Re-elect SOMMERS, Angela

My Vision for Education

Serving as your public school trustee over the past four years has been both deeply rewarding and deeply challenging. I’ve learned a tremendous amount, but I’ve also seen firsthand how government changes have weakened the role of trustees, reducing boards to carrying out ministerial orders instead of practicing true democratic governance. This raises serious questions about constitutional overreach—questions I have researched in depth in the paper linked below.

​

Alberta has the lowest per-student funding in Canada, dragging down the national average. Public schools, mandated to serve all students and have provided world-class education, are now forced to compete with charter and private schools for the same public tax dollars. While public schools face increasing pressure with limited resources, the government grants charters 100% of per-student funding and private schools 70%, even though these schools do not have to accept all students, follow the provincial curriculum, or meet the same level of public accountability. On top of that, taxpayer money is now being spent to build new facilities and upgrade closed old schools for charters and private institutions, further diverting resources from our public system.

At the heart of my work is one unwavering commitment: Students First. That means every student, without exception.

I am scared by the new anti-trans legislation, which harms some of our most vulnerable learners. I will continue to stand strong against policies of exclusion, and to advocate for schools that protect, affirm, and empower every child.

I believe deeply in teachers, they are the backbone of public education. As a parent of 17 years in RDPSD, I have experienced their dedication firsthand, and I am continually inspired by the care and leadership shown by our superintendent and senior administration.

I oppose censorship and the banning of books. Our libraries must remain spaces of discovery, imagination, and critical thought.

As the climate crisis accelerates, our students deserve more than surface-level instruction. They need education that builds understanding and resilience, equipping them with the knowledge and creativity to navigate an uncertain future.

As both a university student and a trustee, I’ve also engaged with the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence. AI is already transforming education, and we need leaders who understand both its vast potential and its risks, ensuring that students benefit from this technology while being safeguarded against its dangers.

I am committed to advancing the calls to action of Truth and Reconciliation, working with local Indigenous communities to bring land-based education and cultural knowledge into our schools. I also believe strongly in the arts and want to see opportunities for creativity and expression expand throughout the division.

Every child deserves equal and equitable access to high-quality public education-for free. That means consistent access to specialist educators, manageable class sizes, disability supports, Indigenous programming, libraries, gyms, playgrounds, technology, and even outdoor gardens.

Free public education is the backbone of democracy. It is the foundation of opportunity, inclusion, and progress. I am committed to fighting for the resources, protections, and vision that will put students first in every decision we make-because when our students succeed, our whole society thrives.