<p>The November 29, 2022, 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/1ZoEaXv1MItp1_gScCGuVYpSJRbEyl8hx/view?usp=share_link">November 29, 2022 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued the following letter for distribution to all families regarding a rise in cough and fever type sickness in Alberta schools. We encourage all parents to read the letter and watch for signs of illness in their children to help prevent the spread.</p><p>Read the full letter here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bSgl3Z1WMWQD-By760m8UWJjF-JQTY9A/view?usp=share_link">November 2022, AHS All Parents Influenza Letter</a></p>

<p>The full agenda for the November 9, 2022, meeting can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19-Hhiou5yZEvKvFtGke7OAR8s3cVf1Sf/view">PRPS Nov 9, 2022 Agenda</a></p><p><strong>Senator Gershaw / Bow Island Elementary School Presentation</strong><br>Principal Scott Angle and vice principal Paul Brocklesby from Senator Gershaw and Bow Island Elementary schools spoke about several programs taking place at both Bow Island schools. Highlights of their presentation included examples of how FNMI learning and indigenous culture is being integrated into daily education, the expansion of the school’s music education program, an update on the Gershaw greenhouse project, new extra-curricular opportunities for elementary aged students (including a soccer program), and examples of student leadership which includes the Gator of the Week initiative. It was also shared that Bow Island also offers an evening school program which brings in 20-30 students each year. On average the night program assists 5-10 students earn a high school diploma annually. The full Senator Gershaw and BIE presentation can be found in the board meeting package.</p><p><strong>Transportation Report</strong><br>Director of Transportation Derek Beck presented the 2022 Transportation Accountability Report for information. It was shared that Prairie Rose currently has 83 bus routes that travel just over 17,000 kilometres each day. Other highlights of the report included an overview of ride times based on grade and a summary of the transportation budget for the division which is projected at $5,548,298 for the 2022-2023 school year. It was noted that a shortage of bus drivers continues to cause issues with being able to provide consistent bus service to all PRPS students. The full report can be found in the board meeting package.</p><p><strong>Communications Report</strong><br>Director of Communications Angela Baron presented the 2022 Communications Accountability Report for information. The report included a review of current communications strategies (internal and external), an analysis of Prairie Rose social media channels and a summary of completed and upcoming communications initiatives. The full report can be found in the board meeting package.</p><p><strong>CUPE Collective Agreement</strong><br>The board voted to ratify the memorandum of settlement reached with CUPE Local 829 on October 31, 2022, which represents Prairie Rose Redcliff custodians.</p><p><strong>EBHS Trip to Greece</strong><br>The board approved the Eagle Butte High School proposed field trip to Greece from April 9 -16, 2023. The trip will include a tour of Athens before boarding a cruise with stops in Mykonos, Samos, Rhodes and Crete before returning to Athens before flying home. 24 students in grades 10-12 and four adult supervisors are expected to participate. The motion was put forward by Graeme Dennis.</p><p><strong>GP #15 Trustee Development</strong><br>The board decided to not make any changes to the policy at this time.<br>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The November 9, 2022 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/19-Hhiou5yZEvKvFtGke7OAR8s3cVf1Sf/view?usp=share_link">November 9, 2022 Board Meeting Agenda</a></p>

<p>With the weather networks forecasting significant snowfall combined with cold temperatures across Prairie Rose Public Schools for Wednesday, November 2nd, please take the time to familiarize yourself with the PRPS Administrative Procedure related to inclement weather and poor road conditions. &nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y9loNCVX_fD23-FtlhFOdKaY-j-1xgrU/view?usp=share_link">Policy T201: Inclement Weather</a></p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><figure class="image"><img src="/images/cbf3d17e-6e1a-4fba-aa8d-e82600b8512d?fingerprint=ppb20251217030024" alt=""></figure></td><td><i>As always, the responsibility and final decision to send a child to school or on the bus belongs to the parent, even if busses are operating and schools are open. If you intend to keep your child home from school due to inclement weather, please communicate your decision to your child's school.</i></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td colspan="2"><strong>Bus Cancellations / School Closures Due to Road and Driving Conditions</strong></td></tr><tr><td colspan="2"><i>Please note: Schools may remain open even though some buses may not be operating.</i></td></tr><tr><td>Severely Reduced Visibility (.2 km or less)</td><td>Principals will consult with the Director of Transportation and bus drivers to assess this hazard and, if necessary, make a decision to close a school. Each individual bus driver can discontinue a route in progress and/or cancel bus operations for the day, if the lack of visibility creates a dangerous driving situation.