Prairie Rose Public Schools News Archive

<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>

<p>From September 26-29, students and staff in Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) will observe and participate in Truth and Reconciliation week leading up to the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th.&nbsp;</p><p>Respecting the calls to action from Indigenous leaders towards reconciliation in Canada, September 30th is a non-instructional day in PRPS and school facilities will be closed. This is in line with <i>Call to Action 80</i> from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which calls for the establishment of a federal statutory holiday to honour survivors, their families, and communities, to ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.</p><blockquote><p>“As educators, it is our role to listen and reflect on the history and teachings of our Indigenous peoples,” says Superintendent Reagan Weeks. “To do this, not only must we provide opportunities for our students to learn about reconciliation, but we as a staff must also actively participate in the learning and teachings ourselves.”</p></blockquote><p>At the PRPS division-wide staff professional learning day on September 29th, a significant focus will be on building understanding and knowledge related to reconciliation. A keynote session will be led by Cowboy Smithx, a Blackfoot filmmaker from the Piikani Nation and Kainai Nation in Southern Alberta. Smithx is best known for his work on a featured documentary entitled <i>Elder in the Making</i>, which focuses on reconciliation between non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal Peoples of Canada.</p><p>Leading up to the PD day, students across PRPS schools will actively participate in their own learning opportunities. This will include Orange Shirt Day, where students and staff wear orange t-shirts to recognize the legacy of the residential school system. Additionally, through partnerships with members of local Indigenous communities, students will participate in traditional activities focused on culture and traditions. These traditional learnings will be enhanced through dedicated literacy centres featuring books and poems about the Canadian Indigenous experience.</p><p>To find out more about specific activities related to Truth and Reconciliation in Prairie Rose, please contact your local school or PRPS Communications.</p>

<p>On September 19, 2022, Prairie Rose Public Schools will participate in a <i>Day of Mourning</i> in solemn recognition of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, as per the direction of the Province of Alberta. All Prairie Rose schools will remain open.&nbsp;</p><p>Schools are encouraged to commemorate the passing of Her late Majesty by observing a moment of silence or discussing her life and public service in the classroom. The Province will also be live-streaming a ceremony at the Alberta legislature at 10:00 a.m. Schools are invited to participate via the online link which is available at <a href="https://www.alberta.ca/queen-elizabeth-memorial-services.aspx">https://www.alberta.ca/queen-elizabeth-memorial-services.aspx</a></p>

<p><strong>2022-2023 Organizational Meeting - Election of the Board Chair and Vice-Chair</strong></p><p>Every fall the board of trustees elects the board chair, vice-chair and other key positions for the new school year. In addition to their regular duties, trustees are elected to serve as primary representatives on provincial associations and boards. The following trustees will act as representatives in those roles during the 2022-2023 year:</p><p>✔️ Cathy Hogg, Board Chair</p><p>✔️ Lois Bedwell, Vice-Chair</p><p>✔️ Representative for the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) - Shawna VanderSpruit</p><p>✔️ ASBA Alternate - Nancy Haraga</p><p>✔️ Representative for the Public School Boards Association (PSBA) - Pam Cursons</p><p>✔️ PSBAA Alternate - Patty Rooks</p><p>✔️ Teachers Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) - Pam Cursons</p><p>✔️ Representative on the Alberta Rural Caucus - Patty Rooks</p><p><strong>Governance Process #14 Trustee Honorarium</strong></p><p>✔️ Board motion passed: Policy GP #14 Trustee Honorarium &amp; Expense Reimbursement was adjusted to provide financial compensation when trustee work and travel outside of the school division (occuring on the same day) exceeds 8 hours per day. Trustees will make $24.19 for each additional hour worked.</p><p><strong>2022-2023 Enrolment Update</strong></p><p>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser presented the 2022-2023 School Enrolment update for information. In the spring, Prairie Rose had projected an increase of 9.5 FTE (full-time equivalent) students compared to the 2021-2022 school year. Based on early September counts, the division has recorded an increase of 37.0 FTE students over spring projections. In comparison to the 2021-2022 year, PRPS is up 46.5 FTE students which is an enrolment increase of 1.57%. It was noted that many of the unique programs implemented by Prairie Rose such as the South Alberta Hockey and Flight academies, a rodeo academy in Foremost and the Irvine Agricultural Discovery Centre have contributed to the enrolment gains. A new international student program has also brought in up to eight additional students this year.