Lawyer Richard Rand accepts ATA’s highest award

Nearly three decades of dedication to public education and administering Alberta’s teacher discipline process earned lawyer Richard Rand honorary membership in the Alberta Teachers’ Association.

Considered the ATA’s highest honour, the award recognizes those who have made outstanding contributions to the Association. Rand accepted the award at this year’s Annual Representative Assembly in Edmonton on May 20.

Since 1994, Rand has been actively involved with the ATA, focusing primarily on matters related to the administration of the professional discipline function. His engagement with the Association grew over time, particularly in providing assistance to the professional conduct, professional conduct appeal and complainant appeal committees. 

“It amazed me when I saw the work … and the time that members of this association put into ensuring the regulation of this profession and to ensure its high standards,” Rand said in his acceptance speech.

Rand’s dedication to the profession was evident most recently when he voiced his concerns about the government’s move to strip the Association of its discipline function. His impassioned response, published in prominent newspapers, emphasized the importance of the teaching profession holding onto the discipline function and his unwavering support for teachers.

ATA president Jason Schilling said Rand’s guidance and expertise have been invaluable in ensuring fair and just outcomes for members, the profession and the public.

“He will not soon be forgotten by those who have had the pleasure of meeting him,” Schilling said. “Richard Rand is a great ally to public education and the Alberta Teachers’ Association.” ❚