Funding for schools must be used wisely

Last week, the Alberta Teachers’ Association met with Minister Lagrange asking to delay the opening of schools. On Aug. 26, the federal government announced funding of up to $262 million to support the safe reopening of public schools across Alberta.

This funding announcement provides an opportunity, and a reason, to hold further, open-minded discussions with the people who will be front and centre in the opening of schools. Teachers, principals, educational assistants, school bus drivers, office staff, and the other professionals working in schools will be our greatest allies in the safe reopening of schools, once they believe the necessary safety measures are in place. These federal funds must, in their entirety, be spent on the safe reopening of public schools — the health and well-being of our children and our educators deserve nothing less.

Our elected officials must be held accountable if they fail to use these funds responsibly. Terry Price, Edmonton