Email Message Archive

Dear parents and guardians, 

Last year, we introduced CBE CARES (Collaboration for Anti-Racism and Equity Supports) to advance equity, anti-racism and inclusion at the Calgary Board of Education. Every student and staff member should have the opportunity to succeed personally and academically regardless of background, identity or personal circumstances.

Now we would like to hear from you. We are hosting three online listening sessions to engage parents and guardians in open discussions about racism, discrimination, diversity, equity and inclusion. These listening sessions provide a safe space for you to share your experiences, help us understand the current environment at the CBE, and help shape our next steps. We are hosting these sessions online to hear from many perspectives and adhere to COVID-19 guidelines.

If you are interested in participating in one of the online listening sessions, please complete this form by Sunday, Jan 17.  

The sessions will take place on Jan. 28, Feb. 4, and Feb. 18 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. Each session will have a maximum of 100 participants who will be split into smaller groups to allow for deeper discussion. If more than 100 parents express an interest for each session, a draw will be held to determine participants from across our schools and areas.

Dr. Marie Delorme is supporting me in the important work of CBE CARES and will be facilitating these listening sessions. She is well respected in leadership and organization, and her research focuses on inter-cultural leadership.

Written Submissions
Parents, students and staff can also share your experiences and suggestions by emailing cbecares@cbe.ab.ca by Feb. 22. Comments submitted by the deadline will be considered by Dr. Delorme as she develops her recommendations for the CBE. We will not be responding individually to each submission.

Next Steps
Through these listening sessions and written submissions, as well as learnings gathered through a literature review and our Advisory Council, we hope to gain the insights we need to inform meaningful next steps. Based on all the feedback and advice gathered, Dr. Delorme will report back to me with recommendations for moving forward with CBE CARES by the end of March 2021. As an organization we will then consider actions arising from the report to enhance equity, achievement and well-being for all.

Throughout this process, we continue to listen with open hearts and open minds, and to work with our communities to foster inclusive work and learning environments. Thank you for your interest and support as we boldly take action to advance equity, anti-racism and inclusion at the CBE.

Christopher Usih
Chief Superintendent of Schools