</p><p><strong>Policy Review Committee</strong></p><p>✔️ The board approved the changes/removal of the following policies as presented/amended:</p><ul><li>Update E#1 Mission</li><li>Update E#2 Vision</li><li>Update E#3 Six Core Principles</li><li>Update E#4 Strategic Goals</li><li>Delete E#5 Essential Virtues</li><li>Re-number and update E #5 Lens for Decision-Making</li><li>Delete E#6 Key Learning Principles</li></ul><p><strong>Transportation/Bussing</strong></p><p>Trustee Lois Bedwell shared that the board had recently met with the Minister of Education to discuss challenges associated with the bus driver shortages. It was noted that primary concerns stem from increased ride times and bus consistency for families. While PRPS continues to try and be creative to find solutions, increased insurance rates and training times for the MELT and S-Endorsement driver requirements continue to hinder the process for finding and replacing drivers in a timely manner.</p>

<p>Are you a Prairie Rose Public Schools student who loves to sing, act and dance?</p><p>If so, we invite you to be a cast member in the musical theatre production Elf being put on by Prairie Rose and Eagle Butte High School in early December. A parent/guardian &nbsp;and student information meeting is being held on Saturday, September 17th at 11:00 AM at Eagle Butte High School.</p><p>Those students wishing to participate will be a member of the ensemble as chorus members which will include singing, dancing and acting. Parent volunteers are also needed for props, costumes, sets, and backstage. &nbsp;We hope for a parent group that will work in the art room on Saturdays during our rehearsals to prepare for the show.</p><p>Please note the extensive tentative rehearsal schedule below. If your child is unavailable for show times, or a significant portion of the rehearsal times, he or she should decline this invitation. Students involved must be responsible, and committed to our show. &nbsp;This is an Eagle Butte, and a Prairie Rose production, and so all school rules apply at all times of involvement, including rehearsals.</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rehearsals will be on the following dates from 11:00 AM until 3:00 PM.</td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Saturday, September 17th: parent and student meeting</li><li>Saturday, September 24th</li><li>Saturday, October 1st-long weekend (T &amp; R)</li><li>Saturday, October 8th-long weekend (Thanksgiving)</li><li>Saturday, October 15th</li><li>Saturday, October 22nd</li><li>Saturday, October 29th</li><li>Saturday, November 5th</li><li>Saturday, November 12th-long weekend—extra rehearsals–Principals run-through with band</li><li>Saturday, November 19th-Act I Run Through</li><li>Sunday, November 20th</li><li>Saturday, November 26th-Act II Run Through</li><li>Sunday, November 27th</li><li>Saturday, December 3rd</li><li>Sunday, December 4th-move into Esplanade</li><li>Monday, December 5th-After School Dress rehearsal</li><li>Tuesday, December 6th-Full Day Dress rehearsal</li><li>Wednesday, December 7th-Matinee and Evening Shows</li><li>Thursday, December 8th, Matinee and Evening Shows</li><li>Friday, December 9th, Matinee and Evening Shows</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Please complete the following and bring it to the September 17th information meeting: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19uHYH_mok3cWo0ECyTc0BbndG2_d2ESb/view?usp=sharing">ELF Participation Consent Form</a>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<p>To honour the life and legacy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who passed away on September 8, 2022, Prairie Rose Public Schools will be lowering all school division flags to half mast.&nbsp;</p><p>In addition to being part of Canada and the Commonwealth, Prairie Rose has a special connection with the United Kingdom through its partnership with Canadian Forces Base BATUS and the British military families who attend Ralston School. Our condolences and thoughts go to our fellow Canadians, other Commonwealth nations and our Ralston families as they mourn the passing of the 96 year old monarch who was loved and admired by the people around the world.</p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools has been notified by the Town of Bow Island that due to a major water main break in the town that all water is being turned off in the community to make the repair. As such, all Bow Island schools will be closing for the day. School buses have been called back to the school and will run for those families who want them. Please note the process for student transportation and pick up procedures.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>All students in grades 7-12 will be either sent home on the bus or dismissed from school to walk home.</li><li>For students in grades JK-6, please call the school to confirm that someone will be available to accept your child at home. If we do not hear from you, any student in grades JK-6 will be kept at the school until you are able to pick them up.</li></ul><p>As we anticipate several phone calls, please be patient when contacting the school. We have been told that it will take about an hour to get the buses back to the schools. We hope to have buses leaving Bow Island just after 11:00. Once the buses have left, we will post an update to our school social media accounts.</p>