</td></tr><tr><td>Road Conditions</td><td>Principals will consult with the Director of Transportation and bus drivers to assess this hazard and, if necessary, make a decision to close a school. Each individual bus driver can discontinue a route in progress and/or cancel bus operations for the day if road conditions create a dangerous driving situation. The <a href="https://511.alberta.ca/#:Alerts">Alberta 511</a> road report will be the data source utilized to assess road conditions.</td></tr><tr><td>Bussing Changes due to Weather</td><td><p>If buses return home before the end of the regular school day other than scheduled early dismissals, the driver must ensure students are able to enter and in the case of very young students, a responsible person is available to supervise them.</p><p>Should busses not be able to run at the end of the school day, parents will be contacted to arrange pick-up or billeting.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>How will parents be notified about a bus cancellation or school closure?</strong></td></tr><tr><td><p>All efforts are made to communicate cancellations or school closures beginning at 6:30 a.m. Should a bus or school be closed, a message will be sent to parents using our School Messenger Communicate system and posted on the PRPS school division website. Please ensure you are familiar with these methods.</p><ul><li>All parents are automatically enrolled in our School Messenger phone and email. To also receive text message notifications, please text the letter Y to (phone number) 978338. This will opt you in to receive messages from the school division. School Messenger notifications can also be managed by downloading the School Messenger app from the app store (blue app).</li><li>A list of all PRPS schools and bus routes can be found on the Prairie Rose Public Schools Transportation Status website page. This page can be found here: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/transportation-status">https://www.myprps.com/transportation-status</a></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<p>The complete October 11, 2022 Agenda package can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Of5TfqkY2JtbaXAJYjMmXBYsq7wczxDT/view">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Of5TfqkY2JtbaXAJYjMmXBYsq7wczxDT/view</a></p><p><strong>New Brigden School Presentation</strong></p><p>Principal Gayle Vass provided an overview of New Brigden School and highlighted several initiatives and programs taking place at the school. These included student awards and recognition, participation in area sports events and activities with Oyen and Acadia Valley, collaborating with the Agriculture in the North Prairie Rose Possibility project, and maintaining solid and consistent communication with parents/community. In addition to maintaining a strong focus on building early literacy, New Brigden students are always looking for creative ways to give back to their local community, which will be highlighted in the school’s learning exhibition this year. It was also shared that the school continues to grow enrolment, which reached 28 students this year. Examples of wellness, activities, field trips and citizenship were also shared. The full report can be found in the October 11, 2022, Board Meeting Agenda.</p><p><strong>Enrolment Update</strong></p><p>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser provided an enrolment update for information. Compared to the preliminary September 7, 2022, count, the division is up another 0.5 FTE of a student. It was noted that enrolment counts for 2022-2023 are overall very positive for Prairie Rose, with a total increase of 47 students compared to the previous year.</p><p><strong>Human Resources Report</strong></p><p>Deputy Superintendent Mark Heinricks provided the annual Human Resources report for information. Overall, PRPS employs 476 employees. It was noted that challenges remain with recruiting new employees in all positions (specifically in the very rural areas). Other highlights of the HR report include; lower on-average class sizes at all grade levels in PRPS (based on the recommendations defined by the Alberta Commission on Learning), increased FSLW support time to assist with mental health and wellness initiatives and projected PRPS salary and benefit costs for the 2022-2023 school year. The full report can be found in the October 11, 2022, Board Meeting Agenda.</p><p><strong>South Central High School Trip to Iceland</strong></p><p>The board approved the South Central High School proposed field trip to Iceland through tour provider Evolve to be scheduled for April 2023. The itinerary includes a day trip to the Golden Circle, a tour of the Hellisheidarvirkjun Geothermal Power Plant, a glacier hike and exploring downtown Reykjavik. The motion was put forward by Lois Bedwell.</p><p><strong>EBHS Cross Country Field Trip to New York/Boston</strong></p><p>The board approved the Eagle Butte High School Cross Country field trip proposal to visit New York and Boston from April 10-18, 2023. In addition to running in a couple of local races, the students will also tour both cities visiting historical locations that include the Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, Harvard University and the New England Aquarium. The motion was put forward by Shauna VanderSpruit.</p><p><strong>Other Items:</strong></p><ul><li>The board approved an ATB borrowing resolution for $750,000 for 2022-2023.</li><li>The board approved the rewording of GP#2 - Board Role and Responsibilities to change 8.1 to the following:<ul><li>Act as an advocate for the public school system to which we belong and our division.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>The board congratulated Nichole Neubauer for receiving The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medal.</li></ul>

