Alberta Invests $5.8M in Calgary School Safety

0:00Alberta just dropped nearly $6 million in one-time cash for Calgary Public Schools to boost safety measures. The Calgary Board of Education gets almost $4 million, while the Catholic District pulls in $1,800,000. This comes after a province-wide review sparked by that heartbreaking school incident in Tumblr Ridge, British Columbia, two months back. The money targets quick upgrades, like better locks, door hardware, security cameras, intercoms, lighting, and even staff training. Up to 10% can go to leader training, at least have to core hardware fixes, and the rest of things like window coverings or cell boosters. No big renovations though, and districts have to report back by fall 2026 and 2027. CCSD trustee Steve Chapman, a former cop, laid it out straight at their April 22nd meeting. He calls this funding a drop in the bucket, estimating a $25 million gap just to hit basic standards across the board. Chapman pushes hard for proactive steps over just reacting after trouble hits.

1:02Both districts are eyeing district-wide tweaks instead of spot fixes at certain schools. CCSD wants a consistent baseline for every building, building on existing cameras and locked doors. CBE echoes that with staff training and regular safety checks under their emergency rules. Leaders stress education and awareness to fight complacency, saying low-cost training could make the biggest difference right now. It's a start, but the push for more investment keeps rolling to keep kids truly safe. You've been listening to Calvary News today, AI-powered local news.