Prairie Rose Public Schools News Archive

<p>On Saturday, February 26, 2022, Alberta Premier Jason Kenny announced that the province will be moving forward with lifting most of the remaining COVID-19 restrictions on March 1st. For K-12 schools this will result in the removal of all current protocols, <i>with the exception of the sickness/isolation guidelines</i>.</p><p>Specifically, starting March 1, 2022, the following restrictions will no longer apply:</p><ul><li>Cohorting will be removed for grades K-6.</li><li>Youth screening activities for entertainment and sports activities will no longer be required.</li><li>Capacity limits for large gatherings are removed.</li><li>Indoor and outdoor social gathering limits will be lifted.</li><li>There will no longer be a requirement for those over the age of 18 to wear a mask, however, Prairie Rose Public Schools will continue to support any individual who wishes to continue wearing a mask.</li></ul><p>As mentioned, the illness and stay at home when sick requirements remain in place. <strong>Please continue to use our Student Illness Guide to determine whether your child is well enough to attend school</strong>. &nbsp;This requirement also applies to all adults visiting school facilities. A link to the most recent versions of our PRPS Illness Guides can be found below.&nbsp;</p><p>(<strong>Updated February 2022</strong>): <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12oedZgsqwxJlmL6yMMLlR86E4PeuvGMG/view">Student Illness Guide - Staying Home When Sick</a></p><p>(<strong>Updated February 2022</strong>): <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IJ8D-GrZniZOevr6tKsVJ0NGb-SRMChH/view">Adult Illness Guide - Staying Home When Sick</a></p>

