Prairie Rose Public Schools News Archive

<p>Substitute bus drivers are needed through Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) for extracurricular activities and field trips during school days and on weekends as well as to cover morning and afternoon routes. As a Class 2 license and S Endorsement is required, PRPS will train at no cost to the driver with a wage being paid as part of the training process. Those applicants who already hold a Class 1 or Class 2 license will still need to obtain an S Endorsement to be able to drive with students on board.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“School bus drivers do more than drive kids to and from school. They play an important role in fostering a stronger, more connected community by ensuring safety, building relationships, and contributing to the students’ and their families’ overall well-being,” stated Lois Bedwell, Chair of the PRPS Board of Trustees. “Every morning, after inspecting their buses, bus drivers start their day by greeting each child with a smile and a kind word. As a school bus driver, they may be more than just the person who gets the kids to school. They may also be a mentor, a confidant, and a pillar of the community. Does this sound like the perfect job for you? Please consider becoming a substitute bus driver for Prairie Rose.”&nbsp;</p><p>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser said PRPS is pleased with how the new transportation system is running so far this year. There have been some learning curves, but he feels PRPS has adapted very quickly, which was aided by making improvements based on feedback from drivers. Improvements were made in many areas, including altering routes, how drivers are compensated, paperwork and driver meetings.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“That part has been really good,” said Boser. “We’ve leaned on our drivers in many instances as they are the ones who have been out there driving. In many cases, for several years, so they know this industry better than we do and the feedback has been valuable. Overall, it’s gone well, and we are continuing to add staffing in the transportation department.”&nbsp;</p><p>PRPS is adding a transportation dispatcher/admin assistant, who will start in the next few weeks, and have also sat down to define current roles. Derek Beck is responsible for managing the fleet, which includes 39 new buses and five spare buses, and coordinates all maintenance and servicing. Wade Lanctot is the new Director of Transportation and oversees all driver and parent concerns, route planning, along with day-to-day operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“We need subs for our routes, but we are also in need of drivers who are able to pick up additional work through the academy programming, field trips and extra-curricular activities,” explained Boser. Some of the academies, such as hockey, are seasonal, but when they are running, the scheduling for a driver would be consistent from week to week. Substitute drivers would have as much or as little work as they want with a flexible schedule. “PRPS is willing to work with each person on the number of hours they want and the times of day they prefer to work,” said Boser.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Those individuals who are interested in being a substitute driver and already hold a Class 1 or 2 license must still obtain an S Endorsement because they will be transporting children. The S Endorsement course is all about safety as well as loading and unloading students properly. Currently, new drivers need to travel to Brooks or Lethbridge for this course with mileage and hotel costs along with a wage being paid. PRPS’s vision is to have their own driving school with route drivers acting as trainers whenever it works for them.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“Kids love getting on the bus in the morning and seeing a close friend, grandpa, dad or uncle drive them to school every day,” stated Trustee Nancy Haraga. “Sometimes it’s even someone who played a huge role in the community and has since retired and is looking for something to fill his/her time in the morning and afternoon.  It’s a way to kindle hearts and forge futures for the upcoming farmers and ranchers of our rural communities. The kids sure enjoy seeing new and old faces of their community. It’s a way, to put a face to their name. Don’t throw yourself under the bus, jump in and see what the ride is all about.”</p><p>By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer</p>

<p>Three of the six HALO pilots are licensed for both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, so getting them certified to fly the Dave Rozdeba South Alberta Flight Academy student-built plane isn’t difficult. Thus far, only Captain Ryan Shrives is certified to fly the Vans RV-12 and said, “certification wasn’t complicated, it was more about time management and having people available. It was a few flights to get familiar with the machine and the systems.”&nbsp;</p><p>Shrives said the plane, which now has about 300 flight hours on it, was fun to fly and he has taken up CEO of HALO Paul Carolan to give him a feel for how the plane handles, what it can do and visibility.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“We haven’t used it on a search or a fire yet because in the cases where we were doing that this year, we needed to be able to deploy people and we can’t do that with the plane,” explained Carolan. “The idea is we might not always have to put people on the ground and then this makes way more sense because it can fly longer and is more affordable. We aren’t doing what I would call proactive patrols, but if someone reports something, the idea is between one of the two aircraft, we can confirm if there is a fire and identify the seriousness of the situation.”&nbsp;</p><p>This past summer, there were reports in Cypress County of the smell of smoke, but nobody knew where the fire was. This is the type of situation, said Shrives, where the plane could have been used to scout the area. “The reason we have the specific partnership with the plane,” added Carolan, “is because if the situation doesn’t require taking people out and being able to land and put them on the ground, the plane is a great asset to go look from an aerial reconnaissance perspective. It can stay up longer, is more affordable to fly and can cover greater distances. It is a great opportunity to have that under the program as well, plus Prairie Rose is deeply invested in the community and their support to be out there in emergency situations is a great way for them to give back.”&nbsp;</p><p>When HALO began working with Cypress County, the South Alberta Fire Academy was already in operation. Thus, there was a natural synergy for HALO to partner with Prairie Rose. Additionally, it allows Fire Academy students the opportunity to witness the EMS and helicopter side of emergency situations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Cypress County represents nearly 40% of HALO’s annual call volume and they regularly train and work with their fire department. It could be for landing zone operations, medevac situations or the establishment and enhancement of the aerial fire program. HALO can provide aerial recons, where someone in the aircraft is spotting fires to establish the seriousness of the situation, what direction the fire is heading and if there are any obstacles in the way.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, HALO can also transport people to begin fighting the fire or provide situational awareness for crews arriving on the ground. “It’s a great use of both programs. If we have the crew available to take the plane and get eyes on to spot something and the helicopter is needed in a medevac, now it’s still here.&nbsp; It’s a great compliment, especially in cases where there is reported activity of fire, but nobody knows where it is, this is a great way to find it.”&nbsp;</p><p>The second PRPS student-built plane is due to be completed and moved to the airport in December for ground runs and final inspection. Harry Jaeger, who is an aircraft maintenance engineer, came in to work with the Flight Academy at a point when the first build was stalled. Having worked on about 50 plane-builds, he brought with him the technical know-how to get the project back on track and completed.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Currently, due to the large number of Grade 10 students entering the Flight Academy this year, Jaeger has four groups of students each week that help with the second plane build. “The students enjoy their build time; they are very engaged and love what they are doing here. I’ve taught lots of classes to adults, coming into the student level of Grade 10, 11 and 12, I found this was exactly where I need to be,” stated Jaeger.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>As Jaeger also has a pilot’s license and a background in flying experimental aircraft along with having an in-depth knowledge of the student-built Vans RV-12, he is the mentor pilot for the plane. “I’ve flown many other customer’s airplanes to ensure things are good. I’ve set them up and performed calibrations to ensure everything works the way it’s supposed to and it’s safe. That is the end goal, it must be safe.”