Human Rights Commission decision creates uncertainty, says private school head

Some private school operators say a judge's decision upholding a student's right to prayer space is creating uncertainty.

"What it means for private schools remains to be seen because the court system and Alberta Education will need to make decisions about how that happens in the schools," said Diane Swiatek, director of Banbury Crossroads School in southwest Calgary.

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A judge upheld an Alberta Human Rights Commission tribunal ruling against Webber Academy, which found the school unlawfully discriminated against two Muslim students in 2015. The school was fined $26,000.

Swiatek said Banbury Crossroads has had students who practise most major religions in the past.

"We are following the philosophy of separation of church and state," she said.

"If anyone needs any particular need met, that's what we're here for It's not difficult for us, if somebody wanted to pray, they could find some quiet place in the school."

Ruling sends a message, says RMCL

But Swiantek added any school-sanctioned space would be open to all.

"If I had to provide a room for it, that has other practical considerations, such as cost, such as, where it would be," she said.

"We would do it, but that prayer room would be for all religions, because that is the equitable answer I do not believe one religion surpasses in importance, the others."

The ruling sends a message to all schools, said Rocky Mountain Civil Liberties (RMCL) president Kelly Ernst.

"You need to think about your policies and how to accommodate differences within your organization," he said.

Webber Academy officials are still considering whether to appeal the Human Right Commission tribunal decision.