Saturday, April 30, 2011
Edmonton Public and Catholic Boards Cutting Staff
In the Edmonton Journal article, "Budget crunch will force Edmonton schools to cut staff," Edmonton Public and Catholic boards discuss their respective budget challenges and pending staff cuts. Jacquie Hansen, President - Alberta School Boards Association, states in the article that "most school boards across Alberta face budget cuts." '"That's really about loss of people and programs and services to kids."'
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Trustee Pecuniary Interest Question Raised in the Legislature
In Wednesday's afternoon sitting of the Legislature, Alberta Hansard reports the following exchange regarding a question about trustees and pecuniary interest:
Mr. Rodney: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don’t think there is any doubt that parents have the greatest stake in the success of their children. That’s why it was a little bit of a head-scratcher last week when Calgarians learned that parents who serve as trustees for the Calgary board of education are not permitted to participate in that school board’s budget debate. Considering that budgeting is a significant part of a school board’s work, can the Minister of Education please explain this decision?
Mr. Hancock: Well, first of all, Mr. Speaker, I don’t think it’s fair to say that parents who are trustees are not permitted to participate. Every individual, whether in an elected position, whether in this House or a on school board or at a municipal council, has to make a decision as to whether or not they are in a conflict of interest. I think the rules are pretty clear on conflict of interest, that it’s a direct pecuniary interest, and if you have a direct pecuniary interest, you should withdraw from the discussion and the vote. However, boards should be able to arrange their affairs so that’s not on broad issues like a budget but on very narrow issues relative . . .
2:40
The Speaker: The hon. member.
Mr. Rodney: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s quite well known that the CBE has obtained a rather lengthy legal opinion on the subject that seems, on face value at least, to bind the trustees’ hands. Is the minister prepared to do anything about this? What are these trustees exactly supposed to do under these circumstances?
Mr. Hancock: Mr. Speaker, I’m not privy to a 13-page legal opinion. I’d be surprised if that legal opinion suggested that a trustee who was also a parent could not participate in budget discussions. Again, if it’s a direct pecuniary interest, that interest has to be declared and the individual withdraw, but they can organize their affairs and the agenda of a board meeting to ensure that parents or any other person who has a direct pecuniary interest in a subject that comes before the board can participate in the broad discussion of issues and just withdraw from the narrow issues . . .
The Speaker: The hon. member, please.
Mr. Rodney: I’ve had a number of conversations with the trustee in question, and I’m sure that she wasn’t expecting pecuniary interest to be in her vocabulary at this point. But considering all of that and the answers to the two previous questions, is this minister contemplating changes to the School Act to address the issue and put it to rest for good?
Mr. Hancock: Well, Mr. Speaker, we anticipate introducing the new Education Act later on today, but I can say this. The rules with respect to conflict of interest are pretty clear in the act, but if there’s further discussion – and this bill will be available for further discussion – and there are things that need to be clarified, that could be contemplated and done when the bill goes through the House.
Mr. Rodney: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don’t think there is any doubt that parents have the greatest stake in the success of their children. That’s why it was a little bit of a head-scratcher last week when Calgarians learned that parents who serve as trustees for the Calgary board of education are not permitted to participate in that school board’s budget debate. Considering that budgeting is a significant part of a school board’s work, can the Minister of Education please explain this decision?
Mr. Hancock: Well, first of all, Mr. Speaker, I don’t think it’s fair to say that parents who are trustees are not permitted to participate. Every individual, whether in an elected position, whether in this House or a on school board or at a municipal council, has to make a decision as to whether or not they are in a conflict of interest. I think the rules are pretty clear on conflict of interest, that it’s a direct pecuniary interest, and if you have a direct pecuniary interest, you should withdraw from the discussion and the vote. However, boards should be able to arrange their affairs so that’s not on broad issues like a budget but on very narrow issues relative . . .
2:40
The Speaker: The hon. member.
Mr. Rodney: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s quite well known that the CBE has obtained a rather lengthy legal opinion on the subject that seems, on face value at least, to bind the trustees’ hands. Is the minister prepared to do anything about this? What are these trustees exactly supposed to do under these circumstances?
Mr. Hancock: Mr. Speaker, I’m not privy to a 13-page legal opinion. I’d be surprised if that legal opinion suggested that a trustee who was also a parent could not participate in budget discussions. Again, if it’s a direct pecuniary interest, that interest has to be declared and the individual withdraw, but they can organize their affairs and the agenda of a board meeting to ensure that parents or any other person who has a direct pecuniary interest in a subject that comes before the board can participate in the broad discussion of issues and just withdraw from the narrow issues . . .
The Speaker: The hon. member, please.
Mr. Rodney: I’ve had a number of conversations with the trustee in question, and I’m sure that she wasn’t expecting pecuniary interest to be in her vocabulary at this point. But considering all of that and the answers to the two previous questions, is this minister contemplating changes to the School Act to address the issue and put it to rest for good?
Mr. Hancock: Well, Mr. Speaker, we anticipate introducing the new Education Act later on today, but I can say this. The rules with respect to conflict of interest are pretty clear in the act, but if there’s further discussion – and this bill will be available for further discussion – and there are things that need to be clarified, that could be contemplated and done when the bill goes through the House.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Deadline for education funding petition extended!
The deadline for getting signatures on the petition calling for adequate education funding has been extended! We now have until May 11th to get petitions to MLA Kent Hehr's office, who has promised to present them on Calgarians' behalf in the Legislature. Already, 800 people have signed their names to this petition!
If you are willing and able to gather names and signatures for this important petition, here is the information you need to know:
- A downloadable copy of the petition is available at ow.ly/d/e1Z
- Make sure you get all the required information: names without signatures will not be counted
- Original copies ONLY - no photocopies, faxes or other reproductions will be accepted
- Use the text as written, as it has been approved by the Parliamentary Counsel Office.
- Send / deliver signed petitions to:
CALGARY ADDRESS
Mr. Kent Hehr, MLA
130, 1177 - 11th Avenue S.W.
