Alberta's Education System

To ensure the equitable distribution of education dollars, every school board receives the same amount per student for basic instruction. Additional funds are provided depending on specific student needs and other variables. Funding for schools buildings is distributed through Alberta Infrastructure. Education continues to be a priority for government and Albertans. We value teachers and invest significantly in education. Find more information about the Facts and Statistics on Education Funding and Teaching in Alberta.

Student assessment is a vital part of Alberta Learning's efforts to ensure that students are receiving a high quality education. The department conducts achievement tests in Grade 3, 6, and 9 and develops provincial Grade 12 diploma examinations. Provincial, school authority, and school results from these tests are available in this section.

When it comes to selecting a school, parents and students can choose from a wide range of options. They can select from public schools, Catholic schools, francophone schools, private schools, and charter schools. They can also access a number of unique and innovative programs - including virtual schools. Parents can also opt to home school their children. Choice is one of the important principles Alberta's education system is built on.

School Councils allow parents and the community to actively participate in their local school. These councils develop their own roles and function differently from one jurisdiction to another. Generally, they are involved in the decision making on school policies and goals.

Alberta Infrastructure is responsible for managing provincial school facilities capital programs, policies and regulations. Alberta Learning and Alberta Infrastructure work with school boards in planning local capital plans and projects. This includes the development of provincial integrated capital plans and projects, and the management and implementation of approved capital projects. As well, Alberta Infrastructure develops and administer school facilities policies, regulations and the property management functions of Alberta's 1,500 schools.

School boards are made up of trustees elected during municipal elections. They serve three-year terms and are collectively responsible for ensuring that the students in their jurisdiction are provided with an education that is consistent with provincial regulations. School boards budget within their jurisdictions, supervise schools, manage teachers and administrators and select optional programs to meet learner needs in their jurisdictions. Maps and contact information are available in this section. Planning resources for school authorities are also available.