Prairie Rose Public Schools News Archive

<p><img src="/images/81292fad-82eb-4a94-886f-67b65f234d46?fingerprint=ppb20251217023701" alt=""></p><p><i>Eagle Butte High School and Medicine Hat High School students awarded 2023 Redcliff Scholarships for Advanced Education</i></p><p>The Redcliff Scholarship Committee for Advanced Education, is pleased to announce that Eagle Butte High School graduates Jilly Cork, Sofia Hilsendeger, Ava Schofield and Dennis Kim, along with Medicine Hat High School student Jaivyn Barabe are the recipients of the 2023 Redcliff Scholarship Awards. All five students will be attending post-secondary in the fall, with plans to pursue careers in science (pharmacist), makeup artistry, nursing, science (neuroscience and psychiatry) and education. Each student will receive one of five 2023 Redcliff Scholarships for $6,000 towards tuition costs for post-secondary studies.&nbsp;</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:63.81%;" src="/images/1fb70ca7-746f-48a7-a080-6f0e574b0144?fingerprint=ppb20251217022040" alt=""></td><td><p><strong>Jilly Cork (EBHS)</strong>, will be attending Blanche Macdonald Centre in Vancouver for makeup artistry with future plans to also attend art school.&nbsp;</p><p>"I plan to be a makeup artist for film, as well as a painter, sharing my art and pride with people all over the world".</p></td></tr><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:62.4%;" src="/images/45e98236-dfa3-43c4-9425-bb17de6b8a60?fingerprint=ppb20251217022716" alt=""></td><td><p><strong>Dennis Kim (EBHS)</strong>, will be attending University of Calgary to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in neuroscience with future plans to pursue a career in medicine with a specialty in psychiatry.&nbsp;</p><p>"Whether studying abroad or at home, I am planning on returning to the city to practice my career."</p></td></tr><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:61.97%;" src="/images/46653fb9-1962-4ec8-8981-420a8076f565?fingerprint=ppb20251217022725" alt=""></td><td><p><strong>Jaivyn Barabe (MHHS)</strong>, will be attending Medicine Hat College with future plans to apply to the U of A PharmD program.&nbsp;</p><p>"I plan to get my doctorate of pharmacy and then work in a hospital as a pharmacist."</p></td></tr><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:60.53%;" src="/images/3f783eeb-ca92-4acb-a30c-1000a1b39620?fingerprint=ppb20251217022609" alt=""></td><td><p><strong>Ava Schofield (EBHS)</strong>, will be attending Medicine Hat College to pursue a degree in education.&nbsp;</p><p>"I would like to teach grades 4 - 9 English, which has always been my favourite subject."</p></td></tr><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:59.46%;" src="/images/2bdb835d-cdc3-4d66-9a38-21849e09cad5?fingerprint=ppb20251217022242" alt=""></td><td><p><strong>Sofia Hilsendeger (EBHS)</strong>, will be attending the Medicine Hat College nursing program.&nbsp;</p><p>"I plan on working as a nurse while pursuing medical school after I finish my program".</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>"Congratulations to the five outstanding individuals who have been selected as the recipients of the prestigious 2023 Redcliff Scholarships for Advanced Education," says Scholarship Administrator Pat Cocks. “There was a highly accomplished pool of applicants to choose from this year and the committee was impressed by the diverse post-secondary options chosen by the students. We are excited to support these talented students as they embark on their unique and fascinating educational journeys.”</p><p>The Redcliff Scholarships were established in 2002 and have been awarded to 50 Redcliff students. The awards are possible thanks to two endowed scholarship funds, that were established and are sustained by ongoing contributions of Redcliff organizations, and present and past Redcliff citizens. A third, Frank King Tribute Scholarship Fund, was announced in the spring of 2018 in memory of the late Frank King, while a fourth was added in November of 2020 to honour the legacy of former Redcliff resident David Jon Thomson.</p><p>If you require further information, please contact Fund Administrator Pat Cocks at the number listed below.</p><p>Pat Cocks<br>Redcliff Scholarship Fund Administrator<br>403-526-0548</p><p>The PDF version of the release can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Kv1-xbmEru3sPlYyX5gB6hFsEw8hh2z7/view?usp=drive_link">2023 Redcliff Scholarships</a></p><hr><p><br><strong>Terms of Reference for Scholarship Recipients</strong></p><p>The <strong>Redcliff Scholarship for Advanced Education</strong> was launched at the Reunion of the 1944 Grade One Class held in September 2002. The aim was to create an endowed scholarship fund. Ongoing public contributions credited to this fund have been contributed by, or in tribute to, past and present citizens of Redcliff and by Redcliff organizations.</p><p>A second scholarship designated as the <strong>“For Four Friends Scholarship”</strong> was established in the memory of the value of the lifelong Redcliff friendships of Jack Fairhurst, Ron Hodges, John Hudak and Gerald Berkhold. This second scholarship is administered parallel to the initial scholarship. It enabled two separate but equal scholarships to be awarded commencing in 2006.</p><p>In May 2018, a third award, the <strong>Frank King Tribute Scholarship</strong>, was made available through the generosity of the family and friends of Mr. King, a former resident of Redcliff and the Chair of the 1988 Calgary Olympic Games.</p><p>A fourth award was created in December 2020 by the family of <strong>David Jon Thomson</strong> to honour his legacy. Mr. Thomson grew up in Redcliff and was a well-known businessman and a lifelong supporter of higher education.</p><p>The scholarships are to support the brightest and most able Redcliff high school graduates to explore fully their potential. The scholarships have as priorities the student’s financial need and overall abilities. The award criteria include financial need, leadership and citizenship and academic merit, with preference to first year students. Priority will be given to applicants who have resided in Redcliff for the majority of their school years.</p><p>Payment of the scholarships are governed as follows:</p><ul><li>There are four separate annual scholarships for tuition at an institution of advanced education to a maximum of $6,000 each.</li><li>The $6,000 scholarship will be applied to the student’s tuition with two equal payments of $3,000 being sent directly to the post-secondary institution in mid-August and mid-December by Prairie Rose Public Schools.</li><li>A scholarship award will be available for 18 months from the date of the award.</li><li>Scholarship recipients may apply in subsequent years,but awards will be made with preference to first year students.</li></ul><p><strong>Questions regarding payment can be directed to:</strong></p><p>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser<br>Prairie Rose Public Schools<br>ryanboser@prrd8.ca</p>

