Some reminders for the 4 day week ahead ...

<p>Additional information can be found in the March 10, 2026, Board Meeting Agenda package: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/march-10-2026-public-board-meeting-20260309162819">https://www.myprps.com/news/march-10-2026-public-board-meeting-20260309162819</a></p><p>-----</p><p data-start="752" data-end="1031"><strong>Yuill School of Agriculture Framework</strong></p><p data-start="752" data-end="1031">Trustees received a presentation from Nichole Neubauer, Director of Agriculture for Prairie Rose Public Schools, on the Yuill School of Agriculture Future Framework (2026–2031), outlining the long-term vision and direction for the program.</p><p data-start="1033" data-end="1175">The framework focuses on preparing students for future careers in agriculture through hands-on learning and strong partnerships with industry.</p><p data-start="1177" data-end="1215">Key elements of the framework include:</p><ul data-start="1216" data-end="1860"><li data-list-item-id="ec76acb424645198b3a0fce98e0fdbbc9" data-section-id="1xzmhjq" data-start="1216" data-end="1383"><p data-start="1218" data-end="1383">Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) pathways, where students develop skills through real agricultural work and mentorship with producers and industry partners</p></li><li data-list-item-id="e92dd507e1483aacbdf477489c29fd575" data-section-id="5plzwg" data-start="1384" data-end="1535"><p data-start="1386" data-end="1535">School-based agricultural enterprises, giving students opportunities to participate in livestock, crop, greenhouse, and other farm-based operations</p></li><li data-list-item-id="e3fe297967c200dc8655d95b50de98770" data-section-id="195a18q" data-start="1536" data-end="1689"><p data-start="1538" data-end="1689">Trades and Ag-Tech integration, including equipment operation, mechanical systems, and emerging technologies such as robotics, automation, and drones</p></li><li data-list-item-id="e6ede48501ac4f414d1da28c878a18d13" data-section-id="1q517ya" data-start="1690" data-end="1860"><p data-start="1692" data-end="1860">Leadership, entrepreneurship, and dual-credit opportunities, helping students build career pathways into trades, post-secondary programs, and the agriculture industry</p></li></ul><p data-start="1862" data-end="2272">Trustees also received an update on the new Yuill School of Agriculture logo, which incorporates the Yuill brand and reflects the program’s connection to the land and agricultural roots of the region. It was also noted that Mr. Bill Yuill has granted approval for PRPS students to use the Yuill cattle brand on livestock raised through the program, reinforcing the partnership and legacy behind the initiative.</p><p data-start="2274" data-end="2370">Video – Yuill School of Agriculture Framework Overview<br><a class="decorated-link" href="https://vimeo.com/1170820986/7ce40a3c8c" data-start="2331" data-end="2370" rel="noopener" target="_new">https://vimeo.com/1170820986/7ce40a3c8c<span class="ms-0.5 inline-block align-middle leading-none" aria-hidden="true"><svg class="block h-[0.75em] w-[0.75em] stroke-current stroke-[0.75]" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" aria-hidden="true" data-rtl-flip=""><use href="/cdn/assets/sprites-core-fk4oovux.svg#304883" fill="currentColor"></use></svg></span></a></p><p data-start="2372" data-end="2494">The framework will guide the continued growth and development of the Yuill School of Agriculture over the next five years.</p><p data-start="2501" data-end="2877"><strong>Executive Report</strong></p><p data-start="2501" data-end="2877">The Superintendent and Executive Team provided updates on current divisional initiatives and activities across Prairie Rose Public Schools, including Prairie Rose’s support of the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, with the Transportation department providing bus services for athletes and participants attending the event in Medicine Hat in August 2026.</p><p data-start="2879" data-end="3001">Trustees also viewed a new Foremost Rodeo Academy promotional video highlighting student opportunities within the program.</p><p data-start="3003" data-end="3082">Video – Foremost Rodeo Academy Promotional Video<br><a class="decorated-link" href="https://vimeo.com/1172167179" data-start="3054" data-end="3082" rel="noopener" target="_new">https://vimeo.com/1172167179<span class="ms-0.5 inline-block align-middle leading-none" aria-hidden="true"><svg class="block h-[0.75em] w-[0.75em] stroke-current stroke-[0.75]" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="20" height="20" aria-hidden="true" data-rtl-flip=""><use href="/cdn/assets/sprites-core-fk4oovux.svg#304883" fill="currentColor"></use></svg></span></a></p><p data-start="3089" data-end="3224"><strong>2026 Alberta Budget</strong></p><p data-start="3089" data-end="3224">Trustees received a summary of the 2026 Alberta Budget and discussed potential implications for school divisions.</p><p data-start="3226" data-end="3272">Highlights from the provincial budget include:</p><ul data-start="3273" data-end="3499"><li data-list-item-id="e98ffc8b04c2ca1f0db110d23f04986d3" data-section-id="1bt5v5k" data-start="3273" data-end="3321"><p data-start="3275" data-end="3321">a 7.2% increase in overall education funding</p></li><li data-list-item-id="eeab933aa039eeb8aa5179b149dc64d79" data-section-id="1ewnpq6" data-start="3322" data-end="3365"><p data-start="3324" data-end="3365">increases to the base instruction grant</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ee5ac85b0f0f95b39c61614fb50adb13b" data-section-id="9i02jb" data-start="3366" data-end="3437"><p data-start="3368" data-end="3437">adjustments to Operations and Maintenance and Transportation grants</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ebee2227a2ee138dae1ff2ea63ca25ce7" data-section-id="19dbly5" data-start="3438" data-end="3499"><p data-start="3440" data-end="3499">announcements related to new school construction projects</p></li></ul><p data-start="3501" data-end="3687">Prairie Rose Public Schools will not receive its detailed funding profile until late March or early April, making it difficult to determine the exact impact on the division at this time.</p><p data-start="3694" data-end="3934"><strong>Capital Plan – 2026–2029</strong></p><p data-start="3694" data-end="3934">Trustees reviewed and approved the Prairie Rose Public Schools 3-Year Capital Plan (2027–2030) and 10-Year Planning Priorities (2027–2036), which guide long-term planning for school facilities across the division.</p><p data-start="3936" data-end="4219">The capital plan considers enrolment trends, facility conditions, transportation, and school utilization across the division. Current utilization rates range from approximately 50–60% at several rural schools, while Eagle Butte High School is operating at approximately 92% capacity.