How Edmonton Public Schools is grappling with undocumented children
Article content
'There are children in this province, in this city, who are being prevented from attending school,' she said.
Rutherford emphasized the emotional toll this takes on children, who 'are falling behind academically and suffering as they struggle to understand why they aren't allowed to exist and participate as equals alongside their peers.'
How Alberta compares to other provinces?
Advocates and trustees have pointed to legislative models in Ontario and British Columbia as examples of how Alberta could expand access to public education for undocumented children.
In Ontario, the Education Act explicitly states that a student must be admitted to school even if the child or their parents are in Canada unlawfully. Provincial guidance also indicates that such students generally qualify for government funding.
In British Columbia, the School Act requires boards to provide free education to all resident students, with 'ordinary residence' determined by factors like housing, employment, tax filings, or a provincial driver's licence. Students who meet these conditions are eligible for public education and funding, regardless of immigration status.
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5 days ago
- Edmonton Journal
How Edmonton Public Schools is grappling with undocumented children
Article content 'There are children in this province, in this city, who are being prevented from attending school,' she said. Rutherford emphasized the emotional toll this takes on children, who 'are falling behind academically and suffering as they struggle to understand why they aren't allowed to exist and participate as equals alongside their peers.' How Alberta compares to other provinces? Advocates and trustees have pointed to legislative models in Ontario and British Columbia as examples of how Alberta could expand access to public education for undocumented children. In Ontario, the Education Act explicitly states that a student must be admitted to school even if the child or their parents are in Canada unlawfully. Provincial guidance also indicates that such students generally qualify for government funding. In British Columbia, the School Act requires boards to provide free education to all resident students, with 'ordinary residence' determined by factors like housing, employment, tax filings, or a provincial driver's licence. Students who meet these conditions are eligible for public education and funding, regardless of immigration status.
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