Sherwood Park, AB. — "As stated last week, Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) is not piloting the draft K-6 curriculum in the 2021-22 school year—a decision made well before its release by Alberta Education. Heading into next year, the Division’s No. 1 priority is student learning, addressing any achievement gaps that have occurred because of the pandemic and providing learners with as near-normal school operations as possible.

“It’s been a challenging year for everyone. In the 2019-20 school year, all schools were closed, and students and teachers transitioned to out-of-school learning in mid-March. This year, as a result of the pandemic, students and teachers have frequently had to transition from in-school to out-of-school learning, causing disruptions in teaching and learning. Piloting a new curriculum so soon will present additional challenges to school communities. In fall 2021, the focus for EIPS is on smoothly transitioning students back to in-school learning—and returning to a trusted, familiar routine.

“There are a number of aspects of the new curriculum trustees and senior administration feel must be addressed before it becomes mandatory for all Alberta schools. Currently, the Board and Division are reviewing the draft K-6 curriculum and collecting expert-level input from groups of teachers to provide to the province. We’re confident the feedback Alberta Education receives from school divisions throughout the province will significantly assist the department in revisiting the content, scope, sequence, and learning progression before the new curriculum officially launches.

“Alberta’s public education system is world-class and the province’s current curriculum has been adopted by educational providers both nationally and internationally. EIPS is committed to working with Alberta Education to ensure the final curriculum continues to provide students with the highest standard of knowledge, skills and understanding they need to achieve success at school, launch their careers, and contribute to the economic prosperity and social well-being of Alberta in the years ahead.

“The Board of Trustees encourages school families, staff, students and community members to read through the province's Draft K-6 Curriculum and provide input to Alberta Education by completing the Draft K-6 Curriculum: Public Feedback Survey or contacting the Minister of Education directly.”

— Trina Boymook, EIPS Board Chair

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,000 students in 43 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

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For more information contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902