📢 We’re hiring Substitute Teachers Prairie Rose Public Schools is looking for qualified substitute teachers to support our K to 12 classrooms across AJ and OBK schools in Calgary. If you hold a Bachelor of Education and a valid Alberta teaching certificate, we would love to hear from you. Flexible, on-call opportunities available. 👉 Apply today at myprps.com/employment

This year at OBK, we were honored to celebrate World Hijab Day under a theme that resonates deeply with our hearts: "Hijab: A Step Towards Allah." The day was a beautiful reminder that the hijab is more than just a piece of fabric. It is a spiritual milestone and a courageous stride. We officially welcomed and celebrated our students who have recently made the intention to start their hijabi journey. Your strength is an inspiration to us all! To our new hijabis and our long-time hijabis: May your crown always be a source of peace and a reflection of your beautiful bond with Allah (SWT).

<p>Additional information can be found in the January 13, 2026, Board Meeting Agenda package: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/january-13-2026-public-board-meeting-20260112171955">https://www.myprps.com/news/january-13-2026-public-board-meeting-20260112171955</a></p><p>------</p><h3><strong>Schuler School Presentation</strong></h3><p>Trustees received a presentation from Schuler School highlighting a wide range of student learning experiences, school activities, and community involvement. The presentation provided an overview of how students are engaged through classroom learning, Career and Technology Foundations (CTF) programming, athletics, the arts, and wellness initiatives, as well as how the school connects with families and the broader community.</p><p>Highlights included:</p><ul><li>Student learning &amp; enrichment: science fairs, exhibitions of learning, CTF programming such as carpentry, drones, music, sewing, foods, and archery, as well as student-led projects and inquiry-based learning</li><li>Wellbeing &amp; belonging: Donuts with Dad, Muffins with Mom, student breakfasts, PJ Day for Purpose, German Choir Night, and school-wide wellness activities</li><li>Arts, athletics &amp; outdoor education: volleyball, basketball, badminton, track &amp; field, curling, swimming, skating, ski days, and theatre experiences</li><li>Community connection: Remembrance Day activities, fire hall tours, town clean-ups, Terry Fox Run, food drives, and community celebrations</li></ul><p>The presentation gave trustees a clear picture of how Schuler School is supporting student engagement both inside and outside the classroom.</p><h3><strong>Wellness Accountability Report</strong></h3><p>The Board received the Wellness Accountability Report outlining current trends, challenges, and supports related to staff and student wellbeing across the division.</p><p><i><strong>Staff Wellness – Healthy &amp; Safe Work Environments</strong></i></p><p>Prairie Rose continues to prioritize both physical and psychological wellbeing for employees, recognizing that healthy staff are essential to strong classrooms and positive school cultures.</p><p>Key highlights include:</p><ul><li>Mental health continues to be a leading factor in workplace disability claims across the education sector, reinforcing the importance of proactive supports.</li><li>Prairie Rose remains in line with or below provincial averages for disability conversion rates among similar-sized employers.</li><li>The division continues to promote:<ul><li>Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) resources</li><li>Wellness bulletins and awareness campaigns</li><li>Mental Health First Aid training for school leaders</li><li>Collaboration with ASEBP workplace wellness consultants</li></ul></li></ul><p>These efforts are aimed at supporting staff wellbeing, reducing barriers to access, and strengthening healthy work environments.</p><p><i><strong>Student Wellness Update</strong></i></p><p>The report also highlighted the growing importance of student mental health and emotional wellbeing across all grade levels.</p><p>Prairie Rose’s Student Wellness Team currently includes:</p><ul><li>10 full-time Student Wellness Counsellors</li><li>a Resilience Strategist</li><li>and a Mental Performance Professional</li></ul><p>Together, this team provides support across Prairie Rose schools through:</p><ul><li>Individual and group counselling</li><li>Classroom-based mental health programming</li><li>Parent education and training</li><li>School-based consultation and intervention</li><li>and resilience and coping skill development</li></ul><p>The report noted a continued increase in anxiety-related referrals, growing demand for support at Eagle Butte High School and South Central High School, and the increasing impact of social media and screen time on student focus, emotional regulation, and overall wellbeing. Prairie Rose is responding through expanded supports, staff training, and a strong focus on helping students build the skills they need to manage stress and thrive.