<p>From September 26-29, students and staff in Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) will observe and participate in Truth and Reconciliation week leading up to the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th.&nbsp;</p><p>Respecting the calls to action from Indigenous leaders towards reconciliation in Canada, September 30th is a non-instructional day in PRPS and school facilities will be closed. This is in line with <i>Call to Action 80</i> from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which calls for the establishment of a federal statutory holiday to honour survivors, their families, and communities, to ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.</p><blockquote><p>“As educators, it is our role to listen and reflect on the history and teachings of our Indigenous peoples,” says Superintendent Reagan Weeks. “To do this, not only must we provide opportunities for our students to learn about reconciliation, but we as a staff must also actively participate in the learning and teachings ourselves.”</p></blockquote><p>At the PRPS division-wide staff professional learning day on September 29th, a significant focus will be on building understanding and knowledge related to reconciliation. A keynote session will be led by Cowboy Smithx, a Blackfoot filmmaker from the Piikani Nation and Kainai Nation in Southern Alberta. Smithx is best known for his work on a featured documentary entitled <i>Elder in the Making</i>, which focuses on reconciliation between non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal Peoples of Canada.</p><p>Leading up to the PD day, students across PRPS schools will actively participate in their own learning opportunities. This will include Orange Shirt Day, where students and staff wear orange t-shirts to recognize the legacy of the residential school system. Additionally, through partnerships with members of local Indigenous communities, students will participate in traditional activities focused on culture and traditions. These traditional learnings will be enhanced through dedicated literacy centres featuring books and poems about the Canadian Indigenous experience.</p><p>To find out more about specific activities related to Truth and Reconciliation in Prairie Rose, please contact your local school or PRPS Communications.</p>

<p>On September 19, 2022, Prairie Rose Public Schools will participate in a <i>Day of Mourning</i> in solemn recognition of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, as per the direction of the Province of Alberta. All Prairie Rose schools will remain open.&nbsp;</p><p>Schools are encouraged to commemorate the passing of Her late Majesty by observing a moment of silence or discussing her life and public service in the classroom. The Province will also be live-streaming a ceremony at the Alberta legislature at 10:00 a.m. Schools are invited to participate via the online link which is available at <a href="https://www.alberta.ca/queen-elizabeth-memorial-services.aspx">https://www.alberta.ca/queen-elizabeth-memorial-services.aspx</a></p>

<p>Are you a Prairie Rose Public Schools student who loves to sing, act and dance?</p><p>If so, we invite you to be a cast member in the musical theatre production Elf being put on by Prairie Rose and Eagle Butte High School in early December. A parent/guardian &nbsp;and student information meeting is being held on Saturday, September 17th at 11:00 AM at Eagle Butte High School.</p><p>Those students wishing to participate will be a member of the ensemble as chorus members which will include singing, dancing and acting. Parent volunteers are also needed for props, costumes, sets, and backstage. &nbsp;We hope for a parent group that will work in the art room on Saturdays during our rehearsals to prepare for the show.</p><p>Please note the extensive tentative rehearsal schedule below. If your child is unavailable for show times, or a significant portion of the rehearsal times, he or she should decline this invitation. Students involved must be responsible, and committed to our show. &nbsp;This is an Eagle Butte, and a Prairie Rose production, and so all school rules apply at all times of involvement, including rehearsals.</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rehearsals will be on the following dates from 11:00 AM until 3:00 PM.</td></tr><tr><td><ul><li>Saturday, September 17th: parent and student meeting</li><li>Saturday, September 24th</li><li>Saturday, October 1st-long weekend (T &amp; R)</li><li>Saturday, October 8th-long weekend (Thanksgiving)</li><li>Saturday, October 15th</li><li>Saturday, October 22nd</li><li>Saturday, October 29th</li><li>Saturday, November 5th</li><li>Saturday, November 12th-long weekend—extra rehearsals–Principals run-through with band</li><li>Saturday, November 19th-Act I Run Through</li><li>Sunday, November 20th</li><li>Saturday, November 26th-Act II Run Through</li><li>Sunday, November 27th</li><li>Saturday, December 3rd</li><li>Sunday, December 4th-move into Esplanade</li><li>Monday, December 5th-After School Dress rehearsal</li><li>Tuesday, December 6th-Full Day Dress rehearsal</li><li>Wednesday, December 7th-Matinee and Evening Shows</li><li>Thursday, December 8th, Matinee and Evening Shows</li><li>Friday, December 9th, Matinee and Evening Shows</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Please complete the following and bring it to the September 17th information meeting: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19uHYH_mok3cWo0ECyTc0BbndG2_d2ESb/view?usp=sharing">ELF Participation Consent Form</a>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<p>To honour the life and legacy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who passed away on September 8, 2022, Prairie Rose Public Schools will be lowering all school division flags to half mast.