Calgary, AB T2R 1K9
Tel: (403) 244-7737
EDMONTON ADDRESS
Mr. Kent Hehr, MLA
Alberta Liberal Caucus
201 Legislature Annex
9718 - 107 Street
Edmonton AB T5K 1E4
(780) 427-2292
Huge kudos to the parents of the Captain John Palliser School Council who put together this petition and have put enormous effort and time into collecting signatures.
For more information on this and other education funding advocacy opportunities, check out our website at www.capsc.ca.
If you are willing and able to gather names and signatures for this important petition, here is the information you need to know:
- A downloadable copy of the petition is available at ow.ly/d/e1Z
- Make sure you get all the required information: names without signatures will not be counted
- Original copies ONLY - no photocopies, faxes or other reproductions will be accepted
- Use the text as written, as it has been approved by the Parliamentary Counsel Office.
- Send / deliver signed petitions to:
CALGARY ADDRESS
Mr. Kent Hehr, MLA
130, 1177 - 11th Avenue S.W.
Calgary, AB T2R 1K9
Tel: (403) 244-7737
EDMONTON ADDRESS
Mr. Kent Hehr, MLA
Alberta Liberal Caucus
201 Legislature Annex
9718 - 107 Street
Edmonton AB T5K 1E4
(780) 427-2292
Huge kudos to the parents of the Captain John Palliser School Council who put together this petition and have put enormous effort and time into collecting signatures.
For more information on this and other education funding advocacy opportunities, check out our website at www.capsc.ca.
Bill 18: Education Act Now Available Online
Bill 18: Education Act
Minister Hancock's comments to the media
More to come during the 2nd reading of Bill 18 tomorrow...
Minister Hancock's comments to the media
More to come during the 2nd reading of Bill 18 tomorrow...
Rally for Public Education: Invest Now for a Better Future
Calgary Public Teachers' ATA Local 38 is sponsoring a rally in support of education funding on Saturday, May 7 from 2:00 to 3:30 pm at the Festival Market Square in Eau Claire. Eryn Kelly, Co-President of CAPSC, has been invited to be a key note speaker at the event.
| Time | Saturday, May 7 · 2:00pm - 3:30pm |
|---|---|
| Location | Eau Claire Market - Festival Market Square 200 Barclay Parade SW Calgary, AB |
| More Info | ****INVEST NOW FOR A BETTER FUTURE**** Public education is the foundation of our future. It must be nurtured, protected and preserved. We know this. It needs predictable, sustained funding in order to survive. We know this too. Unfortunately, public education as we know it in Alberta is in jeopardy. It has been chronically underfunded to the point of robbing children of the means to achieve their potential as contributing citizens in our communities. We need to get the message out that we must create our future together by investing NOW for a better tomorrow. May 1 – 7 is Education Week in Alberta. This year’s theme is “Public Education: The Heart of our Communities.” Calgary Public Teachers ATA Local 38 is holding a rally in support of public education - “Invest Now for a Better Future” is our message. Join us and thousands of other like-minded individuals and groups at Festival Market Square, Eau Claire in downtown Calgary at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 7 to raise our voices in support of our children, our students, our future. Parking will be at a premium, so we encourage you to take public transit to the downtown site. INVITE FOLKS FROM YOUR OWN FRIENDS LIST - WE WANT THIS EVENT TO BE A BIG ONE! Click here for more information |
Listen, Learn & Be Heard David Taylor, MLA and Pat Cochrane, Trustee (Ward 8 & 9) coming to Killarney School
Dear Parents,
I’m happy to tell you that our local MLA, David Taylor, and our trustee, Pat Cochrane, have agreed to come and speak with the Killarney Parents. This is our chance to show our elected officials how much we care about the future of public education and how we value Killarney School. It’s also an opportunity for them to show us where they stand regarding our concerns and what actions they are taking.
When:
6:30 PM, Thursday, May 5
Where:
Killarney School (babysitting and light refreshments will be provided)
Do you have questions & comments for David Taylor and/or Pat Cochrane?
To insure all voices are heard, please email questions and concerns to me, chair@killarneyparent.ca before the meeting. I will compile a list in advance of the meeting and submit it to our esteemed guests so they can prepare accordingly.
Last week’s Calgary visit by Alberta’s Minister of Education resulted in much heated discussion. Don't miss this opportunity to continue to be informed and to let our elected officials hear our concerns.
Thank you for your support,
Sincerely,
Guy Obrecht, Chair
Killarney Parent Council
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Calgary Catholic School Division looking at $22.4M funding shortfall
According to an article in the Cochrane Eagle Online, "Catholic school board looking for spending reductions in budget," Alberta's largest Catholic school district, is reporting a $22.4M funding shortfall. The board will look at depleting their operating reserves, cutting 90 FTE staff positions and increasing bus fees. Calgary Catholic serves 45,000 students.
Calgary Catholic School District released a statement regarding its 2011-2012 budget in mid-April.
Calgary Catholic School District released a statement regarding its 2011-2012 budget in mid-April.
April 19th CBE Trustees Board Meeting
We have had some inquiries from our members regarding the April 19th, CBE budget/board meeting. Leslie and I both attended the meeting and will provide an update for you in the next newsletter. We have also submitted letters to Chair Cochrane and Trustees Bazinet and Taylor hoping to provide some clarification around pecuniary issues. We have asked for clarification on what Trustee’s are advised as to what a ‘pecuniary conflict of interest’ is and what guidelines (policy and/or legal) they are provided with to inform themselves as to when this may arise in their public work. We have asked for clarification as to why Trustee Taylor's request for pecuniary interest clarification was not added to the agenda.
We have expressed our concerns to hear Trustee’s claim that they were provided specific legal advice from CBE lawyers that having a child attend a CBE school or having a spouse who works for the CBE precluded them from engaging in ANY of the budget discussion. This is especially puzzling given we are aware that Trustees with a spouse working for the CBE or having a child in a CBE school have engaged in past budget debates and votes.
We will share the responses as soon as they become available. Eryn Kelly
Co-President of CAPSC
Federal Election: Education, Children and Youth
The Canadian Teachers' Federation has put out an election related publication that discusses the issues surrounding education, children and youth. Topics range from child poverty to child care and cyberconduct and include recommendations to government. Take a look and don't forget to vote May 2!
