Prairie Rose Public Schools News Archive

<p>Following the announcement of the provincial budget on February 28, 2023, the Minister of Education provided school boards with a letter to send to parents. The letter outlines funding priorities and changes families can expect related to supports, instruction and transportation.&nbsp;</p><p>The full letter can be read here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VU-4PYwSoYrExl1VIyx9mHnSMNs7of4s/view?usp=share_link">2023 Budget Letter to Parents</a></p>

<h3><i>Prairie Rose Public School’s &nbsp;newest academy program will provide grade 11 and 12 students with the opportunity to earn their Firefighter 1 and 2 Certifications upon graduation.</i></h3><p>Starting this fall, grade 11 and 12 students at Senator Gershaw School in Bow Island and Eagle Butte High School in Dunmore will see an additional option on their elective sheet. The South Alberta Fire Rescue (SAFR) Academy, with a focus on firefighting and rescue training, is the newest of Prairie Rose Public Schools academy programs.</p><p>SAFR will be a year-round academy program integrated into the student’s timetable which provides three days per week of in-class instruction and two days off site for hands-on firefighter training. Throughout the two-year program, students will take a variety of modules earning their Firefighter 1 and 2 certifications. Much like other Prairie Rose academy programs, the goal is to provide students wishing to pursue firefighting, as either a career or a volunteer, the opportunity to gain the skills required by the time they graduate high school.</p><blockquote><p>“Prairie Rose is always looking for ways to meet student interests,” says Assistant Superintendent Boyd Craven. “Firefighter training is one of the things we heard from our communities that there is a need and passion. Academies, like South Alberta Fire Rescue, give students the opportunity to learn about something they are excited about which can further be applied following graduation.”</p></blockquote><p>With a focus on firefighter training and certification, the program will work in partnership with local community fire departments. Some of the training students will receive includes fire dynamics, hose operations and streams, forceable entry, building materials and structural collapse, technical rescue support and vehicle extraction operation. Both the Bow Island Fire Department and the Cypress County Fire Department are the first to partner with Prairie Rose in the South Alberta Fire Rescue Academy program.</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:92.6%;" src="/images/1ed05b9a-ae7b-4323-9cbe-c82e96cbe293?fingerprint=ppb20251217022030" alt=""></td><td><blockquote><p>“The Bow Island Fire Department is very excited to be part of this new program. We are always looking for new members and the South Alberta Fire Rescue Academy is a great opportunity to certify new firefighters and hopefully keep them in our rural communities after graduation. Our whole team is looking forward to participating and watching the program grow.” ~ Bow Island Fire Chief Blaine O’Donnell</p></blockquote></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:91.53%;" src="/images/b6695480-3e23-49b1-ac77-c02ffac0c431?fingerprint=ppb20251217024546" alt=""></td><td><blockquote><p>“Cypress County looks forward to working with Prairie Rose School Division on this exciting endeavour.” ~ Cypress County Chief Administrative Officer Tarolyn Aaserud &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p></blockquote></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>The final details of the South Alberta Fire Rescue Academy are still being finalized, but registrations are now being accepted for the fall. Families with questions about the program are encouraged to contact Prairie Rose Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Boyd Craven at 403-527-5516.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alberta Health Services has sent out school immunization information to parents and guardians of students whose regular school vaccinations (non-COVID) are due. The following are included as part of the routine school immunization program:</p><ul><li>Grade 9 diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Meningococcal ACYW type vaccines</li><li>Grade 6 for Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus</li><li>Grade 1 who have missed the pre-kindergarten routine boosters and homeschooled students (these are done via your local Public Health office)</li></ul><p>To find out more about the school vaccination program offered through AHS, please read the letter from the Medical Officer of Health for the South Zone Dr. Allison Gonsalves.