<p>Starting February 23rd, parents will start receiving survey packages by mail from Alberta Education for the 2022 Assurance Survey. &nbsp;Parents will either complete the surveys online or return completed paper copies directly to Alberta Education.&nbsp;</p><p>Here are some important notes for parents regarding the survey:</p><ol><li>The survey package will include:<ul><li>a copy of the Education Minister's letter</li><li>a Random Access Code for accessing the survey online and instructions for accessing the survey in other languages, if needed.</li></ul></li><li>Parents with more than one student in the relevant survey grades will receive a separate survey package and Random Access Code for each child.</li><li><strong>The survey will remain open until April 1, 2022 (the deadline has been extended)</strong>.</li></ol><p><strong>Who will receive the survey?</strong></p><ol><li>Where a school community is fewer than 120 students in grades 4-12, all students in grades 4 and above will meet the survey eligibility criteria.</li><li>Where a school community is above 120 only parents and guardians of students in grades 4, 7 and 10 will receive the survey.</li></ol><p>More information regarding the Assurance Framework and how the survey data will be used can be found by visiting the <a href="https://www.alberta.ca/accountability-education-system.aspx">Alberta Education Assurance and Accountability website</a>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<h3>From the February 8, 2022 Public Board Meeting</h3><p>Board meeting agenda package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ernKY1U7tQ1DWjyzNfKzPQHsghhOqDky/view?usp=sharing">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ernKY1U7tQ1DWjyzNfKzPQHsghhOqDky/view?usp=sharing</a></p><p><strong>COVID Response Update. </strong>Board Chair Cathy Hogg shared that trustees have received a number of communications from parents and community members expressing frustrations regarding the current provincial mandates for K-12 schools. As school divisions are public sector organizations, many of the decisions such as masking requirements, are not decided locally therefore cannot be lifted by school boards. It was also noted that Premier Jason Kenny is scheduled to make an announcement regarding a staggered plan for lifting restrictions in the next day. The division will be prepared to act on K-12 changes should changes be announced.</p><p><strong>Prairie Mennonite School Presentation. </strong>Prairie Mennonite Alternative School principal Simon Moreton shared a presentation with the board outlining a number of initiatives and learning opportunities. The school’s Prairie Rose Possibility program was showcased which involves immersing students in new opportunities that connect deeper learning to world experiences. Some of the ways the school has achieved this is through new option classes, community focused field trips, cross country training and intramural sports. It was also noted that the students recently started a school sports team in which they designed a new school mascot called the Prairie Chargers. The full presentation can be found in the board meeting agenda package.</p><p><strong>2022-2023 School Year Calendar. </strong>Deputy Superintendent Mark Heinricks explained that the final stages of consultation are underway with schools and staff for the 2022-2023 school year calendar. The finalized calendar will be brought forward to the March public board meeting for board approval.</p><p><strong>Board Committee Principles. </strong>Revised board policy GP#5 Board Committee was presented for approval. The policy was updated to combine all board sub committees into one document to streamline board processes and ensure consistency.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Moved by P. Rooks that the Board of Trustees of Prairie Rose Public Schools replaces Policies GP#5 Board Committee Principles, GP#8 Board General Committee Meetings GP#16 Teacher / Board Advisory Committee – Terms of Reference, GP#17 Support Staff / Board Advisory Committee – Terms of Reference, GP#18 Audit Committee – Terms of Reference, GP22 Advocacy Committee – Terms of Reference with Policy GP#5 Board Committees. <strong>CARRIED</strong>.</li></ul><p><strong>Irvine Field Trip. </strong>Superintendent Reagan Weeks explained that the Irvine School field trip planned for April 2022 has been moved to the end of May. This was done to reduce costs, as the later date allowed the school to combine tour activities with another group. Shifting the dates also reduced the trip from nine days to seven.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Deeper Learning. </strong>Superintendent Reagan Weeks provided an update on the deeper learning education goal. The goal aims to provide Prairie Rose students the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of academic content and growth in their ability to think and critically solve complex problems. It was noted that as part of achieving deeper learning, students have been given voice and choice on when and how they learn. This learning has been supported with the addition of numerous Prairie Rose Possibility projects, community partnerships and through the addition of learning instructional coaches. Despite COVID-19 challenges, results in the Accountability Pillar indicate an upward trend in terms of student excellence which is a leading indicator of deeper learning achievement.</p><h3>From the February 10, 2022 Special Board Meeting</h3><p>The board of trustees discussed the decision passed on November 9, 2021, where:</p><ul><li>Trustee Lois Bedwell put forward a motion that would direct administration to develop a policy that would require staff who work directly with students to be double vaccinated or show proof of a negative COVID-19 test.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Trustees discussed the recent announcement from Premier Jason Kenny that included the removal of the REP program (effective February 9, 2022) and how that direction potentially impacts the current Prairie Rose Public School requirement for non-vaccinated staff who work with students to perform an at-home COVID-19 test twice a week. Information related to legal advice, direction from both the Health and Education ministries and community feedback was shared. Trustee Nancy Haraga put forth the following motion:</p><ul><li>As the province has taken steps to begin to relax COVID-19 protocols, including the elimination of the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP), I, Nancy Haraga, move that the Board of Trustees of Prairie Rose Public Schools rescind our policy that requires all Prairie Rose staff working directly with students to provide vaccination status disclosure, and for those not fully vaccinated, regular proof of COVID-19 negative test. <strong>CARRIED</strong></li></ul><p>A recorded vote was requested:</p><ul><li>Graeme Dennis (not in attendance)</li><li>In Favour: Cathy Hogg, Lois Bedwell, Pam Cursons, Nancy Haraga, Shauna VanderSpruit</li><li>Opposed: Patty Rooks</li></ul>

<p>The Prairie Rose Public Schools Board of Trustees will be holding a Special Board Meeting on February 10, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the following item:</p><ol><li>P113 - Workplace Health and Safety, COVID-19 Increased Safety Procedures</li></ol><p>The meeting will be held online and can be accessed here: <a href="https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZTZkODA3ZGEtZTdkMS00YTExLWJlNzEtMDY5OTU0MjZhZGE0%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22c1a7f361-4369-4e63-af8a-db541e2c097b%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2248a6a9b8-2a7b-494f-9523-0206f91ffcad%22%2c%22IsBroadcastMeeting%22%3atrue%7d&amp;btype=a&amp;role=a">Join the Online Meeting</a><br><i>Once you click the link, click cancel (on the pop up), watch on the web instead, join anonymously.</i></p>

