Sherwood Park, AB. — Every year, students and educators across Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) join school divisions across Alberta to celebrate the important role education plays in shaping futures, both the futures of students, and the communities they call home. Running from May 3-7, this year’s Education Week theme is “Learning is a Journey,” and schools are taking the opportunity to showcase just how far their learning has taken them.

Education Week is led each year by the Alberta Teachers' Association and Alberta Education, and is celebrated by schools provincewide. While most years would see classrooms opening their doors to families and community members, this year, many schools are expanding their celebrations to include virtual activities, so the spirit of the week isn’t lost amidst social distancing practices.

“The purpose of Education Week is to highlight the learning achievements that take place every day, in every classroom—achievements that we can often take for granted,” says Trina Boymook, the Board Chair at EIPS. “This has not been a typical year for students or for teachers, but they continue to persevere and find new strategies for success so that learning can continue. This dedication is nothing short of admirable, and I look forward to following the celebrations virtually.”

Over the course of the week, various activities are taking place in schools throughout the Division to showcase students’ diverse learning journeys. These activities include virtual gatherings, guest speakers, recorded read-alouds, themed art walls, writing assignments on the role education plays in building future generations, buddy sharing and leadership-based assignments.

While schools are not able to open their doors to the public this year, families and community members are encouraged to follow the celebrations through school and Division social media pages.

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,000 students in 43 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

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For more information contact:

Laura McNabb, director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902