<p><img src="/images/ff35e775-7e83-4263-95a5-aab929334daa?fingerprint=ppb20251217025816" alt=""></p><p>The June 21, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at <strong>10:00 a.m. </strong>The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eHqhYplUnoND7Du3oaylaN4IovMQhpjE/view?usp=drive_link">June 21, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p><img src="/images/1c2fe93c-be5f-4b9c-9011-7e26aaed61ac?fingerprint=ppb20251217022002" alt=""></p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) is now accepting applications <i>from all interested Redcliff families</i> for student transportation (bussing) to IF Cox, Margaret Wooding and Parkside Jr High School for the 2023-2024 school year. The purpose of the application process is to understand bussing interest in the community of Redcliff and determine student eligibility for the 2023-2024 year based on new bus eligibility requirements.&nbsp;</p><p>This past March the province announced changes to the Transportation Regulation which provides school divisions with distance requirements for school bus transportation and walk limits for students. Under the new model, students in grades&nbsp;K-6 may receive transportation if they live over one kilometre from their school, while those in&nbsp;grades 7-12 will receive transportation if they live over two kilometres. In Redcliff we recognize that this could mean significant changes to those who would qualify for bussing services as most students do not currently receive bus transportation. While the new rules do not come into effect until the 2024-2025 school year, Prairie Rose will be using the next school year as an opportunity to transition towards the new requirements.&nbsp;</p><p>During the transition year (2023-2024) PRPS will continue to provide bus transportation in Redcliff, however, it will be done through an application process. We know that some families may prefer having their children walk to school, while others rely on access to bus transportation. Through the application process PRPS will determine which families are interested in accessing bus transportation and whether our current Redcliff bus fleet is able to meet demand. As you are aware, there is currently a significant shortage of buses and drivers in the province and it is unlikely we would be able to add several additional routes in Redcliff next year. Our goal through the application process is to accommodate as many families as possible, however the new Transportation Regulation guidelines will be used as the criteria to prioritize bus transportation access.&nbsp;<i>Those whose bus applications are approved will not be required to pay bussing fees during the 2023-2024 school year.</i></p><p>Please click on the link below if you wish to apply for bus transportation for the 2023-2024 school year.&nbsp;<i>Each family only needs to complete the form one time.</i>&nbsp;<strong>The application link will close in one week (June 14)</strong> to allow our Transportation Department time to review interest and eligibility. Families will be notified prior to the end of the current school year whether their application is approved.&nbsp;</p><p>➡️&nbsp;Complete the Redcliff Transportation Application Form:&nbsp; <a href="https://prrdweb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5gMbzidfNJEqnWe">https://prrdweb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5gMbzidfNJEqnWe</a></p>

<p><img src="/images/c487e866-7372-4e4e-a75b-06d9a25f9425?fingerprint=ppb20251217024757" alt=""></p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools is pleased to announce that Lyle Kennedy has accepted the position of Principal at Schuler School starting the 2023-2024 school year. Lyle will assume the role following the departure of Lisa Lindsay, who was recently announced as the new Director of Student Experiences for Prairie Rose Public Schools.</p><p>Lyle is a longtime Prairie Rose Public Schools educator with 32 years of teaching experience. Over the course of his career, Lyle’s teaching, administration and extra-curricular experiences are all well suited for this new assignment. This includes several previous leadership roles, including acting principal of the former Manyberries School for four years, principal of Jenner School for six years, and vice principal of Seven Persons School for seven years. Lyle currently works as a teacher at Parkside Jr High School in Redcliff, where he has been for the last 11 years. In addition to a Bachelor of Education from the University of Lethbridge, he has a Master of Education in Instruction and Leadership from Gonzaga University.</p><p>"I feel deeply honoured and grateful to have the chance to work alongside the team at Schuler School," says Kennedy. “I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the staff, the Schuler community, and the students. Returning to rural education feels like a true homecoming for me having grown up in a rural community myself. I am excited to actively engage with, support, and create new and exceptional programs and opportunities for our students and the wider community.”</p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools congratulates Lyle Kennedy. With his extensive experience in education and leadership within the district, Lyle is well-prepared to take on this role and continue the tradition of excellence at Schuler School.</p>