</p><p data-start="4221" data-end="4247">Priority projects include:</p><ul data-start="4248" data-end="4850"><li data-list-item-id="e70db47ccdd87fdf090547742e4f008af" data-section-id="r4sj8q" data-start="4248" data-end="4406"><p data-start="4250" data-end="4406">New Redcliff Junior High School – a proposed new Grades 7–9 school designed to expand programming opportunities and support future growth in the community</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ebaccf0b6fd76c6cb094c1b25feee4821" data-section-id="28i1zd" data-start="4407" data-end="4548"><p data-start="4409" data-end="4548">Oyen K–12 School Consolidation – a proposal to combine Oyen Public School and South Central School into a single modernized K–12 facility</p></li><li data-list-item-id="e5a0f0342efc01653bed973045efc3baa" data-section-id="qur2hn" data-start="4549" data-end="4688"><p data-start="4551" data-end="4688">Burdett Replacement School – construction of a new K–9 school to replace the aging Burdett School and address infrastructure challenges</p></li><li data-list-item-id="e3e9a26db64a37b4bf54897ffb4124e0e" data-section-id="sadr4x" data-start="4689" data-end="4850"><p data-start="4691" data-end="4850">Eagle Butte High School Facility Expansion – a proposed expansion to address enrolment pressures and support continued programming at Eagle Butte High School</p></li></ul><p data-start="4852" data-end="5152">Trustees were also informed that value scoping recently took place for the Oyen project, with a draft report expected later this week. Early indications suggest the recommendation may shift toward constructing a replacement school in Oyen rather than modernizing the existing OPS and SCHS facilities.</p><p data-start="5159" data-end="5417"><strong>Calgary Islamic School Program Fees – 2026–2027</strong></p><p data-start="5159" data-end="5417">At the recommendation of the Calgary Islamic Society, the Prairie Rose Public Schools Board of Trustees approved an adjustment to Calgary Islamic School alternative program fees for the 2026–2027 school year.</p><p data-start="5419" data-end="5832">The adjustment reflects the continued growth of the program and the evolving needs within classrooms, particularly in Arabic, Qur’anic, and Islamic studies, where students may be learning at different proficiency levels and require additional classroom support and resources. The change also helps ensure fees remain aligned and competitive with similar faith-based and alternative programs in the Calgary region.</p><p data-start="5834" data-end="6134">Alternative program fees support the delivery of the program, including instruction, administrative support, learning resources, facility leases, and building maintenance and upgrades.</p><p data-start="6136" data-end="6412">A letter will be sent to the families of the Calgary Islamic Schools with a summary of the approved alternative program fees for the 2026-2027 school year.</p><p data-start="6419" data-end="6650"><strong>Land Sale</strong></p><p data-start="6419" data-end="6650">The Board approved the sale of a two-acre parcel of land in the County of Forty Mile near Maleb, which includes the site of a historic schoolhouse from before Prairie Rose Public Schools was formed through amalgamation.</p><p data-start="6652" data-end="6995">A local family that has preserved and renovated the historic schoolhouse approached the division to purchase the land. Trustees approved the sale at $2,500 per acre, recognizing the historical significance of the property and the family’s efforts to maintain the building. The sale will require Ministerial approval before it can be finalized.</p><p data-start="7002" data-end="7196"><strong>Locally Developed Courses</strong></p><p data-start="7002" data-end="7196">Trustees reviewed Locally Developed Courses designed to expand student learning opportunities and support skill development in both personal and career-related areas.</p><p data-start="7198" data-end="7418">Courses highlighted included Personal and Professional Skills 15 and 25, which focus on developing transferable skills such as communication, critical thinking, collaboration, ethical decision-making, and self-awareness.</p><p data-start="7425" data-end="7548"><strong>2026–2027 Division School Calendar</strong></p><p data-start="7425" data-end="7548">The Board approved the Prairie Rose Public Schools 2026–2027 Division School Calendar for all schools excluding colony schools and the CIS Calgary schools.</p><p data-start="7550" data-end="7587">Key features of the calendar include:</p><ul data-start="7588" data-end="8036"><li data-list-item-id="ef3f2c59c84052e437f1d87feb21f0b47" data-section-id="5m15eo" data-start="7588" data-end="7706"><p data-start="7590" data-end="7706">the school year beginning Tuesday, September 1, providing two shorter instructional weeks at the start of the year</p></li><li data-list-item-id="e415f0495d5f5550d689b677e0766b792" data-section-id="1te1fr" data-start="7707" data-end="7794"><p data-start="7709" data-end="7794">alignment with neighbouring school division calendars to support families and staff</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ea874f151b96cc72e9b5981d92ee8461d" data-section-id="ccbgwq" data-start="7795" data-end="7869"><p data-start="7797" data-end="7869">181 instructional days for students and 198 operational days for staff</p></li><li data-list-item-id="e92051a05fa46ae97b52eac45bd28737e" data-section-id="m3hdq5" data-start="7870" data-end="7943"><p data-start="7872" data-end="7943">an earlier Christmas break and early Easter reflected in the schedule</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ed0478f75e51c8b1028eea6b9406fb38d" data-section-id="1ff43qv" data-start="7944" data-end="8036"><p data-start="7946" data-end="8036">the last day of classes scheduled for June 25, with a diploma exam scheduled for June 28</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ee458ae3249baa2a0696d1d7534658e11" data-section-id="1ff43qv" data-start="7944" data-end="8036"><p data-start="7946" data-end="8036">early dismissal days moved to 12:00 p.m. from the previous 2:00 p.m. time</p></li></ul><p data-start="7946" data-end="8036">The approved caledar can be found on the Prairie Rose website: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/calendar">https://www.myprps.com/calendar</a></p><p data-start="8043" data-end="8115"><strong>Commendations</strong></p><p data-start="8043" data-end="8115">Trustees shared commendations recognizing the following:</p><ul data-start="8117" data-end="8461"><li data-list-item-id="e1becc7219a04d5c3fdb57dfc1a688e60" data-section-id="vf76nw" data-start="8117" data-end="8292"><p data-start="8119" data-end="8292">The Transportation team for their work preparing the bid that will allow Prairie Rose Public Schools to support transportation for the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games</p></li><li data-list-item-id="e2274a21d22a0720e9e8070491001e174" data-section-id="1d67tdh" data-start="8293" data-end="8360"><p data-start="8295" data-end="8360">The launch of the Start Here. Go Anywhere. promotional campaign</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ec44193b6af0fa22cfd9c3904882cab58" data-section-id="1jlxh0v" data-start="8361" data-end="8461"><p data-start="8363" data-end="8461">PRPS substitute teachers for their continued support of schools and students across the division</p></li></ul>