Bill 18: Education Act
In the Order Paper for Day 28 of the spring sitting of the Alberta Legislature, the Hon. Dave Hancock, Minister of Education, has made notice of leave to introduce Bill 18 - Education Act.
CAPSC understands that the first reading of Bill 18 will occur Wednesday afternoon and the second reading on Thursday afternoon. You can catch it live or watch later at Assembly Online.
Public School Boards Association of Alberta says the first reading is a formality and the second reading opens the bill up for debate. The Hon. Dave Hancock has shared that the bill will not pass, that the dialogue will continue and feedback is being sought.
CAPSC understands that the first reading of Bill 18 will occur Wednesday afternoon and the second reading on Thursday afternoon. You can catch it live or watch later at Assembly Online.
Public School Boards Association of Alberta says the first reading is a formality and the second reading opens the bill up for debate. The Hon. Dave Hancock has shared that the bill will not pass, that the dialogue will continue and feedback is being sought.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Fort McMurray Public School Division announces staff cuts and fee increases
In a Fort McMurray Today article, "Public schools decide to keep five day calendar," we learn that the board is making a total of $1M in cuts by reducing teaching staff, support staff and other expense items. There will also be a hike in bussing fees.
Breakdown of 2010-2011 School Year CBE Administration Costs
In response to a question submitted during the public question period at last weeks board meeting:
Question: On page 14 of the 2010-2011 budget document, it states that administration expenses are 3.6% of the total budget.
However, on page 27, it states that Finance and Business Services are 5.3% of the budget, Human Resources are 2.1%, and the Office of the Chief Superintendent is 1.1% which totals 8.5% of the budget. The CBE has also made it clear that the new administration building lease and the Board of Trustees are included in administration expenses.
In the interest of transparency, will you provide a detailed breakdown of everything that is included as Administration expenses and if there are parts of human resources and business and financial services that do not count towards administration, can you please explain which parts are not included and why?
Answer: The Chief Superintendent committed to answering this question and would provide a response on the CBE Website. That response has now been posted.
Also, please refer to an earlier CAPSC blog post that discussed Administrative costs.
Question: On page 14 of the 2010-2011 budget document, it states that administration expenses are 3.6% of the total budget.
However, on page 27, it states that Finance and Business Services are 5.3% of the budget, Human Resources are 2.1%, and the Office of the Chief Superintendent is 1.1% which totals 8.5% of the budget. The CBE has also made it clear that the new administration building lease and the Board of Trustees are included in administration expenses.
In the interest of transparency, will you provide a detailed breakdown of everything that is included as Administration expenses and if there are parts of human resources and business and financial services that do not count towards administration, can you please explain which parts are not included and why?
Answer: The Chief Superintendent committed to answering this question and would provide a response on the CBE Website. That response has now been posted.
Also, please refer to an earlier CAPSC blog post that discussed Administrative costs.
CBE News Release Regarding Pecuniary Interest
As you may be aware, at the last public meeting of the Board of Trustees on Tuesday, April 20, two trustees declared a pecuniary interest related to items on the agenda and recused themselves from debate and the vote. Trustee Bazinet, who is married to a teacher, declared her pecuniary interest in regard to Topic 6.3 Resource Allocation to Schools - Early Spring Staffing (2011-12 Operating Budget). Trustee Taylor, who is the parent of an elementary aged student, declared her pecuniary interest in regards to both Topic 6.3 Resource Allocation to Schools - Early Spring Staffing (2011-12 Operating Budget) and Topic 9.2.1 2011/2012 Student Fees. Confusion around this issue arose, and the board has posted a press release on its cite to add clarity:
STATEMENT REGARDING PECUNIARY INTEREST
Following the public meeting of the Calgary Board of Education’s Board of Trustees on April 19, there have been questions about “pecuniary” conflict of interest and the legal implications for individual trustees. Sections 80 to 86 of the Alberta School Act deal directly with conflict of interest.
The decision to declare a conflict of interest falls to individual trustees. It is a personal decision and a personal declaration related to specific matters before a board. No one else can make that declaration for a trustee. The individual responsibility of trustees related to such conflicts of interest is explicit in Section 83(1) of the School Act:
Disclosure of pecuniary interest
83(1) When a trustee has a pecuniary interest in a matter before the board, any committee of the board or any commission, committee or agency to which the trustee is appointed as a representative of the board, the trustee shall, if present,
(a) disclose the general nature of the pecuniary interest prior to any discussion of the matter,
(b) abstain from voting on any question relating to the matter,
(c) subject to subsection (3), abstain from discussing the matter, and
(d) subject to subsections (2) and (3), leave the room in which the meeting is being held until the discussion and voting on the matter are concluded.
Given the personal nature and potential implications related to conflict of interest, individual trustees always have the option to engage personal, legal counsel, in addition to the legal orientation provided to all Trustees when they are elected to the Board.
If a trustee alerts the Board Chair to the existence of a conflict ahead of time, there are options to present matters that enable trustees to participate in decision-making.
Pecuniary interest refers to monetary conflict of interest. A pecuniary interest is said to exist where an individual trustee is involved in decisions that would have a positive or negative financial impact on the personal circumstances of the trustee and his or her spouse/partner.
-30-
For more information please call:
Cathy Ward
Media Relations
Calgary Board of Education
Cell 403-819-2317
mediarelations@cbe.ab.ca
STATEMENT REGARDING PECUNIARY INTEREST
Following the public meeting of the Calgary Board of Education’s Board of Trustees on April 19, there have been questions about “pecuniary” conflict of interest and the legal implications for individual trustees. Sections 80 to 86 of the Alberta School Act deal directly with conflict of interest.
The decision to declare a conflict of interest falls to individual trustees. It is a personal decision and a personal declaration related to specific matters before a board. No one else can make that declaration for a trustee. The individual responsibility of trustees related to such conflicts of interest is explicit in Section 83(1) of the School Act:
Disclosure of pecuniary interest
83(1) When a trustee has a pecuniary interest in a matter before the board, any committee of the board or any commission, committee or agency to which the trustee is appointed as a representative of the board, the trustee shall, if present,
(a) disclose the general nature of the pecuniary interest prior to any discussion of the matter,
(b) abstain from voting on any question relating to the matter,
(c) subject to subsection (3), abstain from discussing the matter, and
(d) subject to subsections (2) and (3), leave the room in which the meeting is being held until the discussion and voting on the matter are concluded.
Given the personal nature and potential implications related to conflict of interest, individual trustees always have the option to engage personal, legal counsel, in addition to the legal orientation provided to all Trustees when they are elected to the Board.
If a trustee alerts the Board Chair to the existence of a conflict ahead of time, there are options to present matters that enable trustees to participate in decision-making.
Pecuniary interest refers to monetary conflict of interest. A pecuniary interest is said to exist where an individual trustee is involved in decisions that would have a positive or negative financial impact on the personal circumstances of the trustee and his or her spouse/partner.
-30-
For more information please call:
Cathy Ward
Media Relations
Calgary Board of Education
Cell 403-819-2317
mediarelations@cbe.ab.ca
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Schools need stable funding
In a recent Edmonton Journal article, "Schools need stable funding," Sandy Koroll, Chair, Black Gold Regional Schools, writes about the impact of cuts at their board. Depleting reserves, monies "squirrelled away with specific goals in mind," will impact schools. Sandy is calling upon a funding model similar to healthcare in this province, "multi year budgets and preset grant increases." This would allow boards to plan long-term around programming and system initiatives.
Sandy makes a great point. "Alberta has a world-class public education system. This is not the way to nurture and preserve it."
Sandy makes a great point. "Alberta has a world-class public education system. This is not the way to nurture and preserve it."
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Rise up...VOTE!!!
We need your voice...VOTE and make sure you have a say in our Education, health care, taxes and what it means to be a Canadian. Rise up, VOTE on May 2nd.
Friday, April 22, 2011
CBE: Fine Arts Task Force
The CBE, under the leadership of Cathy Faber, Superintendent of Learning Innovation, has set up a Fine Arts Task Force. There is a Fine Arts web page to keep everyone up to date on the work of the task force and a blog to get feedback from stakeholders (CAPSC has added it to our Blog List). SOFA has provided two representatives to this committee - a parent and student.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
SOFA: Help make a difference. Join the Political Revolution....
SOFA has come up with a creative way to influence politicians, party leaders and policy - Join the Political Revolution... While their focus is fine arts, this strategy is just as effective for public education advocacy . Make a difference!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
2011-2012 Education Estimates Discussion at the Legislature
The Alberta Hansard record is out for yesterday's discussion of the 2011-2012 Education Estimates. If you have more time, you can watch the session at Assembly Online.
Chief Superintendent: 100 teaching positions may be saved
As CAPSC has learned over the last several months, the budget process is complex, fluid,and subject to change once all the pieces start coming together. One of our commitments to membership is to keep them up-to-date with information that is timely and accurate as possible. From last night's meeting of the board, the Chief Superintendent's report.....
Over the last two months, the Calgary Board of Education has been grappling
with a $61.7 million budget shortfall. We have a legal and fiscal responsibility
to balance the budget. When three‐quarters of our operating budget is
salaries and benefits—and three‐quarters of our budget goes to schools—we
cannot absorb $61.7 million without affecting people, schools and students.
Since the budget was announced Feb. 24, the CBE has been calculating and
communicating the impact. Our initial estimates are proving to be quite
accurate.
Tonight, as we bring forward a report for approval to proceed with an early
release of resources to facilitate staffing at schools, I would like to connect our
initial estimates to the revised figures. You will see that the impact on schools
is better than initially communicated. Instead of a 2.1 per cent increase in the
RAM, the increase will be 3.0 per cent.
As you know, our proposal to close the budget gap involves using an
estimated $12 million of reserves and two phases that affect services,
programs, employees and students in classrooms.
The first phase was introduced on March 22. It involves a redesign of central
services to save at least $24.9 million. This phase eliminates the equivalent of
172 full‐time positions.
On March 22, we also made a promise to keep students first by asking schools
to contribute last.
Initially, we estimated schools would be asked to absorb $24.8 million. As we
distribute the RAM, the outcome for schools is slightly better than estimated
You may remember this equation from March.
$61.7M shortfall - central service redesign = impact on school RAM
Starting with the shortfall, if you subtract the initial reductions from
centralized services, you have the impact on schools. By continually working
the problem, we have lessened the impact on schools.
$61.7M shortall - $24.9M central service redesign = impact on school RAM
First, we proposed to deplete our remaining reserves.
$61.7M shortfall - $24.9M central service redesign - $12M reserves = impact on school RAM
Second, with the RAM, principals will be asked to apply all school‐based
reserves to mitigate staff reductions. The estimated $2.7 million could mean
we save about 38 positions in schools.
In addition, we have $800,000 in operating reserves and $3.0 million from an
amortization reserve. The amortization reserve was confirmed by finalizing
our board‐funded capital budget.
Together, these represent $6.5 million more than the original reserve
estimate.
Essentially, we propose using $18.5 million of reserves.
$61.7M shortfall - $24.9M central service redesign - $18M reserves = impact on school RAM
Third, administration dug deeper to finding additional gains in central services
to further reduce the impact on schools. Administration has come up with a
net $3.9 million between reductions and a small revenue increase.
Instead of $24.8 million, the RAM will call on schools to absorb $14.4 million.
$61.7M shortfall - $28.8M central service redesign - $18.5M reserves = $14.4M impact on school RAM
Remember, to get to the $14.4 million RAM for schools, we applied $2.7
million of school‐based reserves. All schools with reserves are expected to use
them to mitigate staff reductions.
$17.1M RAM - $2.7M school-based reserves = $14.4M impact on school RAM
We have increased the RAM percentage to 3.0 per cent from 2.1. In addition,
the RAM impact on schools improves from an initial estimate of $24.8 million
reduction to a $14.4 million reduction.
During an impossibly difficult budget year, this $10.4 million difference may
save more than 100 teaching positions.