<h3>Additional details and full reports from the May 23, 2023, Board Meeting can be found in the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a3hYP7XJ_hxsysaOxA5AEQDg6ydZHQ3I/view">Agenda Package</a>.</h3><p><img src="/images/4907d0d4-3020-45ff-ab92-f0e79d9e43ba?fingerprint=ppb20251217022751" alt=""></p><p><strong>Ralston School Presentation</strong><br>Ralston School Principal Stacey Nunweiler provided the board with an overview of the school's&nbsp;<i>Learning from the Land</i> Prairie Rose Possibility project. The project focuses on connecting the school community with the Southern Alberta environment, highlighting learning opportunities in the local area to build an appreciation for where we live and creating an understanding of indigenous cultures' connection with the land and natural environment. Some of the activities students have participated in include; planting an indigenous garden, outdoor cooking and learning about food preservation, building indigenous flutes, outdoor education activities, creating landscape art and visiting local natural landmarks. This is the third year the school has implemented&nbsp;<i>Learning from the Land</i> into the learning curriculum. The full presentation can be found in the May 23, 2023, Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Locally Developed Courses</strong><br>The board approved locally developed courses Social Literacy 15 and Social Literacy 25. The classes, focussing on health and personal wellness, will be instructed by Alberta Health Services. A total of one credit will be awarded to students who complete either course.</p><p><strong>FNMI Report</strong><br>Student Services Coordinator Carol Carlson presented the 2022-2023 First Nations Metis Inuit (FNMI) Report for information. It was shared that 3.2% of Prairie Rose are self-identified FNMI students. Three outcomes identified as part of the PRPS Three-Year Education Plan for Truth and Reconciliation include ensuring all FNMI students are successful, acknowledging and supporting the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, and prioritizing integrating Indigenous perspectives into education. A list of PRPS FNMI learning initiatives and teaching resources was also shared as information. All links are available as part of the presentation in the May 23, 2023, Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>2023-2026 Three-Year Education Plan</strong><br>Superintendent Reagan Weeks presented the updated 2022-2023 Education Plan for approval. It was noted that the 2023-2024 year will be the second year of the three-year plan focused on the new learning goals of ignite minds, kindle hearts, forge futures and truth and reconciliation. As such, only minor changes were made to update learning progress and evaluation. The board approved the plan as presented. The 2023-2026 Education Plan can be found on the Annual Reporting page of the Prairie Rose website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.myprps.com/annual-reporting">www.myprps.com/annual-reporting</a>.</p><p><strong>2023-2024 Budget Report</strong><br>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser presented the 2023-2024 Prairie Rose Public Schools Budget Report for approval. PRPS will receive additional Alberta Education funding of $3,256,184 next year based on new grants and grant increases compared to the 2022-2023 school year. Total revenues for the school division are expected to be&nbsp;<strong>$57,861,807</strong>, with expenses coming in at&nbsp;<strong>$58,029,188</strong>. Overall, the school division is forecasting a deficit budget for the year of&nbsp;<strong>$167,381</strong>. Some notable highlights of the budget include:</p><ul><li>Projected enrolment decrease of 32 funded FTE students from 2022-2023</li><li>Alberta Education will fund teacher salary increases of 2% in 2023-24.<ul><li>2023-24 will include a budget assumption of a 2% wage increase for support staff (match teachers 2% for 2023-24).</li></ul></li><li>An expected increase in division insurance premiums for the 2023-2024 year (property 5%, liability 2%, cyber 15%)</li><li>A 10.3% increase in ASEBP benefit premiums</li><li>An increase of 4.9 FTE certified staff from basic staffing allocations</li><li>An increase in EA hours and a continuation of additional supports and services hours (speech, behavior, therapy assistants)</li><li>An operating deficit in Operations and Maintenance of $1,136,661</li><li>A new transportation funding model resulted in the addition of an estimated four new bus routes and the purchase of new location-tracking software for the buses.&nbsp;<ul><li>A surplus in Transportation of $844,388</li></ul></li><li>Spending under the maximum allowable for Board and System Administration of $170,603</li></ul><p>The full budget report can be found on the Annual Reporting page of the Prairie Rose website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.myprps.com/annual-reporting">www.myprps.com/annual-reporting</a>.</p>

<p><img src="/images/8a07ee90-d355-4d3a-9f63-509870a6b261?fingerprint=ppb20251217023832" alt=""></p><p>The May 23, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a3hYP7XJ_hxsysaOxA5AEQDg6ydZHQ3I/view?usp=share_link">May 23, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools is hiring several full-time certified teaching positions for the 2023-2024 school year in the Oyen, Alberta area.</p><p>➡️ Teacher - <a href="https://www.myprps.com/teachersouth-alberta-hockey-academy-saha-instructor">South Alberta Hockey Academy Instructor</a></p><p>➡️ Teacher - <a href="https://www.myprps.com/hr-teacher-south-central-high-school-mathchemphysics">South Central High School Math/Chemistry/Physics</a></p><p>➡️ Teacher - <a href="https://www.myprps.com/hr-south-central-high-school">South Central High School PE/Shop</a></p><p>➡️ Teacher - <a href="https://www.myprps.com/hr-teacher-warren-peers-school">Warren Peers School (Acadia Valley) Grade 1-3</a></p><p>➡️ Teacher - <a href="https://www.myprps.com/hr-colony-principalteacher-meridian-colony-school">Meridian Colony School (Acadia Valley) Grade 1-9</a></p>