</p><p><strong>Read the letter: </strong><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sV_VbYbIu3yFEpOqGozJMtipxyZtDIPi/view?usp=share_link">Letter to parents, guardians and caregivers from AHS</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/16cdxqL0JMrynQq0PsiVOLDEanL3zZAQi/view?usp=share_link">February 14, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p><p><strong>Burdett School Presentation</strong></p><p>Principal Cheryl Rebmann made a presentation to the board showcasing the many initiatives at Burdett School. The school is a K-9 school (approx 160 students) serving a primarily Low German Speaking Mennonite population. The presentation focused on how the school has incorporated the new division-wide education goals of kindle hearts, ignite minds and forge futures into daily activities and lessons. For the school’s exhibition of learning this spring, they will highlight fine and gross motor skills, writing, music, a 3D map, flow reading and passion projects. The full presentation can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Trades, Apprenticeships and Vocational Education</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks provided a summary of the programming options available to PRPS students to connect the work done in school to future prospects. In the first semester of the current school year, 1,955 credits were awarded to students in the Trades, Apprenticeships and Vocational Education (TAVE) area. An overview of the courses students take to earn these credits was shared. Categories include flight and aviation, business, comm tech and design, cosmetology, industrial tech, home economics and foods, work experience, green certificate, RAP, dual credit and natural resources. It was noted that many students also receive credits through Coulee Collegiate for Human Social Services (HSS) and Health Care Services (HCS) courses. In total, PRPS has four dual credit agreements with institutions in Alberta. It was also shared that work preparation satisfaction rates recorded within the Annual Education Results for PRPS were 91% compared to 84.9% at the provincial level, whereas satisfaction rates with program access 83.3% compared to 72.6% provincially.</p><p><strong>Seven Persons Shop Project</strong></p><p>The PRPS Board received a request from Seven Persons School to support their plan to create a shop adjacent to the school. The proposal, presented in January, indicated that while the school currently has a small outdoor covered space for shop-type activities, they are limited by weather and code restrictions. It was also noted that currently, it is difficult for the school to provide a full complement of trades education due to the distance and travel time to access support either in Medicine Hat or Bow Island. The request from the school was for administrative and technical expertise, as well as financial support. The school requested $80,000 to support the project. Graeme Dennis made a motion to allocate $80,000 from PRPS Capital Reserves towards the project. The board approved the motion.</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The February 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/16cdxqL0JMrynQq0PsiVOLDEanL3zZAQi/view?usp=share_link">February 14, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>On <strong>Wednesday, February 1, 2023</strong>, pre-enrollment forms for next school year will be sent via email to parents. There is no password or login required to access the form and it will take less than a minute to complete. The forms will be sent to the primary contact on file for the student. We ask that all parents complete the form for each of their children (you will receive a separate email for each) even if you are unsure of your plans for next year. When you complete the form, you will be asked to choose from one of the following:</p><p>➡️ Pre-enrol for the 2023-2024 year<br>➡️ Indicate you are registering with another PRPS school, other than your next designate school<br>➡️ Indicate you will be registering outside of PRPS<br>➡️ Indicate you will be moving<br>➡️ Indicate you are undecided<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The email will be sent from Prairie Rose Public Schools &lt;feedback@qcs.prrd8.ca&gt; so please check your Junk and Clutter folders if you do not receive the email on Wednesday. If you have any issue with the form, feel free to reach out to communication@prrd8.ca or your local school for assistance.</p><p>To learn more about the Prairie Rose programs and options available for the 2023-2024 school year, please check out&nbsp;our <a href="https://www.myprps.com/student-registration-guide">Student Registration Guide</a>.</p>

<p>January 10, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIUA2pQQjklNVvuD0nZ-7ya6ueA16tiy/view?usp=share_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIUA2pQQjklNVvuD0nZ-7ya6ueA16tiy/view?usp=share_link</a></p><p><strong>Warren Peers School Presentation</strong><br>Principal Lora Fletcher-Wilson and grade 8 student Cade Wilson made a presentation to the board showcasing the many initiatives taking place at Warren Peers School. The school is a K-9 school located in Acadia Valley with current enrollment of 41 students. The presentation focused on how the school has incorporated the new division-wide goals of kindle hearts, ignite minds and forge futures into daily activities and lessons. It was noted that for this year’s exhibition of learning the school will involve having all students be involved in writing a ‘how to’ book. Once the book is completed it will be published and an author signing day will be held where students can sign copies for friends and family. The full presentation can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Building