Over the last two months, the Calgary Board of Education has been grappling
with a $61.7 million budget shortfall. We have a legal and fiscal responsibility
to balance the budget. When three‐quarters of our operating budget is
salaries and benefits—and three‐quarters of our budget goes to schools—we
cannot absorb $61.7 million without affecting people, schools and students.
Since the budget was announced Feb. 24, the CBE has been calculating and
communicating the impact. Our initial estimates are proving to be quite
accurate.
Tonight, as we bring forward a report for approval to proceed with an early
release of resources to facilitate staffing at schools, I would like to connect our
initial estimates to the revised figures. You will see that the impact on schools
is better than initially communicated. Instead of a 2.1 per cent increase in the
RAM, the increase will be 3.0 per cent.
As you know, our proposal to close the budget gap involves using an
estimated $12 million of reserves and two phases that affect services,
programs, employees and students in classrooms.
The first phase was introduced on March 22. It involves a redesign of central
services to save at least $24.9 million. This phase eliminates the equivalent of
172 full‐time positions.
On March 22, we also made a promise to keep students first by asking schools
to contribute last.
Initially, we estimated schools would be asked to absorb $24.8 million. As we
distribute the RAM, the outcome for schools is slightly better than estimated
You may remember this equation from March.
$61.7M shortfall - central service redesign = impact on school RAM
Starting with the shortfall, if you subtract the initial reductions from
centralized services, you have the impact on schools. By continually working
the problem, we have lessened the impact on schools.
$61.7M shortall - $24.9M central service redesign = impact on school RAM
First, we proposed to deplete our remaining reserves.
$61.7M shortfall - $24.9M central service redesign - $12M reserves = impact on school RAM
Second, with the RAM, principals will be asked to apply all school‐based
reserves to mitigate staff reductions. The estimated $2.7 million could mean
we save about 38 positions in schools.
In addition, we have $800,000 in operating reserves and $3.0 million from an
amortization reserve. The amortization reserve was confirmed by finalizing
our board‐funded capital budget.
Together, these represent $6.5 million more than the original reserve
estimate.
Essentially, we propose using $18.5 million of reserves.
$61.7M shortfall - $24.9M central service redesign - $18M reserves = impact on school RAM
Third, administration dug deeper to finding additional gains in central services
to further reduce the impact on schools. Administration has come up with a
net $3.9 million between reductions and a small revenue increase.
Instead of $24.8 million, the RAM will call on schools to absorb $14.4 million.
$61.7M shortfall - $28.8M central service redesign - $18.5M reserves = $14.4M impact on school RAM
Remember, to get to the $14.4 million RAM for schools, we applied $2.7
million of school‐based reserves. All schools with reserves are expected to use
them to mitigate staff reductions.
$17.1M RAM - $2.7M school-based reserves = $14.4M impact on school RAM
We have increased the RAM percentage to 3.0 per cent from 2.1. In addition,
the RAM impact on schools improves from an initial estimate of $24.8 million
reduction to a $14.4 million reduction.
During an impossibly difficult budget year, this $10.4 million difference may
save more than 100 teaching positions.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Teachers and students use of Social Media
An Ontario organization has cautioned teachers from being 'friends' with their students on Facebook. What role do you think social media should play in the classroom and outside of the classroom? Have you ever had this discussion at a School Council meeting?
http://www.albertaprimetime.com/Stories.aspx?pd=2233
http://www.albertaprimetime.com/Stories.aspx?pd=2233
Education Minister's Address to School Councils
The Hon. Dave Hancock, Minister of Education, spoke to school councils at the ASCA AGM over the weekend. If you missed our Education Panel with the Minister, the text of the speech is very similar to the one he made at the April 6th meeting.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Resource Allocations to Schools
At tomorrow night's regular meeting of the Board of Trustees, Administration will be presenting the report Resource Allocations to Schools - Early Spring Staffing 2011/2012 Preliminary Operating Budget for the board's approval.
An excerpt from that report follows:
Projected school based staffing changes
School based certificated staff - as a result of the elimination of small class size initiative funding for grades 4 - 6 and the net flowthrough effects to schools
(81.0) FTEs estimated
School based certificated and non certificated staff - as result of RAM allocation rate increases less than the resource allocation required to accommodate the full salary and benefit cost increases for school based staff
(243.0) FTEs estimated
Total (324.0) FTEs estimated
Please note this is in addition to the 172 positions cut in phase I of the budget process.
Once the report is approved and RAM resources are allocated to schools April 20, Principals must submit final staffing decisions to Administration by May 3. These staffing decisions will become part of the 2011/2012 Final Operating Budget that will come before the Board of Trustees at their June 14 Regular meeting for decision (Prior to that, the Preliminary Budget Report to the Board of Trustees will be made available to them May 24).
An excerpt from that report follows:
Projected school based staffing changes
School based certificated staff - as a result of the elimination of small class size initiative funding for grades 4 - 6 and the net flowthrough effects to schools
(81.0) FTEs estimated
School based certificated and non certificated staff - as result of RAM allocation rate increases less than the resource allocation required to accommodate the full salary and benefit cost increases for school based staff
(243.0) FTEs estimated
Total (324.0) FTEs estimated
Please note this is in addition to the 172 positions cut in phase I of the budget process.
Once the report is approved and RAM resources are allocated to schools April 20, Principals must submit final staffing decisions to Administration by May 3. These staffing decisions will become part of the 2011/2012 Final Operating Budget that will come before the Board of Trustees at their June 14 Regular meeting for decision (Prior to that, the Preliminary Budget Report to the Board of Trustees will be made available to them May 24).
Petition-- CAPSC will have the petition available to sign at our meeting on April 20th.
FROM: Sandy Smith, Chair of School Council and Parent Association
DATE: April 18, 2011
Education funding has been a topic of discussion at the last two School Council meetings. Members from the CJP School Council have organized a petition that the Alberta Parliamentarty Counsel Office has approved. The petition states:
We, the undersigned residents of Alberta, petition the Legislative Assembly to urge the Government of Alberta to consider increasing the funding to the Ministry of Education so that sustainable and adequate funding is provided to address the needs of every student, every day, no exceptions.
