Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): With teachers across Alberta reporting rising classroom challenges — from increasingly diverse learning needs to a surge in aggressive behaviour — the provincial government is taking new action to ensure safer, more supportive learning environments.
Premier Danielle Smith announced the creation of a Class Size and Complexity Task Force, a move aimed at addressing the mounting concerns raised by educators about classroom safety and student support. The initiative follows the work of the recently established Aggression and Complexity in Schools Action Team, which was tasked with identifying practical, classroom-focused solutions.
The action team’s draft final report has already been submitted to the government, and its recommendations will guide a long-term roadmap for safer classrooms. Once the report is finalized and made public, the new task force will begin implementing its proposals, collaborating with school boards to collect updated data on classroom composition and to replace the outdated 2004 Standards for Special Education.
Commitment to Safer, More Supportive Classrooms
“Teachers have made it clear that addressing classroom complexity and safety are among the most critical improvements needed in our education system,” said Premier Smith. “We’re strengthening classroom supports, hiring more teachers and educational assistants, and acting on the recommendations of the Aggression and Complexity in Schools Action Team. Parents, teachers, and students all want the same thing – safe and supportive classrooms where every child can succeed.”
Expanding Supports and Staffing
To bolster in-class assistance, the Alberta government has committed to funding the hiring of 3,000 additional teachers and 1,500 new educational assistants over the next three years. The funding will also cover specialized student supports, such as assessments for complex learning needs, as well as occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and speech-language services.
Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides emphasized the urgency of these efforts, acknowledging the growing number of safety incidents in schools. “No teacher should ever be harmed while doing their job,” he said. “Aggressive incidents have gone up sharply in recent years, and classrooms are becoming more complex. That’s why we’re doubling down on efforts to make classrooms safer and to give extra support to students who need it.”
Improved Data and Ongoing Accountability
Starting in November, the government will work with school boards to collect new data on class size and student composition. This information will help identify where additional resources are most needed and ensure that every student is receiving adequate support. The findings will be made public and updated annually to maintain transparency and accountability.
With this initiative, Alberta aims to respond directly to teachers’ calls for more support and safer working conditions — while ensuring that every child, regardless of their learning or behavioural challenges, has the opportunity to thrive in a positive, inclusive classroom environment.
