Public Schools (EPSB) School Fees $100 - $6,000 Transporta�on Fees $456-$720 Calgary Board of Educa�on (CBE) School Fees $5 - $300 Student Supplies $40 Transporta�on Fees $465/$800 Sports Fees < $1,500 Travel Fees < $7,500 Francophone School Fees $2 - $4,200 Transporta�on Fees $100 Separate School Fees $0-$175 Transporta�on Fees $0/$415 Alterna�ve School Fees $0 - $7,125 One school requires a $7000 bond to be held while the student is Transporta�on Fees $250 in school. Another school requires a $1200 capital contribu�on. *A range of fees were identified using publicly accessible sources for all Public School boards. Data from jurisdictions not participating in presenting this motion has been generalized/anonymized to maintain discussion focus
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Table 2: Alberta Public Charter Schools' focus, grouped by primary criteria satisfied under section 25(1) of the Education Act
Primary criteria School Focus Mother Earth’s Children’s Charter School Tradi�onal indigenous teachings. Delivering excep�onal learning in a safe Targeted popula�ons Calgary Girls Charter School environment crea�ng genera�ons of strong, confident, empowered women. Almadina Language Charter Academy English as a second language. Specialized Learning Boyle Street Educa�on At risk youth. Supports Centre for Academic and Personal High Needs Popula�on. Excellence New Horizons School Gi�ed educa�on. Complex Gi�ed Westmount Charter School Gi�ed educa�on. Aurora Charter School Tradi�onal educa�on. Targeted Pedagogy Inquiry-based, technology rich, with Connect Charter School outdoor and experien�al educa�on. Calgary Arts Academy Arts immersion curriculum. Arts Immersion Suzuki approach to academic, musical and Suzuki Charter School personal excellence. Founda�ons for the Future Charter Academic excellence and character Character & Leadership Academy (FFCA) development. Immersion Rural leadership, direct instruc�on and Valhalla Community School second language. Figure 2: Foundations for the Future Charter Academy student residency, Calgary school facilities and their reported facility utilization
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P21-11
Alloca�ng Public Funds to Public Educa�on
Sponsored by: Sam Livingston School Council
Contact: Cassandra Wyat, via email at [email protected]
Background / Overview:
Public schools fill an important role in our society beyond just learning – they offer a safe space and a mental break for children facing challenges at home. According to the Canadian Pediatric Society “They provide important mental health supports, nutri�ous food and – for some children – a refuge”.
This offering of programs and a safe space become increasingly important when we consider the impact of COVID 19 on the lives of children and their needs. While COVID 19 appears to have less of an impact on the physical health of children, children’s lives are being changed in profound ways. According to UNICEF “this is a universal crisis and, for some children, the impact will be lifelong”. Some of the impacts noted by UNICEF include:
• Increase in families being pushed into poverty which is experienced differently by children than adults • Children living in mul�-dimensional poverty (without access to educa�on, health care, housing, nutri�on, sanita�on or water) is expected to increase • Digital divide is exacerba�ng access to learning and leading to further inequi�es • Increased risk of violence and abuse Unfortunately, public schools were under-funded going into the pandemic. Now faced with increased needs of students, public schools require addi�onal funding. This is coming at a �me when government resources are more constrained due to provincial economic pressures and the decrease in the price of oil. One op�on is to reallocate the funding currently going to private schools to the public system. This serves to increase funding for the public system without an overall increase to educa�on funding.
Alberta currently provides the highest rate of funding for private schools at up to 70% of per student funding. Here’s a snapshot of public funding for private schools across Canada:
• BC – 35-50% of per-pupil opera�ng costs • Alberta – 60-70% of per-pupil amount provided to the public system • Saskatchewan – 50% of per-student average provincial funding • Manitoba – 50% of per-pupil amount paid to local public schools • Quebec – 50% of the per-pupil amount paid to public schools. English Language private schools only receive funding for high school students. • Ontario – no funding • Nova Sco�a – no funding • New Brunswick – no funding • Prince Edward Island – no funding • Newfoundland and Labrador – no funding ASCA 2021 AGM DRAFT Advocacy Resolu�ons Page 22 of 24 Page 73 of 75
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One argument o�en expressed in support of funding to private schools is that it supports parent choice. Even with no funding, private schools will con�nue to exist, and parents will con�nue to be able to make the choice to apply and send their children.
Another common argument is that the private system saves the public system money as they receive less per- student than the public system. The assump�on is that there would be an increase in public enrollments as a result of decreased funding to the private system. In prac�ce, when Ontario removed funding from private schools, there was no surge in enrollments within the public system. Addi�onally, private school enrollments seem to remain rela�vely consistent over �me.
