Hello everyone. This blog is being opened as a forum to discuss the educational issues arising out of Alberta's Bill 44. This piece of legislation is controversial, as it states that any class which is planning on discussing sexual orientation, sexual health or religion, students may be absented on behalf of their parents, if they find the content objectionable.
This blog is being put forth to allow discussion of the efficacy of such a piece of legislation. From the point of view of an educator, the bill seems destined to create conflict for teachers and administrators, who are being asked to enforce discretion on a vaguely worded law. Why were there no specifics given? Why should a teacher be asked to constantly judge whether their course content is dangerously controversial?
From the point of view of parents, it can provide a welcome individual opt-out clause, in an education system that often frustrates through a standardized curriculum that seems inflexible. From a parental point of view, the question could certainly be asked whether these subjects are relevant in the classroom or not. However, in many respects, the bill's creation speaks to the lack of initiative shown by the Alberta Ministry of Education, who are more willing to point parents towards teachers, rather than their own policies to justify their political choices.
At the end of the day, unfortunately, political choices permeate issues such as these. However, the law, at first glance, seems irresponsible in its potential punishment for teachers (hearing in front of a human rights panel), who are simply there to do their jobs. A small 'out' clause is put forth, which suggests that incidental mention in a class without prior warning will be allowed, but will that truly protect a biology teacher who begins talking about evolution? Is this not an issue that can be settled and enforced outside of the classroom?
