Edmonton schools corrects complexity team count to 36, not 52 funded positions

Edmonton Public Schools corrected its earlier communication, stating the division is receiving provincial funding for 36 new complexity teams—not 52 as initially reported.

In a response to questions HighOnCity raised about teacher shortages and temporary certification, the division clarified its staffing requirements and funding allocation. "We are working to hire qualified teams and get them into classrooms as quickly as possible. Complexity teams are assigned to schools with the most high priority classrooms in addition to the staff that currently support students at those schools," a spokesperson said.

The division emphasized that teachers assigned to complexity teams are required to hold a valid Alberta Teaching Certificate. "We work within the guidelines provided by Alberta Education to make sure all credentials are met," the statement said.

As HighOnCity reported in August, the original announcement had created uncertainty about staffing timelines and whether temporary-certificate holders would fill gaps if the division could not find fully qualified teachers.

The 36-team figure represents a significant scaling back from earlier estimates, though the division did not explain why the initial communication differed. The teams are intended to provide additional support in classrooms with high-priority learning needs.