Alberta Raising the bar with education leaders
The Voice of Canada News
If passed, Bill 55, the College of Alberta School Superintendents Act, would make the college a legislated organization responsible for upholding the superintendent profession. This includes superintendents and deputy superintendents employed in public, separate or francophone school authorities. This legislation will strengthen the education system and empower superintendents to provide better outcomes for Alberta’s students.
“Superintendents play an important and unique role in making sure every student receives a high-quality education. Having an education system full of tremendously professional leaders will foster better outcomes for all students across our great province, which is something Alberta parents and students deserve.”Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Education
The creation of this act is the result of engagement with education partners, including the college, Alberta Teachers’ Association, Alberta School Boards Association, Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools, Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta, Association of School Business Officials of Alberta, and First Nations superintendents and education directors.
The legislation builds on the government’s professional practice standards for superintendents, and existing legislation governing other professional bodies in the K-12 education sector, by ensuring leaders are skilled and competent in their professional practice. The college would also be responsible for offering professional development to its members and setting learning requirements.
“CASS is thrilled with the opportunity to further define and elevate our profession with this legislation. This will strengthen Alberta’s education system and provide better outcomes for our students.”Bevan Daverne, president, College of Alberta School Superintendents
“Alberta’s school boards value superintendents and ASBA is pleased to support legislation that enhances their profession, while reinforcing boards’ authority as the employer.”Lorrie Jess, president, Alberta School Boards Association
If passed, the act will require amendments to the Education Act and other regulations to ensure enforcement.
Key facts about Bill 55
- The college will not assume union functions, engage in collective bargaining on behalf of its members or assist in negotiating employment contracts.
- The proposed legislation explicitly clarifies that superintendents must respect the authority of the school board as their employer.
- The Minister of Education will no longer approve superintendent appointments, however the guidelines on superintendent compensation will continue to apply.
- Membership will be mandatory for superintendents, chief deputy superintendents, and eligible central office teacher leaders who are employed by a school board or francophone regional authority.
- The college will submit an annual report to the Minister of Education that will be tabled in the legislature.
- The college will hold an annual general meeting.
- A public member will be appointed to the board of directors.
- Two categories of membership will be created – regulated and non-regulated.
- Given the number of changes that will be required to the college’s operational and governance structure, the proclamation date of the act is scheduled for September 2021.