<p>Yesterday evening, Premier Jason Kenny shared details regarding the province’s plan for moving forward, beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. Full details of the <i>Alberta plan for returning to normal</i> is available here: <a href="https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=8185996876395-A336-5B57-A82D6FEE916E1060">February 8, 2022 Announcement</a></p><p>As a result of these changes, please be aware of the following updates to our division COVID-19 response plan:</p><p>→<strong> &nbsp;Masking:</strong> Starting next week (February 14th), all masking requirements for students will be removed from the public health order for all K-12 students. This means that students in grades K-12 will not be required to wear a mask while riding the school bus, or while attending school. At this time, the Alberta Government still requires all adults (18 years of age or older) to wear masks while in schools. This includes school and division staff, bus drivers and any adult visitors to our schools. As always, our schools will continue to provide a supportive environment for those students who wish to continue wearing a mask.</p><p><strong>→ &nbsp;Daily Checklist and Isolation Requirements:</strong> Parents are encouraged to continue to use the daily checklist when making decisions regarding sending their child to school. All isolation requirements for students who are close contacts or test positive for COVID-19 remain in place. The <i>PRPS Student Illness Guide</i> can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12oedZgsqwxJlmL6yMMLlR86E4PeuvGMG/view">PRPS Illness Guide</a></p><p><strong>→ &nbsp;Spectators and Visitors in Schools</strong>: Restrictions on spectator limits (sports and performance) have been lifted, however all adults in school buildings are still required to wear a mask for the duration of the time they are in the school as per the current government direction.</p><p><strong>→ &nbsp;Field Trips</strong>: The restrictions to field trip activities have been lifted. Schools are still encouraged to prioritize outdoor field trips and maintain cohorts, where possible.</p><p><strong>→ &nbsp;After School Facility Use (youth)</strong>: Outside user groups for youth are once again permitted at Prairie Rose Public School facilities. Please contact your local school for details.</p><p>As part of the three step <i>Alberta plan for returning to normal</i>, it is likely more changes will be coming throughout the next few weeks. Our division will continue to follow the direction provided by the provincial government as they move toward reopening Alberta.&nbsp;</p><p>Thank you again for your continued patience and understanding as we navigate the challenges of COVID-19. If you have any questions, please contact your school principal.</p>

<p>The Prairie Rose Public Schools Board of Trustees will be holding their next public meeting on February 8, 2022, at 12:45 PM. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the meeting will be streamed live.</p><p>The meeting agenda can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ernKY1U7tQ1DWjyzNfKzPQHsghhOqDky/view?usp=sharing">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ernKY1U7tQ1DWjyzNfKzPQHsghhOqDky/view?usp=sharing</a></p><p>The meeting will be held online and can be accessed here: <a href="https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ODNhMTE3YjQtZGJiZi00M2JmLTkxNGQtMmYwZTc3ZTE4Yzg2%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22c1a7f361-4369-4e63-af8a-db541e2c097b%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22f7324c65-36e2-49e7-bfab-e0b3d9aa4a5d%22%2c%22IsBroadcastMeeting%22%3atrue%7d&amp;btype=a&amp;role=a">Join the Online Meeting</a><br><i>Once you click the link, click cancel (on the pop up), watch on the web instead, join anonymously.</i></p>

<p>On Friday, February 4, 2022, Prairie Rose Public Schools was made aware of a number of organized protests taking place outside our schools in communities across the division. These protests were part of a provincially planned action advocating against public health measures. We acknowledge this action would have caused worry for many of our students and staff. As such, our focus was on providing support in our schools and creating a sense of normalcy throughout the day, as much as possible.</p><ul><li>Our number one priority was to ensure the safety of our students and staff. All efforts were made to provide support and reduce anxiety for students. As part of these efforts, our staff were directed to continue with classes and try to maintain normalcy as much as possible.</li><li>As is consistent with our emergency response Hold and Secure protocol, all school doors were locked and access in and out of schools was monitored throughout the school day.</li><li>Any student who made the choice to actively protest the rules while inside the school building were moved to a location away from the other students. A choice to be at school still requires the student to be responsible for their actions and to follow the expectations for learning in our buildings. The <i>Education Act</i> clearly states that it is a parent’s responsibility to help their student comply with the rules of the school.</li></ul><p>It is extremely unfortunate that our students and staff have been put into the middle of a political debate in which school divisions do not have the authority to make changes. Any concerns that have been shared with us have been passed along to both the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health who are responsible for these decisions.&nbsp;</p><p>These recent events have caused unnecessary challenges and stress on schools. This does not support a positive environment for learning and further impacts the mental health of educators and students. We strongly encourage all community members who have concerns with the current mandates to take their conversations to their local members of government and not our teachers and children.</p><p>Reagan Weeks<br>Superintendent<br>Prairie Rose Public Schools</p><p>Cathy Hogg<br>Board Chair<br>Prairie Rose Public Schools</p>

