School boards oversee the operation of schools and ensure that schools serve the needs of the community.
School boards are elected by and accountable to the public. They represent more than just the interests of parents—they advocate for all community members invested in quality public education.
School boards provide leadership, set policies and shape the direction of schools to support student success.
What school boards do
- Set direction. Establish goals and priorities for the school jurisdiction.
- Advocate for education. Support public education and represent local interests.
- Develop curriculum. Approve courses, programs and instructional materials.
- Manage finances. Adopt an annual budget and allocate provincial funds.
- Maintain facilities. Operate school buildings, buses and other assets.
- Engage the community. Involve parents and the public in school decisions.
- Communicate plans. Share updates with staff, students, parents and Alberta Education.
- Hire leadership. Select and oversee the superintendent.
-
Set policies in key areas:
- Student trips and safety
- School activities and fees
- Student conduct, discipline and assessment
- Attendance, transportation and busing
Collectively, school boards manage over $6 billion in public education funds. Alberta’s largest school board, the Calgary School Division, has an annual budget of over $1 billion and serves over 100,000 students—which makes it the third-largest local government in Alberta!