</p><h3><strong>Executive Report</strong></h3><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools recently hosted a delegation from Parkland School Division to share information on the design and delivery of academy programming. The visit showcased the South Alberta Collegiate (SAC) facility, South Alberta Flight Academy, agriculture programming in PRPS with the Irvine farm and new Yuill School of Agriculture, South Alberta Hockey Academy (SAHA), and the South Alberta Fire Rescue Academy.</p><h3><strong>International Baccalaureate (IB) Program</strong></h3><p>Eagle Butte High School will be introducing International Baccalaureate (IB) programming beginning in the 2026–2027 school year. Prairie Rose Public Schools will be offering a modified IB model, starting with IB-aligned Mathematics and English, focused on strengthening critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills while continuing to meet Alberta Education curriculum requirements.</p><p>The career-related component of IB programming will be delivered through the South Alberta Flight Academy. Students enrolled in the Flight Academy will have the opportunity to participate in the IB Career-related framework alongside their aviation training, connecting academic learning with hands-on, industry-focused experience.</p><p>This phased approach allows the division to introduce IB programming in a flexible manner, with opportunities for expansion as the program develops.&nbsp;</p><p>Watch a video to learn more about the program:&nbsp;<a href="https://vimeo.com/1154056857">https://vimeo.com/1154056857</a></p><h3><strong>Financial Report (as of November 30, 2025)</strong></h3><p>The Board reviewed the Year-to-Date Financial Report, which provides an update on Prairie Rose’s financial position partway through the school year.</p><p>Overall, the division is currently in a stable financial position, with revenues trending higher than budget due to Alberta Education funding adjustments and teacher salary settlement funding. At the same time, expenses are also higher than budget, reflecting retroactive pay, additional educational assistant time, increased Student Wellness Counsellor staffing, the addition of a Social Media &amp; Engagement position, and higher software licensing costs related to student growth.</p><p>As a result, the division has moved from a balanced budget to a projected operating surplus at this point in the year. Trustees were also advised that the year-to-date surplus is higher than typical due to reduced salary costs during the teacher strike, and that an Alberta Education clawback is expected later in the year.</p><h3><strong>Field Trip Approvals</strong></h3><p>Trustees approved two upcoming field trips that will provide students with meaningful, curriculum-connected learning experiences beyond the classroom.</p><ul><li>Students from Calgary Islamic School, Akram Jomaa Campus will participate in an exchange trip to Mississauga, Ontario (May 10–17, 2026), focused on cultural understanding, relationship building, and community connection.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>Students from Irvine School will take part in an Eastern Canada educational tour in May 2026, visiting Quebec City, Montreal, and Ottawa to explore Canadian history, culture, and government in support of the Grade 7–9 Social Studies curriculum.</li></ul><h3><strong>Locally Developed Courses</strong></h3><p>The Board reviewed and approved Locally Developed Courses that enhance Career and Technology Studies programming and support innovation, technology, and real-world skill development, including:</p><ul><li>iOS App Design</li><li>Game Design and Development</li><li>Cybersecurity</li><li>Intro to Artificial Intelligence</li></ul><h3><strong>Commendations</strong></h3><p>Trustees shared commendations recognizing the following:</p><ul><li>Western Tractor Days – Appreciation was extended to Nichole Neubauer for her continued dedication in promoting Prairie Rose Public Schools and championing agriculture initiatives across the region.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>Eagle Butte High School (EBHS) – Recognition was given to all staff for their significant work in preparing for the implementation of International Baccalaureate (IB) programming, as well as for hosting an engaging and successful Science Fair.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>PRPS Payroll Team – Trustees thanked the PRPS Division Office Payroll team for their professionalism and diligence in managing the complex timelines associated with retroactive pay processing and contract changes.</li></ul>