The petition will be read in the legislature at the end of this month. We had hoped to have more time to collect signatures but just found out that the legislature will be closing at the end of this month, not the scheduled date of June 2, 2011.
If you would like to support the petition, by signing it and/or collecting signatures, or have any questions about the petition and/or School Council, please contact me by telephone at (403) 230-5463 or via email at sandra.smith@mcmillan.ca
Thank you for your time.
Sandy Smith
Education Budget to be Debated at Alberta Legislature
The Education Budget will be debated in the Legislature Tuesday, April 19 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm. You can listen/watch to live/archived video or audio of this debate at Assembly Online. ACCESS TV also broadcasts the proceedings of the Alberta Legislature live beginning at 1:30 pm. These sessions are rebroadcast on Shaw at 5:30 pm and 9:00 pm.
Friday, April 15, 2011
More Education News from Around the Province
A quick sampling of newspaper articles related to Education and budget shortfalls from around the province:
The Beaumont News
The Vulcan Advocate
The Beaumont News
The Vulcan Advocate
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Support for Education: Members' Statements at the Alberta Legislature
An excerpt from Alberta Hansard dated Tuesday, April 12 (see pages 596 and 597):
Mr. Taylor: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The past two and a halfyears have seen the worst global economic slowdown since the Great Depression. Many parts of the world are still in bad shape and many Albertans are still un- or underemployed, yet by and large what was a major upset to most of the world has been com-paratively a hiccup here in Alberta. Indeed, our jobless rate is two points below the national average, and there’s serious talk about another labour shortage brewing here. That’s mostly because oil is $106 a barrel, and we’ve got more proven reserves than just about anybody.
It is good to be king. Well, Mr. Speaker, the thing about being king is that if you take more than a minute or two to sit back and gloat, somebody is going to come along, capture all your posses-sions, and leave you there in the dust. It’s only good to be king as long as you can stay ahead of the conquering hordes.
Since our fossil fuels or the demand for them will not last for-ever, and since oil continues to keep us living a lifestyle that would take 10 planet Earths to support if everybody on this planet lived the way we do, and since there seems to be broad consensus that to sustain ourselves, we need to transition from a resource economy to a knowledge economy, and since this government makes much of its five-year commitment to sustainable health funding, my constituents are wondering: why is there no talk of a similar five-year commitment to education, both K to 12 and postsecondary, including a much sharper focus on trades training, and while we’re at it, early childhood as well?
Over time, but not over that long a horizon, nothing will reduce the strain on health budgets like a better educated population.
Over time nothing will produce innovation and breakthroughs in science and technology, energy development, and environmental protection and nothing will produce more art and culture, stronger communities, a more diversified and more resilient economy, and a broader tax base like a better educated population. Then, Mr. Speaker, we wouldn’t have to rely on the roller coaster of resource revenues, and we could stop balancing our books on the backs of Alberta’s children.
Thank you.
Mr. Taylor: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The past two and a halfyears have seen the worst global economic slowdown since the Great Depression. Many parts of the world are still in bad shape and many Albertans are still un- or underemployed, yet by and large what was a major upset to most of the world has been com-paratively a hiccup here in Alberta. Indeed, our jobless rate is two points below the national average, and there’s serious talk about another labour shortage brewing here. That’s mostly because oil is $106 a barrel, and we’ve got more proven reserves than just about anybody.
It is good to be king. Well, Mr. Speaker, the thing about being king is that if you take more than a minute or two to sit back and gloat, somebody is going to come along, capture all your posses-sions, and leave you there in the dust. It’s only good to be king as long as you can stay ahead of the conquering hordes.
Since our fossil fuels or the demand for them will not last for-ever, and since oil continues to keep us living a lifestyle that would take 10 planet Earths to support if everybody on this planet lived the way we do, and since there seems to be broad consensus that to sustain ourselves, we need to transition from a resource economy to a knowledge economy, and since this government makes much of its five-year commitment to sustainable health funding, my constituents are wondering: why is there no talk of a similar five-year commitment to education, both K to 12 and postsecondary, including a much sharper focus on trades training, and while we’re at it, early childhood as well?
Over time, but not over that long a horizon, nothing will reduce the strain on health budgets like a better educated population.
Over time nothing will produce innovation and breakthroughs in science and technology, energy development, and environmental protection and nothing will produce more art and culture, stronger communities, a more diversified and more resilient economy, and a broader tax base like a better educated population. Then, Mr. Speaker, we wouldn’t have to rely on the roller coaster of resource revenues, and we could stop balancing our books on the backs of Alberta’s children.
Thank you.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Funding for Education: Question Period at the Alberta Legislature
An excerpt from Hansard Alberta dated Monday, April 11 (see page 566 at the top of the second column):
Mr. Hancock: Mr. Speaker, a couple of things. First of all, yes, there is an expected increase of student population of a hundred thousand students over the next 10 years, and, yes, we will be needing more teachers in this province. Secondly, I have met with the Premier, I’ve met with the President of the Treasury Board, and I’ll meet with every person on this side of the House and on the other side of the House if it will help to get resources for education. That’s my job, and I do it incessantly, and the President of the Treasury Board will tell you so. Nonetheless, we still have to put together a government budget, and I have to be part of that government budget, and we need to continue to look at the overall budget in the interest of all Albertans.
Need some tips for writing a letter to the members of the legislative assembly on Minister Hancock's list? Check out CAPSC: Advocacy Resource for Parents/School Councils.
Mr. Hancock: Mr. Speaker, a couple of things. First of all, yes, there is an expected increase of student population of a hundred thousand students over the next 10 years, and, yes, we will be needing more teachers in this province. Secondly, I have met with the Premier, I’ve met with the President of the Treasury Board, and I’ll meet with every person on this side of the House and on the other side of the House if it will help to get resources for education. That’s my job, and I do it incessantly, and the President of the Treasury Board will tell you so. Nonetheless, we still have to put together a government budget, and I have to be part of that government budget, and we need to continue to look at the overall budget in the interest of all Albertans.
Need some tips for writing a letter to the members of the legislative assembly on Minister Hancock's list? Check out CAPSC: Advocacy Resource for Parents/School Councils.
