Alberta School Councils' Association

Check out the last eNews of the 25/26 school year June -> https://bit.ly/4fKC5SS

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is pleased to welcome Shelley Odishaw as the association's new Executive Director.

“We are thrilled to have Shelley joining us in this role,” said Association President Meagan Parisian. “Shelley’s commitment to public education and parent engagement through school councils, as well as her previous experience with the organization, make her the perfect fit for the role.”

Read more -> https://bit.ly/4vMvUSQ

This week marked our final education partner meeting of the school year. Together, we discussed advocacy priorities, upcoming staffing and board changes, reflections from recent conferences and professional development, and the work still ahead to strengthen engagement and connections across school communities.

This point in the year always feels familiar: part wrap-up, part looking ahead.

As we move toward the annual illusion of “summer break” (because planning season), we’re grateful for the relationships, collaboration, and shared commitment that continue to move this work forward.

Thank you to our education partners for another year of robust conversations, candid dialogue, and a collective focus on supporting students and families.

Here’s to finding moments to recharge this summer and to continuing the work together in the next school year.

Alberta School Boards Association

June offers an opportunity to learn more about two important parts of Canada's history and ongoing story: National Indigenous History Month and Pride Month.

While these observances recognize different histories, experiences, and communities, there are also important points of connection. The history and contributions of Two-Spirit people remind us that Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ histories are not separate stories, but often intersect in meaningful ways. Understanding those connections helps build a fuller picture of Canada's past and present.

If you're interested in exploring the history, people, milestones, and experiences connected to Indigenous History Month, Pride Month, and Two-Spirit communities, Historica Canada and The Canadian Encyclopedia provide excellent resources to help start the journey.

Have you had a chance to check out the May edition of The Learning Team?

Find the latest issue www.thelearningteam.ca/

This weekend, President Parisian had the privilege of speaking at the opening of the Alberta Teachers’ Association Annual Representative Assembly on behalf of and the parents we represent across the province.

Acknowledging that this has been a challenging year not just for those in classrooms, but for everyone connected to education, shared that parents see the work teachers continue to do every day to support students, families, and school communities, and reaffirmed that parents are standing alongside educators in advocating for strong, well-supported classrooms and integrated supports for children across K–12 education.

It was also a proud moment for our Association to see Past President Brandi Rai recognized by the ATA for her advocacy for public education in Alberta. Congratulations, Brandi.

At ASCA’s 2026 AGM in April, we had the opportunity to recognize individuals and organizations helping strengthen parent engagement and school council collaboration across Alberta.

Congratulations to Grande Prairie Public School Division on receiving the ASCA Division School Council Engagement Award in recognition of the strong, intentional work being done to support meaningful parent engagement across the division. As Board Chair Joan Nellis shared, “When parents are meaningfully engaged and supported, our entire system benefits.”

We also recognize former Superintendent Sandy McDonald as the recipient of the Friend of ASCA Award. “He modelled respect for parent voice and worked to ensure school councils were empowered, informed, and connected.” A meaningful reflection of leadership that helped strengthen school council engagement and collaboration throughout the division.

ASCA recognizes the important role Catholic schools play within Alberta’s education system and values the contributions of Catholic school communities across the province. Best wishes to all those celebrating Catholic Education Week (May 9–15) and World Catholic Education Day (May 14).

We hope Mother’s Day was the day you needed it to be, wherever you are and whatever the day held for you.

To every Mom, Tía, and Kôhkom who step in, show up and support children through school councils, thank you.

Less than two months left in the school year and four remaining learning opportunities on the calendar.

If there’s a topic you’ve been meaning to explore or a session you’ve been hoping to attend, now is a great time to take a look and see what fits your ’s needs.

A little learning now makes planning for next year much easier… and gets us all one step closer to summer.

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