Operations Accountability Report</strong><br>Director of Maintenance Operations Darrell Drefs presented the Building Operations Accountability Report for information. Highlights of the report included an update around preventative maintenance projects, staff professional development, Infrastructure/Capital Maintenance and Renewal (IMR and CMR) expenses, completed IMR and CMR projects during the 2021-2022 year and approved projects for the current year. In total, the division spent $725,362 on IMR projects through the 2021-2022 year. Operations and Maintenance expenses for the 2022-2023 school year are estimated at $7,075,385 with a projected deficit of $1,109,799. The full report can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Wellness Accountability Report</strong><br>Manager of Human Resources Tammy Toews presented the employee portion of the Wellness Accountability Report for information. Newly introduced strategies to promote wellness include HONE Work+Life (an app where staff can anonymously report personal wellness weekly) and strategies to increase staff capacity to access available health benefits. School psychologist Greg Godard presented information related to student wellness. In Prairie Rose, 7.8 full-time equivalent staff are employed as Family School Liaison Workers; an increase of 24% since 2019. The Student Wellness team supports counselling, group teaching, parent training, VTRA’s and crisis response. It was shared that the largest number of student cases being noted since September are related to anxiety, family issues and peer relationships.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Annual Education Results Report&nbsp;</strong><br>Superintendent Reagan Weeks presented the 2021-2022 Annual Education Results Report for approval. The report provides an overview of PRPS results in the assurance categories of Student Growth and Achievement, Teaching and Leading, Learning Supports, Governance, English Language Learners and First Nations Metis Inuit. It was noted that overall, Prairie Rose results were very strong, despite the many challenges faced by students, parents and staff throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The board approved the report as presented. The full report can be found in the Board Agenda package.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>South Alberta Flight Academy Field Trip</strong><br>The board approved the Eagle Butte High School / South Alberta Flight Academy proposed field trip to Washington, DC, from June 29 - July 4, 2023. The trip will include visits to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, International Spy Museum, a tour of College Park Aviation Museum, Holocaust Museum and a meeting with aviation professors at Georgetown University. Twenty-four students in grades 10-12 are expected to participate. The motion was put forward by Shauna VanderSpruit.</p>

<p>The January 10, 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/1pIUA2pQQjklNVvuD0nZ-7ya6ueA16tiy/view?usp=share_link">January 10, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>As we head into the final day before the winter break, we felt it was important to connect with parents about the challenges our province has faced this past week. While we always prepare for winter weather, this latest cold system is like none we have seen in many years.&nbsp;</p><p>One of the primary goals of Prairie Rose Public Schools is to ensure a safe, warm space for students to come and learn. This is why, whenever possible, it is the responsibility of school divisions to keep the doors open for students. Much like other school divisions&nbsp;across the province, we have also been able to do that. It is also important to give our families choices regarding what is best for their family. We know from our many conversations this week several parents have kept their children home from school. We have also heard appreciation for keeping the doors open for our working parents.&nbsp;</p><p>Together with our bus contractors, PRPS has done our best to keep buses running when possible. Our procedure states that bus cancellations can be made at the driver's discretion. From our perspective, our drivers are most familiar with their bus, the roads and their ability to drive in different weather conditions. While our drivers have done an excellent job all week, the extended cold snap is proving to be a bit too much for the bus fleets. Earlier today, Southland Transportation, which holds a majority 67 of the 83 PRPS bus routes, decided to cancel all routes for tomorrow, Friday, December 23rd. Based on this decision, our other six contractors have done the same.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>This means no buses will be running tomorrow (Friday, December 23rd) across the school division.</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Schools will remain open for those who can attend class unless you are otherwise notified. PRPS is committed to reviewing our bussing procedures in the new year to consider whether any changes are required to the current guidelines.