&nbsp;</p><p>By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agenda packages for the October 8, 2024, Public meetings can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UQnLaPpFZR0YOe-u-FVVF5Ldozj_H7ax/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UQnLaPpFZR0YOe-u-FVVF5Ldozj_H7ax/view?usp=drive_link</a></p><p>--------</p><p><strong>1. Bow Island Schools Presentation</strong></p><p>In a presentation to the Board, Bow Island Elementary and Senator Gershaw Principal Scott Angle and Vice Principal Paul Brocklesby emphasized the deep involvement with the Bow Island community, positioning the school as a central hub for students, parents, and the broader community. Key highlights of their presentation included:</p><p><strong>Community Engagement:</strong> The school prioritizes community involvement, using local resources for activities and offering large events at no cost. Older students collaborate with younger ones, and initiatives like pickleball and 4-H programs foster strong local ties. The school also purchased a business (In Our Community) that was closing, turning it into a school-based learning opportunity for students.</p><p><strong>Growth and Demographics:</strong> Enrollment between both schools has increased from 137 in 2020 to 197 in 2024. This growth is partly due to more Burdett School students transitioning into the regular high school program.</p><p><strong>Innovative Programming:</strong> A focus on agriculture through the school greenhouse provides students daily outdoor learning. This serves both academic and wellness purposes, connecting with local ag businesses and involving activities like pollinators and STEM projects. Battlebots competitions and trips to MH College are part of the STEM initiatives.</p><p><strong>FNMI and Cultural Integration</strong>: Bow Island schools have collaborated with the Peigan Board of Education, part of the Piikani Nation. The two communities have planned several opportunities to interact and learn from each other during the school year. At the last staff SI Day, Jesse Plain Eagle visited the school to teach staff how to build a teepee and discuss opportunities to incorporate the Blackfoot language into the curriculum.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Student Responsiveness:</strong> "We listen, we ask, so that's how we know." The schools send out annual surveys to gauge student needs and successes, ensuring the school is adaptive. Initiatives like student-planned wellness days and recognition programs are in place to keep students engaged.</p><p>These efforts reflect the school's commitment to community integration, student well-being, and innovative learning approaches.</p><p><strong>2. Executive Report</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks shared the monthly Executive Report which included:</p><ul><li>A summary of Truth and Reconciliation activities that took place across PRPS</li><li>An update on the asphalt work that has been completed at Margaret Wooding School</li><li>PRPS has been successful in securing a dual credit grant for $50,000 to enhance trades programming.</li><li>Foremost School alum William Barrows recently won the Canadian Final Rodeo Championship. Barrows coaches and mentors the students in the Foremost Rodeo Academy.</li></ul><p><strong>3. Student Enrollment Update</strong></p><p>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser shared that the 2024-2025 student enrollment numbers have been finalized, and PRPS is once again experiencing growth. Overall, there are 127 more students in PRPS schools compared to the 2024-2025 school year.</p><p><strong>4. HR Accountability Report</strong></p><p>Deputy Superintendent Mark Heinricks presented the HR Accountability Report for information. It was shared that PRPS, on average, continues to have smaller class sizes than what is recommended by the province.</p><ul><li>K: 12.4 students per class (Recommended value= 17)</li><li>1 - 3: 14.9 students per class (Recommended value= 17)</li><li>4 - 6: 19.7 students per class (Recommended value= 23)</li><li>7 - 9: 20.3 students per class (Recommended value= 25)</li><li>10 - 12: 19.2 students per class (Recommended value= 26)</li></ul><p>Other highlights of the report include:</p><ul><li>Most of the teaching staff in PRPS have lots of experience and education. 173 of 237 certified staff have more than 9 years experience and 5/6 years of education.</li><li>The certified staffing FTE across the division remains unchanged for 2024-2025; however, staff were reallocated based on enrollment needs.</li><li>PRPS is projecting total staffing costs for the year to be $41,865,333.</li></ul><p><strong>5. Approved (in-principle) Field Trips</strong></p><ul><li>Eagle Butte High School trip to Greece from April 2 - April 11, 2026</li><li>Foremost School trip to Italy from May 19 - May 28, 2026</li></ul>

<p>Danika Farion, who teaches a Grade 1 and 2 split class at Schuler School, is in her seventh year of teaching, and chose this career path because she wanted to have an impact on people’s lives. “I feel like teaching really does that,” said Farion. “You can see how the kids develop and how they grow. It’s the most magical thing when they come to me being unsure about letter sounds and, because I get them for two years, the growth I get to see from letter sounds to reading word passages is amazing. The look they get in their eyes when they get it and watching them learn is rewarding.”&nbsp;</p><p>Reading time is her students' favourite, when they get to choose two books based on their reading level and then get to ‘shop’ for two books based on their interests. Farion avoids using workbooks for the most part and finds using the whole classroom or different parts of the school, which allow her students to move around while learning, works best. As it is the beginning of the year, she is still assessing where each student is at, what each of the Grade 1 students know and how much the Grade 2 students have retained over the summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“I want to ensure when we begin our learning activities that I’m meeting each of them where they are at because if they don’t have the numbers 1 to 20 mastered, I’m not going to move them onward to 50. It ends up being many different programs in here, I could probably have five or six different levels going on in literacy and numeracy. That is what works best for them, where each can do things, they can be successful at and have their own growth. Everybody’s growth looks different,” explained Farion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>When Farion first started at Schuler School straight out of university, she taught several grades and various subjects before moving into the Grade 1 and 2 classroom a few years ago. “I love literacy and teaching students how to read. I’ve done lots of research and professional development in literacy. It’s my favourite thing to teach. Coming out of university, I didn’t think I wanted to teach junior high, and I ended up loving it. Then I was in Grade 5 and 6 along with 3 and 4 and I liked that also,” stated Farion. “This position opened, and I was already getting passionate about literacy with the Grade 5 and 6 students because I was seeing a large gap, and I was curious as to why. That’s what steered me towards the science of reading and creating the sound wall in my classroom along with explicit phonics instruction.”&nbsp;</p><p>A new Grade 1 student will be starting in Farion’s class next week and then she will have ten in Grade 1 and seven in Grade 2. Her classroom has tables that sit three students each and she tries to have at least one Grade 2 at each table where they can act in a leadership role.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“We don’t do lots of stuff at the desks, we do stuff all around the room. Tomorrow, we are doing orthographic mapping of our words,” said Farion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For this exercise, Farion will create different ‘ponds’ around the room with picture cards upside down. Each student will ‘fish’ for words in their designated pond, using the word on the card to map out its sounds, build the word, write it and then use the word in a sentence. Once done, the student brings the word back to its pond and gets to fish for another one.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“The fishing works well and I use it for reading comprehension as well where there are sentences that have all the graphemes they are learning. They read the sentence, write it, and draw a diagram to show the sentence. Tomorrow for numeracy, I have number cards from 1-50 and another set of 1-100 and we’ll go to the gym. Each student gets their own set, and they lay them out for number recognition. They love going to the gym and it's fun for them. Everything I do is interactive by using white boards or using manipulatives, so I can see where each student is at. I take pictures that go in their portfolios to show their progress,” said Farion.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Within each portfolio, the students write ‘I can’ statements for their literacy and numeracy curriculum along with photos from field trips and other activities. Farion binds the collection together for each student to take home at the end of the year. “It makes it as easy as possible. It’s nice for report cards as it shows exactly where they are at and for the parents to look at,” explained Farion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The sound wall in Farion’s classroom is her own creation because there was nothing available she felt would work. “It helps teach all the graphemes. The letters that make the sounds are really important, which is a big change that’s happened in reading instruction,” said Farion. On the wall are all the sounds the students learn, and they can refer to it whenever they are reading, spelling or writing. “It really helps them to remember sounds and to reference them when learning new sounds. It’s a game changer for the students, not only learning this way but also being able to access the wall and make sense while they are progressing” concluded Farion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>The October 8, 2024, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting is only available in-person.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UQnLaPpFZR0YOe-u-FVVF5Ldozj_H7ax/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UQnLaPpFZR0YOe-u-FVVF5Ldozj_H7ax/view?usp=drive_link</a></p>

