Alberta introduces new mandate on flags at schools
Posted October 23, 2026 12:33 pm.
In an attempt to reduce politics and ideology from classrooms, the Government of Alberta has changed regulations regarding flags at schools.
Friday, the province said that a new Flag Display Regulation will set requirements for flags displayed on school property, while providing more consistent framework for displays.
The province says under the regulation, school boards must fly the Canadian and Alberta flags outside school buildings during the school year, while other flags may only be displayed if they are permitted after sending a written request to the Ministry of Education and Childcare.
The regulation also permits the Franco-Albertan flag, civic and municipal flags and the Royal Union Flag on specified days.
Meanwhile, inside the school, flags may be temporarily displayed if they are directly related to the instruction of a course or program of study prescribed or approved under the Education Act, according to the province.
The province also says that First Nations, Metis Settlement General Council and Metis Settlement flags and foreign national flags may be displayed inside a school building during official visits, celebrations, ceremonial occasions or on specified days.
As for the written requests — the province says that a proposed flag display must not constitute a political, social or ideological statement or position on the part of the school board contrary to the school board’s responsibility under the Education Act. The flags must also meet criteria such as representative of school population and community context, part of existing physical infrastructure, reflective of school identity, associated with a commemorative day or observance, or part of a school event.
“School divisions play an important role in implementing provincial direction while remaining responsive to the needs of their local communities. We appreciate the Government of Alberta’s efforts to provide clarity on these requirements, while ensuring that student learning, achievement and success remain at the forefront of our work.”Nicole Buchanan, board chair, Red Deer Public School Division