<p>As we committed to families upon the return to in-person classes on January 10th, Prairie Rose Public Schools has reviewed three key sections of our revised 2022 Re-Entry Plan with regards to field trips, spectators and audience members in schools, and the use of school facilities after school hours.</p><p>✅ &nbsp;Spectators and audience members will be allowed in schools to watch sports and performance events with the following conditions.</p><p>Starting immediately (or when the school can manage the adjustment):</p><ul><li>Each player or performer may have 2 immediate family members attend.</li><li>All visitors must follow the guidelines for visitors in schools, including the requirement to wear a mask for the duration of their time in the building. More details regarding visitors can be found in our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12HIeN3oaL24UpdR87fT-NGeKXoTXONIU/view">School Re-Entry Plan</a>.</li></ul><p>Starting February 7th:</p><ul><li>The maximum number of visitors at an event cannot exceed ⅓ capacity.</li><li>All visitors must follow the guidelines for visitors in schools, including the requirement to wear a mask for the duration of their time in the building. More details regarding visitors can be found in our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12HIeN3oaL24UpdR87fT-NGeKXoTXONIU/view">School Re-Entry Plan</a>.</li></ul><p>❌ &nbsp;Outside user groups will continue to be restricted at this time and approved on a case by case basis. This decision will be reviewed again by the end of February.&nbsp;</p><p>❌ &nbsp;Field trips that are not part of an educational program will continue to be restricted at this time. Schools have been asked to reschedule any pre-planned trips until the end of February. This decision will be revisited again at the end of February.</p><p>The full school re-entry plan along with our COVID guidelines can be found here: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/covid-19-resources">https://www.myprps.com/covid-19-resources</a></p>

<p>The full board meeting agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ayjvsHhUIIZTvm4ggNZhYMZTF6fpLzuP/view?usp=sharing">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ayjvsHhUIIZTvm4ggNZhYMZTF6fpLzuP/view?usp=sharing</a></p><p><strong>IF Cox School Presentation</strong></p><p>Principal Linda Asham and Vice Principal Tracy Frank provided an overview of IF Cox School highlighting a number of strategies developed by staff focused on increasing learning opportunities and student success. In their presentation to the board, the school leaders featured several initiatives including; a strong focus on literacy, character education and social emotional learning, and respect for one another and the earth. It was noted the school is really proud of the work their students and teachers have done towards improving literacy across grades K-3 through focused strategies such as Secret Stories and the introduction of Heggerty Phonemic Awareness. The full presentation can be found in the board meeting agenda package.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>COVID-19 Update</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks provided a brief system update regarding the return to in-person learning following the extended winter break. It was noted that currently Prairie Rose has been able to maintain in-person learning across the division with minimal disruption and that a few schools (Prairie Mennonite, Jenner, Parkside) had already received their shipment of PPE (as of Tuesday PM) with the rest expected to come throughout the week. All items will be shipped directly to schools so they can be distributed quickly once they arrive. It was also shared that unlike in previous COVID-19 waves, Alberta Health and the province have made the decision to no longer ask schools to report positive COVID cases to their school communities. The complete Prairie Rose return to school plan and the updated illness guides can be found on the website: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/covid-19-resources">https://www.myprps.com/covid-19-resources</a></p><p><strong>Maintenance and Infrastructure Report</strong></p><p>Director of Maintenance Operations Darrell Drefs provided the Maintenance Accountability Report to the Board for information. Highlights of the report include a summary of the maintenance budget, an overview of projects completed in the 2020-2021 year through Infrastructure Maintenance and Renewal (IMR) funding and Capital Maintenance and Renewal (CMR) funding, and a summary of the Prairie Rose Capital Plan. It was shared that during the 2020-2021 year, $592,838 was spent on IMR projects. Some of those upgrades included the modernization of the Oyen Public School entrance, window replacement at Eagle Butte High School, creating barrier-free access at South Central, and upgrading the Ralston server room. Completed CMR projects included (but were not limited to) mechanical upgrades at Parkside, BMS control upgrade at IF Cox, and a fire alarm panel and systems upgrade at Seven Persons. Drefs noted that the main difference between IMR and CMR is how the spending is reported and projects capitalized, and that CMR projects must be pre-approved. Overall, during the 2020-2021 year the actual maintenance deficit came in $195,902 over budget. A complete list and photos on completed projects can be found in the board meeting agenda package.</p><p><strong>Inclusive Education Accountability Report</strong></p><p>Director of Student Services Camille Quinton presented the Inclusive Education Accountability Report to the Board for information. It was noted that the division received an additional $300,000 in funding last year for services and student supports for a total of $4,483,013. The total spent on providing student services amounted to $5,036,985, with the remaining funding coming from general instruction. A breakdown of the types of services and student codes was provided along with allocated funding for each school. The full report can be found in the board meeting agenda package.</p><p><strong>Financial Update</strong></p><p>Assistant Secretary Treasurer Candice Hintz provided a financial update to the Board for information. As of November 2021, the division was 25% of the way through the current fiscal year. There were no reported changes to revenues, compared to the fall 2021 approved budget. The school division is currently projecting overall revenues of $51,511,580 for the year and projected expenses of $52,141,775. Overall, the 2021-2022 school year deficit is expected to come in at $595,195.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Other Items:</strong></p><ul><li>The board approved the borrowing resolution with ATB Financial for the 2021-2022 year.</li></ul>