<p><img src="/images/fd1646ce-d834-464c-9780-d90dae1a951a?fingerprint=ppb20251217025757" alt=""></p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools would like to congratulate Angela Hazell on being selected as the new vice-principal of Foremost School.</p><p>Angela has been a classroom teacher for 18 years, first with Horizon School Division before coming to Prairie Rose Public Schools in 2009. During her 15-year career with Prairie Rose, she has worked as a teacher at Foremost School, where she currently teaches junior and senior high English and Social Studies and serves as the school’s academic advisor. Angela holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Lethbridge and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta.&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>“I am excited about joining the Foremost School administration team with Mr. Steeves,” says Hazell. “Over the past few years, our sports teams are growing, we have established incredible hands-on learning experiences such as our FARM program, and the Rodeo Academy is attracting new students. Foremost School is an amazing place to learn, and I am excited to be part of the school’s leadership team as we continue to develop amazing student learning opportunities.”</p></blockquote><p>Angela Hazell will officially assume the role of vice-principal at the start of the 2023-2024 school year.</p>

<p><img src="/images/4c2ef265-366d-4125-80be-5ffe300c4821?fingerprint=ppb20251217022821" alt=""></p><p>Additional details and full reports from the May 9, 2023, Board Meeting can be found in the <a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/may-9-2023-prps-board-meeting-1683558910506">Agenda Package</a>.</p><hr><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>South Alberta Flight Academy Collegiate Status</strong><br>Superintendent Reagan Weeks shared that Prairie Rose Public Schools was recently awarded collegiate status for the South Alberta Flight Academy. The new collegiate status allows for expanding the flight academy program to include commercial flight training, aircraft maintenance engineering, air traffic control and drone certification. Prairie Rose’s South Alberta Flight Academy program was one of 12 other collegiate projects recently approved by Alberta Education. Full details of the announcement can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/new-collegiate-status-expands-aviation-career-options-for-southeast-alberta-students-1683732488164">https://www.myprps.com/news/new-collegiate-status-expands-aviation-career-options-for-southeast-alberta-students-1683732488164</a></p><p><strong>Coulee Collegiate Presentation</strong><br>Coulee Collegiate principal Tim Bloomfield provided an overview of the school and the types of programming offered to students. Coulee Collegiate is a partnership school between Prairie Rose Public Schools, Medicine Hat Public School Division and Medicine Hat College. The school operates both a distance learning model (high school and older) and face to face model for students over 18. In addition to providing students with high school courses and modules, Coulee Collegiate also offers institute sessions where high school students can earn their first aid/CPR, forklift, fall protection and confined spaces certificates at no cost. It was shared that the school is about to launch a new program called Chrome Academy that focuses on building word processing, spreadsheet, digital presentation and keyboarding skills for high school credits. Those who finish the program will get a free new Chromebook. The full presentation can be found in the Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Eagle Butte Trip to Greece Summary</strong><br>Superintendent Reagan Weeks provided the Board with a brief summary of the recent Eagle Butte High School field trip to Greece. The trip, which took place over the Easter break, had students visiting Greece, Turkey and Italy.</p><p><strong>Board Planning and Monitoring Cycle</strong><br>The Board approved <i>GP06 Board Planning and Monitoring Cycle</i> for the 2023-2024 school year as presented. A copy of the board monitoring schedule can be found in the Board Meeting Agenda package.</p>

<p><img src="/images/2083b1c7-e908-4c2f-89a1-dc114e9bd2e1?fingerprint=ppb20251217022049" alt=""></p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools would like to congratulate Lisa Lindsay on being selected as the new Director of Student Experiences. The position involves working with division office staff, principals and school staff to implement student supports and services to create exceptional learning experiences.</p><p>Lisa has an extensive education background, having worked as a teacher, school leader, and in student services and mental health for the past 32 years. Her most recent experience has been as principal of Schuler School since August 2021. She has also worked as vice-principal at the Dr. Roy Wilson Learning Centre, the Director of Student Services at Medicine Hat Public School Division, and as the Mental Health Services Facilitator and Palliser Adolescent Service Administrator. In addition to a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta, Lindsay has a Master’s in Counselling Psychology from the University of Calgary.&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>“To say I have enjoyed my time at Schuler School is an understatement. The staff, parents, community members, and of course, the students, have reminded me why I chose to be an educator,” says Lindsay. “Although I will miss Schuler, I am excited for this new opportunity to work alongside an amazing team to ensure all students and their parents have the best experience possible in Prairie Rose Public Schools.”</p></blockquote><blockquote><p>“Lisa has many decades of experience serving students of all age levels and in all capacities,” says Superintendent Reagan Weeks. “Her education background and understanding of the types of supports available is an invaluable asset to our team and towards ensuring our students are set up for success.”</p></blockquote><p>Lisa will begin her new Director of Student Experiences role in August 2023. The Schuler School principal position will be posted in the very near future.</p>

