February we get to celebrate the family day long weekend! I hope everyone has the opportunity to spend time with the people they love.
The fall session of the Legislature was very productive; I was able to have my motion passed unanimously—Motion 511, be it resolved that the Legislative Assembly urge the Government to recognize a day each year to promote the awareness and prevention of concussions. Even a mild concussion can greatly diminish a person’s quality of life; raising awareness will help people recognize the signs of concussion so they’ll seek treatment earlier, help prevent concussions from occurring, and hopefully spur research into prevention and treatment. Improving the province’s education on preventing and recognizing the signs of concussion will improve patient outcomes and Albertan’s well-being. I was also successful in passing an amendment for Bill 31: A Better Deal for Consumers and Businesses Act. The amendment increases protection for consumers that allows them easier access to online contracts. Many important issues across Alberta were brought forward in the fall session, including multiple calls for a provincial dementia strategy, supports for families struggling with infertility, and the unintended consequences of changes to educational funding.
Large class sizes and inclusivity are issues in Alberta from kindergarten to grade 12. The Alberta Teachers’ Association has a campaign drawing public awareness to these issues and according to it over half of Albertans say class sizes are too big. Classrooms in Alberta are also twice as likely as those elsewhere to include a significant number of students with exceptional needs and Albertans are concerned about current levels of in-class supports. I believe we can do a better job for our teachers and students and work toward more reasonable class sizes and supports for teachers.
Your feedback is always welcome. The office is open from 9am until 4:30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday (closed for lunch from 12:00pm-1:00pm). We are open until 7 p.m. on Thursdays for those who aren’t able to drop in during the day and you can always email us at [email protected], call us at 403-215-7710, or drop by the office at #106, 8220 Centre Street NE, beside First Calgary Credit Union.
