INNISFAIL - A survey of staff at the Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) division has found noticeable decreases in satisfaction levels in areas such as wellness and the communication of goals.
The Alberta Education Assurance Measure survey was conduced to identify areas for improvement and continued growth in the division. It looked at things such as student growth and achievement, teachers and leading, learning supports, and governance.
The report came before trustees at a recent board meeting. RDCRS includes schools in Innisfail and Olds.
The report states that “staff satisfaction showed a noticeable decrease, possibly influenced by factors such as political developments, labour negotiations, and other challenges.”
Staff members were asked to identify their satisfaction level vis-a-vis various statements.
• “I feel supported by RDCRS when it comes to my wellness” - 67 per cent in 2023-24, compared with 86 per cent in 2022-23 and 95 per cent in 2021-22.
• “I am proud to tell others I work at RDCRS” - 62 per cent in 2023-24, compared with 93 per cent in 2022-23 and 98 per cent in 2021-22.
• “I am optimistic about the future at RDCRS” - 60 per cent in 2023-24, compared with 91 per cent in 2022-23 and 96 per cent in 2021-22.
• “I am inspired by RDCRS to do my best work” - 71 per cent in 2023-24, compared with 93 per cent in 2022-23 and 97 per cent in 2021-22.
• “In general, information in RDCRS is communicated well” - 82 per cent in 2023-24, compared with 93 per cent in 2022-23 and 99 per cent in 2021-22.
• “Overall, our senior leadership team is visible and approachable” - 65 per cent in 2023-24, compared with 83 per cent in 2022-23 and 93 per cent in 2021-22.
• “I would recommend RDCRS as a great place to work” - 66 per cent in 2023-24, compared with 92 per cent in 2022-23 and 98 per cent in 2021-22.
The survey also identified a number of statements where the satisfaction levels increased, including “I am able to bring up problems and tough issues (94 per cent, up from 93) and “My leadership team encourages me to offer my opinions and ideas” 94 per cent, up from 93).
According to the report, key strategies and actions planned by RDCRS include continuing “refining the school improvement plan template and process to enhance efficiency in planing, target setting, and the effective execution of improvement strategies.
“Expand the leadership coaching model to align with the school improvement process, providing the school leaders with enhanced support and guidance through dedicated accountability partnership.”
RCDRS superintendent Kathleen Finnigan told the Albertan, “We are in the process of making a few revisions then it will be posted and provided to Alberta Education.”
The complete survey report is available for viewing on the RDCRS website.