MARK BELIEVES
I believe in publicly funded Catholic education
Catholic schools are part of Alberta’s public school system. They receive the same funding and are governed by the same legislation as non-Catholic public schools. Many people look at Catholic schools and wonder if they are an expensive duplication of non-Catholic schools. As someone who has taught in both school systems, I recognize the similarities but can attest to the important difference and value of Catholic schools.
Catholic schools are Gospel-centred and are an alternative to secularism. It is not forbidden to talk about religion in Catholic schools, it is expected. By promoting the values and teachings of Jesus Christ, Catholic schools offer students a model for living in service to others. Faith permeates all aspects of Catholic schools, from signs and symbols throughout the learning environment, to enriching the academic curriculum to include moral and spiritual development. In partnership with family, Catholic schools foster well-rounded students (academic, physical, social, spiritual). Catholic education is education for life.
Our Faith, Our Schools, Our Future!
I believe in right-sized funding for system growth and student success
Over the past several years, there has been concern among parents, the public, teachers, and school leaders about insufficient funding for K-12 education by the provincial government. The outcome has been growing class sizes and increasingly crowded schools, coupled with insufficient supports to address increasing classroom complexity.
Alberta’s Commission on Learning recommended that K to 3 classes be no more than 17 students, and classes from grades 4 to 6 be no more than 23 students. This has not been implemented. To maximize student success, it will be important to continue advocating for appropriate funding that matches actual system growth and classroom complexity.
I believe in education that fosters respect, honesty, loyalty, fairness and growth
The five “core” values taken from Edmonton Catholic Schools Mission, Vision and Values (respect, honesty, loyalty, fairness, personal and communal growth) are key to living with others in a civil society. Catholic schools have an important role in fostering the growth of these core values in each individual as they move from the beginning of Kindergarten to the end of Grade 12. Catholic schools share this responsibility with the home, church and society.
I believe in safe and caring learning environments for students, teachers and staff
Parents send their children off at school where they will likely spend more of their waking hours than anywhere else. This simple action speaks volumes about the trust they put in the school and the adults that work there. Schools must ensure students are safe, cared for and feel welcome. Teachers and staff deserve the same. Safe and caring learning environments are foundational for learning and student success, and are a key priority.