<p><img src="/images/24f5d88c-840f-44bc-be6c-8194cc94160e?fingerprint=ppb20251217022135" alt=""></p><p><i>Prairie Rose Public Schools’ Flight Academy program soon to include commercial flight training,&nbsp;</i>aircraft maintenance engineering, and air traffic control and drone certification.</p><p>The sky's the limit for Prairie Rose students pursuing a career in the aviation industry.&nbsp;</p><p>The South Alberta Flight Academy is expanding to include commercial pilot flight training and establish new aircraft maintenance engineering and air traffic control programs in the 2024-2025 school year. The program expansion is possible thanks to recently announced collegiate funding and the granting of conditional collegiate school status to Prairie Rose Public Schools' South Alberta Flight Academy.</p><blockquote><p>"Collegiate status allows Prairie Rose an opportunity to establish a unique pathway that allows students to enter the aviation industry sector with work class training a year after graduation," says Superintendent Reagan Weeks. “The demand in the aviation industry continues to grow, and now we can bring students even closer to being ready to work directly out of high school.”</p></blockquote><p>With the $560,750 of funding provided with the collegiate status approval, the South Alberta Flight Academy plans to expand to include a fourth year of high school training. As part of the collegiate qualification process, submissions had to demonstrate a need for specialized programming, the strength of post-secondary pathways, experiential learning opportunities and cost-effectiveness. The school division's already established strong partnership with Super T Aviation was another key application component.</p><blockquote><p>"We have already seen several students move on from the South Alberta Flight Academy program to pursue careers in the aviation sector, with some even working with us at Super T after graduation," says Super T Aviation CEO Terri Super. “The ability to expand our commercial pilot training program and add both the aircraft maintenance engineering and air traffic control training is the logical next step in establishing a complete pathway to an aviation career for southeast Alberta students.”</p></blockquote><p>Under the new collegiate model, students entering the South Alberta Flight Academy in grade 10 will train together for a year before choosing their own aviation path in grade 11. The three available streams will include pilot training, aircraft maintenance engineering, and air traffic control and drone certification.&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>"We are excited about being able to expand the South Alberta Flight Academy program to meet the needs of more students," says Weeks. “The aviation industry is booming, and it is exciting to see that what Super T and Prairie Rose are doing to get students into aviation careers is getting noticed.”</p></blockquote><p>The South Alberta Flight Academy collegiate proposal was one of 12 approved projects in the province.</p>

<p><img class="image_resized" style="width:100%;" src="/images/a9e4a8a6-b808-462f-9da8-adfd5b221a9b?fingerprint=ppb20251217024346" alt=""></p><p>The May 9, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ak-kWQMre89kupyqs1TZs0hOVx2ywYgh/view?usp=share_link">May 9, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>Additional details and full reports from the April 18, 2023, Board Meeting can be found in the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LWMf-FYWiyffdQfKcDwV6dK3pSrviAL3/view?usp=share_link">Agenda Package</a>.</p><p><img src="/images/7b1b1147-e81b-4a1d-a8b8-42da905799e3?fingerprint=ppb20251217023604" alt=""></p><p><strong>Jenner School Presentation</strong><br>Jenner School principal Kirby Stensrud provided an overview of the school and the learning students and staff have been doing to support the school division goals of kindling hearts, igniting minds and forging futures. It was noted that literacy continues to be a strong focus for the school, with students preparing to showcase some of their work at the upcoming Exhibition of Learning on May 25, 2023. Stensrud shared that staff gave students considerable flexibility in choosing their topic for the exhibition based on feedback from the recent assurance survey that suggested students would like to have more input on what they are learning about. Information about the school's Prairie Rose Possibility program called Jr High Options was also shared. With the program, the school brings in outside experts on various topics, and students work through modules. Some of the options students have participated in this year include carpentry, photography, stained glass, leather working, art, welding, cooking and outdoor education. The full presentation can be found in the Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Trustee Awards of Recognition</strong><br>Trustee Shauna Vanderspruit shared that starting this spring, the Board of Trustees will be implementing a new award of recognition program that acknowledges the contributions of Prairie Rose stakeholders towards making the school division and our rural communities an amazing place to learn, work and pursue joint partnership opportunities. This program will allow our staff and community members to nominate those who go above and beyond to promote PRPS's core principles and our education goals. Additional awards will be added in the following years, but the first three awards available for nomination starting the 2022-2023 school year include; the Grade 9 Student Leadership Award, the High School Student Leadership Award and the Community Champion for Education Award. Award details and information on how to make a nomination can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19V45LK5dInfZZxBoEYOOnS_WNON6DMQN/view?usp=share_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/19V45LK5dInfZZxBoEYOOnS_WNON6DMQN/view?usp=share_link</a></p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:41.63%;" src="/images/76c892ce-1785-4927-b4c5-67217f078321?fingerprint=ppb20251217023516" alt=""><img class="image_resized" style="width:41.85%;" src="/images/ceb8d81f-fcde-47d9-b0d8-3e9e0be1f9bb?fingerprint=ppb20251217024943" alt=""><img class="image_resized" style="width:44.02%;" src="/images/c54d043d-fae1-49a8-8e58-2e1fbec1fae8?fingerprint=ppb20251217024807" alt=""></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Financial Report</strong><br>Assistant Secretary-Treasurer Candice Hintz provided a financial update to the Board for information. As of February 28, 2023, the division was 50% of the way through the current fiscal year. It was shared that due to an increase in expected revenues of $665,150, the division is now expecting a $27,712 decrease in the projected deficit from ($926,606) to ($898,894). The complete financial report is available in the Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Interim Vice-Chair Elected</strong><br>Acting PRPS Board Chair Lois Bedwell asked for nominations for interim Board Vice-Chair, as the position is currently vacant due to the leave of absence of trustee Cathy Hogg. Trustee Patty Rooks was acclaimed to the position.</p>