<figure class="media"><oembed url="https://vimeo.com/1147142802?share=copy&amp;fl=sv&amp;fe=ci"></oembed></figure><p>Angie Angle, formerly a teacher at Burdett School, has been recognized as a 2025 recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in STEM. The national award honours educators who demonstrate outstanding teaching practices in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while inspiring student curiosity and engagement.</p><p>Angle, who taught science and math at Burdett School, has always emphasized hands-on learning and inquiry-based exploration. Her classroom projects combine experiments, engineering challenges, and problem-solving activities to give students the opportunity to see how STEM connects to everyday life.</p><p>“STEM really allows students to connect with material and learn more than they think they are when they are doing something fun and hands-on,” said Angle. “I want my students to always be curious. Asking questions, exploring ideas, and finding solutions is the heart of learning.” She encourages students to test hypotheses, experiment with materials and technology, and collaborate with one another to solve problems, helping them build confidence and critical thinking skills.</p><p>Scott Raible, who nominated Angle for the award, highlighted the impact of her passion on students. “That excitement transferred to her students, who also then got excited about math and science,” said Raible. “To see junior high students eager to share their learning is something truly special. Angie is a role model who inspires curiosity and a love of learning that extends far beyond the classroom.”</p><p>Angle also taught science through virtual learning for high school students, where she found strong engagement in the online environment. That success transitioned her into her current role with South Alberta High School, where she teaches and facilitates online science courses and values the accessibility of online learning. Her approach ensures that students who may not have access to hands-on STEM experiences in their local schools can still engage meaningfully with the material.</p><p>Through her teaching, Angle hopes students carry the same sense of curiosity, collaboration, and confidence they develop in her classroom into all of their future learning experiences. “I hope that my students will take that through not only into their high school careers, but also into their adult lives and pursue a lifelong learning journey,” said Angle. “STEM is not just about science and math. It’s about exploring the world, asking questions, and knowing you have the tools to find answers.</p>

Heartfelt congrats to our genius students for their amazing performances and creativity. A special appreciation to our staff and volunteers who guided our students all the way. A big shout out to our amazing parents and guests for showing up in such large numbers in such extreme weather conditions. We are also deeply grateful to Trickster Theatre for their passionate involvement and dedication in preparing and guiding our students. This production was truly a team effort, and we are thankful to everyone who helped bring “Living the Prophetic Way” to life. Special thanks for Sh. Hassan for writing the script and Mrs. Ripu Rahman for championing the initiative!

