Message from the President

This annual report marks the last of the 2020-2023 Strategic Plan, which guided the work of Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) over the past three years. Through the execution of our strategic plan and the involvement of our members, we were able to advance governance across the province.

Notably, this reporting period included Alberta’s 2023 provincial election. Guided by our election advocacy strategy, ASBA represented our member school boards’ diverse viewpoints while advancing education priorities. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with government on supports to the benefit of all students.

Following a comprehensive review with extensive member engagement, members approved revisions to ASBA’s Bylaws at the 2023 Spring General Meeting. Our members’ voice in implementing change will see ASBA move forward with strong alignment in current procedures and best practices, inclusiveness and collaboration.

In July, we welcomed school board trustees, education leaders and dignitaries from across Canada to connect and learn together at the 2023 Canadian School Boards Association (CSBA) Congress and National Trustee Gathering on Indigenous Education in Banff. Through our connection with CSBA, the association has extended its advocacy work at the national level.

A highlight was presenting certificates to 30 trustees of ASBA’s Trustee Governance program, developed in collaboration with the University of Calgary Continuing Education. Additionally, I was both humbled and honoured to receive the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal from the Minister of Education earlier this year and congratulate trustees and other education leaders who were among the 7,000 recipients in Alberta.

Our member-driven 2023-2026 Strategic Plan will see the association focus on strengthening members’ ability to govern in support of student success; elevate the value and expertise of ASBA and members; and, impact all decisions related to education.

With sincere gratitude and on behalf of our Board of Directors, Vice-president Shali Baziuk, CEO Dr. Vivian Abboud and everyone at ASBA, we thank all of our members for their active participation and collaboration.

I look forward to the work ahead in support of our members and the students they serve.