specific sport, the arts, or a particular faith, culture, or language, to support Alberta’s increasingly diverse population. Demand for these unique institutions is growing, demonstrating the strong interest and need for the specialized programming they offer. With dozens of new charter, independent, and collegiate schools scheduled to open over the coming years, this unique education model is also creating additional classroom spaces for our growing student population. I believe it’s our job, as elected officials, to provide parents and students with as many high-quality education pathways as possible. It’s empowering for students to find an education model that speaks to their unique interests and needs; to find themselves among peers with similar interests and teachers equipped to meet their needs – be it teaching in another language, enriching locally developed curriculum with religious content, building athletic or arts-enhanced programming, or training for a skilled trade before even graduating from high school. DUAL CREDIT AND CAREER PATHWAYS As Alberta’s economy grows, so does the demand for a skilled workforce. Our government has built an education system that is equipping Alberta’s youth with the knowledge and skills they need to find meaningful employment when they enter the workforce. Alberta Education has a dual credit framework and provides funding that enables school authorities to work with post-secondary institutions, and industry partners to create dozens of dual-credit pathways. These are designed to give high school students a head-start on their next stage of life, be it continuing their education, earning a trade designation, or transitioning directly into the workforce. Optional and career-focused, dual-credit courses allow students in grades 10, 11, and 12 to earn both high school credits and credits that count toward a post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree. These hands-on programs are gaining popularity among students, eager to learn and develop practical skills. In the 2022-23 school year, more than 50
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