Oct. 12, 2017
Connaught School Principal Erica Rae talks about how her school will use the Classroom Improvement Fund
Premier Rachel Notley visited Connaught School on Oct. 13, 2017 to draw attention to the $75 million provided to Alberta schools this year to improve learning outcomes for students. School boards and teachers were given flexibility to use the Classroom Improvement Fund (CIF) as they see fit. In addition to new jobs being created, a number of other programs and improvement have been incorporated into schools this year. This includes programs to support literacy and numeracy, professional development on inclusive education and equipment to assist students.
“We are pleased with the collaborative approach taken to allocate this additional funding, and grateful for the flexibility that allows schools to acquire the right resources to meet the unique needs of their students,” said David Stevenson, chief superintendent of schools for the Calgary Board of Education. “The resources that the CIF will provide, including additional teachers and support staff, will go a long way to support our students and their learning.”
This CBE process was collaborative and involved the work of school boards, ATA representatives and government. Each step of the way, student needs in the classroom were kept at the forefront of discussion. Each school’s proposal represented consultation with school staff and continued commitment to student success.
In CBE schools, the $13 million CIF will be supporting:
- Literacy;
- Mathematics;
- Aboriginal Education;
- High School Success;
- Mental Health;
- English Language Learning and,
- Inclusive Practice.
The funds must be spent by the end of the 2017-18 school year.
Premier Rachel Notley and Education Minister David Eggen share a moment with Connaught students