<p>Additional information can be found in the December 9, 2025, Board Meeting Agenda package: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/december-9-2025-public-board-meeting-20251208183544">https://www.myprps.com/news/december-9-2025-public-board-meeting-20251208183544</a></p><p>------</p><p><strong>Prairie Mennonite School Presentation</strong></p><p>Trustees heard a presentation from Principal Simon Moreton highlighting the work of Prairie Mennonite School, which serves students from kindergarten through Grade 9. Trustees learned about how the school builds student leadership and school spirit through a house system, supports learning through literacy focused programming, and offers hands-on learning opportunities. The presentation highlighted strong family and community involvement, including parent-led hot lunch programs, student leadership opportunities, community service initiatives, and school wide events that regularly draw strong family participation.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Operations and Maintenance Report</strong></p><p>Director of Facilities Darrell Drefs presented the annual Operations and Maintenance report. Trustees were informed that more than 3,700 maintenance work orders were completed across the division during the past year. Infrastructure Maintenance and Renewal and Capital Maintenance and Renewal projects continue to be prioritized based on greatest need, with a significant portion of funding directed toward roofing and mechanical systems. Updates were shared on completed and upcoming projects, including parking lot upgrades, roof replacement work, mechanical upgrades, and classroom improvements. Trustees were also updated on site preparation for the future Parkside School project in Redcliff and on value scoping work underway in Oyen to review long term facility options.</p><p><strong>PAT and Diploma Results</strong></p><p>Trustees reviewed the Provincial Achievement Test and Diploma Examination results for the 2024-2025 school year. It was noted that curriculum changes affected the number of Grade 6 students writing Provincial Achievement Tests and that results were released later than usual due to labour action. Participation rates for Prairie Rose students remained higher than the provincial average. Trustees also noted an increase in diploma writers, largely connected to additional testing at South Alberta High School, which impacted overall results. Division leadership shared that strategies within the new education plan are focused on improving outcomes through curriculum alignment and consistent instructional practices.</p><p><strong>Annual Education Results Report</strong></p><p>Superintendent Reagan Weeks presented the Annual Education Results Report, which outlines student achievement, learning supports, and division priorities within Alberta’s Assurance Framework. Trustees noted a significant increase in student enrollment across Prairie Rose, which continues to inform planning and resource decisions. The report highlighted areas of progress, including student engagement, strong participation rates in provincial assessments, and high school completion rates. The results reflect Prairie Rose’s ongoing focus on igniting minds through strong instruction, kindling hearts through student supports, and forging futures through successful transitions and completion. Results from both provincial measures and local data are used to identify strengths and areas for continued focus, guiding instructional priorities and division planning for the year ahead.</p><p><strong>Executive Report</strong></p><ul><li>Trustees congratulated PRPS teacher Angie Angle on receiving the Prime Minister’s Award.</li><li>Class size and complexity data from PRPS was submitted to Alberta Education by the November 24, 2025, deadline. The data was requested by the province following labour action by the Alberta Teachers’ Association and included student numbers, staff roles, aggression incidents, and diverse learner numbers. PRPS will also be reviewing the numbers internally to determine where additional support or changes can be made to better support students and teachers.</li></ul><p><strong>Commendations</strong></p><ul><li>Trustees thanked the I.F. Cox School choir for performing Christmas carols for the Board prior to the meeting. Watch the video here: <a href="https://vimeo.com/1145338381">https://vimeo.com/1145338381</a></li><li>Appreciation was extended to staff for meeting Alberta Education complexity reporting timelines.</li><li>Trustees recognized Prairie Rose staff for their work in organizing family events, concerts, and community fundraising initiatives.</li><li>Trustees thanked the Community Foundation for providing grants that continue to support Prairie Rose schools and students.</li></ul><p><strong>Other Items:</strong></p><ul><li>Trustees received an update on supports for students with complex needs. A division committee has been established that includes principals and instructional and learning team members to help address complex and aggressive behaviours. The committee is focused on improving coordination, sharing strategies, and supporting schools in managing challenging situations.</li><li>There were no reports from the Alberta School Boards Association, the Public School Boards Association of Alberta, or the Rural Caucus.</li></ul>

Assalamu Alaikum Parents and Guardians, We are excited to invite you with your family and friends to an unforgettable experience at OBK Campus! Our students will take the stage to present “Living the Prophetic Way”, a powerful and inspiring play that brings the prophetic way of living to life. We can’t wait to see you all there for this inspiring evening! Jazakum Allahu Khairan,

The CIS Omar Bin Al Khattab school community is thrilled to announce that Mohamed Ahmidatou, a grade 8T student, has memorized the Holy Quran. Congratulations, Mohamed Ahmidatou, on this extraordinary achievement. Heartfelt congratulations to his parents and teachers for their invaluable support. May this accomplishment inspire others and bring blessings to all involved, Aameen.