Monday, April 11, 2011
CAPSC Education Panel Discussion: Texts of CBE Presentations Now Available
The Calgary Board of Education has posted a copy of the text of each of the presentations made by Chair Pat Cochrane and Chief Superintendent Naomi Johnson at our CAPSC Education Panel Discussion last week.
Highlights:
-CBE Budgeting process began in early January as their Finance Dept began forecast for 2011/2012
-Provincial Budget for 2011/2012 announced Feb 24
-CBE Finance analyzed detailed budget info from Alberta Education -result is $61.7m deficit
-Government provided funding to cover the AAWE (Alberta Average Weekly Earnings) increase at $28.3M,add an incremental increase in other revenue, almost completely offset by government cuts to specific and general programs at $25.3M, add in deficit from last year at $16.4 and forecast increase in costs of $50.3M, projected shortfall = $61.7M
-All students in all programs will be affected
-First step, admin looked at ways services delivered to schools, $24.9M cut from centrally-managed services which includes psychologists, learning leaders, learning specialists, CBE "administration" is also affected - one in five of the 172 positions cut comes from administration functions like Finance, Human Resources and Communications
-Reserves will be depleted
-Principals will receive their funding allocations on April 21 and will be consulting with their school communities on how their schools will be staffed for the fall
-Principals will report back centrally and more information around impacts will be available
-Full impact on school staffing will not be available until Sept 30 when enrolments are finalized
-Every effort to be clear and open but budget process must be respected, respect staff (some of whom will be losing their job) and principals as they have responsibility to meet needs of students within schools
-commitment to keep public informed as the process moves forward -visit CBE website for the most up to date information
-Without increased funding - sustainable, adequate funding - the CBE estimates accumulated deficit for 2012-13 will be $35M and a year later $85M
-commitment that despite challenging budget,CBE remains focused on educating students, educating each student, every day - no exceptions.
Highlights:
-CBE Budgeting process began in early January as their Finance Dept began forecast for 2011/2012
-Provincial Budget for 2011/2012 announced Feb 24
-CBE Finance analyzed detailed budget info from Alberta Education -result is $61.7m deficit
-Government provided funding to cover the AAWE (Alberta Average Weekly Earnings) increase at $28.3M,add an incremental increase in other revenue, almost completely offset by government cuts to specific and general programs at $25.3M, add in deficit from last year at $16.4 and forecast increase in costs of $50.3M, projected shortfall = $61.7M
-All students in all programs will be affected
-First step, admin looked at ways services delivered to schools, $24.9M cut from centrally-managed services which includes psychologists, learning leaders, learning specialists, CBE "administration" is also affected - one in five of the 172 positions cut comes from administration functions like Finance, Human Resources and Communications
-Reserves will be depleted
-Principals will receive their funding allocations on April 21 and will be consulting with their school communities on how their schools will be staffed for the fall
-Principals will report back centrally and more information around impacts will be available
-Full impact on school staffing will not be available until Sept 30 when enrolments are finalized
-Every effort to be clear and open but budget process must be respected, respect staff (some of whom will be losing their job) and principals as they have responsibility to meet needs of students within schools
-commitment to keep public informed as the process moves forward -visit CBE website for the most up to date information
-Without increased funding - sustainable, adequate funding - the CBE estimates accumulated deficit for 2012-13 will be $35M and a year later $85M
-commitment that despite challenging budget,CBE remains focused on educating students, educating each student, every day - no exceptions.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
CBE Board of Trustee Response to Education Minister's Letter to the Editor
In response to a recent opinion piece by the Editorial Board of the Calgary Herald, the Hon. Dave Hancock, Minister of Education, submitted a response to the newspaper, "Hancock: School board is frightening parents." The CBE has now responded to the Minister with its own letter which will go to print in the Calgary Herald on Sunday. The body of this letter follows:
Education is not a business. Education is the shared duty of communities to enable children to fulfill their potential and become leaders of tomorrow. The duty to educate our children does not vary with the economy. Indeed, tough economic times challenge us to sustain our commitment to students. The Minister of Education understands this. He stewarded a province-wide initiative to define a vision for education through to the year 2030. At the Calgary Board of Education, we have embraced the vision and wisdom of “Inspiring Education.” In the service of students, it guides our efforts and our energy. Since the provincial budget was announced, there has been significant dialogue about its impact. Everyone directly involved in public education appreciates the dialogue and the genuine support expressed, not for school boards, but for students. There is a risk that constructive dialogue may devolve into a debate about numbers. To set the record straight and return our focus to students, we offer these facts. First, CBE administration has consistently stated the provincial budget will create an estimated $61.7 million shortfall for the 2011-12 school year. Second, as a school board we have a fiscal and legal responsibility to balance the budget. To that end, the administration has redesigned central services to cut $24.9 million. To be clear, this work has been difficult and it will have a negative impact on students in classrooms. Cutting programs and, in this phase, 172 positions, is not trimming fat. We are cutting into the structure of core programs that benefit students. Third, school principals will consult with their communities to cut school budgets by a total of $24.8 million. This part of the 2011-12 budget process will begin April 21 and ultimately necessitate layoffs for teachers. Finally, some have suggested there could be relief from $34 million of CBE reserves. Technically, there was $34 million at the start of 2010-11 but $14.4 million of that covers a deficit from last year and $3.9 million cannot be applied to close the gap according to the provincial rules. The rest of the reserves are being used to help close the $61.7 million shortfall. The CBE’s financial projections are sound. Our shortfall is not unique. School boards across Alberta are dealing with shortfalls as a result of the provincial budget. Hopefully we can advance beyond a debate about numbers and get back to the reason we have public education: our students. Alberta has an opportunity to fulfill the education vision articulated by the Minister. We have an opportunity to enable our children to lead in the innovation economy of the future. What we need now is to fully and sustainably fund education for the long run. What students need immediately is for funding to be restored for the next school year. The question is not about numbers or whether we can afford to educate students in tough economic times. As a community, the paramount question is, “Can we afford not to educate students?” Respectfully, Pat Cochrane Chair, Board of Trustees Calgary Board of Education
