New regulations outline which flags can be displayed in Alberta schools

Alberta has released its flag display regulation outlining which flags can be displayed on school property and which ones require the minister’s approval to be flown.

The regulations released on Friday build on legislation introduced by Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides to “remove ideology and politics” from the classroom. The sweeping changes include prohibiting school boards from issuing statements or taking positions on political and social topics, and ensuring school authorities ensure “neutral and impartial” learning environments.

Under the regulations, the only flags permitted to fly outside on school properties throughout the year are Canadian and Alberta flags. School boards must submit a written request to the ministry of education and childcare to display flags not outlined in the regulations such as pride flags.

For schools to display a proposed flag, the province said it cannot be done in a political, social or ideological manner. It must also either be part of a school event, represent a school’s population and community, be part of existing physical infrastructure, reflective of school identity or associated with a commemorative day or observance.

“These changes will provide a clear and consistent approach to flag displays in schools, while keeping the focus where it belongs: on student learning and success,” Nicolaides said in a Friday press release.

In a follow-up statement, Nicolaides said, “school authorities may apply for additional flag displays not otherwise permitted in the regulation, and requests are considered on a case-by-case basis against the established application requirements and criteria.”

Postmedia previously reported on the draft flag regulation in August. The draft regulations and the ones released on Friday are the same.

Other flags that may be displayed on school property on top of the Alberta and Canada flags include:

• flags depicting any sports team — including a championship or competition flag
• the Vatican City flag
• civic and municipality flags of Alberta
• a flag that depicts an Alberta symbol of distinction under the Emblems of Alberta Act.

Treaty flags (First Nations, Metis Settlements General Council and Metis settlements) and national foreign country flags may be displayed in schools for a maximum of 14 consecutive school days if the flags are related to the instruction of a course or program outlined in the Act.

The same rules apply for visits from foreign nationals and Indigenous leaders.

During a ceremonial or celebratory event, a national flag of a foreign country and Treaty flags are permitted.

Treaty flags may be displayed on National Indigenous Peoples Day, National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, and Louis Riel Day.

The Royal Union flag may be displayed on Commonwealth Day and Victoria Day.

Alberta NDP education critic Amanda Chapman said the UCP government should be focused on addressing overcrowding and classroom complexity instead of policing flags.

“Albertans haven’t forgotten that this government used the notwithstanding clause to override teachers’ Charter rights, then used it three more times in the same legislative session,” Chapman said.

The regulations will come into force Jan. 4, 2027.