<p>Prairie Rose Public Schools is proud to celebrate the outstanding students and community members who help make our schools strong, supportive, and inspiring places to learn.</p><p>Each year, the PRPS Board of Trustees Awards of Recognition highlight individuals who demonstrate leadership, dedication, and a commitment to the values that guide our division: Kindle Hearts, Ignite Minds, and Forge Futures.</p><p>The 2026 awards include recognition for:</p><ul><li data-list-item-id="e4d093339ebd59a5acecc176d8d69abd3"><strong>Grade 9 Achievement Award</strong> – honouring students who demonstrate strong character, curiosity, collaboration, and perseverance in their learning. (Staff Submission)</li><li data-list-item-id="e2fb34ee7370e252e6da0e72123323331"><strong>High School Achievement Award </strong>– recognizing outstanding students in Grades 10–12 who demonstrate leadership and achievement across multiple areas of the PRPS core principles. (Staff Submission)</li><li data-list-item-id="e01fc4b2d782008e82136d2386d84d79d"><strong>Community Champion for Education Award</strong> – celebrating individuals, organizations, or businesses who make a meaningful and lasting contribution to education in Prairie Rose Public Schools. (Community and Staff Submission)</li></ul><p>Staff and community members are encouraged to submit nominations highlighting those who exemplify the spirit of PRPS through their actions, leadership, and commitment to students.</p><p>➡️ Learn more about the awards: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TmHl007KfoQOoghtP7nP34u27uT2cCWF/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TmHl007KfoQOoghtP7nP34u27uT2cCWF/view?usp=drive_link</a></p><p>➡️ Click here to submit a nomination: <a href="https://prrdweb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8eupEWk1rO9T8vs">https://prrdweb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8eupEWk1rO9T8vs</a></p><p>Nominations close May 31, 2026</p><p>Help us recognize the people who are making a difference across Prairie Rose Public Schools.</p>