&nbsp;</p><p>We would like to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season. There have been many wonderful opportunities for our students to experience this fall, and it is great to see our parents back in school. Please enjoy a much-deserved break, and we look forward to seeing everyone back in class on January 9, 2023.</p><p>~ Prairie Rose Public Schools, Executive Team</p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools Administrative Procedure <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0BwxYarNhDkXYa2lHNWJqTDVIRUU?resourcekey=0-xTAHpDpd0egXnnT47rjOsA"><strong>T201 - School Closures and Bus Cancellations</strong></a> (formerly T-201 Inclement Weather) was recently updated to reflect current criteria related to decisions around closing schools or cancelling school buses. Key changes pertaining to cold weather and/or poor road conditions include the following:</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>When will schools close?</strong></td></tr><tr><td>✔️ All PRPS schools will remain open, unless an actual (ambient) temperature of -36°C or colder is reported by the Weather Network. The <a href="http://www.theweathernetwork.com">Weather Network</a> was chosen as the primary data source for temperature, as it reports temperatures for all areas of the school division.</td></tr><tr><td>✔️ Unlike in previous years, wind chill <strong>will no longer</strong> be considered when making decisions about school closures.</td></tr><tr><td>✔️ Should the decision be made to close a school, notifications will be sent to parents via School Messenger starting at 6:15 a.m. Updates will also be posted on the <a href="https://www.myprps.com/transportation-status">Transportation Status page</a> of the division website.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Will a school still be open if buses aren't running?</strong></td></tr><tr><td>✔️ YES. Schools will remain open even when some or all buses to the school may not be running.</td></tr><tr><td>✔️ Schools will have designated staff at the school to greet students and plan for an instructional day.</td></tr><tr><td>✔️ Bus drivers are expected to use their own discretion in deciding whether or not to operate their bus route. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><figure class="image"><img src="/images/cbf3d17e-6e1a-4fba-aa8d-e82600b8512d?fingerprint=ppb20251217030024" alt=""></figure></td><td><strong>The responsibility and final decision to send children on the bus in the morning belongs to the parent(s), even if the buses are operating and the school is open. PRPS takes responsibility for the safety of students upon the point of boarding a school bus.</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<p>Alberta Health Services (AHS) has launched an enhanced respiratory assessment tool to provide Albertans with guidance to manage a wide range of respiratory illnesses, and provide advice on caring for symptoms at home, and when to seek additional care.</p><p>The online tool guides individuals to the best care options for their symptoms, including self-care at home, or seeking care through a walk-in clinic, family physician, or pharmacy for mild to moderate symptoms. Those with severe symptoms are still recommended to seek care through an urgent care centre, or emergency department.</p><p>Respiratory Assessment Tool: <a href="https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/topics/Page17058.aspx">https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/topics/Page17058.aspx</a></p>

<p>On November 24, 2022, Alberta Education Minister Adrianna LaGrange issued a letter to Alberta families outlining the government's position regarding the reintroduction of mask mandates and requirements for schools who request shifts to at-home learning.</p><p>The full letter can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1z2q-dDxVsftWqIQYaSg8Ke-q7umm_qLn/view?usp=share_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1z2q-dDxVsftWqIQYaSg8Ke-q7umm_qLn/view?usp=share_link</a></p>

<p>November 29, 2022 Board Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZoEaXv1MItp1_gScCGuVYpSJRbEyl8hx/view?usp=share_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZoEaXv1MItp1_gScCGuVYpSJRbEyl8hx/view?usp=share_link</a></p><p><strong>Elf the Musical</strong><br>Eagle Butte High School students and staff dropped by the PRPS Division Office to share a sneak peek of their upcoming show, Elf the Musical. The performance takes place from December 7th to the 9th at the Esplanade Theatre. Tickets are now on sale for $23 and can be purchased at <a href="https://buy.tixx.ca/eventperformances.asp?evt=1242">https://buy.tixx.ca/eventperformances.asp?evt=1242</a>.</p><p><strong>Cathy Hogg Leave of Absence</strong><br>Board Chair Cathy Hogg announced that she will be taking a leave of absence of up to six months for personal reasons.