Tuesday, April 22, 2008
EDMONTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS WELCOMES FUNDING INCREASE
The Board of Trustees welcomed today's provincial budget announcement, which included an increase in funding for basic (Kindergarten to Grade 12) education.
"We are pleased to see an increase in many key areas for next year," said Board Chair Bev Esslinger. "Both the Premier and Minister of Education have indicated they are committed to ensuring public education remains a priority on the political agenda, and this budget announcement certainly reflects that fact."
In addition to the increase to the overall operational grant, the budget will allow the District to address critical areas such as class size. Funds in the budget have been specifically earmarked for the small class size initiative - an allocation that comes as good news to the District, as well as to teachers, parents and especially students in Kindergarten to Grade 3, who stand to benefit the most from smaller class sizes. Important programs such as the Alberta Initiative for School Improvement and the Edmonton Health Initiative Partnership will also see increases. As well, the funding will allow the District to address salary increases for all staff groups.
District officials will be meeting with representatives from Alberta Education prior to the end of April to garner a more comprehensive understanding about the financial impact of the announcement.
"We look forward to receiving further details from Alberta Education," said Esslinger. "At that point, we will have a much better idea what this increase means for Edmonton Public Schools."
For more information, contact:
Jane Farrell, Communications
(780) 429-8290
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