&nbsp;</p><p>In addition to being part of Canada and the Commonwealth, Prairie Rose has a special connection with the United Kingdom through its partnership with Canadian Forces Base BATUS and the British military families who attend Ralston School. Our condolences and thoughts go to our fellow Canadians, other Commonwealth nations and our Ralston families as they mourn the passing of the 96 year old monarch who was loved and admired by the people around the world.</p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools would like to extend a our greatest thanks and appreciation to ATB Financial and the United Way of Southeast Alberta who donated 53 new Chromebooks for PRPS students. The new Chromebooks were distributed this month to grade 2 students from Bow Island Elementary School (19), Foremost School (16), Oyen Public School (11), Warren Peers School (4) and Jenner School (3).</p><blockquote><p>“We are incredibly grateful to ATB for their generous donation of 53 Chromebooks to Prairie Rose Public Schools,” says Superintendent Reagan Weeks. “The support of our communities is key to thriving schools and ATB is a valued education partner.”</p></blockquote><p>This is the second year that Prairie Rose Public Schools students have been the recipients of this donation. Thank you for your support!</p><p>Read the full announcement from ATB Financial here: <a href="https://www.atb.com/company/news/stories/united-way-laptop-donation/">https://www.atb.com/company/news/stories/united-way-laptop-donation/</a></p>

<p>On June 21st, Prairie Rose Public Schools recognizes <strong>National Indigenous Peoples Day</strong>. In alignment with the summer solstice, the day marks the opportunity for people in Canada to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Prairie Rose is proud to learn and be guided by the knowledge of our indigenous community partners and elders. We recognize and celebrate the culture of our 101 FNMI self-identified students and their families.</p><p>More information about the history and importance of National Indigenous Peoples Day can be found on the Government of Canada website: <a href="https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013718/1534874583157">https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013718/1534874583157</a></p><h3>Treaty 4 and Treaty 7</h3><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools acknowledges that we are situated on Treaty 7 and Treaty 4 territory, traditional lands of the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney-Nakoda, and Tsuu T’ina as well as the Cree, Sioux, and the Saulteaux bands of the Ojibwa peoples. We also honour and acknowledge that we are on the homelands of the Métis Nation within Region 3.&nbsp;</p><h3>Treaty 7</h3><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools acknowledges the Treaty 7 territory; ancestral and traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy: Kainai, Piikani and Siksika as well as the Tsuu T’ina First Nation, Stoney Nakoda First Nation.</p><h3>Treaty 6</h3><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools acknowledges Treaty 6 territory; the ancestral and traditional territory of the Cree, Dene, Blackfoot, Saulteaux, Nakota Sioux, as well as the Métis.</p><p>We acknowledge the many First Nations, Métis and Inuit whose footsteps have marked these lands for generations. We are grateful for the traditional Knowledge Keepers and Elders who are still with us today and those who have gone before us. We recognise the land as an act of reconciliation and gratitude to those whose territory we reside on or are visiting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They say third the time is a charm and after being delayed twice during the pandemic, this past weekend the first annual Drone Games took flight at Eagle Butte High School. In total, 16 students and six adults participated in the event which consisted of a trajectory drop, an agility obstacle course, a scavenger hunt and an XBox and flight simulator course. Prizes were awarded for winners in each of the three age categories.</p><ul><li>Grade 9/10: Arabella Allen</li><li>Grade 11/12: Ryan Porter (1st), Grade 11/12: Trigger Ellis (2nd)</li><li>Adult: Dana Marshall</li></ul><p>Prairie Rose would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to our community partners and volunteers who helped make the first annual Drone Games a big success.</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Super T Aviation</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Teri Super<br>Les Little<br>Doug Little<br>Sheri Little</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>QinetiQ</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Catherine Walton<br>Christopher Schneider<br>Deiredre Schneider<br>Erin Murray and Logan Murray<br>Jermaine Hoven<br>Jocelyn Arthur<br>Lukasz Trzcinka<br>Madison Aubry<br>Mike Mulder<br>Sunayan Mullick<br>Telisha Mielke</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Medicine Hat College</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Kevin Shufflebotham<br>Chad Flinn and Alex Flinn</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Canadian Forces Base Suffield</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Major Joe Kemp&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>AB Drones</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Andy Loignon<br>Cody Schenkey</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Other Partners</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Benjamin Weir - BEET / Octal 7<br>Ray Penner - Benchmark Geomatics<br>Marco Jansen - NAV Canada<br>Tammy and Katelyn Rozdeba</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>A big thank you also goes out to all the Prairie Rose staff who came out to support the event and ensure everything ran smoothly.</p>

<p>The Redcliff Scholarship Committee for Advanced Education, is pleased to announce that Eagle Butte High School graduates Eden McCarthy, Erica McCuaig, Breanne Neufeld and Amber Schneider are the recipients of the 2022 Redcliff Scholarship Awards. All four students will be attending post-secondary in the fall, with plans to pursue careers in education, nursing, science and history. Each student will receive one of four 2022 Redcliff Scholarships for $5,000 towards tuition costs for post-secondary studies. &nbsp;</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Eden McCarthy (EBHS)</strong>, plans to attend Medicine Hat College to pursue a career in nursing</td></tr><tr><td>“I will be attending Medicine Hat College in the fall with plans to pursue a career in nursing. It has been my dream for as long as I can remember to become a nurse. My goal is to become a travel nurse and then work in Calgary at the Alberta Children’s Hospital as a paediatric nurse."</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Erica McCuaig (EBHS)</strong>, plans to attend Medicine Hat College to pursue a career in education</td></tr><tr><td>“I will be attending Medicine Hat College in the fall in the education program. My goal is to be an elementary teacher for grades 3 to 6, which will give me the opportunity to inspire and mentor youth in our community."</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Breanne Neufeld (EBHS)</strong>, plans to attend Medicine Hat College to pursue a career in education and biology</td></tr><tr><td>“I will be attending Medicine Hat College for two years then transfer to the University of Lethbridge for three years to earn a combined degree in education and biological sciences. I want to become a high school biology teacher, so I can pursue my passion for sharing knowledge and science."</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Amber Schneider (EBHS)</strong>, plans to attend Medicine Hat College to pursue a career as an archivist</td></tr><tr><td>“I will be attending Medicine Hat College with a plan to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. My goal is to become an archivist, believing that the history of places and events are important to how our society can connect to community.”</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><blockquote><p>“This year’s scholarship recipients were chosen from a group of extremely talented and hard-working individuals,” says scholarship administrator Pat Cocks. “The Redcliff Scholarship Committee is extremely pleased to be able to support these four exceptional students, who showed determination and strength through what was another unconventional school year. The Committee would like to wish them all the best in whatever their futures hold.”</p></blockquote><p>The Redcliff Scholarships were established in 2002 and have been awarded to 47 Redcliff students. &nbsp;The awards are possible thanks to two endowed scholarship funds, that were established and are sustained by ongoing contributions of Redcliff organizations, and present and past Redcliff citizens. &nbsp;A third, Frank King Tribute Scholarship Fund, was announced in the spring of 2018 in memory of the late Frank King, while a fourth was added in November of 2020 to honour the legacy of former Redcliff resident David Jon Thomson.</p><p>If you require further information, please contact Fund Administrator Pat Cocks at the number listed below.</p><p>Pat Cocks<br>Redcliff Scholarship Fund Administrator<br>403-526-0548</p><p>--------------------------------------------</p><h3>REDCLIFF SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ADVANCED EDUCATION</h3><p>The <strong>Redcliff Scholarship for Advanced Education “Original Fund”</strong> was launched at the Reunion of the 1944 Grade One Class held in September 2002. The aim was to create an endowed scholarship fund. Ongoing public contributions credited to this fund have been contributed by, or in tribute to, past and present citizens of Redcliff and by Redcliff organizations.</p><p><strong>“The Four Friends Fund”</strong> was established in the memory of the value of the lifelong Redcliff friendships of Jack Fairhurst, Ron Hodges, John Hudak and Gerald Berkhold. &nbsp;This second scholarship is administered parallel to the initial scholarship. &nbsp;It enabled two separate but equal scholarships to be awarded commencing in 2006.</p><p><strong>“Frank King Tribute” </strong>scholarship was made available through the generosity of the family and friends of Mr. King, a former resident of Redcliff and the Chair of the 1988 Calgary Olympic Games.</p><p><strong>“David Jon Thomson Scholarship”</strong> was established in 2020 in memory of David Jon Thomson. Mr. Thomson grew up in Redcliff and was a well-known businessman and a lifelong supporter of higher education.</p><p>The scholarships are to support the brightest and most able Redcliff high school graduates to explore fully their potential. The scholarships have as priorities the student’s financial need and overall abilities. &nbsp;The award criteria include financial need, leadership and citizenship and academic merit, with preference to first year students. Applicants must have been residents of Redcliff for at least their full year of Grade 12.</p><p>Payment of the scholarships are governed as follows:</p><ul><li>There are four separate annual scholarships for tuition at an institution of advanced education to a maximum of $5,000 each.</li><li>The $5,000 scholarship will be applied to the student’s tuition with two equal payments of $2,500 being sent directly to the post-secondary institution in mid-August and mid-December by Prairie Rose Public Schools.</li></ul><p>Comments or inquiries regarding the Scholarship Fund and contributions to the fund can be directed to Ryan Boser, Chief Financial Officer, Prairie Rose Public Schools (403) 527-5516.</p><p><i>The PDF version of the announcement can be found here: </i><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1c-eEPNiqf9pM2txlfVAb-cWTPdPezXXN/view?usp=sharing"><i>https://drive.google.com/file/d/1c-eEPNiqf9pM2txlfVAb-cWTPdPezXXN/view?usp=sharing</i></a></p>

<p>The June 14th Board Meeting Agenda and attachments can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xNtrBfr401XVztLP838zAV0xFfhjwDQX/view?usp=sharing">PRPS June 14, 2022 Board Meeting Agenda Package</a></p><p><strong>Foremost School Presentation</strong></p><p>Foremost School principal Corey Steeves made a presentation to the board focused on current and future learning initiatives taking place at the school. In his report, he shared that through student and parent engagement staff heard that there was a desire for more option classes focused on building connections between what students were learning and life skills. As a result, the school added fitness, outdoor education, agriculture, coding, shop and food classes to the school timetable. The Foremost hockey academy was also expanded to add grade 4 - 6 students to the current 7-12 program. In terms of new and growing projects, the school has established a FARM program (Foremost Agriculture Resource Model) which involves the students growing, harvesting and selling the produce they grow. It was shared that a student has been hired as a caretaker and will oversee the garden throughout the summer months, with the goal of opening a student-led farmers market this fall. Another notable addition to the school next fall is a rodeo academy. The school has offered rodeo clinics in the past and plans to expand the program by offering a rodeo and life on the ranch course for the first semester, followed by a rodeo program in conjunction with the high school rodeo season the following spring. The full Foremost School presentation can be found in the June 14th Agenda Package.</p><p><strong>Ralston School Growcer’s Modular Farm</strong></p><p>Ralston School Principal Stacey Nunweiler and teacher Wade Carrier made a presentation to the board requesting support for establishing a Growcer’s Modular Farm on the school site. The addition of a hydroponic growing farm would help further develop the school’s Prairie Rose Possibility project focused on ‘learning from the land.’ The program focuses on three key learning areas for students which include FNMI learning, sustainable food production and outdoor education. The goal for the school is to apply for grants and establish community partnerships that can assist with funding the vertical hydroponic farm which has the capacity to produce 600 heads of lettuce each week. While still in the planning phase, the school’s goal would be to sell produce to local Ralston residents and community businesses, support other PRPS school food programs and donate 25% of the product to a food scarcity issue. The cost of a single Growcer’s unit is approximately $270,000. The full school presentation and proposal can be found in the June 14th Agenda Package.</p><p><strong>Health and Safety Report</strong></p><p>Health and Safety Coordinator Derek Beck shared the annual health and safety report for information. Highlights of the report include updates related to staff emergency response training, safety inspections, fire inspections and participation in the AHS ARTSSN illness reporting program. An update regarding injuries reported during the 2021-2022 school year was also provided. In total there were 107 student injuries across 15 schools reported with the most common occurring on the playground. 11 staff also reported injuries this year, primarily related to strains/sprains and slips and falls. It was noted that PRPS WCB rates continue to remain high, as they are based on averages from staff injuries reported over the past three to five years.</p><p><strong>Locally Approved Courses</strong></p><p>The board of trustees approved the following locally approved courses which are either new, or will be continued for use at all PRPS schools over the next three to five years:</p><ul><li>Aviation - Structures 25</li><li>Aviation - Structures 35</li><li>Aviation Navigation Aids 15&nbsp;</li><li>Mental Health Literacy -15&nbsp;</li><li>Developing Personal Integrity - 15, 25, 35</li><li>Competencies in Math (2022) 15</li><li>Learning Strategies 15</li><li>Learning Strategies 15</li><li>Learning Strategies 25</li><li>Learning Strategies 25</li><li>Learning Strategies 35</li><li>Learning Strategies 35</li><li>Psychology - Abnormal 35</li></ul>