<p>The Prairie Rose Public Schools Board of Trustees will be holding their next public meeting on January 11, 2022, at 12:45 PM. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the meeting will be streamed live.</p><p>The meeting agenda can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ayjvsHhUIIZTvm4ggNZhYMZTF6fpLzuP/view?usp=sharing">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ayjvsHhUIIZTvm4ggNZhYMZTF6fpLzuP/view?usp=sharing</a></p><p>The meeting will be held online and can be accessed here: <a href="https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ODI4ODQzNGYtNmE1Ni00ZDJmLTlmMDEtZGUxOTQ4ZjM5YzM1%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22c1a7f361-4369-4e63-af8a-db541e2c097b%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22f7324c65-36e2-49e7-bfab-e0b3d9aa4a5d%22%2c%22IsBroadcastMeeting%22%3atrue%7d&amp;btype=a&amp;role=a">Join the Online Meeting</a><br><i>Once you click the link, click cancel (on the pop up), watch on the web instead, join anonymously.</i></p>

<p>On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=81695BC01F3A2-FCDD-B660-8693473704E81BE1">January 5th the Alberta Government confirmed</a> that in-person classes would restart on January 10th. With the classes resuming next week, Prairie Rose Public Schools is prepared to welcome back students using enhanced cleaning and health practices such as masking for grades 4-12 (and all adults), cohorting when possible, and enhanced cleaning practices.&nbsp;</p><p>To supplement our current efforts, the government will begin distributing medical grade masks and testing kits to each student and staff member. The school division has been told that we can expect to start seeing shipments of these items as early as Friday, January 7th, although there is no guarantee they will arrive by the start of classes next week. Once schools receive the materials they will be sent home with students. <i>The use of the medical masks and testing kits is optional and can be used at the discretion and guidance of parents. </i>A video has been created with instructions on how to use the <a href="https://youtu.be/h4q7EuAbgE8">testing kits</a> for those who wish to use them.</p><p>Other important information:</p><ul><li>All individuals are still required to review the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12oedZgsqwxJlmL6yMMLlR86E4PeuvGMG/view">Student Illness Guide</a> with their child each day before coming to school. If your child shows any signs of illness, parents will be contacted to pick up their child from school. It is anticipated there will be new changes to the daily checklist, but currently we ask families to follow the same process as prior to the winter break when determining if their child is well enough to attend school. Over the break the government also announced changes to the <a href="https://www.alberta.ca/isolation.aspx">isolation and quarantine timelines</a>. Please take a moment to review the new changes.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>Based on current health data, there will likely be a high number of student and staff absences in the coming weeks due to the rising number of Omicron COVID-19 cases within communities. Should this happen in Prairie Rose, it may be necessary to move a class or classes to online learning for a short period of time. Online learning will only be used as a last resort when it is not possible to offer in-person learning.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>It is our hope that extra curricular activities (including sports programs) will continue as planned. We have not received official confirmation regarding extra curricular and expect more information related to the continuation of these programs in the next few days.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>It is expected that the government will be making several changes to their K-12 school guidance documents. Currently, we do not have additional information related to what these may be, including contact tracing practices. Once we have more information this will be shared with families.<br>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>For high school students only</strong>: Diploma exams have been cancelled for January. Prairie Rose has also made the decision to cancel exam week, which means there will be no final exams for any high school students. Classes will run for all high school students up to and including January 26th. Students will be off on January 27th and January 28th (SI Day). Second semester will begin on January 31st.</li></ul><p>We understand that families may have additional questions. We continue to ask for your patience as we amend our guidelines based on new information from the province. Please watch your email over the weekend, as it is likely you may receive another update from us with these details. As always, we appreciate your cooperation and patience as we navigate the uncertainty of the pandemic and look forward to a return to in-person learning next week.</p><p>Sincerely,</p><p>Reagan Weeks<br>Superintendent of Schools<br>Prairie Rose Public Schools</p>

