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EDMONTON — Alberta is introducing new rules governing which flags can be displayed at schools, including a requirement for the Canadian and Alberta flags to be flown outside school buildings during the school year.
The Flag Display Regulation takes effect Jan. 4, 2027, and applies to public, separate, francophone, charter and accredited independent school authorities.
Under the regulation, other flags may only be displayed on school property if they are specifically permitted under the rules or approved by the Ministry of Education and Childcare following a written request.
Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides said the regulations are intended to create a consistent approach across the province.
“The Canadian and Alberta flags are symbols that unite us and reflect the values we share,” Nicolaides said. “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.”
The regulation allows schools to display the Franco-Albertan flag and municipal or civic flags, along with the Royal Union Flag on specified days.
Flags directly related to instruction in a course or program of study approved under the Education Act may also be displayed temporarily inside schools.
First Nations flags, Métis Settlement General Council and Métis Settlement flags, and foreign national flags may be displayed inside schools during official visits, celebrations, ceremonial occasions or on specified days.
School boards wanting to display another flag can submit a written request to the ministry.
To receive approval, the proposed display must not constitute a political, social or ideological statement or position by the school board that conflicts with its responsibilities under the Education Act.
It must also meet at least one additional condition, including representing the school population or community, forming part of existing physical infrastructure, reflecting school identity, being associated with a commemorative observance or forming part of a school event.
The new regulation follows legislation passed earlier this year through An Act to Remove Politics and Ideology from Classrooms and Amend the Education Act, 2026, which received royal assent May 14.
The requirements apply to both physical and digital reproductions of flags displayed by school boards, including those on school buildings, grounds, equipment, furnishings, websites and social media accounts.
The rules do not apply to flags displayed on individuals or their personal belongings.
Nicole Buchanan, board chair of Red Deer Public School Division, said school divisions have a role in implementing provincial direction while remaining responsive to their communities.
The College of Alberta School Superintendents also said the regulations should be implemented in a way that maintains dignity, respect and a sense of belonging for students.
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