<p><img src="/images/1057aa10-13e6-410f-9f58-8ce57113816f?fingerprint=ppb20251217021813" alt=""></p><p>The April 18, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LWMf-FYWiyffdQfKcDwV6dK3pSrviAL3/view?usp=share_link">April 18, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p><img src="/images/b6ed4fdc-fca1-4e4a-b20b-6edbd2fbcbdb?fingerprint=ppb20251217024555" alt=""></p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools is now booking preschool screenings for children who are 3 years of age&nbsp;as of December 31, 2023.&nbsp;</p><p>As part of the booking process, parents will be taken to our online booking appointment software with a list of locations and available appointment times. Appointments will be 30 minutes in length and each child who attends will receive a special gift package at the end of the screening.</p><p><a href="https://schoolinterviews.ca/code/2g9mc"><strong>CLICK HERE to book your screening appointment.</strong></a></p><p><i>Important Notes:&nbsp;</i></p><ul><li><i>If you are unable to make a screening appointment at your designated school, you are welcome to book one at another Prairie Rose location that better meets your schedule.&nbsp;</i></li><li><i>Preschool screenings are open to all members of the public. Registration at a PRPS school is not required to book or attend a screening appointment.</i></li><li>Children who have previously attended a preschool screening do not need to book another one even if they are registered to attend JK or K in the 2023-2024 school year.</li></ul><h3>Frequently Asked Questions</h3><p><strong>Why book an appointment?</strong></p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools offers preschool speech and language screenings around the district to provide parents, educators and health care professionals with valuable information about a child’s development. The screening process&nbsp;enables Prairie Rose to arrange early intervention (programming and support) for children with developmental delays. Screenings are not an assessment and therefore will only be used&nbsp;to identify children who may require further assessment.&nbsp;Children entering a JK/K program are encouraged to be screened prior to attending the program, unless determined otherwise.</p><p><a href="https://www.myprps.com/early-intervention-supports-in-prps"><strong>CLICK HERE to learn more about Early Intervention Supports offered in Prairie Rose Public Schools.</strong></a></p><p><strong>Who conducts the assessments?</strong></p><p>Trained individuals/professionals will work with the child (ages 2 to 5) and his/her parent(s) to answer a series of questions. The parent stays with the child at all times.</p><p><strong>How do the appointments work?</strong></p><p>The child may be asked to demonstrate a skill by the parent or the specialist.</p><p><strong>Where do the appointments take place?</strong></p><p>Screenings will take place at schools in various communities around our region. If unable to attend the screening in one community&nbsp;or if screenings are not being offered at a school, we recommend that parents arrange to attend screenings at the most convenient location. You may attend a screening at any of the following locations:</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Wednesday, April 19&nbsp;<br>(Booking times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)</td><td>New Brigden School, Prairie Mennonite School, Bow Island Elementary School</td></tr><tr><td>Thursday, April 20<br>(Booking times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)</td><td>Foremost School</td></tr><tr><td>Thursday, April 20&nbsp;<br>(Booking times: 9:00 AM &nbsp;- 1:00 PM)</td><td>Tiny Tots Preschool (Redcliff)</td></tr><tr><td>Thursday, April 20&nbsp;<br>(Booking times: 12:30 PM - 5:30 PM)</td><td>IF Cox School (Redcliff)</td></tr><tr><td>Friday, April 21&nbsp;<br>(Booking times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)</td><td>Schuler School</td></tr><tr><td>Monday, April 24&nbsp;<br>(Booking times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)</td><td>IF Cox School (Redcliff), Warren Peers School (Acadia Valley), Burdett School</td></tr><tr><td>Tuesday, April 25&nbsp;<br>(Booking times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)</td><td>Irvine School, Oyen Public School, Seven Persons School, Ralston School/Kiddie Care Program</td></tr><tr><td>Wednesday, April 26&nbsp;<br>(Booking times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)</td><td>Prairie Rose Division Office (Dunmore)</td></tr><tr><td>Thursday, April 27&nbsp;<br>(Booking times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)</td><td>Jenner School, IF Cox School (Redcliff)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="/images/3681c24d-2ffd-4d9a-9641-89475851e59c?fingerprint=ppb20251217022419" alt=""></p><h4><i>Super T Aviation and Prairie Rose Public Schools’ South Alberta Flight Academy to partner with HALO Air Ambulance in first-of-its-kind aviation agreement</i></h4><p><br>Residents can soon expect to see a shiny new plane cruising the skies of southeastern Alberta, but don’t let its sparkly gold exterior fool you. Before leaving the ground, the South Alberta Flight Academy’s student-built Vans RV-12 aircraft has been recruited for an important mission. In addition to being one of the planes used for academy flight school training, the RV-12 may soon be added to the HALO Air Ambulance fleet for fire spotting and search and rescue operations.</p><p>The Vans RV-12 is a small two-seat, single-engine plane known for being economical to operate, fun to fly and easy to maneuver. This plane model, commonly used for flight school training due to its efficiency and reduced maintenance costs, was something that caught the attention of HALO Air Ambulance pilots.</p><p>As the only dedicated Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) program in southern Alberta, HALO responds to various emergency calls for service. While most calls are for emergency response and patient transfers, HALO is also actively involved in fire spotting and search and rescue. The organization currently performs these operations using a BK-117 twin-engine medium-duty helicopter.