The clock on the petition on public funding for private schools has run out.
The grassroots movement started by Calgary teacher Alicia Taylor last October did not meet its required quota of 177,000 signatures by the February 11 deadline. The petition aimed to force a provincewide referendum on whether the Government of Alberta should end its practice of allocating public funds to accredited independent (private) schools. The petition gathered just over 126,000 signatures.
“We mobilized over 2,000 people who wanted to get involved in advocating for better funding for public schools,” said Taylor in a news conference announcing the outcome.
Taylor said that many of the people who signed the petition were unaware that public funding goes to independent schools. She said most of the people to whom canvassers spoke were outraged.
“We gave a voice to the people of Alberta who understand that a strong public education system is foundational to a prosperous, equitable society,” Taylor said. “These Albertans know that public education drives economic growth, while fostering informed, engaged citizens.”
Taylor encourages all Albertans to continue in their advocacy efforts to support public education by contacting their MLA, getting involved with government or a political party, and asking candidates about their plans for public education during our next provincial election.
“We need people who value public education to continue to be engaged,” Taylor said.