</p><p><strong>South Central School Presentation</strong><br>South Central High School (SCHS) principal Jason Duchscherer and vice principal Deanne Smigelski shared a presentation with the board highlighting events, activities and educational experiences taking part at the school. The three priorities within the PRPS Education Plan were highlighted including how the school was igniting minds (i.e. book study, math prep class, exhibition of learning), kindling hearts (i.e. breakfast club and morning socialization, yoga sessions, student recognition) and forging futures (i.e. work experience, Skills Canada, expanded option courses). It was also shared that SCHS students recently met with a consultant hired through the Town of Oyen to share their thoughts around what would make them want to stay in the community following graduation. The full presentation can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Pat and Diploma Results</strong><br>Assistant Superintendent Boyd Craven presented the Provincial Achievement Test and Diploma Examination Accountability Report. Key findings of the report include:</p><ul><li>PRPS PAT Acceptable Standard (71.8%)</li><li>PRPS&nbsp; Diploma Acceptable Standard (71%)</li><li>Scored higher than the provincial average in Math 9 K&amp;E Writing (Acceptable and Excellence), Science 9 Writing (Acceptable), English 30-2 (Acceptable), Math 30-2 (Acceptable), Social 30-1 (Acceptable), Science 30 (Acceptable), Chemistry 30 (Acceptable) and Physics 30 (Acceptable and Excellence)</li><li>PRPS Colony schools scored higher than provincial colony schools in ELA 6 (Average and Excellence), Math 6 (Acceptable), Science 6 (Acceptable and Excellence) and Social 6 (Acceptable).</li></ul><p>All PRPS teachers were commended for their efforts in getting students prepared due to disruptions during the pandemic. It was noted that this is the first time many of the grade 6 and 9 students have written a PAT and that Prairie Rose participation rates were considerably higher than the provincial average.</p><p><strong>EBHS Field Trip Request</strong><br>The board approved a field trip request from the U18 South Alberta Hockey Academy to participate in a hockey tournament in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The trip is scheduled from March 2, 2023 to March 5, 2022. The tournament is a sanctioned USA Hockey event and approved by Hockey Canada and Hockey Alberta.</p><p><strong>2021-2022 Audit Results &amp; Financial Statement Approval</strong><br>Assistant Secretary Treasurer Candice Hintz provided a summary of the audited financial statements ending August 31, 2022. Overall, Prairie Rose Public Schools was given a clean financial audit. Revenues for the year totalled $53,820,516, while expenses were $53,629,757. An overall surplus for the year of $190,759 was recorded. It was shared that additional revenues provided during the 2021-2022 year contributed to the surplus included funds for COVID (masks &amp; tests), safe air (hepa filter systems), learning disruption funding, new curriculum and the fuel contingency grant. The full audit document can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p>Two motions were passed by the board:</p><ul><li>That the Board of Trustees of Prairie Rose Public Schools approve the net transfer of $117,010 from Unrestricted Operating Reserves to Restricted Operating Reserves. Further, it approves the net transfer of $100,000 from Unrestricted Operating Reserves to Restricted Capital Reserves.</li><li>That the Board of Trustees of Prairie Rose Public Schools approves the 2021-22 Audited Financial Statements, as presented.</li></ul><p><strong>2022-2023 Revised Budget Approval</strong><br>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser presented the revised 2022-2023 budget for approval. Compared to the spring budget, the school division is now forecasting a deficit of $926,606, which is an increase in spending of $17,708 (the spring budget projected a deficit of $908,898). Revenue changes include learning disruption funding, teacher salary increases, curriculum funding and a fuel subsidy grant. Revised expenses include salary adjustments for all certified and noncertified staff, additional support staff hours, an increase in FSLW hours and the addition of a custodial supervisor. The complete revised budget can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p>The board approved the following:</p><ul><li>That the Board of Trustees of Prairie Rose Public Schools approves the 2022-23 Revised Budget, as presented.</li></ul><p><strong>Other Items:</strong></p><ul><li>Approved modifications to GP#5 Board Committees - Terms of Reference</li></ul>

<p>The November 29, 2022, 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/1ZoEaXv1MItp1_gScCGuVYpSJRbEyl8hx/view?usp=share_link">November 29, 2022 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued the following letter for distribution to all families regarding a rise in cough and fever type sickness in Alberta schools. We encourage all parents to read the letter and watch for signs of illness in their children to help prevent the spread.</p><p>Read the full letter here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bSgl3Z1WMWQD-By760m8UWJjF-JQTY9A/view?usp=share_link">November 2022, AHS All Parents Influenza Letter</a></p>