<p>Starting this fall, Alberta school divisions will begin implementing the new K-3 curriculum in the subjects of <i>English Language Arts and Literature (ELAL)</i> and <i>Math</i>. In addition, students in grades K-6 will be receiving the new <i>Physical Education and Wellness (PEW)</i> curriculum. As the topic of the new curriculum has been widely reported and debated in the public realm, Prairie Rose Public Schools would like to ensure parents are well informed about how the new curriculum rollout impacts their child. If you have any questions after reading through this documentation, please bring them forward to your classroom teacher who can provide you with additional information and resources.</p><p>Within Prairie Rose Public Schools, the following grades will be receiving the new curriculum:</p><ul><li>Kindergarten (ELAL, Math, PEW)</li><li>Grade 1 (ELAL, Math, PEW)</li><li>Grade 2 (ELAL, Math, PEW)</li><li>Grade 3 (ELAL, Math, PEW)</li><li>Grade 4 (PEW)</li><li>Grade 5 (PEW)</li><li>Grade 6 (PEW)</li></ul><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Subject Abbreviations</strong></td></tr><tr><td>English Language Arts and Literature (ELAL)&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Mathematics (Math)</td></tr><tr><td>Physical Education and Wellness (PEW)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><i>Note: A small number of Prairie Rose teachers will also be participating in the 2022-2023 optional implementation of the 4-6 English Language Arts and Literature (ELAL) and Math curriculum, as well as the K-6 Science curriculum pilot. If your child's class is participating in the implementation or pilot of any of these subjects during the 2022-2023 school year, you will be informed of your child's participation directly by your classroom teacher.&nbsp;</i></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Below you will find important links to the Curriculum or Programs of Study used by Alberta Education. In addition, we have put together a list of ‘frequently asked questions’ that parents may have and a timeline for the rollout of future subjects and grades.</p><h3><strong>Alberta Education Links</strong></h3><ul><li><a href="https://curriculum.learnalberta.ca/cdn/ciihub/docs/K-6%20Curriculum%20Implementation%20and%20Supports%20Timeline.pdf">K-6 Curriculum Implementation and Supports Timeline</a></li><li><a href="https://curriculum.learnalberta.ca/cdn/ciihub/docs/English%20Language%20Arts%20and%20Literature%20Subject%20Overview_Final.pdf">Overview of K-6 Language Arts and Literature Curriculum</a></li><li><a href="https://curriculum.learnalberta.ca/cdn/ciihub/docs/Mathematics%20Subject%20Overview_Final.pdf">Overview of K-6 Math Curriculum</a></li><li><a href="https://curriculum.learnalberta.ca/cdn/ciihub/docs/Physical%20Education%20and%20Wellness%20Subject%20Overview_Final.pdf">Overview of K-6 Physical Education and Wellness Curriculum</a></li></ul><h3>Frequently Asked Questions</h3><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Are PRPS teachers ready for the new curriculum?</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Implementing a new curriculum is an exciting opportunity and an important part of the evolving practice of teaching. Curriculum implementation is a process and PRPS teachers have already been planning and preparing, and will continue to be well supported with professional learning opportunities throughout the upcoming school year.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Will there be gaps in my child’s learning from content or material being moved from one grade to another?</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Regardless of the curriculum being taught, teachers continuously work to meet each student where they are at in their learning. While curriculum is grade-specific, many concepts are revisited each year, giving students ample opportunity to build on their previous knowledge or be introduced to new material.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>How much is different? What is the same?&nbsp;</strong></td></tr><tr><td>While the curriculums are new, a significant amount of the content has been carried over from the previous Alberta Programs of Study.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Will PRPS be buying all new library books/resources/etc.? Does PRPS have funding for this or will parents/guardians need to fundraise for these new resources?