<p>Additional information can be found in the November 25, 2025, Board Meeting Agenda package: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/november-25-2025-public-board-meeting-20251124160216">https://www.myprps.com/news/november-25-2025-public-board-meeting-20251124160216</a></p><p>------</p><p><strong>Executive Report</strong></p><p><i>Yuill School of Agriculture:&nbsp;</i>Assistant Superintendent Boyd Craven shared that the extended mild fall weather has allowed work to begin on preparing the land for the new Yuill School of Agriculture building. He also noted that discussions are underway with Medicine Hat College and SAIT to develop dual credit opportunities connected to the new high school agriculture program.</p><p><strong>2024-2025 Audited Financial Statement Approval</strong></p><p>The Board reviewed and approved the audited financial statements for the 2024-2025 school year, which show that the division remains in a strong and stable financial position. The audit, completed by MNP LLP, provided a clean opinion, confirming that the statements are accurate and follow all required public sector accounting standards. Total revenues for the year reached $63.44 million, with increases in provincial funding, school fees, and community donations.</p><p>Expenses for the year totaled $62.86 million, reflecting the full cost of operating schools across the division. Most of these dollars supported classroom learning, with $45.59 million spent on instruction from early childhood through Grade 12. Student transportation, which ensures students can travel safely to and from school each day, totaled $7.63 million. Another $7.21 million was used for operations and maintenance to keep school buildings running. System administration accounted for $2.36 million, and $77,096 supported external services.</p><p>The division ended the year with an annual surplus of $580,624, helping strengthen overall financial stability. Cash balances across the division and schools increased to $10.78 million, and total capital assets reached $48.2 million, reflecting continued investment in buildings, equipment, and learning environments.</p><p>Overall, the audit confirms that Prairie Rose is financially responsible, stable, and well positioned to continue supporting students, staff, and schools.</p><p><strong>Redcliff Building Name Change and New School Code</strong></p><p>The board approved a new school name and requested a new school code for the CASA Mental Health Program launching in February 2026. The classroom will be located in the Redcliff Mennonite Alternative Program building, which will be renamed The Link as part of the new CASA program.</p><p><strong>Other Items:</strong></p><ul><li>Trustees provided a brief update on their attendance at the recent Public School Boards Association and Alberta School Boards Association meetings. The events included professional development sessions, a fireside conversation with the Minister of Education, and elections for provincial committees. Trustees appreciated the opportunity to connect with colleagues and bring relevant insights back to support division work.</li></ul>

<p>The next Prairie Rose Public Schools board meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the PRPS Division Office in Dunmore <strong>starting at 12:45 p.m.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Board Meeting Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1md6XaqFChEF_SsZ-FgsQ1dNRYtBVsY-n/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1md6XaqFChEF_SsZ-FgsQ1dNRYtBVsY-n/view?usp=drive_link</a></p>

Islamic Book Fair – November 24–28, 2025 We are excited to welcome families to our Islamic Book Fair taking place from November 24–28 in the school library (tower basement). This is a wonderful opportunity for students and parents to explore and purchase high-quality Islamic books from a variety of trusted vendors. The fair is open to the public, so feel free to invite families and friends. We look forward to seeing you there and supporting a love of reading in our students!

An after school Martial Arts Program for Grades 1–9 girls and boys, starting November 17! This program is a collaborative venture between OBK School and MBK Academy. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity for your child to build strength, focus, and self-defense skills — all at a very feasible fee! Program begins: November 17. More details on the poster below