<p>The full agenda for the November 9, 2022, meeting can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19-Hhiou5yZEvKvFtGke7OAR8s3cVf1Sf/view">PRPS Nov 9, 2022 Agenda</a></p><p><strong>Senator Gershaw / Bow Island Elementary School Presentation</strong><br>Principal Scott Angle and vice principal Paul Brocklesby from Senator Gershaw and Bow Island Elementary schools spoke about several programs taking place at both Bow Island schools. Highlights of their presentation included examples of how FNMI learning and indigenous culture is being integrated into daily education, the expansion of the school’s music education program, an update on the Gershaw greenhouse project, new extra-curricular opportunities for elementary aged students (including a soccer program), and examples of student leadership which includes the Gator of the Week initiative. It was also shared that Bow Island also offers an evening school program which brings in 20-30 students each year. On average the night program assists 5-10 students earn a high school diploma annually. The full Senator Gershaw and BIE presentation can be found in the board meeting package.</p><p><strong>Transportation Report</strong><br>Director of Transportation Derek Beck presented the 2022 Transportation Accountability Report for information. It was shared that Prairie Rose currently has 83 bus routes that travel just over 17,000 kilometres each day. Other highlights of the report included an overview of ride times based on grade and a summary of the transportation budget for the division which is projected at $5,548,298 for the 2022-2023 school year. It was noted that a shortage of bus drivers continues to cause issues with being able to provide consistent bus service to all PRPS students. The full report can be found in the board meeting package.</p><p><strong>Communications Report</strong><br>Director of Communications Angela Baron presented the 2022 Communications Accountability Report for information. The report included a review of current communications strategies (internal and external), an analysis of Prairie Rose social media channels and a summary of completed and upcoming communications initiatives. The full report can be found in the board meeting package.</p><p><strong>CUPE Collective Agreement</strong><br>The board voted to ratify the memorandum of settlement reached with CUPE Local 829 on October 31, 2022, which represents Prairie Rose Redcliff custodians.</p><p><strong>EBHS Trip to Greece</strong><br>The board approved the Eagle Butte High School proposed field trip to Greece from April 9 -16, 2023. The trip will include a tour of Athens before boarding a cruise with stops in Mykonos, Samos, Rhodes and Crete before returning to Athens before flying home. 24 students in grades 10-12 and four adult supervisors are expected to participate. The motion was put forward by Graeme Dennis.</p><p><strong>GP #15 Trustee Development</strong><br>The board decided to not make any changes to the policy at this time.<br>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The November 9, 2022 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/19-Hhiou5yZEvKvFtGke7OAR8s3cVf1Sf/view?usp=share_link">November 9, 2022 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>With the weather networks forecasting significant snowfall combined with cold temperatures across Prairie Rose Public Schools for Wednesday, November 2nd, please take the time to familiarize yourself with the PRPS Administrative Procedure related to inclement weather and poor road conditions. &nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y9loNCVX_fD23-FtlhFOdKaY-j-1xgrU/view?usp=share_link">Policy T201: Inclement Weather</a></p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><figure class="image"><img src="/images/cbf3d17e-6e1a-4fba-aa8d-e82600b8512d?fingerprint=ppb20251217030024" alt=""></figure></td><td><i>As always, the responsibility and final decision to send a child to school or on the bus belongs to the parent, even if busses are operating and schools are open. If you intend to keep your child home from school due to inclement weather, please communicate your decision to your child's school.</i></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td colspan="2"><strong>Bus Cancellations / School Closures Due to Road and Driving Conditions</strong></td></tr><tr><td colspan="2"><i>Please note: Schools may remain open even though some buses may not be operating.</i></td></tr><tr><td>Severely Reduced Visibility (.2 km or less)</td><td>Principals will consult with the Director of Transportation and bus drivers to assess this hazard and, if necessary, make a decision to close a school. Each individual bus driver can discontinue a route in progress and/or cancel bus operations for the day, if the lack of visibility creates a dangerous driving situation.</td></tr><tr><td>Road Conditions</td><td>Principals will consult with the Director of Transportation and bus drivers to assess this hazard and, if necessary, make a decision to close a school. Each individual bus driver can discontinue a route in progress and/or cancel bus operations for the day if road conditions create a dangerous driving situation. The <a href="https://511.alberta.ca/#:Alerts">Alberta 511</a> road report will be the data source utilized to assess road conditions.</td></tr><tr><td>Bussing Changes due to Weather</td><td><p>If buses return home before the end of the regular school day other than scheduled early dismissals, the driver must ensure students are able to enter and in the case of very young students, a responsible person is available to supervise them.