<p>On December 30th, the province announced that due to the rising number of Omicron cases of COVID-19, <strong>the return to school following the Christmas break will be delayed across the province until January 10th</strong>. In Prairie Rose, students were scheduled to return to class next Monday on January 3rd. In addition to postponing a return to class for students, it was also announced that diploma exams that are scheduled to start on January 11th have been cancelled.</p><p>During the extended break, school jurisdictions have been asked to assess staffing implications and the potential operational impacts of the current COVID-19 situation. This also includes reviewing current COVID-19 protocols in Prairie Rose schools and considering additional measures that can be implemented for a safe return to in-person classes. Alberta Education has committed to sharing more information with school authorities next week and have informed us that they are already working to secure additional PPE (masks and rapid test kits) to increase student and staff safety. In Prairie Rose we have already taken proactive measures and have secured KN95 and testing kits which will be available in our schools for the January 10th start date. Once we have more information regarding any additional measures they will be passed along to our school communities.</p><p>We appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic and the uncertainty it brings for both schools and families. Our goal is to continue to work with parents to ensure learning remains a priority, despite the unforeseen challenges we face. Please enjoy your extended Christmas break and we will provide more information once it is made available to us.</p><p>Sincerely,</p><p>Reagan Weeks<br>Superintendent of Schools</p>

<p>As we head into the holiday season, PRPS would like to thank all our families and students for helping us support many important social initiatives in our local communities. Your donations and time will go towards helping others this season.</p><p>Check out all the ways our schools have given back: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dyuwHMqaUi4991JZ7INOW_2yJX13bD85/view?usp=sharing">A Festive Season in Prairie Rose</a></p>

<p>In the late evening of December 16, 2021, Prairie Rose Public Schools was informed by the Redcliff RCMP that an Eagle Butte High School teacher was arrested and charged with two criminal counts including sexual assault and sexual exploitation of a minor. Following notification of the arrest and charges, this individual was immediately removed from the school environment and they are no longer actively working for the school division or with any division students.</p><p>In a case of sexual assault, there are specific legal steps that must be followed before a name can be released to the public and to ensure the victim is protected. As the investigation is being conducted by the RCMP, additional details regarding this case will be provided through the detachment in a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1l7bRvo0J6ZkjnYjyg2kwG9UTISlUoBTG/view?usp=sharing"><i>separate media release</i></a>. Prairie Rose Public Schools is committed to assisting the RCMP fully and transparently throughout the process and is also collaborating with the local Child Advocacy Centre (<a href="https://sanarecentre.ca/">Sanare Centre</a>) and the <a href="https://mentalwellnessmatters.ca/">Canadian Mental Health Association</a> to support the school community moving forward.</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><p>Students and parents of our school community can access support through school liaison Tanya Ridgedale at 403-502-2126 or division liaison Janay Gregory at 403-594-2795.&nbsp;</p><p>Local mental health supports can be accessed by contacting the southeast chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association at 403-504-1811.&nbsp;</p><p>Local sexual assault and trauma support can be accessed through the Sanare Centre at 403-548-2717&nbsp;</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Most importantly, student safety and care becomes our number one priority. Understandably, many within the school community will have questions and feel upset or anxious by this news. Counselling support through our Family School Liaison team has been put in place for those who require it and will remain available through the Christmas break. Furthermore, we have encouraged any student or staff member with information related to the case, to contact the Redcliff RCMP directly.</p><p>We acknowledge this news is very unsettling for our entire school community. Moving forward, Prairie Rose Public Schools will be guided in its actions and decisions by our commitment to student safety, providing safe learning environments for student learning, respect for process and the privacy of those involved, and for the legal process.</p><p>------------------------</p><p>Media inquiries can be directed to:<br><br>Angela Baron<br>Director of Communications<br>Prairie Rose Public Schools<br>angelabaron@prrd8.ca</p>