<p>Tanya Johnson has been teaching for 25 years, working in specialized education and substitute teaching for much of her career before moving to teach at a Prairie Rose Hutterite colony school eight years ago. After taking the position, Johnson achieved a master’s degree in ESL and Bilingual Education, for teaching students who are learning more than one language.&nbsp;</p><p>All students at the colony school have German as a first language and the class sizes on this colony are about 20 students each year with grades ranging from kindergarten to Grade 8. “I love spending time with the kids and watching the ‘lightbulb’ moments, when they first understand the concept, I have been trying to teach,” stated Johnson, who added another highlight of teaching is to watch the students grow and develop into becoming good citizens.&nbsp;</p><p>“Every colony is unique and different. My colony is a Lehrerieut Colony and we do not use technology with our learning. My kids start school when they are six and graduate when they are 15 years old. One student graduated a few days ago whom I’ve taught since the day she started school. It was bittersweet, I was sad to see her go because I have worked with her for so many years, but also happy that she is starting the next phase in her life. Teaching the same students every year, you can develop a close relationship and have a huge impact on their lives.”&nbsp;</p><p>Johnson lives in Medicine Hat with an hour commute to get to work each day. “I love my job and where I work. I have an amazing community with a wonderful group of people. On a colony, it is very important for the school and community to work cohesively. We are actively involved doing activities with the people in the community. It’s a unique experience,” explained Johnson. “They value their children and education, and the educators that come to the community to work with them.”&nbsp;</p><p>The closeness Johnson develops leads to willing and enthusiastic students in the classroom and she is able to get to a deeper level of teaching from knowing the children so well and teaching them throughout their schooling. Teaching so many grades requires a teacher who is highly organized and knows all the curriculum throughout the grades she teaches.&nbsp;</p><p>“I need to adapt and be flexible to fit all the student needs in with each of the grades,” stated Johnson. “It’s important that each student is at their level, so I utilize effective curriculum series to address each level. My students don’t get free time, it doesn’t exist in my classroom. Idle hands lead to mischief, so my kids have a challenging curriculum which meets provincial standards. My students are all second language learners and their ability to memorize is extraordinary. They attend German school before and after English school where they memorize bible verses as well as other cultural teachings. Hard work, education, community, and family are some of the core values on a colony. These are wonderful traits to create a warm learning environment. I would never teach anywhere else.”&nbsp;</p><p>By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>Each afternoon, from Monday to Thursday at Athletic Park, students from Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) are honing their baseball skills. Students from Seven Persons, Irvine, Schuler and Senator Gershaw are all taking part in the Mavericks School of Baseball this year and learning skills that can be carried over into other sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Greg Morrison, Owner/General Manager of the Medicine Hat Mavericks who runs the school said, “our academy program is for Grades 4 to 9, and most are in the Grade 5 to 8 range. It works well with the Mavericks baseball team because the fall is a great time for school kids to be working on baseball and it's our downtime for the summer college team. It’s been a great compliment to the overall program with the Mavericks.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>About 55 students are taking part in the program this year with some who will move into the South Alberta Hockey Academy (SAHA) for the winter and then return to the Mavericks School of Baseball in early spring. The school will be outdoors until about mid-October before moving indoors to South Alberta Collegiate for the winter.&nbsp;</p><p>“We have a baseball off-season and that’s when we work on multi-sports. We dial down the baseball skills and ramp up other stuff because they are younger kids, it’s a lot of ball to be doing 10 months a year,” explained Morrison. “Everyone needs an off-season; I played pro-baseball and even we had off-seasons. I got my kinesiology degree as I was wrapping up my 12-year baseball career, so that’s where it helps with the programming side for growth and development along with motor learning. It’s one thing to just show up and do baseball and another to undulate the program over the ten months and keep it a good variety.”&nbsp;</p><p>Educational Assistant Candice Ristau accompanies Irvine School students to take part in the program twice a week. She taught softball for a couple of years and expressed an interest in helping with the baseball program. “I play catch with the kids and run the pitching machine to help them develop a better throwing technique. Sometimes things fall into your lap, and you are blessed to be a part of it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Irvine School students Casey and Liam both wanted to join the Mavericks School of Baseball because they enjoy playing the game. Casey also plays softball on the U11 Thunder black team and says pitching is her favourite position. Liam feels his game has improved in all areas since he started with the program and second base is his favourite position because he likes picking up ground balls.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Ristau said the most valuable part of the program is helping students build confidence, learning to play as a team and communicating with each other. “If you aren’t confident, I feel like you don’t try hard and keep going in something. Casey’s throwing technique was a little off and now she’s getting better, and we are only three weeks in. Just having a knowledgeable coach who can pick out those areas and fine tune everything will help them from getting shoulder injuries in the future or just make them stronger,” stated Ristau.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>The Mavericks baseball team, who are 18- to 24-year-old college baseball players, get back on the field in May and this past spring worked with the students from PRPS. “It was pretty awesome in the spring,” explained Morrison, “we had probably 10 sessions with our Mavericks coaches and players working with the students as part of their school programming. We brought in our catching coach and did a clinic with the players along with mentoring the students. It’s a unique thing, a Canadian liking baseball and there are way more opportunities for Canadian players. To learn the skills, they need to start at about Grade 4, between the ages of 8 to 10. This is my passion, to show these kids early and then their interest grows because they are having success, they know how to throw a baseball hard by Grade 5 or 6. It’s like anything, good teaching and coaching make a difference.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>This past Friday, September 27, to honour <i>The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation</i>, a group of students from Seven Persons School, accompanied by teacher Tanner Pruden, made the journey to Irvine School to participate in a traditional lacrosse game. Dave and Elizabeth Welton of Nation Lacrosse visited both schools last week to hold workshops on lacrosse skill development and understanding.