</p><p>Should busses not be able to run at the end of the school day, parents will be contacted to arrange pick-up or billeting.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>How will parents be notified about a bus cancellation or school closure?</strong></td></tr><tr><td><p>All efforts are made to communicate cancellations or school closures beginning at 6:30 a.m. Should a bus or school be closed, a message will be sent to parents using our School Messenger Communicate system and posted on the PRPS school division website. Please ensure you are familiar with these methods.</p><ul><li>All parents are automatically enrolled in our School Messenger phone and email. To also receive text message notifications, please text the letter Y to (phone number) 978338. This will opt you in to receive messages from the school division. School Messenger notifications can also be managed by downloading the School Messenger app from the app store (blue app).</li><li>A list of all PRPS schools and bus routes can be found on the Prairie Rose Public Schools Transportation Status website page. This page can be found here: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/transportation-status">https://www.myprps.com/transportation-status</a></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<p>The complete October 11, 2022 Agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Of5TfqkY2JtbaXAJYjMmXBYsq7wczxDT/view">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Of5TfqkY2JtbaXAJYjMmXBYsq7wczxDT/view</a></p><p><strong>New Brigden School Presentation</strong></p><p>Principal Gayle Vass provided an overview of New Brigden School and highlighted several initiatives and programs taking place at the school. These included student awards and recognition, participation in area sports events and activities with Oyen and Acadia Valley, collaborating with the Agriculture in the North Prairie Rose Possibility project, and maintaining solid and consistent communication with parents/community. In addition to maintaining a strong focus on building early literacy, New Brigden students are always looking for creative ways to give back to their local community, which will be highlighted in the school’s learning exhibition this year. It was also shared that the school continues to grow enrolment, which reached 28 students this year. Examples of wellness, activities, field trips and citizenship were also shared. The full report can be found in the October 11, 2022, Board Meeting Agenda.</p><p><strong>Enrolment Update</strong></p><p>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser provided an enrolment update for information. Compared to the preliminary September 7, 2022, count, the division is up another 0.5 FTE of a student. It was noted that enrolment counts for 2022-2023 are overall very positive for Prairie Rose, with a total increase of 47 students compared to the previous year.</p><p><strong>Human Resources Report</strong></p><p>Deputy Superintendent Mark Heinricks provided the annual Human Resources report for information. Overall, PRPS employs 476 employees. It was noted that challenges remain with recruiting new employees in all positions (specifically in the very rural areas). Other highlights of the HR report include; lower on-average class sizes at all grade levels in PRPS (based on the recommendations defined by the Alberta Commission on Learning), increased FSLW support time to assist with mental health and wellness initiatives and projected PRPS salary and benefit costs for the 2022-2023 school year. The full report can be found in the October 11, 2022, Board Meeting Agenda.</p><p><strong>South Central High School Trip to Iceland</strong></p><p>The board approved the South Central High School proposed field trip to Iceland through tour provider Evolve to be scheduled for April 2023. The itinerary includes a day trip to the Golden Circle, a tour of the Hellisheidarvirkjun Geothermal Power Plant, a glacier hike and exploring downtown Reykjavik. The motion was put forward by Lois Bedwell.</p><p><strong>EBHS Cross Country Field Trip to New York/Boston</strong></p><p>The board approved the Eagle Butte High School Cross Country field trip proposal to visit New York and Boston from April 10-18, 2023. In addition to running in a couple of local races, the students will also tour both cities visiting historical locations that include the Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, Harvard University and the New England Aquarium. The motion was put forward by Shauna VanderSpruit.</p><p><strong>Other Items:</strong></p><ul><li>The board approved an ATB borrowing resolution for $750,000 for 2022-2023.</li><li>The board approved the rewording of GP#2 - Board Role and Responsibilities to change 8.1 to the following:<ul><li>Act as an advocate for the public school system to which we belong and our division.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>The board congratulated Nichole Neubauer for receiving The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medal.</li></ul>

<p>The October 11, 2022 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/1Of5TfqkY2JtbaXAJYjMmXBYsq7wczxDT/view?usp=sharing">October 11, 2022 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>