Melanie Kidder

The Board of Trustees held its annual organizational meeting, which included the election and acclamation of a new Board Chair and Vice Chair for the 2026-2027 term. Additionally, the Board approved the committee structure, including appointments to various committees such as audit and finance, governance, community engagement, and negotiations, and established the dates, times, and location for upcoming public board meetings.

The board meeting covered several agenda items, including the approval of locally developed courses for elementary, junior high, and senior high levels. The board delegated authority to the Chief Superintendent for the summer months and acknowledged the Emergency Executive Succession Plan for the 2026-2027 school year. Recognition was given for leadership awards, including the Alberta Teachers' Association Council for School Leadership Distinguished Leadership Award and the Canadian Association of Principals Distinguished Vice-Principal of the Year. The board also supported a nomination for the ASBA 2026 School Board Innovation and Excellence Award regarding the ECSD Mathematics Framework and approved the 2026-2027 Division Operating Budget.

The EDIAR Strategic Plan for Edmonton Catholic Schools details the Division's commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism, grounded in Catholic social teaching. Key priorities include recognizing and celebrating the unique gifts and talents of all individuals, integrating EDIAR concepts into curriculum and programming, enhancing diversity in personnel and resources, and promoting student engagement for safe, caring school environments. The plan emphasizes the implementation of initiatives like Universal Design for Learning, culturally responsive teaching, and restorative practices to foster a welcoming, respectful, and equitable community for all.

This document outlines the Edmonton Catholic Schools' Skilled Trades and Careers Enhancement Strategy, developed in response to provincial directives to address a shortage of skilled trades workers. The strategy's vision is to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary for success in diverse vocational fields by cultivating innovative curriculum and fostering a strong work ethic. Key objectives include equipping students with practical experience, strengthening partnerships with post-secondary institutions and trade unions, establishing the division as a leader in skilled trades education, and promoting inclusivity. The strategy addresses current programming, identifies obstacles such as perception and resource constraints, and leverages opportunities for growth through strategic partnerships and facility upgrades. Future steps involve detailed project planning, curriculum development, program approvals, and a comprehensive marketing strategy to increase student participation and awareness.

The Edmonton Catholic Schools' Three-Year Education Plan, also known as the Division Plan for Continuous Growth, is dedicated to providing a Catholic education that inspires students and prepares them for life and service. The plan is structured around four fixed priorities: Living Our Faith, Learning Excellence, Organizational Excellence, and Embracing Diversity. Its primary goal is to develop strategies and ensure consistent practices to achieve lasting impact and foster student success within a three-year cycle.