<p><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php?fingerprint=20260603T1300Z/v9/tfa/1/16/1f68d.png" alt="🚍"><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php?fingerprint=20260603T1300Z/v9/tfa/1/16/1f68d.png" alt="🚍"> Our school bus transportation department has been busy this summer planning out 86 bus routes for the fall. Families who are eligible for bus transportation were notified at the start of July with information regarding their designated route.</p><p>Our preliminary maps are now available at <img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php?fingerprint=20260603T1300Z/v9/t9e/1/16/27a1.png" alt="➡️"> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.myprps.com%2Fbus-transportation%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2ZUsBvKaFqnNsULF_n-H0t5LqWIVccpfMdPdZeyydldE4CZUo_zGi-BH4&amp;h=AT2zr9sHx9zY7u8uEVsrXPGWJHMSdW1zscUI9f8pB0cd-JFKspsJVL-6h18p7A4qi37DhG4n8EUWKH2uUHJzWp166S7ai51u7lW3OGM5TzMpoDLRCIuvpz-zydh5vN2T7A&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT1CnoB9uEJLORlHFwmtvEe65G4Njk2uNUtOHw8VvqAMHB7oWk67WGWY3Po1zd4Io1tPw7fwv2TJFLGvuPy2pCdi-ZXuXFssPXAF1-gnL9-3GJVJfg_eqV_mw8UIXsS9MI5eDxiTIieyRq5mwLLZl6NszmuOJ-zZkCD_fJiLskDC6Er39i-TggkawtVQa2j7Mg3ZWDuUv0h7">www.myprps.com/bus-transportation</a></p><p><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php?fingerprint=20260603T1300Z/v9/t50/1/16/2757.png" alt="❗"><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php?fingerprint=20260603T1300Z/v9/t50/1/16/2757.png" alt="❗"> As a reminder, final decisions regarding pick up and drops off times and the route order are determined by the individual bus driver. This information will be shared with families by your bus driver before the start of the new school year.</p>

<p>Alberta Health Services has issued a letter to families reminding them to review their child's vaccination records to ensure they are up to date. If you were unable to participate in the in-school vaccination program this year, details on getting your child's vaccinations up to date are available by clicking on the link below.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fWg3FnqbBmRpVdTRXeskrGrIiFXc7zck/view?usp=drive_link">2023 AHS Letter to Parents - Vaccination Program</a></p>

<h3><strong>Additional details and full reports from the June 21, 2023, Board Meeting can be found in the </strong><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eHqhYplUnoND7Du3oaylaN4IovMQhpjE/view?usp=drive_link"><strong>Agenda Package</strong></a><strong>.</strong></h3><p><img src="/images/be491707-c88b-48de-8f3d-5c749df6b8c5?fingerprint=ppb20251217024702" alt=""></p><p><strong>Locally Approved Courses</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks explained that Prairie Rose would like board approval for several locally developed courses that would allow PRPS students to access additional credits in courses they were already participating in based on the learning outcomes. These courses have been designed by teachers in the province and approved for use by Alberta Education. The Board of Trustees approved locally developed courses:</p><ul><li>Design Thinking for Innovation 15, 25 and 35</li><li>Engineering and Design 15</li><li>Fire Rescue Services 15</li><li>Capstone 25 and 35</li><li>Social Emotional Wellbeing 15</li><li>Social Skills 15</li><li>Speech and Debate 15, 25 and 35&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Occupational Health and Safety Accountability Report</strong></p><p>Health and Safety Coordinator Derek Beck presented the 2022-2023 Occupational Health and Safety Report for information. Report highlights include an update on the division’s emergency response planning program (Hour Zero), new legislation implications to PRPS, staff training and development, the AHS ARTSSN program and an overview of reported injuries during the year. It was shared that half of all the student injuries reported occurred on the playground, and 101 resulted from falls or collisions. A total of 11 adult injuries were reported, with the majority also related to slips and falls. The full report can be found in the June 21, 2023, Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Inclusive Learning Services Accountability Report</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks presented the Inclusive Learning Services Report on behalf of Director of Student Services Camille Quinton. The budget for student services and support during the 2022-2023 school year was&nbsp;<strong>$4,965,159</strong>. It was shared that PRPS has 415 coded students, 579 English language learners and 97 self-identified FNMI students. Most students with severe codes have severe communication delays or require severe physical/medical support, while mild-moderate codes are primarily for mild/moderate communication delays or learning disabilities. A breakdown of specialized support staffing was shared. This includes inclusive learning teachers, speech-language pathologists, therapy assistants, a school psychologist, behaviour supports, Family School Liaison Workers, a teacher for the visually impaired, and contracted occupational and physical therapy hours. Caseload statistics and services provided to students throughout the year were also provided. The full report can be found in the June 21, 2023, Board Meeting Agenda package.</p>

