 
All Souls’ Day and the Communion of Saints 
Blessed are the peacemakers
for they will be called children of God.”
(Matthew 5:9)
Catholic Education Sunday will be celebrated this year on November 1st, and what a time to celebrate the successes that our students enjoy in Edmonton Catholic Schools. A recent news release states that overall, the 2009 Provincial Achievement Tests indicate that our students in Grades 3, 6 and 9 continue to exceed the province in a large number of subject areas over time. Grade 12 students continue to exceed the province in English Language Arts and Social Studies courses, and our district has seen growth in the Math and Science Diploma marks (Provincial Achievement Test Results / Diploma Examination Results). As well, the provincial government has just released the “Accountability Pillar” for all school districts which is a summary of a district’s overall performance. The October 2009 report indicates a continued high level of confidence in our district and reflects the excellent results achieved by our schools.
As we begin this month, education in the Province of Alberta has indeed been on the forefront of government discussions and action, media reports, and has defined much of the time spent by both the Board of Trustees and our administration as they work together to discuss, adjust and respond to the recent announcements by Alberta Education. We have also heard from the Minister of Education that the Province will be revising the School Act, an important document that directs the workings of all school districts within Alberta.
Edmonton Catholic Schools’ Board of Trustees hosted a parent engagement evening for all interested parents on October 1, 2009 at St. Joseph High School. The participants had an opportunity to hear some specifics as to budget reductions within education in the Province and specifically how those reductions affect our school district. As well, parents met in small working groups to discuss and gave their input. Please check Parent Engagement Meeting on our district website to find information regarding the three areas of discussion covered that evening. I would like to encourage all who value quality Catholic education – parents, teachers and other stakeholder groups to become actively involved by being informed and responsive in having your views heard. We, in Alberta, are one of just a few provinces who continue to enjoy provincially funded Catholic education, and we must work diligently to preserve that right.
On Wednesday, November 11, 2009 all schools and district sites will be closed. Each year in November, school staffs, students and parents join in remembering and honouring women and men who have served our country in both combat and peacekeeping roles. I would encourage parents to take the time to discuss with their children the reason we have this special day, and to join their children’s schools for the celebrations that will be held.
May God continue to bless each of you, as we work together to positively and effectively meet the challenges that are being presented by the difficult financial realities.
Sincerely,
Joan Carr
Superintendent
 
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