<p><strong>Mileage and Meal Reimbursement Rates</strong></p><p>Secretary Treasurer Ryan Boser provided an overview of the results of a mileage and meal reimbursement review that compared Prairie Rose’s rates with other school divisions in Zone 6. The division currently reimburses staff at 0.50 per kilometre for mileage, $11 for breakfast, $15 for lunch and $25 for supper. It was recommended that the mileage rate be increased to 0.54 per kilometre and that breakfast financial reimbursement be increased to $15 and supper to $30. The changes would apply to all Prairie Rose staff when conducting official PRPS business. The motion was carried.</p><p><strong>Oyen Public School Presentation</strong></p><p>Principal Jason Duchscherer shared a presentation with the board outlining academic programming, instructional strategies and facility improvements at Oyen Public School. It was noted that the school used the assurance survey data collected in the spring of 2021 to make changes based on the feedback received from students and parents.&nbsp;</p><p>The presentation highlighted the following:</p><ul><li>Recent renovations at the school to improve the front entrance and the completion of a breakfast room.</li><li>Literacy strategies being used across all grade levels including science of reading, Heggerty program and secret stories.</li><li>New programming options at OPS including art class, band, drama, leadership, and computer skills and problem solving.</li><li>Two academy programs, including the SAHA hockey academy and the introduction of the new Jr. Badgers baseball program.</li><li>The introduction of the Prairie Rose Possibility agriculture program where the school purchased their own chicken coop and students were responsible for growing and caring for the animals. The school also purchased red wiggler worms as part of an organic recycling initiative.</li><li>The sharing of a school librarian with South Central High School for 9 hours per week.</li></ul><p>The full presentation can be found in the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LcBqHQiRv2YByODmAnYmid7PzdY2e6K4/view">December 14, 2021, Board Meeting</a> package.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Irvine School Field Trip</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks presented an Irvine School field trip request to Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto from April 23 - May 1, 2022, through EF Tours. It was noted that this specific trip has been approved by the board in past years and that EF Tours is a reputable company specializing in student travel. The board approved the field trip request as presented.</p><p><strong>Board Committee Structures</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks asked the board to vote on two separate motions to rescind two governance policies, Student Board Advisory Committee and FNMI Committee, as both were not consistently reviewed by the board on an annual basis. It was recommended that the Student Board Advisory Committee be renamed, Student Voice and be turned into an ad hoc committee. However, the FNMI Committee will be dissolved, as it was noted that the policy is outdated and the board already receives regular updates via the FNMI Coordinator report, Student Services report and Annual Education Results Report related to FNMI supports, results and strategies. The board passed both motions.</p>

<h2><strong>Update @ 1:00 p.m: Meeting has been delayed until 1:30 p.m.</strong></h2><p>The Prairie Rose Public Schools Board of Trustees will be holding their next public meeting on December 14, 2021, at 12:45 PM. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the meeting will be streamed live.</p><p>The meeting agenda can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LcBqHQiRv2YByODmAnYmid7PzdY2e6K4/view?usp=sharing">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LcBqHQiRv2YByODmAnYmid7PzdY2e6K4/view?usp=sharing</a></p><p>The meeting will be held online and can be accessed here: <a href="https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_OTkwNTc2MjctY2ZmZS00N2E5LWEwMGEtN2MzYTgyNTA4YmYy%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22c1a7f361-4369-4e63-af8a-db541e2c097b%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22f7324c65-36e2-49e7-bfab-e0b3d9aa4a5d%22%2c%22IsBroadcastMeeting%22%3atrue%7d&amp;btype=a&amp;role=a">Join the Online Meeting</a><br><i>Once you click the link, click cancel (on the pop up), watch on the web instead, join anonymously.</i></p>

<p>Early this morning, fire crews were called to Oyen Public School to deal with a situation involving a burned motor in the furnace room. The issue has since been resolved and no additional damage has been reported. However, due to the smoke from the incident, students will be kept outside for part of the morning to allow the smoke to clear before returning to class indoors. If you have any&nbsp; questions, please contact school principal Jason Duchscherer.</p>