<p><img src="/images/ff35e775-7e83-4263-95a5-aab929334daa?fingerprint=ppb20251217025816" alt=""></p><p>The June 21, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at <strong>10:00 a.m. </strong>The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eHqhYplUnoND7Du3oaylaN4IovMQhpjE/view?usp=drive_link">June 21, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<h3>Additional details and full reports from the May 23, 2023, Board Meeting can be found in the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a3hYP7XJ_hxsysaOxA5AEQDg6ydZHQ3I/view">Agenda Package</a>.</h3><p><img src="/images/4907d0d4-3020-45ff-ab92-f0e79d9e43ba?fingerprint=ppb20251217022751" alt=""></p><p><strong>Ralston School Presentation</strong><br>Ralston School Principal Stacey Nunweiler provided the board with an overview of the school's&nbsp;<i>Learning from the Land</i> Prairie Rose Possibility project. The project focuses on connecting the school community with the Southern Alberta environment, highlighting learning opportunities in the local area to build an appreciation for where we live and creating an understanding of indigenous cultures' connection with the land and natural environment. Some of the activities students have participated in include; planting an indigenous garden, outdoor cooking and learning about food preservation, building indigenous flutes, outdoor education activities, creating landscape art and visiting local natural landmarks. This is the third year the school has implemented&nbsp;<i>Learning from the Land</i> into the learning curriculum. The full presentation can be found in the May 23, 2023, Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Locally Developed Courses</strong><br>The board approved locally developed courses Social Literacy 15 and Social Literacy 25. The classes, focussing on health and personal wellness, will be instructed by Alberta Health Services. A total of one credit will be awarded to students who complete either course.</p><p><strong>FNMI Report</strong><br>Student Services Coordinator Carol Carlson presented the 2022-2023 First Nations Metis Inuit (FNMI) Report for information. It was shared that 3.2% of Prairie Rose are self-identified FNMI students. Three outcomes identified as part of the PRPS Three-Year Education Plan for Truth and Reconciliation include ensuring all FNMI students are successful, acknowledging and supporting the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, and prioritizing integrating Indigenous perspectives into education. A list of PRPS FNMI learning initiatives and teaching resources was also shared as information. All links are available as part of the presentation in the May 23, 2023, Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>2023-2026 Three-Year Education Plan</strong><br>Superintendent Reagan Weeks presented the updated 2022-2023 Education Plan for approval. It was noted that the 2023-2024 year will be the second year of the three-year plan focused on the new learning goals of ignite minds, kindle hearts, forge futures and truth and reconciliation. As such, only minor changes were made to update learning progress and evaluation. The board approved the plan as presented. The 2023-2026 Education Plan can be found on the Annual Reporting page of the Prairie Rose website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.myprps.com/annual-reporting">www.myprps.com/annual-reporting</a>.</p><p><strong>2023-2024 Budget Report</strong><br>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser presented the 2023-2024 Prairie Rose Public Schools Budget Report for approval. PRPS will receive additional Alberta Education funding of $3,256,184 next year based on new grants and grant increases compared to the 2022-2023 school year. Total revenues for the school division are expected to be&nbsp;<strong>$57,861,807</strong>, with expenses coming in at&nbsp;<strong>$58,029,188</strong>. Overall, the school division is forecasting a deficit budget for the year of&nbsp;<strong>$167,381</strong>. Some notable highlights of the budget include:</p><ul><li>Projected enrolment decrease of 32 funded FTE students from 2022-2023</li><li>Alberta Education will fund teacher salary increases of 2% in 2023-24.<ul><li>2023-24 will include a budget assumption of a 2% wage increase for support staff (match teachers 2% for 2023-24).