Yuill Family Foundation Commits Up to $5 Million to Advance Yuill School of Agriculture

Helping young people stay, live and work in Southern Alberta is at the heart of the Yuill family's latest investment in education. With a commitment of up to $5 million in new funding, the Yuill Family Foundation is taking another significant step toward completing the vision for the Yuill School of Agriculture.

The commitment includes a $3 million donation and a challenge to industry and community partners, with the Foundation offering to match additional contributions dollar for dollar, up to $2 million. The investment also builds on the Foundation's previous contributions of approximately $1.1 million in land and $600,000 toward construction of the main facility.

"We believe young people should have the opportunity to build their futures right here in Southern Alberta," said Mr. Bill Yuill. "This school will help give students the skills and experiences they need to pursue those opportunities. We hope other businesses and organizations will join us in making that vision a reality."

The funding will support the next phase of development, including an agricultural technology shop expansion, heavy equipment training centre, livestock complex and specialized industry equipment. These facilities will provide hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to explore careers in agriculture, skilled trades, technology and related industries.

"Investments like this do more than create opportunities for students. They help keep our rural communities strong by giving young people the skills and pathways to build their careers and futures without leaving home," said Board Chair Patty Rooks.

The Yuill School of Agriculture is being developed as a learning resource for students across Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS). Through partnerships with government, post-secondary institutions and industry, PRPS is creating new educational pathways that connect high school learning with further training and career opportunities.

"Alberta agriculture has a bright future, and investments like this give the next generation a chance to be part of it,” said Tara Sawyer, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation. “Thank you to the Yuill family for giving students hands-on experience and opening their eyes to the opportunities our agriculture industry has to offer."

"This investment will help us create learning opportunities that simply haven't been possible without the significant donation from Yuill Family Foundation," said Dr. Reagan Weeks, Superintendent of Prairie Rose Public Schools. "Through our partnerships with government, post-secondary institutions and industry, we're reimagining how students can explore careers and prepare for their futures, right here in Southern Alberta."

The Yuill School of Agriculture will begin welcoming students in September 2027.

Media Contact:
Angela Baron, Director of Communications
Prairie Rose Public Schools
communications@prrd8.ca
403-527-5516