<p>At the March 10, 2026, public board meeting the PRPS Board of Trustees approved the 2026-2027 school year calendar.</p><p>Simplified phone friendly version (screenshot to your phone photos for quick access): <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NZ_kU-Du3jtY6XLqGLN7IvT2zdp9dWj-/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NZ_kU-Du3jtY6XLqGLN7IvT2zdp9dWj-/view?usp=drive_link</a></p><p>PDF simplified version: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RhxQ8e7oG6I35R2dBZ-jIFUpR5KSM07Q/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RhxQ8e7oG6I35R2dBZ-jIFUpR5KSM07Q/view?usp=drive_link</a></p><p>Full detailed version: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1b4Mw_2RuwL09syW4_rZUFkvOwzsBnMR0/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1b4Mw_2RuwL09syW4_rZUFkvOwzsBnMR0/view?usp=drive_link</a></p>

<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(62, 62, 62);font-family:articulat-cf, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin:0px 0px 1.5rem;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><br>The next Prairie Rose Public Schools board meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the PRPS Division Office in Dunmore <strong style="box-sizing:border-box;line-height:1;">starting at 10:30 p.m. (NEW TIME)</strong></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(62, 62, 62);font-family:articulat-cf, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin:0px 0px 1.5rem;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Board Meeting Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Bm2Ywdc6eWAFbYOUqvgThXMUHHh0YDI_/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Bm2Ywdc6eWAFbYOUqvgThXMUHHh0YDI_/view?usp=drive_link</a></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(62, 62, 62);font-family:articulat-cf, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin:0px 0px 1.5rem;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">&nbsp;</p>

Happy Sunday! Here are some reminders for our week...