</li></ul></li><li>An expected increase in division insurance premiums for the 2023-2024 year (property 5%, liability 2%, cyber 15%)</li><li>A 10.3% increase in ASEBP benefit premiums</li><li>An increase of 4.9 FTE certified staff from basic staffing allocations</li><li>An increase in EA hours and a continuation of additional supports and services hours (speech, behavior, therapy assistants)</li><li>An operating deficit in Operations and Maintenance of $1,136,661</li><li>A new transportation funding model resulted in the addition of an estimated four new bus routes and the purchase of new location-tracking software for the buses.&nbsp;<ul><li>A surplus in Transportation of $844,388</li></ul></li><li>Spending under the maximum allowable for Board and System Administration of $170,603</li></ul><p>The full budget report can be found on the Annual Reporting page of the Prairie Rose website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.myprps.com/annual-reporting">www.myprps.com/annual-reporting</a>.</p>

<p>Additional details and full reports from the April 18, 2023, Board Meeting can be found in the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LWMf-FYWiyffdQfKcDwV6dK3pSrviAL3/view?usp=share_link">Agenda Package</a>.</p><p><img src="/images/7b1b1147-e81b-4a1d-a8b8-42da905799e3?fingerprint=ppb20251217023604" alt=""></p><p><strong>Jenner School Presentation</strong><br>Jenner School principal Kirby Stensrud provided an overview of the school and the learning students and staff have been doing to support the school division goals of kindling hearts, igniting minds and forging futures. It was noted that literacy continues to be a strong focus for the school, with students preparing to showcase some of their work at the upcoming Exhibition of Learning on May 25, 2023. Stensrud shared that staff gave students considerable flexibility in choosing their topic for the exhibition based on feedback from the recent assurance survey that suggested students would like to have more input on what they are learning about. Information about the school's Prairie Rose Possibility program called Jr High Options was also shared. With the program, the school brings in outside experts on various topics, and students work through modules. Some of the options students have participated in this year include carpentry, photography, stained glass, leather working, art, welding, cooking and outdoor education. The full presentation can be found in the Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Trustee Awards of Recognition</strong><br>Trustee Shauna Vanderspruit shared that starting this spring, the Board of Trustees will be implementing a new award of recognition program that acknowledges the contributions of Prairie Rose stakeholders towards making the school division and our rural communities an amazing place to learn, work and pursue joint partnership opportunities. This program will allow our staff and community members to nominate those who go above and beyond to promote PRPS's core principles and our education goals. Additional awards will be added in the following years, but the first three awards available for nomination starting the 2022-2023 school year include; the Grade 9 Student Leadership Award, the High School Student Leadership Award and the Community Champion for Education Award. Award details and information on how to make a nomination can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19V45LK5dInfZZxBoEYOOnS_WNON6DMQN/view?usp=share_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/19V45LK5dInfZZxBoEYOOnS_WNON6DMQN/view?usp=share_link</a></p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><img class="image_resized" style="width:41.63%;" src="/images/76c892ce-1785-4927-b4c5-67217f078321?fingerprint=ppb20251217023516" alt=""><img class="image_resized" style="width:41.85%;" src="/images/ceb8d81f-fcde-47d9-b0d8-3e9e0be1f9bb?fingerprint=ppb20251217024943" alt=""><img class="image_resized" style="width:44.02%;" src="/images/c54d043d-fae1-49a8-8e58-2e1fbec1fae8?fingerprint=ppb20251217024807" alt=""></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Financial Report</strong><br>Assistant Secretary-Treasurer Candice Hintz provided a financial update to the Board for information. As of February 28, 2023, the division was 50% of the way through the current fiscal year. It was shared that due to an increase in expected revenues of $665,150, the division is now expecting a $27,712 decrease in the projected deficit from ($926,606) to ($898,894). The complete financial report is available in the Board Meeting Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Interim Vice-Chair Elected</strong><br>Acting PRPS Board Chair Lois Bedwell asked for nominations for interim Board Vice-Chair, as the position is currently vacant due to the leave of absence of trustee Cathy Hogg. Trustee Patty Rooks was acclaimed to the position.</p>