&nbsp;</p><p>During the week, all students at Irvine painted rocks and prior to the game sat in an orderly row along the sidelines with their rock in front of them. “As part of our rock ceremony, we have done some learning that rocks have a special history for Indigenous culture. We understand that they have been here forever, tell a story and have special meaning for Indigenous people,” explained Vice Principal Heather Gust.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Following the rock ceremony, a group of Grade 6 students read out their individually created land acknowledgements. Dave Welton then spoke briefly before the game began. “We don’t play the game; we make a game. It’s part of the Indigenous history passed onto us from the first people of Turtle Island and then that game moved west in various forms of stick ball.” There are four reasons to play lacrosse, continued Welton, because it is a gift from the creator, to celebrate, to resolve disputes as well as being a part of healing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Despite the blustery day, players from both schools enthusiastically ran onto the field with Welton acting as referee. At times the game was organized chaos with about 40 players on the field, but everyone appeared to be enjoying themselves and engaged fully in the experience.&nbsp;</p><p>At the close of the game, Welton congratulated both teams for playing a fantastic game and telling the students he thinks good medicine was made on the field. The winner of the inaugural Truth and Reconciliation lacrosse game was Irvine and Welton expressed the hope that a tradition has begun. Welton’s parting gesture was to gift a lacrosse stick that is over 60 years old to Irvine School.&nbsp;</p><p>As Seven Persons was about reboard the bus after the game, Tanner Pruden explained, “they had the option to come out today and about 36 students wanted to join. There was a focus on tribe against tribe and to spread awareness of lacrosse in general.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>Students of all ages are invited to participate in the annual Echo Dale Cross Country Meet on Saturday, September 28th. Starting times vary by age and skill level. The event is a great opportunity to students to try cross country and have fun amongst friends and fellow classmates. The cost to participate is $10.</p><p>Scheduled run times by category: <a href="https://files.trackie.com/uploads/event/2024-09-23-14-37-52-682567395-523336.pdf?rand=476345011">https://files.trackie.com/uploads/event/2024-09-23-14-37-52-682567395-523336.pdf?rand=476345011</a></p><p>Echo Dale race routes: <a href="https://files.trackie.com/uploads/event/2024-09-23-20-19-46-1256640894-523336.pdf?rand=313599997">https://files.trackie.com/uploads/event/2024-09-23-20-19-46-1256640894-523336.pdf?rand=313599997</a></p><p>Register NOW to reserve your spot: <a href="https://www.trackie.com/event/2024-echo-dale-cross-country-running-high-school-junior-high-and-elementary-meet/1016642/">https://www.trackie.com/event/2024-echo-dale-cross-country-running-high-school-junior-high-and-elementary-meet/1016642/</a></p><p>Note: Teachers and classes who register as a group are asked to contact <a href="mailto:darrylsmith@prrd8.ca">darrylsmith@prrd8.ca</a> for instructions.</p>

<p>The Parkside Jr High School modernization project which includes a complete school remodel and gymnasium addition is about to go from conception to reality.</p><p>During the province-wide address to Albertans, Premier Danielle Smith announced new funding to advance new school capital projects through a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=91006381D7AE8-B05F-6310-465F3FE7EA529356#jumplinks-0">school construction accelerator program</a>. One of the announced projects was the Parkside Jr High School modernization &amp; addition project which is currently in the final stages of the design phase.&nbsp;</p><p>“This is exciting news for our Redcliff families and the community of Parkside,” says Redcliff trustee Pam Cursons. “The newly modernized facility will be an engaging space for students to learn and a state of the art recreational space for all of Redcliff to enjoy.”</p><p>The project was first advanced in March of 2023 as part of the provincial Capital Plan announcement, but that only included funding to conduct a review of the proposed project and to get the design phase completed. Without construction funding, the project was not able to move forward.</p><p>“Unlike how school projects used to be announced, there are no guarantees that a project that received planning or design funding will be next in-line for full construction funding,” says PRPS Chief Financial Office Ryan Boser. “Our goal was to keep moving the project design forward to the point we were ready to go. We were about to reach that point at the end of October, so the timing of the announcement is perfect.”</p><p>In addition to an upgraded exterior and interior, the school will see many additional improvements including the conversion of the former gymnasium into three new learning spaces which will include a learning commons, science room and CTS lab. The office will be moved from where it is currently located to the front entrance and a new food/concession room that can accommodate hosting school events and tournaments will be added. The biggest change will be the addition of a new larger gymnasium which has been a biggest request from students and community. The school is currently seeking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/parkside-seeking-donations-for-gym-expansion-as-part-of-modernization-project-1708028841497">community donations</a> to help fund the increased gymnasium size.</p><p>“Our students, staff and parents have been really excited about this project, however until now it was just something we hoped for and didn’t know when it would happen,” says Parkside principal Jonn Baird. “With this funding announcement we can all start to get really excited about these changes becoming a reality. We can’t wait to host other schools and invite the community into our new space. It is a building all of Redcliff will be proud to use and call its own.”</p><p>More information about the Parkside Jr High School modernization project can be found on the Prairie Rose Public School website including the most recent rendering for the project.</p><p>Read more about the Parkside Jr High School Modernization project online:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.myprps.com/parkside-jr-high-school-modernization-project">https://www.myprps.com/parkside-jr-high-school-modernization-project</a></p>

<p>This coming Thursday, September 19, the Agricultural Discovery Centre (ADC) at Irvine School is hosting a Fall Festival and Welcome Back BBQ. “It’s a great chance for us to welcome our families back and to showcase all the things we do at the ADC,” said ADC Coordinator Nichole Neubauer.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The BBQ portion of the evening will also act as a meet the teacher event and is only for students of Irvine School along with their families. However, the activities, farmers market and auction is open to everyone, explained Shawn Yeast, who teaches Grade 4 along with the AgPro CTF course. Due to the abundance of rain this growing season, the garden has been amazing and there is an abundance of produce to sell.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This semester, students in the AgPro CTF course have been learning about event planning and have been creating posters and advertising for the upcoming Fall Festival. They’ve been planning activities for those attending to participate in.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Grade 8 student Hayes, who is helping to organize the festival, explained, “We’ll be selling two hogs, two lambs and 13 chickens. There will be pumpkin bowling, arts and crafts, and an egg and spoon race. We are selling farmer’s market stuff also as we had a good harvest. We are selling potatoes, onions, bags of carrots, beets, pumpkins and squash along with eggs from the laying hens. The Foods Class in the school made some muffins and other items that will also be for sale.”&nbsp;</p><p>Yeast added there will also be a photo booth along with a selfie contest during the evening. “We are trying to get some of the family pictures included and have a contest with three categories: most unique, most authentic and funniest picture. The CTF students will vote on the photos to choose the winners.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The activities will run from 5 to just before 7 p.m., which is when the auction will begin. There will be a garden tractor train on hand to transport people between the school and the ADC. David Lutz is once again volunteering his time to be the auctioneer for the evening with all money raised used for programming and operation costs for the ADC.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This year, the two steers, which were once again donated to the ADC by Short Grass Ranches, will be sold by live auction at the Medicine Hat Feeding Company the day prior to the Fall Festival, on Wednesday, September 18 at 9 a.m. Two students from Irvine School, Senya, who is Vice President of the ADC Board, and Lexi, Secretary of the board, will act as ambassadors of the ADC at the auction.