Author Margaret Atwood headlines sold-out public education forum in Calgary
Both the Calgary Board of Education and the Calgary Catholic School District have reported record-high enrollments this year, further straining resources.
Renowned Canadian author Margaret Atwood is in Calgary on Tuesday for a sold-out forum organized by the Alberta Teachers' Association (ATA).
The event, titled Democracy, Public Education, and the Common Good, is being co-hosted by the Calgary public and Catholic teachers’ unions.
Atwood, an acclaimed novelist, poet, and literary critic, is best known for her iconic 1985 novel, The Handmaid’s Tale.
At 84, she continues to captivate audiences with her thought-provoking discussions.
ATA President Jason Schilling emphasized the significance of Atwood's visit during a challenging time for education. “Public education is currently in crisis, not just in Alberta but across Canada and the U.S.,” Schilling noted. “I’m eager to hear how Ms. Atwood, with her storytelling expertise, will explore how democracy and public education are intertwined and what threats they might face.”
The forum comes amid rising concerns among Calgary teachers. A recent survey revealed that 36 percent of teachers are struggling to balance work and personal life, while 64 percent report that work-related stress is affecting their home life.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has acknowledged these challenges, especially regarding overcrowded classrooms.
In response, she announced in September an increase in funding for the School Construction Accelerator Program, raising it to $8.6 billion by 2026-27.
Additional funds have been allocated for modular classrooms and operational expenses.
Both the Calgary Board of Education and the Calgary Catholic School District have reported record-high enrollments this year, further straining resources.
Atwood is scheduled to speak at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium at 6:30 p.m., though tickets for the event are already sold out.