A final argument is that parents should be able to choose which school their tax dollars support. Public services are not designed in this way. Public services are designed to pool resources to meet the needs of the public with open access to the public and governance through by public oversight. For example, road construc�on is par�ally paid for through tax dollars yet not everyone drives every road within the province nor do we have the choice to direct our tax dollars to specific roads over others.
By realloca�ng private school funding to the public system, we can strengthen the public system’s ability to meet the needs of all students which is increasingly important as we consider the long-term impacts of COVID 19 on children and the increasing pressures on our government to respond to reduced revenues.
As background:
Within the province of Alberta there are currently 150 private school authori�es opera�ng about 180 schools. The Government of Alberta does not specify the amount of tui�on that a private school may charge.
In Alberta there are 3 types of private schools and 2 special designa�ons.
• Registered private schools who are not eligible for government funding • Accredited private schools (non funded) • Accredited funded private schools who receive a grant • Designa�on: Special Educa�on Private Schools whose sole purpose is to serve students who are iden�fied with a mild, moderate or severe disability • Designa�on: Heritage Language school: offers approved or authorized language and culture courses outside regular school hours to students who receive their basic educa�on program at another school authority Because public educa�on is defined as the public, francophone, and separate school system.
Because a well-funded public educa�on system will support all children in the province to realize their full poten�al.
Because COVID 19 is increasing mental health and other social needs of children.
Because schools will be beter posi�oned to meet students learning and mental health needs if they are appropriately funded.
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Because decreasing funding and/or lack of funding to private schools in other provinces has not resulted in an enrollment surge that strained the public system or reduced the opportuni�es for parent choice.
Because private schools receive grants over and above the tui�on they charge and set enrollment criteria, both of which can create barriers to access.
Because the economic reali�es in our province will require our government to make difficult decisions related to public funding beyond just educa�on funding.
Because educa�on is funded at the provincial level.
Because educa�on policy is set at the provincial level.
We request that the Minister of Educa�on remove funding from all private schools except those that are designated special educa�on private schools whose sole purpose is to serve students who are iden�fied with a mild, moderate, or severe disability.
We further request that the Minister of Educa�on reallocate those funds to the public educa�on system which is defined as the public, francophone, and separate school systems.
Resources: htps://www.cps.ca/en/media/canadian-paediatric-society-supports-a-safe-return-to-school-for-canadas- children-and-youth htps://www.alberta.ca/private-schools.aspx htps://data.unicef.org/covid-19-and-children/ htps://www.alberta.ca/budget.aspx htps://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/alberta/ar�cle-alberta-budget-introduces-13-billion-in-cuts- elimina�on-of-200/ htps://www.ourkids.net/school/provincial-funding-for-private-schools htp://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/general/elemsec/privsch/
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ASCA 2021 Annual General Mee�ng (AGM) VIRTUAL April 25, 2021 EVALUATION Survey
Thank you for attending the ASCA 2021 Virtual AGM. Please take a few moments to complete the following survey to provide input on the meeting.
Have you atended an ASCA Annual General Mee�ng (AGM) (in person) in the past? Y N
Did your school council par�cipate in the Proposed Advocacy Resolu�ons pre-sor�ng online? Y N
Did you have an opportunity to review the Candidate profiles of those running for a posi�on on the Board of Directors? Y N
If not, please tell us why:
Did you receive sufficient informa�on regarding changes to the ASCA AGM format, given the covid- 19 health issues? Y N
If no, please explain:
Was the informa�on provided in advance about the virtual mee�ng format communicated clearly and easy to understand? Y N
Did you find the registra�on process for the mee�ng simple to complete? Y N
Were you sa�sfied with the informa�on available in advance of the mee�ng – complete AGM package, mee�ng documents? Y N
Tell us your thoughts about the Zoom webinar pla�orm u�lized for the mee�ng:
Were you the Vo�ng Delegate for your School Council? Y N
If yes – you were the vo�ng delegate –
Tell us your thoughts about the online vo�ng so�ware Elec�onBuddy u�lized for the mee�ng:
Tell us your thoughts about the process to elect candidates for posi�ons on the Board of Directors to the u�lized during the mee�ng:
Tell us your thoughts about the mee�ng management as presented by ASCA staff and Board:
Would you like to see more mee�ngs presented in a virtual pla�orm format? Y N
Please provide any addi�onal comments or sugges�ons about the virtual mee�ng:
School council name:
School District or City/town:
Submited by:
Contact email address:
Survey: htps://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/about/annual-general-mee�ng/agm-evalua�on