<p>The next public board meeting for the Prairie Rose Public Schools Board of Trustees will take place on Tuesday, June 14th starting at 12:45 pm. The meeting will be streamed online and held in-person at the Chamber of Commerce Office in Medicine Hat located at:</p><p>413 - 6 Avenue SE<br>Medicine Hat, Alberta</p><p>Due to limited space at the meeting location, attendees are encouraged to join via the online stream: <a href="https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NWY5ZTFkNGUtYWQxMS00ZDlmLTk2YjYtOGNmZjM3M2IzMDY5%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22c1a7f361-4369-4e63-af8a-db541e2c097b%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2248a6a9b8-2a7b-494f-9523-0206f91ffcad%22%2c%22IsBroadcastMeeting%22%3atrue%7d&amp;btype=a&amp;role=a">Click here to watch the live stream</a> (<i>Once you click the link, click cancel on the pop up, watch on the web instead, join anonymously.)</i></p><p>The meeting agenda can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xNtrBfr401XVztLP838zAV0xFfhjwDQX/view?usp=sharing">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xNtrBfr401XVztLP838zAV0xFfhjwDQX/view?usp=sharing</a></p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools would like to congratulate PRPS Board Chair Cathy Hogg who was honoured with the Dick Baker Legacy Award at the Public School Boards' Association of Alberta Spring Assembly this past weekend.</p><p>The award is bestowed on a public school board trustee who models the values of integrity, compassion, respect, mentoring and leadership with a focus on always putting children first.</p><blockquote><p>“I am honoured and humbled,” says Cathy Hogg. “There are many incredible individuals who have received this award over the years and I feel proud to be recognized in the company of these amazing people.”</p></blockquote><p>Cathy Hogg was first elected to the Prairie Rose Public Schools board in 2013. During her time as trustee she has been active on the provincial scene advocating for public school education, serving on the PSBAA executive from 2015-2017 and as the President of the Public School Boards' Association from 2017-2021.</p><p>Read the PSBAA media release here: <a href="https://public-schools.ab.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/06-06-2022-Dick-Baker-Award-MEDIA-RELEASE-PSBAA.pdf">https://public-schools.ab.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/06-06-2022-Dick-Baker-Award-MEDIA-RELEASE-PSBAA.pdf</a></p><p><i>In the photo: PSBAA President Dennis McNeil and PRPS Board Chair Cathy Hogg</i></p>

<h3>2022 Kaleidoscope Art Winners</h3><p>Click here to see the complete list of winners in the art categories: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_GY5-YT6P4Uqr3fBssXpdnWS5xp_kt7L/view?usp=sharing">2022 Kaleidoscope Art Winners</a></p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><figure class="image"><img src="/images/eeabf7b2-e195-4e66-836f-301cab82bc59?fingerprint=ppb20251217025517" alt=""></figure></td><td><figure class="image"><img src="/images/f8374be6-0e65-4878-867d-38c2b98ce044?fingerprint=ppb20251217025706" alt=""></figure></td></tr><tr><td colspan="2"><a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/13Ci7djbA6m8ggZdxLC_i5GAPKBI-iyZb?usp=sharing"><strong>Click here</strong> to check out all the photos from the 2022 event.</a> A special thanks to Kyla Darr at Little Reflections photography for capturing this year's event.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h3>PRPS Institute of the Arts Program</h3><p>Thank you to everyone who came out and bid on the student art work. Total sales from the 2022 Silent Auction and Art Exhibit Student Sales totalled $3,245. All sale proceeds goes back to the student artists.</p><p>If you are interested in enrolling your student in the PRPS Institute of the Arts for the 2022-2023, complete the registration form: <a href="https://prrdweb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3ZVjFItvPIYyb2e">https://prrdweb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3ZVjFItvPIYyb2e</a></p><p>____________________________________________________________________________</p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools will be hosting the 13th annual Kaleidoscope of the Arts on June 1st and June 2nd at the Esplanade in Medicine Hat. The format has been changed from previous years and will include the following:</p><h3><strong>June 1, 2022</strong></h3><p><i>Silent Auction and Art Exhibition&nbsp;</i></p><p>The Prairie Rose Institute of the Arts students will be holding a Silent Auction and Art Exhibition running from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Students will be on hand to talk about their work and present it in an exhibit format. Highest bidders in the silent auction will purchase the student's work. All money raised goes directly back to the student artists.</p><p>The list of participants can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ag7raZBPlmrF0ogtAvd7nbJMLbCgqJjk/view?usp=sharing">Art Showcase</a></p><p><i>Musical Showcase</i></p><p>Starting at 7:00 p.m. students from Seven Persons School, Margaret Wooding School, Bow Island Elementary School, Senator Gershaw School, Eagle Butte High School and Parkside Jr High School will perform on the Esplanade main stage. The show is free to attend and will be approximately one hour in length.</p><p>Musical program lineup can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/14ON1AjcuRNWvj0vxVCJ4YP6glULTZbdk/view?usp=sharing">Music Showcase</a></p><h3><strong>June 2, 2022</strong></h3><p>Classes from across Prairie Rose will be transported to the Esplanade for a day of workshops focused on art, FNMI/mixed media, music creation, ukulele, and chorale. The day will end with a group performance with all students on the main stage of the Esplanade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prairie Rose Public School would like to congratulate Rocheal Howes, who will become the new Eagle Butte High School Principal at the start of the next school year.</p><p>Howes holds a Master of Education in School Leadership and Bachelor’s degrees in Education and Kinesiology. Throughout her 22-year career, she has taught overseas in Japan, in the Medicine Hat area, at both the high school and junior high levels, and as a teacher and vice-principal of Parkside Junior High School in Redcliff. Currently, Howes is one of two vice principals at Eagle Butte High School; a role she has had since 2020.