<p><img src="/images/1057aa10-13e6-410f-9f58-8ce57113816f?fingerprint=ppb20251217021813" alt=""></p><p>The April 18, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LWMf-FYWiyffdQfKcDwV6dK3pSrviAL3/view?usp=share_link">April 18, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p><img src="/images/566f9525-29b3-4556-b38a-fe111e5f2b25?fingerprint=ppb20251217022954" alt=""></p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Prairie Rose Public Schools congratulates first-year teacher Katelyn Rozdeba on being selected to represent the school division as the 2023 Edwin Parr nominee for Zone 6.</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><i>You could say a love for teaching is in her blood. </i>From an early age, Katelyn Rozdeba remembers visiting schools as a child with her parents, who were both teachers. As they would get caught up on their work, she and her sisters would go into the classroom and take turns being the teacher at the front of the class. This passion for teaching continued into her teenage years when she taught swimming lessons and coached club basketball in her spare time.</p><p>“Many of my role models are teachers, and it made me want to be like them. My dad Dave Rozdeba, my mom Tammy Rozdeba, and my longtime basketball coach Rob Grisonich.”</p><p>In her first year of teaching, Katelyn's assignment is a very unique position at Eagle Butte High School. In addition to teaching social studies and information processing, she is the Dave Rozdeba South Alberta Flight Academy program co-teacher. The program is the only one of its kind in Canada where students entering high school can earn high school credits and obtain their private pilot license upon graduation.</p><p>“The flight academy is especially special to me as it is named after my dad, a longtime teacher and administrator with Prairie Rose Public Schools. In addition to teaching, he had a passion for aviation and flight, and I get to carry on that work and legacy as part of my job. The flight academy program teaches students a broad range of aviation skills. These include ground school, drone training, survival camp, building an airplane, and how to fly a plane.”</p><p>"Katelyn possesses many exceptional skills that show her level of commitment and dedication to her craft," says Eagle Butte High School principal Rocheal Howes. “As a first-year teacher, she spends a lot of time collaborating with other teachers to build her professional capacity. She is always asking questions to ensure she understands the full picture. Katelyn has also stepped up to help coach the senior girls' basketball program. She truly has a passion for teaching and genuine care for her students, which shows.”</p><p>“It makes me feel good when I see the light bulb go off with my students when they achieve success. I try really hard to develop good relationships with my students and be involved, even outside of work hours, such as by attending their sporting events. You can tell they really appreciate that commitment.”</p><p>For Katelyn, it's a dream job and one that she feels very fortunate to have.&nbsp;</p><p>"I got very lucky for my first job, and other people outside this school tell me that too. I have an amazing staff that makes me feel welcomed daily and encourages me to do things knowing they have my back. Working with three things I love; social studies, flight and basketball. It makes me feel like this is not just a job but an opportunity I get to be a part of every day."&nbsp;</p><p>The Edwin Parr Teacher Award is presented annually by the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) to six exceptional first-year teachers from across the province of Alberta. Each spring, Alberta school divisions nominate and recognize one outstanding teacher who will represent them at the zone awards ceremony. The Prairie Rose Public Schools’ board of trustees would like to congratulate Katelyn and wish her luck at the Zone 6 awards event in May.</p>

<p>The March 14, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NeEzMSTAOPaUl8EsX-kpczIaLb5mfqSy/view?usp=share_link">March 14, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>Following the announcement of the provincial budget on February 28, 2023, the Minister of Education provided school boards with a letter to send to parents. The letter outlines funding priorities and changes families can expect related to supports, instruction and transportation.&nbsp;</p><p>The full letter can be read here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VU-4PYwSoYrExl1VIyx9mHnSMNs7of4s/view?usp=share_link">2023 Budget Letter to Parents</a></p>

