New Alberta flag rule kicks in next month for schools and here's what to know
New rules are coming into effect in Alberta next month that will restrict what kind of flags can be flown at schools across the province.
The changes are part of Bill 25, which was introduced by the Alberta government on March 31 and passed by the Alberta legislature in May.
Under the new rules, schools will only be allowed to display the Canadian and Alberta flags; however, the province says exemptions may be created for certain flags that reflect Alberta’s heritage and history, school culture, or temporary school activities and ceremonies.
The flag requirements are just one part of the broader legislation. The Alberta government says the proposed changes would help ensure students are exposed to a range of perspectives while keeping education programming neutral.
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“Proposed amendments would help classrooms encourage diverse student perspectives and help ensure that any education programming not approved or authorized under the Education Act is fair, impartial, neutral and free of personal bias,” the Province added.
The bill will also require schools to play the Canadian national anthem weekly and strengthen expectations around neutrality, impartiality and presenting balanced perspectives in the classroom.
Most of the amendments in Bill 25 are set to come into effect on Sept. 1, 2026, meaning that Alberta schools will need to follow the new requirements as the 2026 to 2027 school year gets underway.
You can learn more about Bill 25 online.
This isn’t the first flag neutrality measure to be introduced in Alberta. Earlier this year, the Town of Didsbury officially passed a bylaw restricting which flags can be displayed on municipal property, and in 2024, the towns of Westlock and Barrhead passed similar bylaws.
What do you think about Bill 25? Let us know in the comments.