Majority of Albertans Support Ending Funding for Private Schools

A recent survey indicates that a significant majority of Albertans favor the cessation of public funding for independent and private schools. According to data released by ThinkHQ Public Affairs, approximately 59 percent of respondents supported the hypothetical referendum question: “Should the Government of Alberta end its current practice of allocating funds to accredited private schools?” In contrast, only 26 percent opposed the idea, while 15 percent remained undecided. When accounting for the undecided voters, support increases to 69 percent.

The results of the survey, which reflect growing discontent with public funding for private education, highlight the challenges facing “direct democracy” initiatives currently underway in Alberta. These initiatives include referendum questions regarding Alberta’s independence and recall legislation targeting elected officials.

Implications for Education Policy

The group Alberta Funds Public Schools is actively working to collect enough signatures by February 11, 2024, to qualify the question posed by ThinkHQ for a potential referendum. Marc Henry, president of ThinkHQ, expressed concern over the implications of these findings for Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides. He posed a critical question: “If you actually put this on a ballot and the numbers come in at 70 percent, are you actually going to withdraw the funding and potentially see a whole host of independent schools across the province close?”

Henry described the survey results as surprising, stating, “To actually get 70 percent of voters agreeing on anything today is practically a miracle.” This sentiment underscores the growing consensus among Albertans on the issue of public funding for private schools.

Political Context and Future Challenges

The political landscape in Alberta is further complicated by the presence of recall petitions against a number of United Conservative Party (UCP) Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). According to the Elections Alberta website, 20 UCP MLAs are facing recall efforts, including Premier Danielle Smith from her Brooks-Medicine Hat riding. One MLA from the New Democratic Party (NDP) is also subject to a recall petition.

Henry anticipates that these survey results could lead to amendments in legislation concerning referendum questions and recall petitions, as they pose potential challenges for the ruling UCP. The responses from the public indicate a notable shift in public sentiment, which may significantly impact future education policy in Alberta.

As discussions about the future of education funding continue, the outcomes of this survey are likely to resonate within the political arena, shaping the dialogue surrounding independent schools and public resources in the province.