<p><i>Credit: George Lee, The Macleod Gazette, Local Journalism Initiative</i><br><i>Published: November 2, 2025</i></p><p>A multi-billion-dollar Alberta industry with rural roots – literally and figuratively – will reap the benefits of a new educational champion in Cypress county, the legislature heard last week.</p><p>The Yuill School of Agriculture will give high school students “the knowledge, skills and hands-on training they need to thrive in one of Alberta’s most cherished and essential industries,” Justin Wright said.</p><p>The collegiate school’s development “marks a significant milestone for public education and opportunity in southeastern Alberta,” said Wright, the UCP member for Cypress-Medicine Hat and the parliamentary secretary for rural health, south.</p><p>Construction is set to start next spring on 76 acres of land just southeast of Medicine Hat on the south side of the Trans-Canada Highway. Opening of the school is slated for the fall of 2027.</p><p>A Prairie Rose Public Schools news release says the school for grades 10-12 “marks an important step forward in advancing agricultural education and workforce development in Alberta, combining industry partnerships, community collaboration and innovative learning opportunities for students.”</p><p>Support from the Alberta government includes $725,000 towards start-up expenses. The Yuill Family Foundation donated land worth about $1 million and $600,000 towards construction. In partnership with Neubauer Farms, Prairie Rose will operate the school.</p><p>Students will be able to earn certifications, complete dual-credit courses and gain practical experience in crop and livestock management, agri-business, greenhouse operations, agricultural technology and other areas of the industry, says the school division release.&nbsp;</p><p>Neubauer Farms and the school division will work together on the school’s design and curriculum “to balance academic learning with industry-relevant experience.”</p><p>Wright told the legislature: “Agriculture is more than just an industry in Alberta. It’s the heart and soul of our province. It’s where our values, culture and entrepreneurial spirit were born. It’s a force that has shaped the resilient and tight-knit communities we proudly call home.”</p><p>He continued: “With the creation of the Yuill School of Agriculture, we’re investing in future generations who will carry forward Alberta’s proud legacy of agriculture.”</p><p>The Yuill family has a storied history in and beyond Medicine Hat, going back to the development of the clay pottery industry in the earlier 1900s. The establishment of CHAT-AM and CHAT-TV in the 1940s and 1950s foreshadowed the Yuills’ advancement of cable broadcasting.</p><p>The family is also big in sports franchise ownership and league development, including the ownership of the Medicine Hat A’s, a farm team of the Oakland A’s. It became the Medicine Hat Blue Jays and operated for 25 seasons as an affiliate of the (not this year) World Series-winning Toronto Blue Jays.</p><p>Since its founding in 2007, the Yuill Family Foundation has put more than $9 million worth of philanthropy towards capital projects and programs.</p><p>For new collegiate schools, Alberta’s 2025 budget included $22 million in start-up funding over three years and $43 million in capital supports.</p><p>The province’s website says that collegiate schools “bring together students with similar interests to benefit from enriched programming, specialized facilities and enhanced learning opportunities through a unique delivery model.”</p><p>Collegiate schools provide “a clear pathway” into post-secondary education and careers in students’ chosen fields, the site says. Eligible are public and accredited private schools that meet program criteria.</p><p>Agriculture and the agri-food industry contributed about &nbsp;$10.3 billion to Alberta’s GDP in 2023 and employed more than 83,000 people, published sources say.</p><p>Wright concluded: “The is more than just a school. It’s a promise to our youth, our province, and our future.”</p>

CIS-OBK Heritage Day, Oct. 31, 2025 Our celebration began with a beautiful assembly where our Shoyookh recited Quranic verses and reminded us that no one is superior by race or culture—only by Taqwa (righteousness). Students and staff proudly wore traditional attire, shared delicious foods from around the world, and learned about each others’ cultures and traditions. A day to strengthen our unity as a one Ummah and celebrate our diversified cultures and traditions.

<p>The Prairie Rose Public Schools Board of Trustees held its annual Organizational Meeting, where trustees selected the Board Chair and Vice Chair for the upcoming year. During the meeting, all members of the Board were sworn into their new or returning positions by the Returning Officer. The Organizational Meeting was followed by a Special Board Meeting to address current division matters and upcoming priorities.</p><p>Link to the Organizational Meeting Agenda: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FWss0nGIzM2a1vw2hxFsfHYYuIJrwR35/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FWss0nGIzM2a1vw2hxFsfHYYuIJrwR35/view?usp=drive_link</a></p><p>-----</p><h3><strong>Organizational Meeting</strong></h3><p>Each fall the board of trustees elects a new or returning board chair, vice-chair and other key board representative positions. In addition to their regular duties, the following trustees will represent and attend events on behalf of Prairie Rose Public Schools during the 2025-2026 year:</p><p>✔️ Patty Rooks, Board Chair<br>✔️ Pam Cursons, Vice-Chair<br>✔️ Representative for the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) - Pam Cursons<br>✔️ ASBA Alternate - Nancy Haraga<br>✔️ Representative for the Public School Boards Association (PSBA) - Janel Vossler<br>✔️ PSBAA Alternate - Graeme Dennis<br>✔️ Teachers Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) - Pam Cursons<br>✔️ Representative on the Rural Caucus of Alberta - Patty Rooks</p><h3><strong>Special Board Meeting</strong></h3><p><strong>PRPS Division Calendar</strong></p><p>The Prairie Rose Public Schools Board of Trustees approved modifications to the 2025-2026 school year calendar, changing the two November professional development days (November 7 and November 10) to instructional days for students. Trustees expressed that boards have not yet been advised whether there will be any adjustments or accommodations to student assessments as a result of the strike. It was noted that recovering some of the lost instructional time is particularly important at the high school level, where schools operate on semesters. The Board approved the changes with the understanding that further adjustments may be made once additional information is provided by Alberta Education. <a href="https://www.myprps.com/calendar">www.myprps.com/calendar</a></p>

