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Alberta expects to hire 1,600 new school workers this year, including 800 teachers

Alberta said it expects to add about 1,600 new workers in schools this year — including about 800 new teachers and 800 support staff.

That’s a 2.2 per cent increase in the number of certified staff/teachers from last year; and a 3.1 per cent increase in support staff such as classroom-based educational and teacher assistants.

“I’m thrilled to see more teachers and educational assistants will be hired in the coming school year. Alberta’s school board reserve policy has played an important role in directing today’s education dollars towards today’s students,” said Education Minister Adriana LaGrange.

More funding to cover collective agreements

The province is also adding $50 million in funding for 2022-2023 to cover recently ratified bargaining agreements with teachers.

“ASBA appreciates that the government will provide funding for the recently ratified teacher bargaining agreements in addition to providing targeted supports for enrolment growth as school boards face rapidly increasing student populations,” said Marilyn Dennis, president, Alberta School Boards Association. “This funding will help offset pressures and enable boards to address operational needs while they continue to make informed decisions in support of students and their local school communities across Alberta.”

Enrolment growth

More than $7 million in additional funding will be provided to school authorities through a new enrolment growth grant. Early childhood services (ECS) operators will also receive support if they see significant enrolment increases.

The funding available through this new supplemental enrolment growth grant provides for additional student funding for authority enrolment growth above a set threshold, with higher rates for more growth.

“While the CASS Board of Directors recognizes that the current funding formula softens the impact of enrollment decline, we are pleased to see that this announcement will allow divisions to better meet their needs when addressing significant enrollment growth,” said Scott Morrison, president, College of Alberta School Superintendents.

School authorities will also receive additional funding from the province to support higher than expected fuel costs, while monthly average diesel prices exceed $1.25 per litre.