March 11, 2025, Board Meeting Highlights
Additional information can be found in the March 11, 2025, Board Meeting Agenda package: https://www.myprps.com/news/march-11-2025-public-board-meeting-20250310153443
Jenner School Report
In a presentation to the PRPS Board, Principal Kirby Stensrud shared how Jenner School remains dedicated to providing a high-quality, student-centered learning environment fostering academic success and personal growth.
With a strong focus on literacy and numeracy, the school has implemented new K-9 Science of Reading resources and a K-6 Math curriculum designed to meet the unique challenges of multi-graded classrooms. Experiential learning remains a priority, with students engaging in hands-on opportunities such as a trip to the Edmonton Legislature and through a wide range of junior high options, including culinary arts, welding, and physiotherapy. Additionally, the school continues to prioritize student well-being through initiatives like the Buddy Program, Kindness Week, and expanded physical activity opportunities. An outdoor wellness court will be added to the school, made possible through a Community Facility Enhancement Program Grant and the Jenner Parent Council.
Academically, the school also continues to see high levels of achievement. Recent assurance data highlights a 92.6% approval rating for a welcoming and safe learning environment, with 100% parental satisfaction in decision-making and strong indicators of student success beyond graduation. Looking ahead, the school is planning to expand its programming options and seek further opportunities to innovate and enhance student learning. The full presentation can be found in the March 11, 2025, Board Meeting Agenda package.
Technology Accountability Report
The 2025 Technology Accountability Report, presented by Wayne Rossler, Manager of Technology, outlines the current state of technology within Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) and future initiatives.
Key highlights include the completion of teacher workstation upgrades to Windows 11 and the ongoing transition of all remaining devices by October 2025 due to Windows 10 end-of-life support. Student computer availability remains limited, with a one-to-one Chromebook ratio for grades 4-12, supported by an annual replacement plan. The division has also migrated iPads to Microsoft Intune, resulting in a cost-saving of approximately $10,000 per year. Network infrastructure remains a priority, with plans to upgrade wireless access points, network switches, and firewalls over the next three years to maintain security and efficiency. Additionally, security measures are being reviewed, with potential enhancements to student login systems for the 2025-2026 school year.
The 2024-2025 budget of just over $1 million will primarily support student Chromebooks and computers. Looking ahead, key projects include expanding ViewSonic Interactive Displays, improving security camera coverage, and enhancing the secure testing environment. The transition to a cloud-based network system using Fortinet solutions will streamline operations and reduce reliance on on-site servers. Governance considerations highlight the need for continued investment in both hardware and instructional support, emphasizing the critical role of reliable internet connectivity for the increasing reliance on cloud-based applications and Chromebooks in the classroom. The full report can be found in the March 11, 2025, Board Meeting Agenda package.
2026-2029 PRPS Capital Plan
The PRPS Board of Trustees approved the 2026-2029 Capital Plan as presented. The plan outlines the school division’s priorities for facility development, modernization and maintenance, and ensures schools have the necessary infrastructure to support student learning.
Based on PRPS priorities, the updated capital plan includes the following four school priority projects:
- Parkside Jr High School - replacement school project (currently in the design phase)
- Oyen schools - a value scoping request to evaluate the possibility of combining both Oyen Public School and South Central High School into a K-12 facility.
- Burdett School - replacement school project
- Eagle Butte High School - school expansion project to accommodate increased enrollment and programming.
All trustees voted in favour of the plan, with the exception of Bow Island/Burdett area trustee Patty Rooks who advocated for the Burdett replacement project to be moved up to the second priority of the plan. It was noted that Alberta Infrastructure has the ability to approve projects based on available funding and need, outside of a school board’s priority list.
Executive Report
- PRPS school leaders recently hosted Horizon School Division as a wrap up of the joint mental health in school program.
- PRPS will be launching a pilot project using vertical mapping with a focus on high school math. The project will look for concepts that connect across the grade levels. Outcomes will then be examined to see if there is evidence that a student achieved the outcome and where learning mastery exists.
Parkside Replacement School Update
PRPS has received official confirmation to begin the design phase for the new school project. Extensive engagement work has already been completed to understand community needs, ensuring the design reflects local priorities. There are strong examples of recently built schools in Alberta that can serve as a starting point, allowing the design phase to progress efficiently.
The Town of Redcliff and PRPS have completed a site readiness checklist, identifying a 19-acre location behind the old IXL site off 9th Avenue. Approximately 12-14 acres will be designated for the school, providing ample space for future expansion. The project is now moving into the site assessment and geotechnical work phase, with the Town working to extend utilities to the location. A formal kickoff with Alberta Infrastructure is expected in the coming weeks. As part of the planning process, a wish list has been developed, including a larger gymnasium, enhanced Career and Technology Foundations (CTF) spaces with a commercial kitchen, improved field spaces with gopher-proofing, and dedicated areas for baseball and fine arts.
Calendar Approval
The board approved the 2025-2026 school year calendar as presented. The calendar is similar to the current school year and includes a start date after the Labour Day long weekend, 14 staff days and 183 instructional days. Both the detailed calendar and digital version can be found online: PRPS 2025-2026 School Year Calendar
Returning Officer
The board approved naming Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser as the Returning Officer and Finance Controller Candice Hintz as Substitute Returning Officer for the upcoming fall municipal election. Forms and information for those wishing to run for school board trustee are available on the PRPS website: 2025 PRPS Trustee Election Information
Other Items:
- Trustee Patty Rooks commended Schuler School staff and students for their welcoming environment. During a recent visit, she was impressed by how the school goes above and beyond to make visitors feel welcome and appreciated.
- ASBA - The next meeting will be held on March 19, 2025
- PSBA - The next session will be April 10-12. Director of Communications Angela Baron has been invited to present on the topic of “Sharenting”.
- Rural Caucus - Board Chair Lois Bedwell recently attended the annual Rural Education Symposium. Topics of discussion included classroom complexity, transportation, and relationships with community and families. The Minister of Education was also in attendance.