(Government of Alberta)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Provincial Politics

Province says it’s taking action to improve classroom safety

Jul 24, 2025 | 2:34 PM

Officials with Alberta’s government say they are working with front-line experts to make classrooms safer for students and teachers.

The Aggression and Complexity in Schools Action Team held its first meeting on July 23, bringing together teachers, school leaders, school board trustees and other front-line professionals with classroom experience to help address the growing challenges in Alberta’s classrooms.

The government says the 25-member action team includes teachers, school administrators and support staff who have direct experience working with students every day and understand the complexities of today’s learning environments.

“The action team’s insights will be key to finding practical solutions that reduce aggression, manage classroom complexity and improve safety and support for students and staff,” says Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education and Childcare, in a press release. “I look forward to building on their input to make classrooms safer and strengthen Alberta’s education system.”

According to provincial officials, the action team’s mandate is to provide advice and recommendations to Alberta’s government on how to:

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• reduce incidents of aggression in schools
• address increasing classroom complexity
• improve safety and support for students and school staff

Over the coming months, the province says the team will examine policies, teacher training, inclusive education supports, funding considerations and coordination across sectors. To inform this work, the government says they may invite front-line professionals to share insights as subject matter experts. The team’s recommendations are hoped to focus on both immediate and long-term strategies to better support classrooms across Alberta.

“CASS welcomes the formation of this action team and appreciates the government’s commitment to listening to the voices of those working directly with students,” adds Mike McMann, president, College of Alberta School Superintendents. “Superintendents across Alberta are eager to support practical, evidence-informed strategies that enhance safety, reduce classroom complexity, and promote the well-being of both staff and students.”

“Alberta’s locally elected school boards remain deeply committed to safe, supportive and effective learning environments for all students and staff,” explains Marilyn Dennis, president, Alberta School Boards Association. “Alberta School Boards Association looks forward to collaborating, sharing insights and perspectives to support the diverse needs of students and school communities across the province.”

Provincial officials say Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring these decisions are informed by the real-world experience of educators and other professionals who work directly with students. Practical supports and interventions stemming from the action team’s work are expected to begin rolling out as early as the 2025-26 school year, officials point out.

Alberta government quick facts

• The action team will meet at least four times between July and September.
• A final report with recommendations will be submitted to the Minister of Education and Childcare by Sept. 30.

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