Edmonton administrator now an MLA

An Edmonton assistant principal who is a determined advocate for education has entered the political arena with a resolute mission to address pressing needs and pave the way for positive change. Peggy Wright, an assistant principal at Northmount School, was elected as the NDP MLA for Edmonton-Beverly-Clareview and says she aims to represent the voices of teachers and educational staff while ensuring that Alberta’s education system meets the highest standards.

“I wanted to be part of a government that strives to build a better future for all Albertans,” Wright said. “People are facing the biggest affordability crisis in decades, our health care and education systems are struggling, and we needed a change.”

Recognizing Rachel Notley and the Alberta NDP’s pledge to engage with Albertans in developing a different path forward, Wright said she felt compelled to be part of this important work.

“I wanted to be part of a government and part of a legislative team that put people first,” she said.

Wright has taught for more than 20 years in northeast Edmonton. Having known Notley for a long time, Wright said she trusted the NDP leader to prioritize the needs of students and their families.

“Over the last number of years, I’ve seen first-hand the effects of cuts to education and education programs — the constant issues surrounding the new curriculum, the increased complexity in our classrooms, and the way in which educators are treated by the government.”

Addressing the biggest issues facing public education from her perspective, Wright emphasizes the need for adequate funding and resources. Alberta currently has the lowest rate of per-student funding in Canada, resulting in significant challenges for the education system.

“The impact is felt in terms of class complexity, class size, resources for teachers, supports and resources for students — our kids and our staff deserve better,” Wright said.

Wright also underscored the importance of a modern and inclusive curriculum that prepares students for the future.

“We need a new curriculum that involves teachers in its inception, and this includes the ATA as our association, along with experts like school board curriculum support teams, academics and researchers — the folks who know about current educational research and best practices,” Wright said.

As an advocate for public education, Wright says she is committed to leveraging her experience and contributing to meaningful changes.

“My hope is that I can add my voice and my experience to the discussion as these incredibly important changes are being planned, discussed and made.” she said.

Teachers Janis Irwin and David Eggen were both re-elected as NDP MLAs. Eggen will sit for a fifth term as the MLA for Edmonton-North West and Irwin will serve her second term in Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood.