Not much on the Education front. Budgets are decreased for schools this year. Some schools are closing due to low numbers. Some programs at schools are canceled. Some classes are being rolled into other existing classes, making for larger class sizes. Teachers got their wage increase. Principals are swamped with paperwork. Kids are swamped with string-pulling issues. Yet, life goes on. Not particularly happy life though.

Alberta Education has been amazingly quiet since the public engagement sessions last year.

It's interesting to note that although Dan Pink, the opening keynote speaker at the 3 day Alberta Education public engagement conference last October, made much ado about art education hand in hand with the sciences, the government is actually forcing schools to cut some arts programs due to budget constraints. See the website called, "Save Our Fine Arts" for more details, and sign a petition if inclined to do so.

I wonder where Alberta Education is going. There seems to be a lack of information and leadership going into the 21st century. The 20 year plan? What 20 year plan. I believe we need out of the box thinkers and doers. Where are they?

Well, maybe by the end of the year someone at Alberta Education, or the Minister, will shed some light on the future of education in Alberta. Or not. Another year in limbo.

Your comments?

Cheers - Mike