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Curriculum Advisory Panel Report Receives Mixed Review from the ATA

Release Date 2019 02 04

A closer analysis of the 26 recommendations contained in the curriculum review report reveals several areas of alarm for the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA). President Jason Schilling is worried the report will lead to fewer teachers in the system and an unnecessary increase in standardized testing in the younger grades.

“Teachers know their students. They don’t need government prescribed tests, they already know which students are struggling. What teachers need are the supports, resources and classroom conditions to give these kids the help they need. Certainly 6-, 7-, 8- and 9-year-old kids don’t need to be tested by the government. They should be learning how to learn … not learning how to take tests.”

Jason Schilling, ATA president

Schilling also expressed concern over what appears to be the undermining of teacher professionalism, saying these recommendations open the door for the introduction of noncertificated staff into the schools to teach curriculum.

“What do they mean by the repeated references to ‘subject matter experts’? Teachers are experts in understanding pedagogy, which is the method and practice of knowing how to teach students in developmentally appropriate ways. Noncertificated staff aren’t trained in that area.”

Jason Schilling, ATA president

The ATA does support the recommendation to ensure curriculum receives the supports, field testing and appropriate pace for successful implementation. A full response to the panel’s recommendations has been posted on the Association website alongside a statement of beliefs about curriculum and curriculum reform.

President Schilling will have a media availability to further address his concerns with the report recommendations.

When:  Noon—Thursday, February 6, 2020 
Where: North Central Teachers Convention, Edmonton Conference Centre
  Edmonton, AB, outside Hall D
 

If you wish to schedule an earlier interview, please contact Mark Milne at 780-905-0014.

The Alberta Teachers’ Association, as the professional organization of teachers, promotes and advances public education, safeguards standards of professional practice and serves as the advocate for its 46,000 members.

 

Please direct all media inquiries to

Mark Milne
Media Liaison, Alberta Teachers’ Association
11010-142 St, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 2R1
C: 780-905-0014 T: 780-447-9462
Mark.Milne@ata.ab.ca www.teachers.ab.ca