Elk Island Public School Funding for a Collegiate Model

On behalf of the Fort Saskatchewan and District Chamber of Commerce, we are writing to express our strong support for Elk Island Public Schools’ proposal for a new junior-senior high replacement school, which would be the first in Alberta to adopt a collegiate model. This innovative approach to education holds immense promise for our community, our businesses, and the future of our region. 

As the Chamber of Commerce, we recognize the invaluable potential of this new school in providing cutting-edge programming that equips students for future opportunities in trades, university, and the workforce. The collegiate model would ensure that young adults graduate not only with knowledge but also with certifications and hands-on experience to seamlessly transition into the careers of their choice. This alignment of education with workforce needs is critical to addressing the skilled labor shortages faced by businesses in Fort Saskatchewan and across Alberta. 

The local business community stands to benefit significantly from this progressive schooling model. By exposing students to a wide array of career options, particularly in the trades, the school will act as a bridge between education and industry. Our region is home to pioneering projects such as Dow’s Path2Zero, the Suncor-ATCO Hydrogen Project, and the Scotford Solar initiative. These ventures underscore the need for a skilled and adaptable workforce to support the growth in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland. 

The timing of this proposal is especially vital as we navigate a period of strain on skilled labor availability. By fostering innovation and promoting career readiness, this school will help ensure that Alberta remains competitive in a rapidly changing global economy. Students graduating from this program will not only “hit the ground running” but, in many cases, will possess certifications that allow them to contribute to the workforce immediately. This infusion of young talent will provide businesses in our region with the skills and energy needed to thrive. 

The need for a workforce with the right skill set to drive economic growth cannot be overstated. As Carolyn Rogers of the Bank of Canada highlighted, “In 1984, the Canadian economy was producing 88% of the value generated by the U.S. economy per hour. By 2022, Canadian productivity had fallen to just 71% of that of the United States.” This decline underscores the urgency of initiatives like the proposed school, which would invest in human capital and help close the productivity gap. 

Moreover, as Mark Parsons, Chief Economist at ATB Economics, noted, “In Alberta, labor productivity remains highest among the provinces, but growth has lagged, and the gap with the rest of the country has narrowed over the last decade.” This school’s focus on practical skills and innovation will play a crucial role in reversing these trends and ensuring Alberta’s continued economic leadership. 

The Conference Board of Canada has emphasized the importance of building a workforce with the right mix of skills and knowledge to foster innovation, stating, “Canada needs creative thinkers and implementers, risk-takers, and people who can work with others to innovate. Public education can play a major role in creating the innovative workforce our future demands and promoting the value of innovation skills to employers.” 

We believe Elk Island Public Schools’ proposal embodies these principles and represents a transformative opportunity for our region. By equipping students with the tools and skills necessary to succeed in the modern economy, this school will not only enhance individual outcomes but also strengthen the fabric of our community and drive economic growth. 

We urge the support this critical project. Together, we can ensure that the students of Fort Saskatchewan and the surrounding areas are prepared to lead and innovate in a dynamic global landscape.