On Wednesday Mrs. Deck's grade 6 class got to partake in a zoom session with CBC News in the Classroom. Students got to hear from and interact with a CBC journalist, learning the step by step process of how news stories are produced. They also learned about misinformation, disinformation and AI fakery, a very relevant topic in today's world. The CBC Kids News team taught our students about appropriate sources to gather information, and to always be inquisitive, with a critical lens. Overall it was a really unique learning experience!

<p data-start="680" data-end="973">The Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) Board of Trustees and senior leadership recently met with Premier <span class="hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline whitespace-normal">Danielle Smith</span> and Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA <span class="hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline whitespace-normal">Justin Wright</span> to discuss the division’s continued growth and the opportunities and challenges facing public education.</p><p data-start="975" data-end="1323">During the meeting, trustees shared several examples of how provincial decisions are supporting students and communities across the division. The transition to a division-operated student transportation model has improved service reliability for families, while adjustments to rural operations and maintenance funding grants have helped stabilize the division’s operating budget.</p><p data-start="1325" data-end="1684">Trustees also highlighted the continued expansion of Prairie Rose collegiate programming in aviation and agriculture. These programs are designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to earn industry credentials while still in high school, helping them transition directly into careers, apprenticeships, and post-secondary education.</p><p data-start="1686" data-end="2097">The conversation also included an overview of the diverse programming available across Prairie Rose schools, including academy models and specialized learning pathways offered in rural, urban, and online environments. Trustees noted the division’s ongoing enrollment growth, increasing student complexity, and the unique challenges of delivering high-quality education across more than 26,000 square kilometres.</p><p data-start="2099" data-end="2316">The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on the future of education in Alberta, including workforce readiness, rural sustainability, and how school divisions are adapting to changing student needs.</p><p data-start="2318" data-end="2541">Prairie Rose Public Schools expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet and reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the Government of Alberta to support strong outcomes for students and communities.</p>

A few reminders for a quiet week ...

<p data-start="480" data-end="859">Prairie Rose Public Schools is proud to support the opening of a new CASA Mental Health Classroom at Link School in Redcliff, in partnership with <span class="hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline whitespace-normal">CASA Mental Health</span> and the Government of Alberta. This classroom expands access to school-based mental health supports for students in southern Alberta by bringing care into a familiar learning environment.</p><p data-start="480" data-end="859">Read the official media release: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MZcl3dhZu8S2Wgt3SUzDKXAfoyBbtXlf/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MZcl3dhZu8S2Wgt3SUzDKXAfoyBbtXlf/view?usp=drive_link</a></p><p data-start="861" data-end="1175">The CASA Classroom model supports students who are experiencing mental health challenges that affect their learning and day-to-day well-being. By integrating therapeutic and educational supports within the school setting, students are able to remain connected to their education while receiving the care they need.</p><p><strong>What this means for PRPS students and families</strong></p><p data-start="1228" data-end="1629">For Prairie Rose families, the CASA Classroom at Link School helps reduce barriers to accessing care. Supports are provided during the school day, eliminating the need for families to coordinate multiple appointments or travel outside their community. Families are also supported through education and connections to additional resources, helping strengthen student success both at school and at home.</p><p><strong>A collaborative approach</strong></p><p data-start="1660" data-end="1939">CASA Classrooms reflect a shared commitment between education and health partners to support students earlier and more effectively. At Link School, students are supported by a team that works closely together to address both learning and mental health needs in a coordinated way.</p><p data-start="1941" data-end="2075">This approach allows students to focus on healing and learning in an environment designed to promote safety, belonging, and stability.</p><p><strong>Supporting well students</strong></p><p data-start="2106" data-end="2402">Prairie Rose Public Schools recognizes that student well-being is closely connected to engagement, attendance, and academic success. Partnerships like the CASA Classroom program help ensure students with complex needs continue to feel supported, included, and connected to their school community.</p><p data-start="2404" data-end="2555">Families interested in learning more about the CASA Classroom program can speak with their school team for additional information and referral support.</p>

Welcome back to school. We hope you enjoyed your break. Here are some reminders for the week ahead ...