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“They speak before the auction to talk about the program and the importance of agriculture education and enhancing ag-literacy and agri-food literacy for students and the work the ADC is putting towards that. The current price of cattle is very high, and we want to ensure the steers sell for market value and this will guarantee that,” stated Neubauer.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Lexi and Senya feel honoured to be chosen to represent the ADC at the auction. “It felt good that we were highly spoken of,” said Lexi.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“We are going to thank everyone and explain where our steers came from and talk about how they were raised. I don’t know how much they weigh, but my bet is on about 1,300 lbs I’m guessing,” added Senya.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agenda packages for the September 10, 2024, Organizational and Public meetings can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10lbhex5FY3emaZ7qo0Djeh4hy5Mm-qk7?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10lbhex5FY3emaZ7qo0Djeh4hy5Mm-qk7?usp=drive_link</a></p><p>---</p><p><strong>Organizational Meeting</strong><br>Every fall the board of trustees elects a new or returning board chair, vice-chair and other key board representative positions. In addition to their regular duties, the following trustees will represent and attend events on behalf of Prairie Rose Public Schools during the 2024-2025 year:</p><p>✔️&nbsp;Lois Bedwell, Board Chair<br>✔️&nbsp;Patty Rooks, Vice-Chair<br>✔️&nbsp;Representative for the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) - Shauna VanderSpruit<br>✔️&nbsp;ASBA Alternate - Nancy Haraga<br>✔️ Representative for the Public School Boards Association (PSBA) - Cathy Hogg<br>✔️&nbsp;PSBAA Alternate - Pam Cursons<br>✔️&nbsp;Teachers Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) - Pam Cursons<br>✔️&nbsp;Representative on the Rural Caucus of Alberta - Patty Rooks</p><p><strong>Strategic Engagement Plan</strong><br>Superintendent Reagan Weeks shared that PRPS is in the final year of the three-year education plan. During the 2024-2025 school year, engagement sessions will be held with all stakeholder groups to gather feedback for the development of the next three-year plan. This engagement will include meetings with school leaders and trustees, roundtable discussions with staff and student groups, discussions at school council meetings, and conversations with school stakeholder groups (partners, municipalities, etc.).The new plan will be presented at the division-wide PD day in May. The current three-year education plan can be found on the PRPS website: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TOMm9M_enbWCdsqoCLvXygsTlZoOIaAy/view">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TOMm9M_enbWCdsqoCLvXygsTlZoOIaAy/view</a></p><p><strong>Cell Phone Policy Update</strong><br>At the start of the 2024-2025 school year, PRPS initiated the first step of Alberta Education’s mandated restrictions for cell phone and social media use in schools. <a href="https://kings-printer.alberta.ca/Documents/MinOrders/2024/Education/2024_014_Education.pdf">The Ministerial Order</a> was announced to school divisions this past spring following a province-wide survey and engagement. It was noted that in PRPS things are going reasonably well and most parents have indicated to trustees they are in support of the change. Trustees were asked to review the administrative procedure provided in the agenda package and bring back any suggestions to the next meeting. The school division has until January 1, 2025, to have the Ministerial Order fully implemented.</p><p><strong>Other Items:</strong></p><ul><li>The PRPS Board of Trustees approved an ATB borrowing resolution for $750,000 for 2024-2025.</li><li>Trustees expressed that there continues to be some confusion from motorists about the rules regarding stopping for school buses when the arm is out in front of the bus and lights are flashing. It was noted that all drivers are required to stop when students are getting on or off the bus, except within the City of Medicine Hat limits where there is a bylaw in-place that does not require vehicles to stop for school buses.&nbsp;</li><li>No reports from the PSBA or ASBA representatives.</li></ul>

<h4>The AEAC 16th Annual Student UAS Competition to be Hosted in Medicine Hat, Alberta in 2025</h4><p>The Aerial Evolution Association of Canada (AEAC) is thrilled to announce that the 2025 Annual National Student Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Competition will be hosted in Medicine Hat, Alberta. This exciting event marks a significant milestone for the region, known for its rich history in aerospace and UAS, including the unique Foremost UAS Test Range and the renowned DRDC Suffield Research Centre.&nbsp;</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>What is the UAS Competition? <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1W-BzJV8YeashqPh8n5vCLOAlmo6h535r/view">Watch the video from the USC 2019</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><i>Medicine Hat: A Hub for Aerospace Innovation&nbsp;</i><br>Southeast Alberta is fast becoming a focal point for aerospace advancements. Home to key institutions like the Foremost UAS Test Range, the <a href="https://www.myprps.com/dr-flight-academy">Dave Rozdeba South Alberta Flight Academy</a>, and an aviation management program at Medicine Hat College, the region is positioning itself as a leader in the aerospace industry.&nbsp;</p><p>The 2025 Student UAS Competition will provide a unique platform to showcase the region's capabilities and its commitment to fostering the next generation of talent in the UAS industry. This event will take place at Len Young Memorial Airfield (home of Medicine Hat RC’ers Club) in Medicine Hat, Alberta from May 09 - 11, 2025.</p><p><i>Collaborative Effort&nbsp;</i><br>This year's competition is made possible through the collaborative efforts of several key partners in Southeast Alberta. Community Futures Entre-Corp is leading the initiative as part of its Rural Aerospace Development project with significant contributions from APEX Regional Innovation Network of Southeast Alberta (powered by Alberta Innovates), Foremost UAS Test Range, Super T Aviation, <a href="https://www.myprps.com/">Prairie Rose School Division</a>, Tourism Medicine Hat, Medicine Hat College, City of Medicine Hat, and Medicine Hat RC’ers Club.&nbsp;</p><p><i>About the Competition&nbsp;</i><br>The Aerial Evolution Association of Canada National Student UAS Competition has been a cornerstone event for 15 years, advancing Canada's position as a global leader in autonomous aerial systems technologies. This competition offers students from across Canada the opportunity to address real-world challenges, develop innovative solutions, and gain hands-on experience in simulated Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. The event is a crucial stepping stone for future leaders in the commercial drone sector.&nbsp;</p><p>Read the full release: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QSC_ZzRK2l2TU_rqisPo5gaAUmuamHx8/view?usp=drive_link">Host City Announcement</a></p>

<p>With the first day of classes less than a week away, our staff has been busy preparing for another year of “Everyone Learning Together” in Prairie Rose Public Schools. Before the new school year begins, here are some important resources that will help our families and students be ready for their first day. More information about our schools and programs can also be found by visiting the PRPS website <a href="http://www.myprps.com">www.myprps.com</a>.</p><p><strong>2024-2025 Returning Student Registration Forms</strong><br>There are still a number of outstanding student registration (demographic update) forms for returning students that have not been completed through our new School Engage online registration system. These forms were sent out in late spring and are your child’s official school registration form. The forms are required by Alberta Education and MUST be completed each year.&nbsp;</p><p>If you run into issues accessing School Engage, here are the most commonly reported reasons why:</p><ul><li>You are trying to use the PowerSchool app to access School Engage&nbsp;– the app does not integrate with School Engage. You must use a web browser such as Chrome, Edge or Safari to log in: <a href="https://prsd8.ca/public/home.html">Parent Sign In (prsd8.ca)</a></li><li>You are using a phone web browser and are encountering issues opening the window in PowerSchool where the School Engage icon is located. If you are using a phone there is a very small arrow (in the light grey area that points to the right) you need to open in the browser window. Using a computer, laptop or Chromebook will prevent this issue.</li><li>You have forgotten your PowerSchool username and password. All families were assigned a PowerSchool account. Your username is your email. Click Forgot Password. You will be prompted to choose a new password. As a hint, it won’t let you pick one that you used recently.