<p>Alberta Health Services has sent out school immunization information to parents and guardians of students whose regular school vaccinations (non-COVID) are due. The following are included as part of the routine school immunization program:</p><ul><li>Grade 9 diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Meningococcal ACYW type vaccines</li><li>Grade 6 for Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus</li><li>Grade 1 who have missed the pre-kindergarten routine boosters and homeschooled students (these are done via your local Public Health office)</li></ul><p>To find out more about the school vaccination program offered through AHS, please read the letter from the Medical Officer of Health for the South Zone Dr. Allison Gonsalves.</p><p><strong>Read the letter: </strong><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sV_VbYbIu3yFEpOqGozJMtipxyZtDIPi/view?usp=share_link">Letter to parents, guardians and caregivers from AHS</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/16cdxqL0JMrynQq0PsiVOLDEanL3zZAQi/view?usp=share_link">February 14, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p><p><strong>Burdett School Presentation</strong></p><p>Principal Cheryl Rebmann made a presentation to the board showcasing the many initiatives at Burdett School. The school is a K-9 school (approx 160 students) serving a primarily Low German Speaking Mennonite population. The presentation focused on how the school has incorporated the new division-wide education goals of kindle hearts, ignite minds and forge futures into daily activities and lessons. For the school’s exhibition of learning this spring, they will highlight fine and gross motor skills, writing, music, a 3D map, flow reading and passion projects. The full presentation can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Trades, Apprenticeships and Vocational Education</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks provided a summary of the programming options available to PRPS students to connect the work done in school to future prospects. In the first semester of the current school year, 1,955 credits were awarded to students in the Trades, Apprenticeships and Vocational Education (TAVE) area. An overview of the courses students take to earn these credits was shared. Categories include flight and aviation, business, comm tech and design, cosmetology, industrial tech, home economics and foods, work experience, green certificate, RAP, dual credit and natural resources. It was noted that many students also receive credits through Coulee Collegiate for Human Social Services (HSS) and Health Care Services (HCS) courses. In total, PRPS has four dual credit agreements with institutions in Alberta. It was also shared that work preparation satisfaction rates recorded within the Annual Education Results for PRPS were 91% compared to 84.9% at the provincial level, whereas satisfaction rates with program access 83.3% compared to 72.6% provincially.</p><p><strong>Seven Persons Shop Project</strong></p><p>The PRPS Board received a request from Seven Persons School to support their plan to create a shop adjacent to the school. The proposal, presented in January, indicated that while the school currently has a small outdoor covered space for shop-type activities, they are limited by weather and code restrictions. It was also noted that currently, it is difficult for the school to provide a full complement of trades education due to the distance and travel time to access support either in Medicine Hat or Bow Island. The request from the school was for administrative and technical expertise, as well as financial support. The school requested $80,000 to support the project. Graeme Dennis made a motion to allocate $80,000 from PRPS Capital Reserves towards the project. The board approved the motion.</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The February 14, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/16cdxqL0JMrynQq0PsiVOLDEanL3zZAQi/view?usp=share_link">February 14, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>January 10, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIUA2pQQjklNVvuD0nZ-7ya6ueA16tiy/view?usp=share_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIUA2pQQjklNVvuD0nZ-7ya6ueA16tiy/view?usp=share_link</a></p><p><strong>Warren Peers School Presentation</strong><br>Principal Lora Fletcher-Wilson and grade 8 student Cade Wilson made a presentation to the board showcasing the many initiatives taking place at Warren Peers School. The school is a K-9 school located in Acadia Valley with current enrollment of 41 students. The presentation focused on how the school has incorporated the new division-wide goals of kindle hearts, ignite minds and forge futures into daily activities and lessons. It was noted that for this year’s exhibition of learning the school will involve having all students be involved in writing a ‘how to’ book. Once the book is completed it will be published and an author signing day will be held where students can sign copies for friends and family. The full presentation can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Building Operations Accountability Report</strong><br>Director of Maintenance Operations Darrell Drefs presented the Building Operations Accountability Report for