The Alberta Teachers’ Association issued the following statement in response to the decrease in diploma weighting:
The decision to reduce the weighting of diploma examination marks in 2022–23 is welcome, but backward-facing.
The reduction of diploma exams is a stop-gap measure and, sadly, we have seen this move before. To truly address missed learning opportunities, the government needs to address the conditions of the classroom: smaller classes, more supports, additional teachers and educational assistants, and, finally, make diplomas optional.
The government also needs to address the COVID elephant in the room. When COVID-19 first arrived in schools, everyone was caught unawares—it was unprecedented. After two years, we don’t have that excuse. We are increasingly aware of anecdotal reports of absences due to “respiratory infections” in schools and communities. Reducing the weight of diploma exams will not address this, but proper monitoring, reporting and improved ventilation will.
Another rollercoaster of a year with high student absences and substitute teacher shortages might only put students further behind. Albertans expect a coordinated and proactive approach to COVID management that will be informed by science; led by the provincial ministries of health and education; and engage teachers, school staff, school boards and parents as critical stakeholders.
Our priority must be to keep schools open as healthy, safe places to learn, not on standardized testing.
The Alberta Teachers’ Association, as the professional organization of teachers, promotes and advances public education, safeguards standards of professional practice and serves as the advocate for its 46,000 members.