</li></ul><p><strong>Bus Route Information</strong><br>In July families who had completed their bus registration were provided with a letter indicating their school bus route for the upcoming year. Over the summer our Transportation Department receives additional registrations which can result in some changes to the preassigned routes. Bus maps have now been posted online for viewing. Please note, the route designed by our Transfinder system MAY NOT BE the route a driver chooses to follow. Drivers will contact families directly with estimated pick up and drop off times. If you DO NOT receive a call from a driver before 8:00 p.m. on August 28, 2024, please complete this form so we can follow up: <a href="https://forms.gle/CNmkMxJkrjWmwHGAA">https://forms.gle/CNmkMxJkrjWmwHGAA</a></p><p>The most recent school bus maps can also be found online: <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/11YMNnplVapR8b7-VYwYgYB7ux7JGmQo6?usp=drive_link">2024-2025 School Bus Maps</a></p><p><strong>New Cell Phone Restrictions for Students</strong><br>As we shared with families at the end of the last school year, a provincial Ministerial Order has been issued restricting the use of student cell phones and social online access during instructional hours. School divisions have until January 1, 2025, to have all aspects of the order in place. In Prairie Rose we will be implementing the cell phone changes in multiple stages, the first step impacts the use of personal devices and will take effect the first day of school.&nbsp;</p><p><i>Personal Mobile Device Definition: Personal mobile device means any device that can communicate or access the internet, such as a cell phone, tablet, laptop or smart watch.</i></p><p>Highlights of the September 2024 implementation includes the following:</p><ul><li>During class time personal devices are powered down and in your bag, in your locker, or the space provided by your teacher and not on your person.</li><li>Headphones and ear buds are not in use during instructional time.</li><li>No personal devices in washrooms or change rooms.</li><li>Teachers will indicate if there are specific learning situations which support personal devices.</li><li>Students can access their personal devices during breaks and/or lunch.</li></ul><p>More information has been put into a document for reference: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V4OWuWubUTwaG10RV9upsEfPBbuT_AsI/view?usp=drive_link">PRPS Personal Mobile Device Procedures (August 2024)</a></p><p><strong>NEW: Online Absence Reporting</strong><br>In an effort to streamline the process for reporting student absences, we have created a new online form where parents can excuse their child’s absence. Parents can still use the former methods for reporting absences, but we encourage the use of the new online form. A confirmation of the absence will be emailed to parents once the form is submitted. There are two ways for parents to access the online reporting feature:</p><ol><li>The school website under the Useful Links found at the top right corner waffle menu (the waffle menu is the nine dots - look for Report an Absence)</li><li>By adding the link to the home screen of a cell phone. Using the Safari browser on an Apple phone, or the Google browser on an Android, copy the following link (<a href="https://prrdweb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0JMwNIsmWPfUlUO">https://prrdweb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0JMwNIsmWPfUlUO</a>). At the bottom of the phone screen there will be a box with an arrow pointing upward. Click on that option and scroll down until you see “Add to Home Screen”. Click Add. A new icon will be added to your phone screen. To report an absence, click this button and complete the form.</li></ol><p><strong>2024-2025 PRPS School Calendar</strong><br>Stay on top of important dates with our 2024-2025 PRPS Calendar. Want to save the 2024-2025 calendar to your phone images for easy access? Click the link to the phone friendly version and take a screenshot of the image file: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/18ms_t0mYokHg1PSedRUpPnxYqRycOAM4/view">2024-2025 Calendar</a></p><p><strong>Chromebooks</strong><br>PRPS students in grades 4-12 will be assigned a school Chromebook to use for the school year. There will be a fee will be assigned to each student which can be paid through School Cash.These Chromebooks will be managed via the school division’s Technology Department.</p><p><strong>School Supply Lists / Bell Times</strong><br>School supply lists along with school start and end times can be found in our online Back to School Guide which is available on the PRPS website: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/back-to-school-guide-2024-2025">https://www.myprps.com/back-to-school-guide-2024-2025</a></p>

<p>The two embroidery machines in the classroom at Eagle Butte High School where The Butte operates out of were bought by teacher Sean Longmore from Customs Print &amp; Stitch, where he worked while he was in high school. Longmore was always interested in business and, with no official business training, has learnt by trial and error.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“I always wanted to be a teacher, my uncle was a teacher, and I loved the way people respected him. People really admired him and what he’d done, and I thought that was awesome,” stated Longmore.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Longmore completed his education degree in Saskatoon, although he and his two brothers had already taken over the Labels store on 3 Street SE and created the Boys on Third brand. He worked at Medicine Hat Public School Division for the first seven years and moved over to Eagle Butte this past January.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“It’s kind of crazy because this is exactly how I stared Boys on Third, doing something exactly like this, printing and pressing t-shirts. I love business, I love the business side of things, I love being able to create,” explained Longmore. “It’s not like teaching, it's better. I get to share all my experiences and I think if I would have had something like this in high school, I can only imagine where I would be. All the mistakes I’ve run into or had to overcome, I can hand them on a plate to the students and say these are the things you need to look for or change.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Of the 15 presenters Longmore brought in this semester, only one of them had a formal business background. All were successful, local business owners and Longmore feels hearing them speak gives students’ awareness that having an official piece of paper isn’t required to start a business. “From what I saw it’s those people who are willing to take the risk and think outside the box, they are the ones who get rewarded for it. Why not teach students to think critically and solve problems in a way that could benefit them,” said Longmore.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Recently graduated Samantha Lentz enrolled in the course this January as a 20-level student, having taken the option in her Grade 10 year as well. “I’ve learned lots this year. We got to create our own websites, which was really helpful because as a 20-level student in this class, I got to do something I wanted to do,” explained Lentz.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The website was her own project and, although working within a few guidelines, she was able to select the topic and had free reign to design the website how she wanted. Lentz has a small sheep flock of Canadian Arcotts, which “started with my 4-H background when I went out and bought my first couple of sheep,” said Lentz. “I really wanted to create my own herd in 2021, so I went out and bought six ewes and a ram and that’s when everything started.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The website is already live, although updates still need to be made, and Lentz plans to continue with her business. Her post-secondary plans are to attend the University of Lethbridge in September for their nursing prep program and apply for the Bachelor of Nursing degree next year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“My biggest learning in this class was team building and leadership skills. We did lots of morning bell works, which consisted of connections and strands, that all involved team building and working with others within the class to try and solve problems,” stated Lentz.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Educational Assistant Neil Braun, who has been working at Eagle Butte for the past three years, has training as a graphic designer and works exclusively with the School of Business students. “I get to design and make art; I really feel like I come to work and hang out. I help students be creative and with their design work. A student can have all these cool ideas, but if they don’t know how to apply it, then that’s what I’m here for, to help them finalize it.”&nbsp;</p><p>By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kristine Vizza teaches Grade 3 and is also the teacher for the Southern Alberta School of Softball at Seven Persons School within Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS). There are 15 students between Grades 4 to 7 in the academy, some with experience and others just starting out. The founding principles of the academy are teamwork, leadership and the spirit of sportsmanship, which Vizza hopes the students carry forward in all areas of their lives. Within the classroom portion, which will be expanded next year, students learned the basics of softball, setting goals, nutrition and player development.