Education is not a business. Education is the shared duty of communities to enable children to fulfill their potential and become leaders of tomorrow. The duty to educate our children does not vary with the economy. Indeed, tough economic times challenge us to sustain our commitment to students. The Minister of Education understands this. He stewarded a province-wide initiative to define a vision for education through to the year 2030. At the Calgary Board of Education, we have embraced the vision and wisdom of “Inspiring Education.” In the service of students, it guides our efforts and our energy. Since the provincial budget was announced, there has been significant dialogue about its impact. Everyone directly involved in public education appreciates the dialogue and the genuine support expressed, not for school boards, but for students. There is a risk that constructive dialogue may devolve into a debate about numbers. To set the record straight and return our focus to students, we offer these facts. First, CBE administration has consistently stated the provincial budget will create an estimated $61.7 million shortfall for the 2011-12 school year. Second, as a school board we have a fiscal and legal responsibility to balance the budget. To that end, the administration has redesigned central services to cut $24.9 million. To be clear, this work has been difficult and it will have a negative impact on students in classrooms. Cutting programs and, in this phase, 172 positions, is not trimming fat. We are cutting into the structure of core programs that benefit students. Third, school principals will consult with their communities to cut school budgets by a total of $24.8 million. This part of the 2011-12 budget process will begin April 21 and ultimately necessitate layoffs for teachers. Finally, some have suggested there could be relief from $34 million of CBE reserves. Technically, there was $34 million at the start of 2010-11 but $14.4 million of that covers a deficit from last year and $3.9 million cannot be applied to close the gap according to the provincial rules. The rest of the reserves are being used to help close the $61.7 million shortfall. The CBE’s financial projections are sound. Our shortfall is not unique. School boards across Alberta are dealing with shortfalls as a result of the provincial budget. Hopefully we can advance beyond a debate about numbers and get back to the reason we have public education: our students. Alberta has an opportunity to fulfill the education vision articulated by the Minister. We have an opportunity to enable our children to lead in the innovation economy of the future. What we need now is to fully and sustainably fund education for the long run. What students need immediately is for funding to be restored for the next school year. The question is not about numbers or whether we can afford to educate students in tough economic times. As a community, the paramount question is, “Can we afford not to educate students?” Respectfully, Pat Cochrane Chair, Board of Trustees Calgary Board of Education
Monday, April 4, 2011
Reminder: CAPSC to host Hon. Dave Hancock, Education Minister, April 6
CAPSC is very pleased to have the Hon. Dave Hancock, Minister of Education, attend our meeting here in Calgary on Wednesday, April 6. He will be joined by Naomi Johnson, CBE Chief Superintendent, and Pat Cochrane, Chair of the Board of Trustees. This will be a lively education panel discussion and we will be taking questions directly from the audience. The meeting will start at 5 pm in the gym at AE Cross School. RSVP: In order to help us plan for this meeting, we would appreciate if you would RSVP so that we can anticipate numbers of attendees. All are welcome - please RSVP at madeleine.baerg@capsc.ca.
Teresa Woo-Paw, MLA - Calgary Mackay, Hosts Community Dialogue on Education
Community Dialogue on Education Join us for a Community Dialogue with Minister of Education Hon. Dave Hancock. Wed., April 6, 2011 from 7–9 p.m. at Notre Dame High School (11900 Country Village Link NE, Calgary). We encourage you to contact us by phone at 403-274-1931, by e-mail at calgary.mackay@assembly.ab.ca, or by fax at 403-275-8421 in the language of your choice if you wish to supply questions or input in advance of April 6. You are also encouraged to contribute questions, ideas, concerns, and other comments at the session. A summary will be posted on this website.
Lethbridge Schools Facing $5M Shortfall
In a recent Lethbridge Herald article, "Public school teachers warned of possible position cuts next year," the Lethbridge Board is facing a $5M shortfall. The school district has 8200 students at 18 schools and employs 531 certificated staff and 477 support staff. Preliminary analysis suggests 30 to 35 teaching positions and an unknown number of support staff positions will likely be eliminated due to the shortfall.
Friday, April 1, 2011
CBE Administration
During all the discussions and media coverage surrounding the provincial budget impacts on the Calgary Board of Education, CAPSC has had a few inquiries from parents asking for clarification around just what administration is and what is included as an administrative cost. We decided to send an inquiry to the government through Alberta Connects to get a definitive answer and their response appears below.
Alberta Education defines board governance and system administration as activities performed for the purpose of regulation and direction of the affairs of the school board. It includes costs related to the Boards of Trustees, Superintendents, Secretary-Treasurers and their staff. Examples of costs that may be included are: salaries, supplies, travel, member fees, school board elections, financial accounting, legal services, human resources and insurance related to central office. In general, boards use their discretion to determine the appropriate amount to allot for central office and system administration based on their local circumstances. Nonetheless, Education provides a standard recommendation that boards allot between four and six per cent of total expenditures for system administration, depending on the size of the jurisdiction.
We also confirmed this information with the CBE and yes, as Alberta Education had indicated, the Board of Trustees and Superintendents are included within their approximate 3.7% of total expenditures for system administration - including the lease of the new Education Centre. However, this number will likely change as administration positions are included in the phase 1 position cuts as outlined in the CBE Response to the Provincial Budget.
Alberta Education defines board governance and system administration as activities performed for the purpose of regulation and direction of the affairs of the school board. It includes costs related to the Boards of Trustees, Superintendents, Secretary-Treasurers and their staff. Examples of costs that may be included are: salaries, supplies, travel, member fees, school board elections, financial accounting, legal services, human resources and insurance related to central office. In general, boards use their discretion to determine the appropriate amount to allot for central office and system administration based on their local circumstances. Nonetheless, Education provides a standard recommendation that boards allot between four and six per cent of total expenditures for system administration, depending on the size of the jurisdiction.
We also confirmed this information with the CBE and yes, as Alberta Education had indicated, the Board of Trustees and Superintendents are included within their approximate 3.7% of total expenditures for system administration - including the lease of the new Education Centre. However, this number will likely change as administration positions are included in the phase 1 position cuts as outlined in the CBE Response to the Provincial Budget.
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