Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Edmonton Public Schools is accustomed to hosting school districts from around the world that are interested in learning more about what makes us leaders in public education. Not only do we model site based decision making, we are also the leaders in offering students choice. Whether it is a language, arts or sports program, Edmonton Public Schools is committed to ensuring parents find the right educational programming for their children within a public school system.
Early last fall, a British television production company visited four schools within our District to capture the diverse ways we deliver education. They spoke to Superintendent Edgar Schmidt, principals, teachers and students. Also interviewed were former Superintendents Emery Dosdall and Angus McBeath.
The result of the visit is two short films, Lessons from Alberta. One looks at the province's consistently high levels of achievement based on Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) results and the second illustrates the impact of choice and diversity in public education. The film examines the role of principals by showing how much autonomy they have within Edmonton Public Schools and how their leadership impacts overall achievement through their control of school budgets, school culture and the school environment.
The Secretary of State for Education in Britain, Michael Gove, has acknowledged that he has used Alberta as an inspiration for many of his policies in the areas of freeing schools from central and local government control.
The two films are part of an education series by Teachers TV which is broadcast throughout the United Kingdom.
Further information, contact:
Cheryl Oxford, Managing Director
Communications
780-429-8043
Edmonton Public Schools is helping to shape the future in every one of our classrooms. We’re focused on ensuring each student learns to their full potential and develops the ability, passion and imagination to pursue their dreams and contribute to their community.
Edmonton Public Schools
Centre for Education
1 Kingsway NW
Edmonton, Alberta T5H 4G9