</p><blockquote><p>“The BK-117 is a multi-purpose helicopter that is a key tool for the work HALO does,” says HALO CEO Paul Carolan. “There are instances however, such as search and rescue and fire spotting, that we benefit from the use of other aerial aircraft. The Vans RV-12 is a good fit for this type of work and HALO is eager to explore the potential of developing a program in partnership with the South Alberta Flight Academy.”</p></blockquote><p>In exchange for using the academy plane for search and fire operations, HALO could provide South Alberta Flight Academy and the recently announced South Alberta Fire Rescue Academy students with training and mentorship. It is a partnership where each organization could benefit, resulting in enhanced service to both students and residents of southeastern Alberta.</p><blockquote><p>“In Prairie Rose Public Schools we are always looking for ways to bring hands-on, real life experience to our students,” says Superintendent Reagan Weeks. “Exploring this partnership with HALO is such an incredible opportunity for our students. It is not very often a high school student can say that they helped build a plane that is saving lives and making a difference in their community.”</p></blockquote><p>The student-built Vans RV-12 is the first for the South Alberta Flight Academy program. The build took three years to complete and was done under the supervision and instruction of an aeronautical mechanical engineer and Super T Aviation. The aircraft passed inspection on March 18th and requires 25 flight hours by a test pilot before final approval is provided for other use.&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>“The partnership between Super T Aviation and Prairie Rose School Division has resulted in many incredible opportunities for local students and the aviation industry,” says Super T Aviation CEO Terri Super. “As the only program of its kind in Canada, the success of the partnership is getting noticed. This latest opportunity for our students to contribute to emergency services work in southeast Alberta is just one example of that work.”</p></blockquote><p>Flight Academy students will also have the chance to pilot the plane after completing their pilot training at Super T Aviation. The academy has already purchased another plane which students will begin working on later this spring.</p><p><strong>- 30 -</strong></p><p>For media and general inquiries please contact:</p><p>Angela Baron<br>Director of Communications<br>Prairie Rose Public Schools / South Alberta Flight Academy<br><a href="mailto:angelabaron@prrd8.ca">angelabaron@prrd8.ca</a> / 403-952-8193</p><p>Terri Super<br>CEO, Super T Aviation<br><a href="mailto:tsuper@supertaviation.ca">tsuper@supertaviation.ca</a> / 403-548-6636</p><p>Paul Carolan<br>CEO, HALO Air Ambulance<br><a href="mailto:paul.carolan@haloairambulance.com">paul.carolan@haloairambulance.com</a> / 403-528-9088</p>

<p><img src="/images/566f9525-29b3-4556-b38a-fe111e5f2b25?fingerprint=ppb20251217022954" alt=""></p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Prairie Rose Public Schools congratulates first-year teacher Katelyn Rozdeba on being selected to represent the school division as the 2023 Edwin Parr nominee for Zone 6.</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><i>You could say a love for teaching is in her blood. </i>From an early age, Katelyn Rozdeba remembers visiting schools as a child with her parents, who were both teachers. As they would get caught up on their work, she and her sisters would go into the classroom and take turns being the teacher at the front of the class. This passion for teaching continued into her teenage years when she taught swimming lessons and coached club basketball in her spare time.</p><p>“Many of my role models are teachers, and it made me want to be like them. My dad Dave Rozdeba, my mom Tammy Rozdeba, and my longtime basketball coach Rob Grisonich.”</p><p>In her first year of teaching, Katelyn's assignment is a very unique position at Eagle Butte High School. In addition to teaching social studies and information processing, she is the Dave Rozdeba South Alberta Flight Academy program co-teacher. The program is the only one of its kind in Canada where students entering high school can earn high school credits and obtain their private pilot license upon graduation.</p><p>“The flight academy is especially special to me as it is named after my dad, a longtime teacher and administrator with Prairie Rose Public Schools. In addition to teaching, he had a passion for aviation and flight, and I get to carry on that work and legacy as part of my job. The flight academy program teaches students a broad range of aviation skills. These include ground school, drone training, survival camp, building an airplane, and how to fly a plane.”</p><p>"Katelyn possesses many exceptional skills that show her level of commitment and dedication to her craft," says Eagle Butte High School principal Rocheal Howes. “As a first-year teacher, she spends a lot of time collaborating with other teachers to build her professional capacity. She is always asking questions to ensure she understands the full picture. Katelyn has also stepped up to help coach the senior girls' basketball program. She truly has a passion for teaching and genuine care for her students, which shows.”</p><p>“It makes me feel good when I see the light bulb go off with my students when they achieve success. I try really hard to develop good relationships with my students and be involved, even outside of work hours, such as by attending their sporting events. You can tell they really appreciate that commitment.”</p><p>For Katelyn, it's a dream job and one that she feels very fortunate to have.&nbsp;</p><p>"I got very lucky for my first job, and other people outside this school tell me that too. I have an amazing staff that makes me feel welcomed daily and encourages me to do things knowing they have my back. Working with three things I love; social studies, flight and basketball. It makes me feel like this is not just a job but an opportunity I get to be a part of every day."&nbsp;</p><p>The Edwin Parr Teacher Award is presented annually by the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) to six exceptional first-year teachers from across the province of Alberta. Each spring, Alberta school divisions nominate and recognize one outstanding teacher who will represent them at the zone awards ceremony. The Prairie Rose Public Schools’ board of trustees would like to congratulate Katelyn and wish her luck at the Zone 6 awards event in May.</p>

