As we begin a new school year, it feels a little different than usual. I hope you were able to find rest and renewal over the summer, despite the rainy weather and lack of sunshine. While last year may feel like a distant memory, we continue to experience the effects of job action.
Although many of us may prefer to move on from a difficult chapter that did not end as we had hoped, it is important to remember the collective power Alberta teachers demonstrated and continue to hold. The solidarity shown by teachers, support staff, families, and community members in advocating for better conditions in our schools was remarkable.
Reflecting on that time may bring feelings of frustration, anger, or disappointment. Yet it should also remind us of our strength and the progress that was only possible because we stood together. While funding remains insufficient and many schools continue to face significant challenges, including large class sizes, we have seen firsthand that collective action can create meaningful change.
This summer, I had the opportunity to attend Summer Conference and hear from several inspiring speakers whose messages have stayed with me. Dr. Trudy Cardinal reminded us that “children are gifts from the Creator entrusted to our care” and that “courage does not mean walking without fear; it means walking forward with the support of others.” Her words reinforced the importance of relationships, community, and collective responsibility in our work.
Dr. Cardinal also shared the image of a strawberry plant, which sends out runners that take root, grow, and eventually flourish independently. As educators and leaders in our classrooms, schools, and communities, we have a similar responsibility: to nurture, support, and empower others so they can thrive on their own. Whether we are supporting students, colleagues, or emerging leaders, our impact extends far beyond ourselves.
We also heard from Dr. David Edwards of Education International, who spoke about building solidarity across the globe and strengthening access to quality education for all children. In reflecting on the age of artificial intelligence and unlimited access to information, he described teachers as “wisdom workers.” More than ever, our role is not simply to provide knowledge, but to help students think critically, navigate complexity, evaluate information, and make thoughtful decisions. We are helping shape citizens who can understand the world around them and contribute meaningfully to it.
As we begin this year together, I hope we remember both our collective strength and our shared purpose. We have seen the power of solidarity. We know the difference educators make every day. Let us continue to support one another, grow future leaders, and remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the best possible learning conditions for all students.