</strong>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Teachers will continue to use existing resources where they align with the new curriculum. Alberta Education has provided school districts with some funding to purchase new resources where required. In Prairie Rose Public Schools, the Board of Trustees requested that the 2022-2023 budget included funds to support teacher professional development and resources for the implementation of the new curriculums.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Is the curriculum developmentally appropriate for K-3 children? Is there too much to cover in the new curriculum? Will there still be time to play/be creative/take breaks?</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Teachers work to plan the delivery of curriculum content in ways that are engaging, creative, and inspiring for students. Personalizing learning to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed to the best of their ability continues to be important work for PRPS schools.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>How much of what my child does at school every day is directed by the new curriculum? How much memorization/fact recall is required?</strong></td></tr><tr><td><p>The curriculum outlines what students are expected to learn. The <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TDPd9dnuzgQYk5swGGGAg2MhGplIF1rM">PRPS Education Plan</a>, and other documents and strategies such as a school’s School Development Plan, provide insight on the PRPS’s approach to how students learn.&nbsp;</p><p>Throughout the year, you will be encouraged to attend celebrations of learning, parent teacher conferences, meetings and discussions with your child’s teacher, and events at your child’s school. These events help demonstrate what your child is doing at school and start conversations about their learning.</p><p>Alberta Education has developed a series of resources for parents on their website, <a href="https://curriculum.learnalberta.ca/home/en">curriculum.learnalberta.ca</a>. We encourage you to explore these resources and learn more about the content and structure of the new curriculum.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Will support for children change?</strong>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>No, teachers continuously work to meet each student where they are at in their learning and supports will not change as a result of the new curriculum.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Will Grade 6 Students participate in Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs)?</strong>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>For the 2022-2023 school year, students participating in the small-scale optional implementation of Grade 6 English Language and Literature (ELAL) and Math, and the Grade 6 Science pilot, will not be writing PAT exams for those subjects. If your child is part of the optional piloting of these courses during the current school year, you will be informed of this by your classroom teacher.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<p>With the start of the 2022-2023 school year underway, the PRPS Transportation Department would like to take a moment to welcome all our new and returning bus students in Prairie Rose Public Schools and provide some information related to the planning/scheduling of our rural bus routes.</p><p>Did you know? Prairie Rose Public Schools operates 83 bus routes and transports approximately 1,770 students over 17,000 square kilometers each day to school and home. Our routes stretch from as far north as New Brigden all the way south to the US border. This vast geographical area requires each route to be carefully coordinated and the PRPS Transportation Department does its best to ensure times and distances are as equitable as possible for children. However, despite our best efforts, there are instances when route changes are required based on actual travel times compared to our route projections. This often occurs after the first week of school, as drivers learn their routes and late student registrations are added.&nbsp;</p><p>PRPS recognizes this can be frustrating for parents, however, we ask for your patience as we give our contract drivers time to get acquainted with their routes and provide us with the final bus ride times for each route. Once we have final start and drop off times later this week we will review those and consider any necessary adjustments. Any route changes&nbsp;will be communicated to you by your driver.</p><p>Thank you for your understanding of this matter and I look forward to working with you throughout the 2022-2023 school year.</p><p>Derek Beck<br>Director of Transportation</p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools is excited to get the 2022-2023 year started. We hope everyone had a restful and enjoyable summer break and is ready to get another year of learning underway. Our schools have organized some really unique and community focused back to school events this fall and we look forward to welcoming returning and new families to the school division.