Alberta is postponing new rules limiting which flags may be flown or displayed on school property, a requirement to play the national anthem once a week and a change allowing the education minister to name or rename public schools. The measures had been scheduled to take effect Sept. 1, at the start of the school year, but will now be introduced later this year, the provincial government said.

The rules come from a bill passed in the spring. Premier Danielle Smith’s government has said the legislation is intended to remove ideology from classrooms. A statement issued Friday by the office of Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides said the government remains committed to implementing the delayed changes but does not want to hurry the process.

“We are taking a thoughtful and measured approach to implementation to ensure these changes are introduced effectively and that education partners have the support they need to successfully transition to the new requirements,” the statement said. “We will continue to engage with stakeholders, communicate updated timelines, and provide the resources and guidance necessary to support implementation.”

Other provisions of the bill are still scheduled to come into effect in September. They include a student code of conduct that prohibits violence, a ban on school boards making statements or taking positions on political or social issues, and a requirement that teachers present all subject matter neutrally.

The provincial teachers’ union has called the neutrality requirement “offensive.” It said any suggestion that educators are not teaching the prescribed curriculum in a balanced way is unfair.

Under the flag provision, only the Alberta and Canadian flags would be permitted on school property, unless a school receives special permission to display another flag. The government has not said which flags could receive permission. Critics have questioned whether the province will prohibit Pride flags in schools.

Alberta Teachers’ Association president Jason Schilling said Friday that teachers are among those seeking clarity about which flags would be barred. He said they are concerned the restrictions could leave some students feeling less included.

“Any approach must recognize the importance of belonging in schools and respect the diversity of Alberta’s school communities,” Schilling said. “This delay should allow the government to consult meaningfully with education partners and provide clear guidance for policy implementation.”

NDP education critic Amanda Chapman accused the government of advancing a “half-baked policy” while neglecting problems in schools. “The UCP has proven to Albertans that they don’t care about the real problems educators and families are facing: overcrowded classrooms and a lack of support for students,” Chapman said.

The government’s Friday statement said it plans to keep consulting stakeholders, share revised timelines and provide guidance and resources as the delayed requirements are prepared for implementation. The report was first published by The Canadian Press on Aug. 14, 2026.

Based on reporting by Global News.