INNISFAIL - Chinook’s Edge School Division continues to achieve above provincial average levels of high school completion, according to the recently released Accountability Pillar report from Alberta Education.
The Chinook’s Edge high school completion rate is 81.5 per cent, down slightly from last year’s rate of 83 per cent, but above the current provincial rate of 79.1 per cent.
“We have a phenomenal number of students achieving the acceptable standard on both provincial achievement tests and diploma exams, and we’re seeing levels of excellence increasing across our division,” said division superintendent Kurt Sacher.
“There is an embedded cultural value in this division that helps every single student to achieve success. Our focused priority on academic rigour means that we are encouraging excellence early in Grade 1. This drive is permeating our system and creating a path to success for our students.
“As a result, we are also continuing to see above-average levels of high school completion, as our schools open opportunities for students to explore career connections throughout the grades and become excited about their future.”
The report indicates “very high measures of excellence in the areas of education quality and continuous school improvement, as well as safe and caring measures,” he said.
The school improvement rate is currently 81.3 per cent, slightly above the provincial rate of 81.0 per cent. The education quality rate is 90 per cent, compared with the provincial rate of 90.2 per cent.
“Staff in our division work hard to ensure our schools are positive and welcoming places where students know they belong. That strong culture of caring is laying a foundation for success in all other measures.”
The safe and caring schools rate is 88.7 per cent, slightly lower than the current provincial rate of 89 per cent.
The Central Office Team is working with school staff to examine the results of the report and work towards continuous improvement, he said.
“The moral fibre across our school communities is high and we are continuing to push from multiple perspectives for even further success,” he said.
“While we recognize there is opportunity for growth in some areas, we are incredibly proud of the achievements of our students and staff. This report is a testament to the hard work and clear priorities of our entire Chinook’s Edge team.”
Allan Tarnozci is the Chinook’s Edge board chair.
“It is clear that excellent work is being accomplished in our schools,” said Tarnozci. “Administrative teams from our schools each present their achievements and goals to the board of trustees on a regular basis, and we are always pleased to see the focused efforts taking place across our division.
“It impacts the lives of our students and nothing is of greater importance.”
The complete 246-page report is available for viewing in the plans and reports section of the Chinook’s Edge website.
