Alberta's Minister of Education has proven to be a big draw to the University of Lethbridge audience. Scheduled to speak Monday, Sept. 14 at the U of L, his talk has drawn a full house.

The free event, which features a hosted wine and cheese reception, filled up quickly as Dave Hancock is expected to address a vision for the future of education in Alberta.

Alberta Education is concluding province-wide discussions with education stakeholders through its "Inspiring Education" initiative. Hancock may be able to use this valuable information to benchmark a vision for the future of education in the province.

"Our Inspiring Education dialogue is about how education in Alberta can help tomorrow's students find their passions and prepare for success in the future," Hancock says.

"This initiative will heighten public appreciation for education and build our understanding of what it will mean to be an educated Albertan 20 years from now. It will result in a new vision for education and a policy framework that will guide the Ministry and inform legislation."

The process has involved Albertans in extensive discussions about education as a foundation for the future societal and economic success of the province.

The discussions have focused on five key values - opportunity, fairness, citizenship, choice and diversity - which are critical to the success of Alberta's education system.

Dr. Jane O'Dea, the Dean of the U of L Faculty of Education, is a member of the steering committee.