<p><i>Additional details and full reports from the March 14, 2023 Board Meeting can be found in the Agenda Package:</i>&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NeEzMSTAOPaUl8EsX-kpczIaLb5mfqSy/view?usp=share_link">Agenda Package - March 14, 2023 (In-Person).pdf</a></p><p><img src="/images/39871b05-2cf0-422c-a77a-9b2cb270effa?fingerprint=ppb20251217022501" alt=""></p><p><i>Above: PRPS trustees Lois Bedwell, Patty Rooks and Pam Cursons listen while Margaret Wooding students Conner Che and Lilly Green explain the different aspects of the school's exhibition of learning project focused around the book One and Only Ivan.</i></p><p><strong>Margaret Wooding School Presentation</strong><br>Margaret Wooding School principal Craig Corsie, teachers Megan Cross and Karen Bongaards, and students Conner Che and Lilly Green presented to the board, focussing on many instructional practices at their school. Mrs. Cross provided examples of the UFLI literacy learning and intervention tool the school has implemented to assist students who require additional reading and language support. Mrs. Bongaards spoke to the school’s exhibition of learning that will take place later this month. The exhibition is centred around the school’s ‘one school, one book’ project. The book chosen is&nbsp;<i>One and Only Ivan</i>, which is inspired by a real silverback gorilla focusing on hope and friendship. The book is a central theme for the student exhibition of learning projects. Students, Connor and Lilly, shared that they had to pick an animal of their own to explore in more detail for their projects. This involved brainstorming what they already knew about the animal, creating a project outline, journaling daily, creating illustrations, research and essay writing, peer review, and constructing a diorama display. Principal Craig Corsie shared that the school even raised enough money through student fundraising activities to adopt eight gorillas from the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Technology Report Accountability Report</strong><br>Director of Technology Wayne Rossler provided the Technology Accountability Report for information. The report includes a summary of the technical equipment used across the school division and a list of upcoming projects planned for the school year. It was also noted that considerable work is being done to meet technology insurance requirements and district systems due to the increased demand for cybersecurity enhancements. District technology expenses for the 2021-2022 school year were $939,469.</p><p><strong>Irvine School Field Trip</strong><br>The board approved the field trip request for the Irvine School grades 7-9 to visit eastern Canada from May 15th - May 23rd, 2024. The trip will include Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa and Toronto tours. Trustee Shauna VanderSpruit put forward the motion.</p><p><strong>2024-2027 Capital Plan</strong><br>The board approved the 2024-2027 Capital Plan as presented. The plan includes a list of the division’s facility capital priorities which is then submitted to Alberta Education for approval consideration. It was noted that the Redcliff Solution, currently listed as number one on the PRPS plan, recently received design funding from the province in the latest round of capital announcements. The Redcliff project will remain number one on the plan until it receives construction approval and funding. The other three capital priorities include; the modernization of Burdett School, the Oyen Solution and the modernization of Foremost School. Trustee Patty Rooks put forward the motion. The complete Capital Plan can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uZwzScLConPlZE88QQ-jVi-UFALvQ3EF/view?usp=share_link">2024-2027 Capital Plan.pdf</a></p><p><strong>2023-2024 School Year Calendar</strong><br>The board approved the school year calendar for the 2023-2024 school year. The calendar includes a first day of school start date after the Labour Day weekend, a two-day break in November and a late Christmas break starting on December 23rd. It was shared that the information gathered through a survey of staff and parents strongly supported beginning after the long weekend in September. The total number of student instructional days in the 2023-2024 calendar is 183. Trustee Pam Cursons put forward the motion. The approved calendar can be viewed here:&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xGIZaETusIgaLuVQOPksFNJfXtmv2CbM/view?usp=share_link">2023-2024 PRPS Calendar - Approved March 2023.pdf</a></p><p><strong>EL18 - Diversity, Equity, and Human Rights Policy</strong><br>The board approved the new Executive Limitations policy&nbsp;<i>EL 18 - Diversity Equity and Human Rights</i>. The policy was developed in collaboration with a subcommittee group of PRPS staff. The DEHR Committee was established to review current policies and propose new ones focused on removing barriers, prohibiting harassment and discrimination, establishing a complaints process and ensuring an education training plan is available for staff. Trustee Shauna VanderSpruit put forward the motion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Prairie Rose Public Schools 2023-2024 School Year Calendar is now available. Thank you to all our stakeholders who participated in the online survey regarding the school start-up date. Based on the feedback from our staff and parents, Prairie Rose will begin the 2023-2024 school year after the Labour Day long weekend. As we did for the&nbsp;current year, there is both a full and condensed digital version of the 2023-2024 calendar&nbsp;that can be saved to a digital device. The links to both can be found below.</p><p>2023-2024 School Calendar: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xGIZaETusIgaLuVQOPksFNJfXtmv2CbM/view?usp=share_link">Full Version</a><br>2023-2024 School Calendar: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_hSH1wF83LlNU6LzkOJaT7_FODDuhK9X/view?usp=share_link">Digital / Printable Version</a></p><p><img class="image_resized" style="width:60.95%;" src="/images/4ef260c4-4dbe-4c5b-8479-e061f2c5f7ce?fingerprint=ppb20251217022849" alt=""></p>

<p>The March 14, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NeEzMSTAOPaUl8EsX-kpczIaLb5mfqSy/view?usp=share_link">March 14, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>