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“Currently, we are only in Seven Persons School and hope to expand the program further into PRPS. Softball is one of the fastest growing sports in Canada for girls, particularly in the age range of students that we see within our building,” explained Vizza.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The academy runs on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and has the option of training in Redcliff or using the Seven Persons Community Hall for practice when the weather doesn’t permit them to be outside. “We are very lucky to have other spaces we can utilize for the kids to practice,” said Vizza. “We’ve been working lots with the rain and making do and are excited about the new South Alberta Collegiate facility we’ll be able to use.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Coach Kassidy Hart attends college in Douglas Lake, North Dakota where she received a half-ride scholarship to play softball. “It’s an opportunity to get my education and play softball and I am studying business and marketing,” stated Hart.&nbsp;</p><p>Hart attended Seven Persons for Grades K-9, so coaching there feels like coming back to her childhood. She was late to softball and has only been playing for about five years, although wishes she’d started sooner.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“These girls have lots of potential and I’m excited to see how they turn out in the future, whether they continue with softball or just do it for fun,” said Hart. “I see a lot in these girls and feel they could go far, even at such a young age.”&nbsp;</p><p>Coach Mia Kelly has been playing softball since she was young and coaches with the Medicine Hat Minor Softball Association. She is currently taking her education degree at Medicine Hat College and has completed two French immersion practicums at Ecole Connaught.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“I chose education because I like helping out kids who are lost and don’t know where they belong, to give them some confidence that I never got when I was younger. I like being the support and person my players can go to whenever they need to talk with someone,” explained Kelly. “At the beginning they knew nothing about softball or what to expect. How to catch, throw, use their bodies, move their feet or swing a bat and it’s been really cool watching them progress and grow as players and individuals.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Grade 5 student Charley wanted to join the academy because she thought it would be fun and a good experience. She’s been using this year to try out lots of different sports to find the ones she likes best.&nbsp; In softball, Charley prefers to pitch and has already hit a home run this year. “It’s really fun and you get to show your personality and get yourself out there and make new friends,” said Charley.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Harper is in Grade 4 and has played softball before but said her skills have improved significantly since she started with the academy. “Softball is really fun, especially with these coaches because they will help you through things you don’t really understand. They are really nice and can help you if you are stuck. They can do things that you can’t do to show you what you can do,” stated Harper. “I’ve never gotten a home run, but I’ve hit one that is pretty far. I made it to first base.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>Burdett School kicked off their new softball program in May with a school-wide softball game where three cross-graded teams played against each other. “Everybody had a partner and when they played a game, the older kids weren’t the one catching or hitting the ball, they had a little person they assisted,” explained Vice Principal Amber Pinchin.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For six weeks this spring, each Friday afternoon has been dedicated to softball with the school split into three divisions by grade. Two softball sessions occur each Friday, with two divisions getting to participate each week.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>“For every kid in the school, I sent home a survey/sign-up sheet and gave them an option to either play, which was our preference, but for those who were not interested I set up a score keeping session. My husband, Chris, is a certified umpire in the States and he’s volunteering to come out and we have some kids learning to be umpires,” said Pinchin.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Helping each Friday is Diedrich Knelsen, a parent who has three children attending Burdett School. Involved with the local Mennonite league, which has lots of youth on the teams, he thought it was a good idea to bring softball to the school.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“I started in Grassy Lake, and I posted I was playing with kids. I saw so many kids coming who liked the game, so we decided to start it in school too. Our oldest boy plays in that league along with others in the school,” said Knelsen. “It’s going well at the school. It’s a little harder to organize with so many kids compared to just 12 or 13. It seems like everybody likes it and they are having fun. At first, I wasn’t sure how we were going to do it, but the plan in place makes it easier when you have 30 or 40 kids around and you want to keep everybody busy.”&nbsp;</p><p>The hour the students have for baseball is split into 15-minute rotations with all participating in warmup, stretches and some throwing practice for the initial 15-minutes. “For the next 15 minutes, two teams play against each other, and the third team is working on a skill. Richard Pomreinke (teacher at the school) is often the one who runs the skill station because softball is one of his personal passions.&nbsp; Mr. Knelsen is in charge of running the game and other teachers are outside as assisting supervisors and actively involved,” stated Pinchin.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>After 15 minutes, one of the groups rotate to skills, which means each group gets to play for 30 minutes. At the end of the hour, the division on the field goes back to class and the other division scheduled for that Friday comes outside. “We’ve tried to coordinate it so that our junior high students, as they get into finals and Grade 9 farewell, they will be having their weeks off baseball,” said Pinchin. “We’ve made a point of not scheduling field trips and other events on Fridays as well.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Abram Hamm is in Grade 7 and batting is his favourite part because he gets to hit the ball and run. Baseball has made Fridays a day to look forward to and each week Abram hopes the weather will cooperate. When asked what it’s like playing softball, Abram said the game makes him feel alive.&nbsp;</p><p>Grade 7 student Isaak Neufeld also said batting was the best part of the game because when he gets a far hit, which he’s managed a few times this season, it makes him feel successful.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Carrying on with the theme, Grade 4 student Herman Knelsen also likes batting the most. “I get to hit it hard, and it’s gone almost to the green and I went straight to first base. My friend hit it and I went to third base then someone else hit it and I made it home. It makes me feel happy and I’m a fast runner. I wanted to play all of them – umpire, scorekeeping and playing – because they are all fun.”&nbsp;</p><p>By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lois Bedwell, Board Chair for Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS), is in her second and final term as a trustee. She worked as a librarian at South Central High School for 17 years and wanted something to do after retiring. There were two open positions for trustees at that time, so she was able to join the board immediately.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“Meeting the people and working with the staff at division office, they are an awesome group,” are what Bedwell enjoys most about being a trustee. “It’s an outfit that you want to be associated with because they do such a good job. I have grandkids in school here now and I’ve always had an interest in education and lifelong learning. It also keeps me up to date, if you don’t stay current you get left behind with technology.”&nbsp;</p><p>Bedwell grew up in Oyen and attended Oyen Public School, where two of her seven grandchildren now attend school, for her elementary years. Apart from a couple of years in Calgary and just over a decade in Nanaimo, Bedwell has lived in Oyen her whole life.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Over the past eight years, there have been numerous changes within PRPS, many which have been positive. “We were going down in attendance and now we are going back up. Our enrollment is increasing mainly because of the academies and it’s making kids glad to be back in school and wanting to be in school, especially after COVID.