With a provincial election coming on May 29, the Alberta School Councils’ Association (ASCA) believes that education is a critical topic, as decisions regarding the education system — for all students — will affect us today and for many years to come.

There are several ways that parents can get involved in the election, from following candidates on social media to attending local candidate debates or organizing an all-candidate forum in the school community.

To assist parents and school councils, ASCA created a School Council Political Engagement guide which includes the following sample questions and letter to encourage interaction with political candidates. ASCA strives to ensure parents are confident in making a well-informed decision about who will champion their children's educational success.

Another helpful resource is available at the Stand for Education website.

Sample questions for candidates

1. What are your top three priorities for education?
2. What actions would you take in order to provide long-term, predictable and sustainable funding for education?
3. In what ways would you improve support for diverse students and complex classrooms?
4. What priority do you place on student mental health and wellness?
5. Would you advocate for additional funding to address class size and complexity concerns?
6. What role do you see school councils fulfilling in the discussions and decisions of Alberta Education?
7. After all the work that has been done, and is continuing to be done, on the new curriculum, what is your party’s position on its implementation?

Sample letter to a candidate from an individual

Dear Candidate:

Thank you for putting your name forward as a candidate in the upcoming provincial election.

The opportunity to elect officials who will make important decisions, for our province and its future, is one that I appreciate and do not take lightly. I believe it is my responsibility to make an informed and educated choice, when I cast my ballot on Election Day.

In an effort to better inform my decisions, I respectfully ask that you answer the following questions, from your own position, as well as your official party’s position, on these issues relating to our education system in Alberta.

INSERT PARAGRAPH OR TOPIC/QUESTION LIST HERE

I look forward to your response, and thank you in advance, for taking the time to address these important topics.

Individual’s Name

For more information about Alberta's provincial election, visit https://www.albertaschoolcouncils.ca/education-in-alberta/government/alberta-election-2023

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