<p>Ralston School has been notified of a 11th positive COVID-19 case in&nbsp;an individual who attended school while infectious. These cases have all occurred within a 14-day time period. As a result, Alberta Health Services has informed us that Ralston School has been placed on Outbreak Status. The status&nbsp;does not change daily operations of the school, however, it does mean AHS has assigned an outbreak number to Ralston and will be closely monitoring for additional cases. The school will also be posted as 'Outbreak Status'&nbsp;on the provincial reporting site.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Read the letter here:</strong> <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GVdbPiP1AAy6w2qDlvNufTmAthB24oyr/view?usp=sharing">AHS Declares Outbreak at Ralston School</a></p><ul><li>All members of the Ralston School community are strongly advised to monitor for symptoms, stay home when sick and book a test if needed. Parents are encouraged to use our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12oedZgsqwxJlmL6yMMLlR86E4PeuvGMG/view">Student Illness Guide</a> to assist with this process.</li><li>As a reminder, you can find detailed information related to positive cases on our website: <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NKVMLXSvdnBI57aajBLRseaSqlbXlccMed6qkPvAq5c/edit?usp=sharing">Ralston Public Reporting</a></li></ul>

<p>We have been asked to share the following information with our families from Alberta Health Services:</p><p>Health Canada has approved Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5-11. The Canadian Pediatric Society is recommending that all eligible children get vaccinated against COVID-19.</p><p>Parents may book vaccine appointments for children aged 5 to 11 through the <a href="https://bookvaccine.alberta.ca/vaccine/s/">Alberta Vaccine Booking system</a> or by calling Health Link at 811. <strong>Vaccines will not be available in schools and schools do not track or monitor the status of student vaccinations</strong>. Parent or guardian consent is required for children to get their vaccine, and it can be provided either in-person at the vaccine appointment or by a signed consent form.</p><p>K-12 students are not required to have a vaccination of any kind to attend Prairie Rose Public Schools, and no student will be denied access to an education based on their vaccination status. Prairie Rose will continue to recognize and respect parents as the primary decision-makers for their children regarding COVID vaccinations. We encourage our parents and guardians to seek out reliable and factual information to inform their decisions on vaccines for their children.&nbsp;</p><h4>Vaccine Resources</h4><ul><li><a href="https://open.alberta.ca/dataset/94df0467-fe7d-4008-891b-911c230bc8b9/resource/2fa7e614-a976-4cd2-82e2-4bc739687056/download/health-cmoh-letter-covid-19-vaccine-for-children-age-5-11-parents-guardians.pdf">Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health letter to parents (Nov 24)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.alberta.ca/covid19-vaccine-myths-and-facts.aspx">Government of Alberta – Vaccine myths and facts and information on vaccines for children</a></li><li><a href="https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/topics/page17746.aspx">AHS COVID-19 Immunization for Children Under 12</a></li><li><a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/vaccination-children/covid-19.html?utm_campaign=hc-sc-covidvaccine-21-22&amp;utm_medium=sem&amp;utm_source=ggl&amp;utm_content=ad-text-en&amp;utm_term=children%20covid%2019%20vaccine&amp;adv=2122-89750&amp;id_campaign=12876015044&amp;id_source=128444816378&amp;id_content=545566020908&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAs92MBhAXEiwAXTi25ykm3zsdnWS0BBBHnhZ9lKIDupsFaIexHgIGw5_VrYtlH691ESvTbxoCYmIQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds">Health Canada – COVID-19 vaccines for children: What you need to know</a></li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools would like to congratulate Daphne Thompson of Eagle Butte High School and Victoria Rooks of Senator Gershaw School who have both recently had their science fair research published in the Canadian Science Fair Journal. Being published is a huge accomplishment and we are incredibly proud to recognize the effort and dedication to science and learning required to reach this milestone.</p><p>Daphne Thompson, grade 12 student at Eagle Butte High School:<br><a href="https://csfjournal.com/volume-3-issue-7/2021/4/10/fungi-in-snow">https://csfjournal.com/volume-3-issue-7/2021/4/10/fungi-in-snow</a></p><p>Victoria Rooks, grade nine student at Senator Gershaw School:<br><a href="https://csfjournal.com/volume-4-issue-2/2021/10/29/worm-phun">https://csfjournal.com/volume-4-issue-2/2021/10/29/worm-phun</a></p><p>The full media release from the Kiwanis Regional Science Fair Committee can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LPB6IlUth_r49I408jB74tItdGpDuAe8">https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LPB6IlUth_r49I408jB74tItdGpDuAe8</a></p>