New Colony School Codes

During the recent board meeting held on April 23, the Prairie Land Trustees passed a resolution to officially incorporate Wind River Colony School and East River Colony School into the Prairie Land Public School Division. This decision follows the division of Cloverleaf Colony and Starland Colony into the respective new schools. Wind River Colony School is set to welcome students starting May 28, while East River Colony School will commence operations at the beginning of the next academic year. With these additions, the division now encompasses 11 colony schools, 8 community schools, 1 outreach school, 2 faith-based alternative online schools, 1 faith-based alternative school, and 1 online academy. This expansion enhances the diversity and strengthens the sustainability of our rural division, affirming our role as a leader in rural education across Alberta.

Division Calendar Professional Development Days

Following a recent calendar survey, which received strong support from parents and staff, emphasizing the value of ongoing professional development for educators, the superintendent outlined plans for additional professional development afternoons in the 2024-2025 school year. These sessions are scheduled for October 1 and December 3, 2024, as well as April 1 and May 6, 2025. To facilitate these professional development activities, early dismissal will be implemented at 12:30 p.m. on these dates. This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing the skills and knowledge of our teachers within the Prairie Land Public School Division.

Special Areas Board Meeting

On March 28, the Board Chair and superintendent of Prairie Land Public School Division presented to the Special Areas Board, highlighting both the successes and challenges our division currently faces. They discussed the growth of the division, noting increases in enrollment and the expansion of educational facilities, which have significantly contributed to our community’s development. They also emphasized achievements in academic performance and the initiative of value-added programs that enrich student experiences and outcomes.

However, they also addressed critical challenges, such as staff retention, which remains a persistent issue due to the demanding nature of rural education environments. Transportation was highlighted as another significant hurdle, with the logistics of bussing in vast rural areas posing operational difficulties. Furthermore, the lack of adequate housing for teachers in rural communities was identified as a barrier to attracting and retaining qualified educators, impacting the stability and quality of education offered.

The presentation underscored the division’s commitment to navigating these obstacles while continuing to deliver exceptional educational opportunities to our students.

For additional information please contact: Cam McKeage, Superintendent of Schools, Prairie Land Public School Division 403.854.4481