<p><strong>Subject: Return to Classes – October 29, 2025</strong></p><p>Good afternoon PRPS families,</p><p>Prairie Rose Public Schools is sharing an important update regarding the return to classes following recent labour action. Students will return to class on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, and school buses will be running on their regular schedules.</p><p><strong>School Calendar Adjustments</strong><br>To help recover instructional time lost during the labour disruption, the Board of Trustees has approved adjustments to the school calendar. The two previously scheduled SI/PD Days on November 7 and November 10 will now become regular in-class learning days for students. Remembrance Day (November 11) will remain a statutory holiday, and schools will be closed on that day.</p><p>We understand that some parents and guardians may have already made plans for these dates. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we work to support students in re-establishing routines and regaining valuable learning time. If your child is unable to attend on these added instructional days, please contact your school directly.</p><p><strong>Fees, Assessments, Activities, Events, etc.</strong><br>We know parents will have questions related to several non-instructional related items, including fees that have been paid, grades and exam accommodations, extracurricular activities, cancelled events, etc. While we do not currently have all the answers, we will be working closely with school staff to review each situation and determine the best path forward. As more information becomes available, updates will be shared with impacted families.</p><p><strong>Next Steps</strong><br>The past month has not been easy for our staff, students, or families. We want to sincerely thank everyone for their patience, cooperation, and support during this time. As operations resume, we ask for continued compassion and understanding—recognizing that not everyone will return with the same feelings or experiences.</p><p>Our shared priority remains clear: helping students get back on track, re-engaged with their learning, and reconnected with their peers and school communities.</p><p>Thank you for your partnership and understanding as we return to regular school operations.</p><p>Sincerely,</p><p>Patty Rooks<br>Board Chair, Prairie Rose Public Schools</p><p>Reagan Weeks<br>Superintendent, Prairie Rose Public Schools</p>

<p>The next Prairie Rose Public Schools board meeting will take place on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the PRPS Division Office in Dunmore <strong>starting at 10:00 a.m.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Board Meeting Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/13tAhNvkeBwe6pkPs_l1UJfHcInc01IbK/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/13tAhNvkeBwe6pkPs_l1UJfHcInc01IbK/view?usp=drive_link</a></p>

Truth and Reconciliation Week & Orange Shirt Day This past week, our school community commemorated the Truth and Reconciliation Week and today we marked the Orange Shirt Day. Staff and students proudly wore orange shirts to show solidarity with Indigenous peoples and to affirm that “Every Child Matters.” As Muslims, we stand committed to justice, learning, and working alongside all other communities including the FNMI in the spirit of respect, healing, and reconciliation. Today and every day, we promise to keep the conversation alive, to preach for the truth, and to build a future rooted in recognition and unity.

<p>The next Prairie Rose Public Schools board meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the PRPS Division Office in Dunmore starting at 12:45 p.m.&nbsp;</p><p>Board Meeting Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OH02srd4nDhhJgUaNHitZSuWp9USYwtu/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OH02srd4nDhhJgUaNHitZSuWp9USYwtu/view?usp=drive_link</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>