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The pandemic altered how board meetings were held, which carried over after it ended. Now, every second meeting is usually virtual along with most of the shorter ones, which Bedwell said is an improvement over a conference call or having to drive the two hours from Oyen to Dunmore each time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>While being a trustee doesn’t feel like work to Bedwell, it keeps her busy. There are five public schools – Oyen Public School, South Central High School, Warren Peers School, New Brigden School and Jenner School – along with four colony schools in her area. She tries to attend all parent council meetings along with events – graduations, Christmas, Exhibitions of Learning, etc. – at each of the schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Heading into her seventh decade, Bedwell feels the time is right for her to step down. "My one regret is I wish I had become a public-school trustee earlier; it has been incredibly rewarding. Trusteeship meant to me being partners with parents in ensuring that children, our greatest natural resource, are provided with the best possible educational opportunities to become the future citizens the community wishes them to be."&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>Solidifying the Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) strategic plan with intentional practice has been one of the primary goals for the executive team this year. Last year was about implementation and refining the plan and next year, the third and final year for the current strategic plan, will be when the finishing touches are added, and everything is taken across the finish line.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“One of the things I’m particularly proud of is the work our primary teaches have done around structured literacy and focusing on developing mastery with our students in the various components of reading. That work is always ongoing for teachers but launched last year with the division-wide approach using UFLI, a structured literacy program to improve reading,” stated Weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Since UFLI was implemented, steady gains and growth in reading have been shown by students across the division. Weeks discussed the importance of the work for young students at the age where automaticity develops. Automaticity allows students, as they get older, to take on more complex dynamic work because the cognitive load shifts from sounding out letters, or even letter formation with printing, to more complex ideas and thoughts.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“Prairie Rose has historically had phenomenal teaching staff who really dig in to do this work and this hasn’t been an exception. Probably one of the most fulfilling days this year was attending the Exhibition of Learning at Schuler School where I was able to move throughout the grades and each one had a focus around literacy,” explained Weeks. “I was with some Kindergarten and Grade 1 students who explained to me details about diphthongs and how they were mastering that work to help them read. I couldn’t believe the level of skill and fluency they were demonstrating at such a young age. As someone who taught primary for a long time, I was very impressed.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>To supplement UFLI, PRPS introduced Writing Revolution and evidence, primarily displayed at Exhibitions of Learning, of growth in writing is evident through that focus. “Many enthusiastic teachers tackled that approach, helping us come out of that time during the pandemic where the gaps were really evident. This group of phenomenal teachers and educational assistants are closing that gap quickly and doing excellent work in this area,” said Weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Another exciting event for PRPS is the addition of international students into schools and programming. This year, 31 individuals from various countries joined the division, bringing an opportunity for students and staff to learn about and interact with other cultures. “We look forward to that program continuing to thrive next year,” said Weeks. “I think we will continue to enrich the program and look for ways to really learn from those visiting cultures.”&nbsp;</p><p>As inflation has escalated, transportation has become a challenge for PRPS. The division was faced with cost increases exceeding 50%, which would have made it financially difficult to maintain current staffing levels and keep the budget balanced. “Immeasurable amounts of creativity and hard work, including collaboration with various government entities, ensued and we were fortunate to receive the support we needed to begin operating a fleet in our most rural routes,” explained Weeks. “We learned throughout the process that many rural divisions in the province internally operate transportation because they found some savings from that approach. The financial projections indicate we will be able to follow suit.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Operating a fleet of buses for the most rural routes in PRPS will allow the division to sustain current staffing levels. “The most important thing for us as a division is ensuring we have the people because that is the difference maker in Prairie Rose, the people who work here and we certainly didn’t want to lose any of them,” stated Weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Some compromises within transportation were required for the division to find additional savings. The acquisition of buses for 39 of the 81 PRPS routes will result in projected savings of just under $700,000. This year there were 87 routes and those additional route adjustments allowed the division to reach the $1.1 million savings required. “We have consulted, or are scheduled to consult with, all the regions we serve and collaborate with them on how to optimally serve that area,” said Weeks. “They often know the roads, the maintenance of them and where the pickup spots are better than us. Through that collaboration we found as many efficiencies as we could. It is our hope we will be able to add some routes back as our costs stabilize.”&nbsp;</p><p>For school-based staff to do their best work, they require a supportive, engaged, and intentional administrative team at the school. In turn, the admin team performs optimally when they have a supportive, engaged and intentional executive team at the division office. Additionally, an engaged, intentional and supportive Board of Trustees will provide the foundation required for the executive team to effectively meet division goals. “We are fortunate in PRPS to have that line well established,” concluded Weeks. “It allows us to do some really creative things and find solutions that are innovative even when they also come with a bit of risk, which is only possible when you have high levels of trust.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>

<p>Teacher Jaime Didychuk at Warren Peers School started a new foods option class this year for Grade 9 students. The school had to get creative with options they could deliver as, due to scheduling issues, they were no longer able to take students to Oyen.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“I have a background in smoked meat. My family (husband and children) are a competition smoked meat team and we compete all over,” explained Didychuk. “We are cooking things I know how to do, such as smoking meat, with the help of my husband, and baking breads. We had a food truck challenge where the kids created different kinds of hotdogs and we got all fancy with them. We offered them to the rest of our school so they could come over and custom order their hotdog. The kids got a taste of what it was like to prepare food on the fly and figure out how much it cost.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The class has five students and once a week they have access to use the Acadia Valley Community Hall to cook food that is meaningful to the community, such as traditional foods. Didychuk’s goal for this year is to make things students are able to make at home for their families. “You don’t have to go crazy; you can have lots of fun with a hotdog.”&nbsp;</p><p>The class began in January and wrapped up at the end of May. The students have progressed since the first class and Didychuk is now able to put a recipe down and let them follow it. “They are becoming very comfortable in the kitchen from when they started. Some of them were struggling with how to wash the dishes, just no experience, and now they are feeling comfortable on how to use the knives, how to cut, and be brave in the kitchen,” stated Didychuk.&nbsp;</p><p>Part of the learning for the students is to experiment and think outside the box. Cooking doesn’t have to be fancy and can be more fun if the focus is on good food that is easy to prepare. The class cooked the meal for the Grade 9 farewell, which included smoking meat along with making the salad, a dessert, and a drink.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“The cooking option is a good opportunity for us to feel more comfortable in the kitchen and not be afraid to cook for others,” said student Peyton Benson.&nbsp;</p><p>By Samantha Johnson, Prairie Rose Public Schools Content Writer&nbsp;</p>