information. Highlights of the report included an update around preventative maintenance projects, staff professional development, Infrastructure/Capital Maintenance and Renewal (IMR and CMR) expenses, completed IMR and CMR projects during the 2021-2022 year and approved projects for the current year. In total, the division spent $725,362 on IMR projects through the 2021-2022 year. Operations and Maintenance expenses for the 2022-2023 school year are estimated at $7,075,385 with a projected deficit of $1,109,799. The full report can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Wellness Accountability Report</strong><br>Manager of Human Resources Tammy Toews presented the employee portion of the Wellness Accountability Report for information. Newly introduced strategies to promote wellness include HONE Work+Life (an app where staff can anonymously report personal wellness weekly) and strategies to increase staff capacity to access available health benefits. School psychologist Greg Godard presented information related to student wellness. In Prairie Rose, 7.8 full-time equivalent staff are employed as Family School Liaison Workers; an increase of 24% since 2019. The Student Wellness team supports counselling, group teaching, parent training, VTRA’s and crisis response. It was shared that the largest number of student cases being noted since September are related to anxiety, family issues and peer relationships.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Annual Education Results Report&nbsp;</strong><br>Superintendent Reagan Weeks presented the 2021-2022 Annual Education Results Report for approval. The report provides an overview of PRPS results in the assurance categories of Student Growth and Achievement, Teaching and Leading, Learning Supports, Governance, English Language Learners and First Nations Metis Inuit. It was noted that overall, Prairie Rose results were very strong, despite the many challenges faced by students, parents and staff throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The board approved the report as presented. The full report can be found in the Board Agenda package.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>South Alberta Flight Academy Field Trip</strong><br>The board approved the Eagle Butte High School / South Alberta Flight Academy proposed field trip to Washington, DC, from June 29 - July 4, 2023. The trip will include visits to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, International Spy Museum, a tour of College Park Aviation Museum, Holocaust Museum and a meeting with aviation professors at Georgetown University. Twenty-four students in grades 10-12 are expected to participate. The motion was put forward by Shauna VanderSpruit.</p>

<p>The January 10, 2023, PRPS Public Board Meeting will take place at the Prairie Rose Public Schools Division Office starting at 12:45 p.m. The meeting will be held in-person only.</p><p>The complete agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIUA2pQQjklNVvuD0nZ-7ya6ueA16tiy/view?usp=share_link">January 10, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>As we head into the final day before the winter break, we felt it was important to connect with parents about the challenges our province has faced this past week. While we always prepare for winter weather, this latest cold system is like none we have seen in many years.&nbsp;</p><p>One of the primary goals of Prairie Rose Public Schools is to ensure a safe, warm space for students to come and learn. This is why, whenever possible, it is the responsibility of school divisions to keep the doors open for students. Much like other school divisions&nbsp;across the province, we have also been able to do that. It is also important to give our families choices regarding what is best for their family. We know from our many conversations this week several parents have kept their children home from school. We have also heard appreciation for keeping the doors open for our working parents.&nbsp;</p><p>Together with our bus contractors, PRPS has done our best to keep buses running when possible. Our procedure states that bus cancellations can be made at the driver's discretion. From our perspective, our drivers are most familiar with their bus, the roads and their ability to drive in different weather conditions. While our drivers have done an excellent job all week, the extended cold snap is proving to be a bit too much for the bus fleets. Earlier today, Southland Transportation, which holds a majority 67 of the 83 PRPS bus routes, decided to cancel all routes for tomorrow, Friday, December 23rd. Based on this decision, our other six contractors have done the same.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>This means no buses will be running tomorrow (Friday, December 23rd) across the school division.