Prairie Rose Public Schools News Archive

<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>

<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>