December 02, 2009 (Catholic Education Catholic Schools)

Leduc, Alberta:

by wendy from school blog

When it comes to education quality, the Minister of Education wants St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Schools (STAR) to know that it is ahead of the class. On November 27, the Minister joined school divisions throughout Edmonton and area to recognize and celebrate high academic achievement. Known as the Minister’s Education Leadership Recognition Awards (MELRA), these awards recognize school board leaders who make a difference in the lives of students every day.

“There is no greater honour than being recognized for education quality,” said Superintendent Jamie McNamara. “No single individual or school can achieve this award on their own. It takes all of the trustees, schools, teachers, and staff pulling together to ensure that every student can achieve their best.”

In addition to education quality, STAR Catholic also received recognition for significantly improving their high school completion rate and diploma exam participation rate. Alberta’s high school graduation rates are often the lowest in Canada, but several school divisions, including STAR Catholic, are working to ensure students obtain their diplomas. “In Alberta, there is always temptation for students to leave school early and earn a pay cheque,” says McNamara. “By making school engaging and relevant to their future career aspirations, students are more willing to stay in class and graduate.”

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