</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Schools will remain open for those who can attend class unless you are otherwise notified. PRPS is committed to reviewing our bussing procedures in the new year to consider whether any changes are required to the current guidelines.&nbsp;</p><p>We would like to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season. There have been many wonderful opportunities for our students to experience this fall, and it is great to see our parents back in school. Please enjoy a much-deserved break, and we look forward to seeing everyone back in class on January 9, 2023.</p><p>~ Prairie Rose Public Schools, Executive Team</p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools Administrative Procedure <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0BwxYarNhDkXYa2lHNWJqTDVIRUU?resourcekey=0-xTAHpDpd0egXnnT47rjOsA"><strong>T201 - School Closures and Bus Cancellations</strong></a> (formerly T-201 Inclement Weather) was recently updated to reflect current criteria related to decisions around closing schools or cancelling school buses. Key changes pertaining to cold weather and/or poor road conditions include the following:</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>When will schools close?</strong></td></tr><tr><td>✔️ All PRPS schools will remain open, unless an actual (ambient) temperature of -36°C or colder is reported by the Weather Network. The <a href="http://www.theweathernetwork.com">Weather Network</a> was chosen as the primary data source for temperature, as it reports temperatures for all areas of the school division.</td></tr><tr><td>✔️ Unlike in previous years, wind chill <strong>will no longer</strong> be considered when making decisions about school closures.</td></tr><tr><td>✔️ Should the decision be made to close a school, notifications will be sent to parents via School Messenger starting at 6:15 a.m. Updates will also be posted on the <a href="https://www.myprps.com/transportation-status">Transportation Status page</a> of the division website.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Will a school still be open if buses aren't running?</strong></td></tr><tr><td>✔️ YES. Schools will remain open even when some or all buses to the school may not be running.</td></tr><tr><td>✔️ Schools will have designated staff at the school to greet students and plan for an instructional day.</td></tr><tr><td>✔️ Bus drivers are expected to use their own discretion in deciding whether or not to operate their bus route. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><figure class="image"><img src="/images/cbf3d17e-6e1a-4fba-aa8d-e82600b8512d?fingerprint=ppb20251217030024" alt=""></figure></td><td><strong>The responsibility and final decision to send children on the bus in the morning belongs to the parent(s), even if the buses are operating and the school is open. PRPS takes responsibility for the safety of students upon the point of boarding a school bus.</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<p>Alberta Health Services (AHS) has launched an enhanced respiratory assessment tool to provide Albertans with guidance to manage a wide range of respiratory illnesses, and provide advice on caring for symptoms at home, and when to seek additional care.</p><p>The online tool guides individuals to the best care options for their symptoms, including self-care at home, or seeking care through a walk-in clinic, family physician, or pharmacy for mild to moderate symptoms. Those with severe symptoms are still recommended to seek care through an urgent care centre, or emergency department.</p><p>Respiratory Assessment Tool: <a href="https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/topics/Page17058.aspx">https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/topics/Page17058.aspx</a></p>

<p>On November 24, 2022, Alberta Education Minister Adrianna LaGrange issued a letter to Alberta families outlining the government's position regarding the reintroduction of mask mandates and requirements for schools who request shifts to at-home learning.</p><p>The full letter can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1z2q-dDxVsftWqIQYaSg8Ke-q7umm_qLn/view?usp=share_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1z2q-dDxVsftWqIQYaSg8Ke-q7umm_qLn/view?usp=share_link</a></p>

<p>November 29, 2022 Board Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZoEaXv1MItp1_gScCGuVYpSJRbEyl8hx/view?usp=share_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZoEaXv1MItp1_gScCGuVYpSJRbEyl8hx/view?usp=share_link</a></p><p><strong>Elf the Musical</strong><br>Eagle Butte High School students and staff dropped by the PRPS Division Office to share a sneak peek of their upcoming show, Elf the Musical. The performance takes place from December 7th to the 9th at the Esplanade Theatre. Tickets are now on sale for $23 and can be purchased at <a href="https://buy.tixx.ca/eventperformances.asp?evt=1242">https://buy.tixx.ca/eventperformances.asp?evt=1242</a>.</p><p><strong>Cathy Hogg Leave of Absence</strong><br>Board Chair Cathy Hogg announced that she will be taking a leave of absence of up to six months for personal reasons.</p><p><strong>South Central School Presentation</strong><br>South Central High School (SCHS) principal Jason Duchscherer and vice principal Deanne Smigelski shared a presentation with the board highlighting events, activities and educational experiences taking part at the school. The three priorities within the PRPS Education Plan were highlighted including how the school was igniting minds (i.e. book study, math prep class, exhibition of learning), kindling hearts (i.e. breakfast club and morning socialization, yoga sessions, student recognition) and forging futures (i.e. work experience, Skills Canada, expanded option courses). It was also shared that SCHS students recently met with a consultant hired through the Town of Oyen to share their thoughts around what would make them want to stay in the community following graduation. The full presentation can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p><strong>Pat and Diploma Results</strong><br>Assistant Superintendent Boyd Craven presented the Provincial Achievement Test and Diploma Examination Accountability Report. Key findings of the report include:</p><ul><li>PRPS PAT Acceptable Standard (71.8%)</li><li>PRPS&nbsp; Diploma Acceptable Standard (71%)</li><li>Scored higher than the provincial average in Math 9 K&amp;E Writing (Acceptable and Excellence), Science 9 Writing (Acceptable), English 30-2 (Acceptable), Math 30-2 (Acceptable), Social 30-1 (Acceptable), Science 30 (Acceptable), Chemistry 30 (Acceptable) and Physics 30 (Acceptable and Excellence)</li><li>PRPS Colony schools scored higher than provincial colony schools in ELA 6 (Average and Excellence), Math 6 (Acceptable), Science 6 (Acceptable and Excellence) and Social 6 (Acceptable).</li></ul><p>All PRPS teachers were commended for their efforts in getting students prepared due to disruptions during the pandemic. It was noted that this is the first time many of the grade 6 and 9 students have written a PAT and that Prairie Rose participation rates were considerably higher than the provincial average.</p><p><strong>EBHS Field Trip Request</strong><br>The board approved a field trip request from the U18 South Alberta Hockey Academy to participate in a hockey tournament in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The trip is scheduled from March 2, 2023 to March 5, 2022. The tournament is a sanctioned USA Hockey event and approved by Hockey Canada and Hockey Alberta.</p><p><strong>2021-2022 Audit Results &amp; Financial Statement Approval</strong><br>Assistant Secretary Treasurer Candice Hintz provided a summary of the audited financial statements ending August 31, 2022. Overall, Prairie Rose Public Schools was given a clean financial audit. Revenues for the year totalled $53,820,516, while expenses were $53,629,757. An overall surplus for the year of $190,759 was recorded. It was shared that additional revenues provided during the 2021-2022 year contributed to the surplus included funds for COVID (masks &amp; tests), safe air (hepa filter systems), learning disruption funding, new curriculum and the fuel contingency grant. The full audit document can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p>Two motions were passed by the board:</p><ul><li>That the Board of Trustees of Prairie Rose Public Schools approve the net transfer of $117,010 from Unrestricted Operating Reserves to Restricted Operating Reserves. Further, it approves the net transfer of $100,000 from Unrestricted Operating Reserves to Restricted Capital Reserves.</li><li>That the Board of Trustees of Prairie Rose Public Schools approves the 2021-22 Audited Financial Statements, as presented.</li></ul><p><strong>2022-2023 Revised Budget Approval</strong><br>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser presented the revised 2022-2023 budget for approval. Compared to the spring budget, the school division is now forecasting a deficit of $926,606, which is an increase in spending of $17,708 (the spring budget projected a deficit of $908,898). Revenue changes include learning disruption funding, teacher salary increases, curriculum funding and a fuel subsidy grant. Revised expenses include salary adjustments for all certified and noncertified staff, additional support staff hours, an increase in FSLW hours and the addition of a custodial supervisor. The complete revised budget can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p><p>The board approved the following:</p><ul><li>That the Board of Trustees of Prairie Rose Public Schools approves the 2022-23 Revised Budget, as presented.</li></ul><p><strong>Other Items:</strong></p><ul><li>Approved modifications to GP#5 Board Committees - Terms of Reference</li></ul>