</p><blockquote><p>“Eagle Butte is such a vibrant and innovative school,” says Howes. “There’s always something exciting happening, whether in our Back to Business class, through the South Alberta Hockey and Flight academies, our sports and athletics programs, fine arts initiatives, and noticeably at the heart of all other classroom activities. The school is a vibrant learning community, and I am honoured to be chosen to lead our team as we continue to create unique and impactful learning experiences for students.”</p></blockquote><blockquote><p>“Having worked at the junior and high school levels for many years as both a teacher and a school administrator, Rocheal has a strong leadership foundation which will serve her well in this new role,” says Superintendent Reagan Weeks. “She is a passionate school leader who is always looking for new ways to engage the school community. We look forward to seeing what the Eagle Butte staff, students, parents, and community will accomplish together.”&nbsp;</p></blockquote><p>Rocheal Howes will officially assume the role of Eagle Butte High School principal at the start of the 2022-2023 school year.</p>

<p>The May 24th Board Meeting Agenda and attachments can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WYrx7MA441adTbUJDWfRHTgz9hs3lqzY/view?usp=sharing">PRPS May 24, 2022 Board Meeting Agenda Package</a></p><p><strong>Eagle Butte High School Presentation</strong></p><p>Eagle Butte High School principal Boyd Craven and vice-principals Cathy Hynes and Rocheal Howes provided an update to the board highlighting educational and student initiatives from the past year. In addition to adding several new learning opportunities for students, such as podcasts, tutor time, busking and food fusion classes, the school leadership team has increased opportunities to gather student input through the implementation of TAG surveys. Overall, it was noted that students have transitioned really well from the restrictions of COVID-19 and are involved in many sporting events and activities this spring. It was also shared that this is Eagle Butte High School’s 25th anniversary with an extensive community event planned for June 25th.</p><p><strong>FNMI Report</strong></p><p>FNMI Coordinator Carol Carlson provided an overview of several FNMI learning initiatives and activities across Prairie Rose Public Schools. It was shared that Prairie Rose has been working closely with community partner Whitebear Creations, a local group who has visited several PRPS schools to provide FNMI learning support which includes sharing history, games and indigenous art projects. Increased FNMI learning has also been integrated into many Prairie Rose Possibility projects. These include the Ralston School Learning for the Land project, where students learn how to use resources found in the local area. This spring, heirloom seeds, native to the land and passed on through generations, are also being added to PRPS greenhouse projects. Prairie Rose Public Schools currently has 122 self-identified FNMI students, representing 2.85% of the student population.</p><p><strong>2022-2025 Three-Year Education Plan</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks presented the 2022-2025 Three-year Education Plan to the board for review and approval. The plan features three new goals, including Ignite Minds, Kindle Hearts and Forge Futures. These three goals are supported by the six new Core Principles outlined in the plan focused on Connect, Create, Communicate, Care, Contribute and Challenge. Feedback from various stakeholders, including staff, parents, students and community partners, was conducted as part of the plan’s development. The full plan can be found in the Agenda package.</p><p><strong>2022-2023 Preliminary Budget</strong></p><p>Chief Financial Officer Ryan Boser presented the Preliminary 2022-2023 Budget for approval. Overall, Prairie Rose Public Schools is projecting the following expenses and revenues for the upcoming school year:</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td><strong>Revenues</strong></td><td><strong>Expenditures</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Instruction</td><td>40,067,342</td><td>40,050,342</td></tr><tr><td>Operations and Maintenance</td><td>6,043,124</td><td>7,157,173</td></tr><tr><td>Transportation</td><td>5,814,362</td><td>5,548,298</td></tr><tr><td>Board and System Admin</td><td>2,193,363</td><td>2,272,705</td></tr><tr><td>External Services</td><td>29,184</td><td>27,755</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Total Budgeted</td><td>54,147,375</td><td>55,056,273</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td colspan="2">Surplus (Deficit) of Revenues over Expenses</td><td>(908,898)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>It was shared that the proposed deficit for the 2022-2023 year of $908,898 will bring PRPS reserves down to 3.97% or $2.187 million. For the first time this upcoming year, K-12 school division operating reserves cannot exceed more than their Board and System Admin expense percentage allowance, which for PRPS is 4.42% of operating expenses (approx. $2.250 million).</p><ul><li>The board approved the transfer of $300,000 from unrestricted operating reserves to restricted reserves to implement the 2022-2023 Education Plan.</li><li>The board approved the 2022-2023 Preliminary Budget as presented.</li></ul><p>The complete 2022-2023 Preliminary Budget can be found in the Board Agenda package.</p>