Edmonton Catholic Schools brought together representatives from 89 school communities on November 18, 2025, for this year’s Community of School Councils (COSC) engagement. School Council Executives and principals were invited to share what matters most to families as the Division begins shaping priorities for the 2026–2029 Division Plan for Continuous Growth. 

The discussion focused on four areas of work that will guide the next three-year plan: 

• Catholic Identity
• Optimal Learning 
• Student Well-being
• Classroom Complexity

After each presentation, school representatives answered two questions: how the work will enhance the school experience for all students, and what parents consider most important.

What We Heard

Catholic Identity

Families and school teams emphasized the importance of belonging, visible and lived faith, and strong parish connections. Communities highlighted that students thrive in welcoming learning environments rooted in Catholic values, where prayer, liturgy, and service are part of daily life. Parents voiced the importance of schools that support their children’s spiritual development while remaining open and accepting of all families.

Optimal Learning

Participants reinforced the need for consistent teaching practices across the Division and personalized learning that meets students where they are. Many families expressed that clear communication, hands-on learning, and strong alignment from year to year help children stay engaged and confident. Staff noted that building teacher capacity and ensuring flexibility in instruction remain key to supporting student growth.

Student Well‑Being

Accessible mental health supports emerged as a top priority for both parents and staff. Families want their children to have trusted adults at school and easy access to counselling and wellness resources. Schools also stressed the importance of fostering safe, caring relationships and reducing stigma around asking for help. Healthy routines, including sleep and managing technology use, were also raised as areas that benefit students’ overall well-being.

Classroom Complexity

School teams and parents shared that today’s classrooms require strong supports for diverse learning needs. Families highlighted the importance of early screening and intervention. They told us that teacher support and professional learning were acknowledged as critical. 

Next Steps

The COSC “What We Heard” report was presented to the Board of Trustees at the Public Board Meeting on January 28, 2026. The themes gathered through COSC will help inform the development of ECSD’s 2026–2029 Division Plan for Continuous Growth. This feedback ensures that future planning reflects the voices of families and schools across the Division and aligns with our mission to provide a Catholic education that inspires students to learn and prepares them to live fully and to serve God in one another.

What is a Division Plan for Continuous Growth?

The Division Plan for Continuous Growth is ECSD’s three-year roadmap that guides priorities and strategies across the Division. It is prepared under the direction of the Board of Trustees in accordance with the responsibilities under the Education Act and the Fiscal Planning and Transparency Act. This plan is developed in the context of the provincial government’s business and fiscal plans. The plan sets direction for each school year and aligns schools, departments, and major initiatives across ECSD. Click here to read archived Division Plans for Continuous Growth.