&nbsp;</p><p>As you get your year started, we have put together a couple of items you may find useful. Of course, if you have any questions please feel free to reach out directly to your school. Thank you for choosing Prairie Rose Public Schools and we look forward to another great year of “Everyone Learning Together’.</p><h4><strong>Message from the Superintendent of Schools Reagan Weeks</strong></h4><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://youtu.be/f8iuO9cX9pk"></oembed></figure><h3>Other Important Information for Families</h3><h4><strong>2022-2023 PRPS School Calendar</strong></h4><p>Stay on top of important dates with our 2022-2023 PRPS Calendar. <i>Want to save the 2022-2023 calendar to your phone images for easy access?</i> Click the link to the phone friendly version and take a screenshot of the image file: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_RR8QgqRk_XKrqRFjbAXH3sUZab02pdW/view">2022-2023 Calendar</a></p><h4><strong>New Three-Year Education Plan</strong></h4><p>In 2022-2023 we begin the first year of our new Education Plan focused on <i>Igniting Minds, Kindling Hearts and Forging Futures</i>. Along with these new goals, Prairie Rose Public Schools has adopted new Vision and Mission statements to more accurately reflect the direction for our schools. You can find out complete three-year plan online: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MFdWS2BNcMSJiTncxDZ6t1Wz5xYDHlBX/view">2022-2023 PRPS Education Plan</a></p><h4><strong>PRPS News and Information</strong></h4><p>It is easier than ever to stay up to date with what’s happening around Prairie Rose Public Schools when you opt in to receive text messaging. Prairie Rose Public Schools uses <i>School Messenger</i> when sending out important information to parents regarding the school, the division and bussing changes. To receive these messages via text, you must opt-in on your end. Please text the letter Y to 978338. Once you opt-in you can choose to stop text messages at any time by texting the word STOP to the same number. To access our policy documents, division news, bus route status information, School Cash and the PowerSchool parent/student portal, visit <a href="http://www.myprps.com">www.myprps.com</a>.</p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools would like to extend a our greatest thanks and appreciation to ATB Financial and the United Way of Southeast Alberta who donated 53 new Chromebooks for PRPS students. The new Chromebooks were distributed this month to grade 2 students from Bow Island Elementary School (19), Foremost School (16), Oyen Public School (11), Warren Peers School (4) and Jenner School (3).</p><blockquote><p>“We are incredibly grateful to ATB for their generous donation of 53 Chromebooks to Prairie Rose Public Schools,” says Superintendent Reagan Weeks. “The support of our communities is key to thriving schools and ATB is a valued education partner.”</p></blockquote><p>This is the second year that Prairie Rose Public Schools students have been the recipients of this donation. Thank you for your support!</p><p>Read the full announcement from ATB Financial here: <a href="https://www.atb.com/company/news/stories/united-way-laptop-donation/">https://www.atb.com/company/news/stories/united-way-laptop-donation/</a></p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools would like to congratulate Janet Kraft who has accepted the position of vice-principal at Parkside Junior High School in Redcliff.</p><p>Janet is a 12-year teacher with Prairie Rose Public Schools, having worked in Jenner School, Seven Persons School, Ralston School and most recently, Parkside Junior High School for the past four years. Having worked primarily with junior high and upper elementary students, much of her professional development has focused on developing mental health supports and empowering students to be champions of their own personal health and wellness. In addition to a Bachelor of Education from the Canadian University College, she has her Masters of Educational Research and Leadership from the University of Calgary.</p><blockquote><p>"I am grateful to have been selected as vice-principal for Parkside School. Being an administrator has been a goal of mine and I am excited to further my career and continue to be part of the amazing staff, students and community at Parkside School." ~ Janet Kraft</p></blockquote><blockquote><p>“As a teacher at our school, Janet has already established many important connections with the students and parents. Her passion for wellness and empowering young teens to make healthy decisions is a huge asset to our school community. I look forward to working with her in this new role.” ~ Jonn Baird, Parkside Jr High School Principal</p></blockquote><p>Janet Kraft will officially assume the role of vice-principal at Parkside School at the start of the 2022-2023 school year.</p>