<p>Additional information can be found in the February 10, 2026, Board Meeting Agenda package: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/february-10-2026-public-board-meeting-20260206222419">https://www.myprps.com/news/february-10-2026-public-board-meeting-20260206222419</a></p><p>----</p><p><strong>Irvine School Presentation – Building Thinking Classrooms</strong></p><p>Trustees received a presentation from Irvine School focused on the <i>Building Thinking Classrooms</i> approach to teaching and learning at the elementary level.</p><p>As part of the presentation, trustees and members of the executive team participated in a hands-on learning activity alongside students, working in small groups to solve elementary math factoring problems. The activity demonstrated key elements of the learning approach, including collaboration, problem solving, movement, and standing, all of which are intentionally used to keep students actively engaged.</p><p>The presentation highlighted how this instructional approach supports student thinking, discussion, and shared problem solving, while recognizing the important role elementary teachers play in building strong foundational math skills through intentional instructional design.</p><p><strong>Transportation Accountability Report</strong><br><br>The Board reviewed the Transportation Accountability Report for the 2025–2026 school year, which provided an overview of student transportation services across Prairie Rose Public Schools.</p><p>Key highlights included:</p><ul><li>2,225 students registered for transportation</li><li>87 PRPS local routes serving 24 schools</li><li>Approximately 16,673 kilometres travelled daily</li><li>Four Calgary routes operating through contracted services</li></ul><p>Ridership information included:</p><ul><li>1,962 rural students, with an average ride time of approximately 40 minutes</li><li>170 urban riders within Medicine Hat</li><li>93 urban riders associated with Calgary schools</li></ul><p>Additional updates included:</p><ul><li>A new transportation building with capacity to house approximately 20 buses, with additional storage at the South Alberta Collegiate building</li><li>Ongoing driver training and certification, including S Endorsement requirements and driving sessions</li><li>A projected $595,000 transportation deficit for the 2025–2026 school year</li><li>A successful bid to provide transportation services for the Canada Special Summer Olympics, offering PRPS drivers the opportunity to work during the summer months if they choose</li></ul><p><strong>Executive Report</strong></p><p>The Superintendent and Executive Team provided an update on key operational and program areas across the division.</p><p>Highlights included:</p><ul><li>The CASA Classroom is now operational at The Link (former RMAP building), with five students currently enrolled. A provincial announcement regarding the classroom is scheduled for sometime in February.</li><li>A mild January and February resulted in fewer transportation disruptions and weather-related school closures than typically experienced.</li><li>The new semester is underway across Prairie Rose schools.</li><li>Next week is the Family Break, with teachers attending the Teachers’ Convention during the final two days of the break.</li></ul><p><strong>Locally Developed Courses</strong></p><p>The Board approved proposed locally developed courses designed to expand student learning opportunities and support student-centred and career-related programming.</p><p>Approved courses include:</p><ul><li>Student-Centred Learning 15</li><li>Journalism</li><li>Film and Media Art</li><li>Leadership: Character &amp; Social Responsibility</li></ul><p>These courses are intended to support student engagement, communication skills, creativity, leadership, and social responsibility.</p><p><strong>Advocacy &amp; Association Reports</strong></p><ul><li>Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA): No report provided.</li><li>Public School Boards’ Association of Alberta (PSBAA): Trustees received an overview of professional development offered at the recent meeting. The Spring Assembly will take place in Calgary in May.</li><li>Rural Caucus of Alberta School Boards: Trustees noted the upcoming meeting scheduled for March 1–3, with limited hotel availability.</li></ul><p><strong>Commendations</strong></p><p>Trustee Lois Bedwell acknowledged Wade Lancot and the PRPS bus transportation team for their work supporting Prairie Rose transportation operations and maintaining efficient and reliable service for students.</p>

Some reminders for a new week ...

<p>The next Prairie Rose Public Schools board meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the PRPS Division Office in Dunmore <strong>starting at 10:30 p.m. (NEW TIME)</strong></p><p>Board Meeting Agenda Package: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q96cywZCUW18vnBkkq1ExPkHtckYg9Gz/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q96cywZCUW18vnBkkq1ExPkHtckYg9Gz/view?usp=drive_link</a></p>

They did it! Winners of their home tournament. So proud Wolfpack!!!

Some reminders for this week ...

The energy was exciting yesterday during our basketball pep rally. A big thank you to all the players, staff and parents who made it a fun and exciting event.

Live stream to Girls Basketball Tournament