Premier Smith aims to help fund private school construction in Alberta

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced a $8.6-billion plan to fast-track the construction of new schools, including a pilot project to incentivize private schools.

Smith aims to create thousands of new student spaces at a reduced cost to taxpayers to accommodate the growing number of students.

She mentioned that the goal is to provide equal opportunities for all school options and put them on a level playing field.

Details about the incentives for private school construction costs were not provided, but Smith expressed interest in exploring proposals from independent schools.

The plan includes building 30 new schools each year to add 50,000 student spaces within three years.

The government also plans to construct or expand five charter school buildings annually, creating 12,500 spaces within four years.

Non-profit independent schools currently receive grants covering about 70% of what public school students receive, but not major construction costs.

John Jagersma from the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges of Alberta expressed interest in discussing incentives with the government.

Dennis MacNeil from the Public School Boards Association of Alberta welcomed the funding but raised concerns about the impact of funding private schools on the public system.

Jason Schilling, the president of the Alberta Teachers’ Association, emphasized the need for equitable access to private schools if public funds are used for their construction.

Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides’ office is still developing the pilot project for private school incentives and will provide further information in the future.

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