Setting the record straight on Alberta’s education system

To the Editor:

The article ‘Public Education in Alberta is being actively eroded’ (which appeared on the commentary page of the April 9 Lakeside Leader) presents a concerning narrative, but misrepresents the role of independent schools in Alberta would like to correct the record and highlight the valuable contributions independent schools make to Alberta’s educational landscape.

First, independent schools are not undermining public education; they strengthen the overall system by offering a diverse range of high-quality options. Independent schools are fully accredited by Alberta Education, follow the provincial curriculum, employ Alberta-certified teachers, and are accountable to strict standards. They simply provide parents with the ability to choose the educational environment that best suits their children’s needs — a hallmark of a strong, democratic society.

Second, the funding reality is often misunderstood. Independent schools are required to be not-for-profit organizations to receive any government funding, and receive only 70 per cent of the per-student operational funding that public schools receive and no capital funding for facilities. Far from siphoning resources, in the last five years alone, independent schools saved taxpayers over $825 million. If all independent school students moved into the public system, Alberta’s education budget would be significantly strained.

Third, the claim that independent schools serve only wealthy families is inaccurate. A 2020 Cardus study found that over 82 per cent of Alberta’s independent schools enroll students from families with household incomes at or below the provincial average. Many independent schools also offer bursaries and financial assistance to ensure broad access. Alberta’s independent sector includes a rich variety: faith-based schools, academic preparatory schools, special needs schools, arts-focused institutions, and more.

Finally, educational choice does not erode democracy; it enhances it. Informed, engaged citizens thrive when they have the ability to choose educational paths aligned with their values, needs, and aspirations. The right to choose among public, separate, charter, and independent schools ensures that parents can choose the school that best suits their child’s needs and ensures that innovation continues to flourish.

Alberta’s independent schools are heavily regulated, transparent, and consistently demonstrate strong academic outcomes. They are not part of a privatization agenda, but rather a reflection of Alberta’s commitment to educational excellence and diversity.

AISCA supports a strong public education system but also recognizes that Alberta’s pluralistic society benefits when multiple models work together. Alberta’s education system is strongest when it embraces choice, diversity, accessibility, and high standards across all types of schools.

Rather than viewing independent and charter schools as threats, they should be seen as partners in ensuring every Alberta student has access to a high-quality education that prepares them to contribute meaningfully to society.

For those interested in learning more about the important role independent schools play in Alberta’s education system, we encourage you to visit educatedchoices.ca. This resource offers valuable information about how independent schools contribute to educational diversity, accessibility, and student achievement across Alberta.

George Varkey
Communications Manager
Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta