“Every year, 40 days after Easter on Ascension Thursday, Catholics around the globe celebrate World Catholic Education Day. It is a time to pause, reflect and pray on the gift that is Catholic education.

“Today we join with our Catholic educators, students and parents to recognize the distinctive academic and spiritual contributions Catholic education makes within our diverse society. As Albertans, we are thankful for choice in education that enables parents to give their children a faith-based learning environment.

“With family homes replacing classrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic, Albertans in our Catholic education system continue to find strength together. On this special day, they are wearing blue and uniting in prayer and gratitude for Catholic schools.

“To all Catholic educators and families, I thank you for doing your part to ensure the more than 176,000 students who attend our Catholic schools continue to learn and grow in faith and fellowship during this challenging time."