PRPS Board of Trustees announces 2023 Community Champion for Education awards

Under the guidance of Teri Super, Les Little, Doug Little and Sheri Little, the incredible partnership between Super T Aviation and Prairie Rose Public Schools with the DR South Alberta Flight Academy (SAFA) has not only provided students with the unique opportunity to earn a private pilot license while still in high school but has also given them so much more – a community, a sense of belonging, and a tribe they can call their own.

Thanks to Super T Aviation, students have soared high in the skies and self-esteem, walking a little taller and beaming with the pride of achieving something meaningful. In a world where loneliness and isolation can be all too common, programs like the South Alberta Flight Academy are vital. They remind us that the best antidote is finding 'our people.'

Beyond just flight skills, SAFA students have learned life lessons and built lifelong friendships. It's no small feat to design a high school program, but Super T Aviation did it seamlessly, enriching the lives of our students.

Thank you, Super T, for giving our students wings and being an outstanding community partner!

From igniting the minds of our students with the creation of the Agricultural Discovery Center (ADC) to providing immersive agricultural programming aligned with their curriculum, Nichole's unparalleled dedication has made a monumental impact at Irvine School and Prairie Rose Public Schools.

Nichole's vision for a student-led ADC and her exceptional organizational skills and unyielding passion has given our students an invaluable hands-on learning experience. Her direct involvement – from working side-by-side with students, teaching them vital skills, to imparting straightforward curriculum concepts – embodies what it truly means to be a Community Champion.

Thank you, Nichole Neubauer, for sharing your passion, experience, leadership and knowledge with our students! 

Willie's commitment to empowering student-athletes, enhancing their strengths and igniting a passion for hockey through the South Alberta Hockey Academy (SAHA) is inspirational. His generosity in supporting the reduction or elimination of fees for SAHA academy students who need it most and contributing to various Prairie Rose initiatives speaks volumes about his dedication to community.

Despite the challenges of bringing top-notch coaching to rural areas, Willie's many hockey connections mean that every student has an equal opportunity to shine and receive high-quality training. The positive feedback we've received about the Academy's impact on student relationships, athletic development and community service is a testament to his vision and hard work.

Willie, thank you for your leadership and vision around creating exceptional opportunities for student-athletes, no matter where they live. We couldn't be prouder to recognize you as a PRPS Community Champion! 

Paulette Heller was a long-serving member of our Prairie Rose Board of Trustees and, despite stepping away from board duties many years ago, she continues to "Kindle Hearts" across Prairie Rose as one of our biggest advocates. You will often see Paulette volunteering and soliciting interest and donations for the annual Kaleidoscope of the Arts event, where all PRPS students can showcase their talents in the fine arts. Additionally, Paulette continues to follow and support the ever-evolving growth of our local schools and attends multiple fundraising events each year. These events provide funds to support field trips, school purchases and other student-focused opportunities.

Thank you, Paulette, for being such a strong supporter, advocate and volunteer with Prairie Rose Public Schools. We appreciate your ongoing commitment to our programs and students!