Alberta is seeing the emergence of a vocal public school lobby advocating for one publicly funded school system that argues for fiscal savings and “civic cohesion”. We strongly believe that a school is more than a place where choice is given around intellectual values, as our Catholic Schools are a place where foundational values are actively lived in word and gesture with Christ’s love permeating each moment.  A learning environment deeply rooted in gospel values is important to many Albertan families and we desire to see our government maintaining policies and laws that protect our rights to a Catholic School Education System.  Unfortunately, recent government decision making leaves us questioning whether our rights to a Catholic School Education System are being protected.  

Alberta is presently undergoing a curriculum re-write for all curriculum grades 1-12.  Catholic schools have historically taught family life/health/human sexuality instruction from a Catholic-Christian perspective.  Today’s political climate is not supportive of this perspective.  Catholic superintendents have been requesting consultation on the writing of this curriculum and have asked for permission to teach human sexuality from a Catholic perspective.  This request caused a media frenzy in October 2017. 

A Catholic School Community is for all students; especially those at risk and dealing with gender issues. Catholic Schools have supported youth with gender expression and have done so in a loving manner for years.  In provincial ratings, Catholic Schools are ranked at the top for providing safe and caring learning environments.  Our faith is the foundation upon which we serve an inclusive student body.  

Catholic schools are constitutionally protected and have been educating children in Alberta for 158 years.  Catholic schools are unique and distinct and share a Catholic worldview that is foundational to who we are.  

We need to raise awareness of the potential outcomes facing Catholic Education in our province and as parents we need to communicate to our government the importance of Catholic Education to our families.  Catholic Education, where faith is integrated into every aspect of life and learning is what we desire for our children.  Please show your support for Catholic Education by signing and sharing this petition.