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Raslton IB NEWS
2026-03-30 21:20:21.626 +0000 UTC
Ralston School Approved as an IB Candidate School Starting in 2026-2027
<p data-start="178" data-end="441">Ralston School has been approved as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Candidate School for both the Primary Years Program (PYP) and Middle Years Program (MYP). The school is now in the candidacy phase as it works toward full authorization as an IB World School.</p><p data-start="443" data-end="655">As part of this phase, Ralston School will begin implementing the IB approach to teaching and learning for students in Kindergarten through Grade 9, bringing an engaging, inquiry based experience into classrooms.</p><p data-start="657" data-end="984">IB is more than a curriculum. It is a way of teaching and learning that encourages students to ask questions, think critically, and understand their role in the world around them. With a focus on curiosity, communication, and global awareness, the program supports students in becoming thoughtful, caring, and capable learners.</p><h3 data-section-id="1o3hsv3" data-start="986" data-end="1032">What Learning Looks Like at Ralston School</h3><p data-start="1034" data-end="1172">Students at Ralston School will continue to learn all core Alberta curriculum subjects, including math, science, literacy, art, and music.</p><p data-start="1174" data-end="1312">These subjects are enhanced through IB’s approach, where learning is often connected through larger questions and real world applications.</p><p data-start="1314" data-end="1488">In the early years, learning is transdisciplinary. This means subjects are taught together through central themes or questions. Classrooms are active and collaborative, with:</p><p data-start="1490" data-end="1624">➡️ Group work and meaningful discussions<br>➡️ Hands on, practical learning experiences<br>➡️ Opportunities to present and share ideas</p><p data-start="1626" data-end="1807">As students move into junior high, they continue with subject specific learning while also exploring interdisciplinary projects that build independence and real world understanding.</p><h3 data-section-id="1eesan4" data-start="1809" data-end="1849">A Focus on Inquiry and Communication</h3><p data-start="1851" data-end="2083">At the heart of IB is inquiry based learning. During the candidacy phase, teachers are building this approach into daily classroom experiences. Students are encouraged not only to learn information, but to explore it more deeply by:</p><p data-start="2085" data-end="2220">➡️ Asking thoughtful questions<br>➡️ Understanding why learning matters<br>➡️ Applying knowledge to real world and community situations</p><p data-start="2222" data-end="2293">Communication is also a key part of the program. Students learn how to:</p><p data-start="2295" data-end="2404">➡️ Share ideas clearly<br>➡️ Engage in conversations and debates<br>➡️ Present their thinking with confidence</p><p data-start="2406" data-end="2511">These skills begin in the early years and continue to grow throughout a student’s time at Ralston School.</p><h3 data-section-id="21d7hu" data-start="2513" data-end="2555">Unique Opportunities at Ralston School</h3><p data-start="2557" data-end="2653">In addition to the IB program, Ralston School offers a variety of engaging learning experiences:</p><p data-start="2655" data-end="2972">➡️ Ag Pro programming with hands on opportunities<br>➡️ Business and graphic design learning<br>➡️ Student projects that give back to the community<br>➡️ A developing farm program with animals such as cows and chickens<br>➡️ Expanded French programming beginning in September<br>➡️ Opportunities in drama and visual arts</p><p data-start="2974" data-end="3073">These experiences allow students to explore their interests while connecting learning to real life.</p><h3 data-section-id="lygya2" data-start="3075" data-end="3120">Supporting a Diverse and Mobile Community</h3><p data-start="3122" data-end="3249">Ralston School welcomes families from many different backgrounds, including military and civilian families who move frequently.</p><p data-start="3251" data-end="3416">As an IB Candidate School, Ralston is building a program that provides consistency and continuity, with a focus on skills that transfer across schools and countries.</p><p data-start="3418" data-end="3542">At Ralston School, this approach is part of the experience for all students. Every child benefits from this way of learning.</p><h3 data-section-id="4z0llr" data-start="3544" data-end="3581">Preparing Students for the Future</h3><p data-start="3583" data-end="3657">The IB approach helps students build important lifelong skills, including:</p><p data-start="3659" data-end="3793">➡️ Independent thinking<br>➡️ Strong communication<br>➡️ Confidence in presenting ideas<br>➡️ Adaptability in new learning environments</p><p data-start="3795" data-end="3864">These skills support a smooth transition into high school and beyond.</p><h3 data-section-id="122bz08" data-start="3866" data-end="3890">Open to All Families</h3><p data-start="3892" data-end="4003">Ralston School welcomes students from the community of Ralston, the Village of Suffield, and surrounding areas.</p><p data-start="4005" data-end="4146">Families do not need to live within the immediate district to attend. The school is open to anyone interested in the IB approach to learning.</p><h3 data-section-id="cnbbt" data-start="4148" data-end="4171">Supporting Families</h3><p data-start="4173" data-end="4250">Ralston School offers additional supports to help meet the needs of families:</p><p data-start="4252" data-end="4427">➡️ Daycare available for children as young as three months during school hours<br>➡️ Before school care starting at 7:30 a.m.<br>➡️ After school care available until 4:30 p.m.</p><p data-start="4429" data-end="4496">These options provide flexibility for families with busy schedules.</p><h3 data-section-id="1m3omo7" data-start="4498" data-end="4512">Learn More</h3><p data-start="4514" data-end="4602">Families are encouraged to learn more by watching the video and visiting Ralston School.</p><p>➡️ Watch the video here: <a href="https://vimeo.com/1178612739">Ralston School Approved as an IB Candidate School</a></p>
Town Hall NEWS
2026-03-24 15:40:05.299 +0000 UTC
AB Education and Childcare Budget 2026 Town Halls
<p data-start="157" data-end="302">Parents and community members are invited to take part in upcoming telephone town halls focused on Alberta’s 2026 Education and Childcare Budget.</p><p data-start="304" data-end="482">These sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about how Budget 2026 supports students and classrooms, and to ask questions directly about regional investments in education.</p><p data-start="484" data-end="504"><strong data-start="484" data-end="504">Town hall dates:</strong></p><ul data-start="505" data-end="674"><li data-list-item-id="e6f4c8aa29370393f00fec52b2636f726" data-section-id="qwrtma" data-start="505" data-end="559">Calgary: Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m.</li><li data-list-item-id="e85e8d7f74ea296ed2af2300bb2a718c2" data-section-id="1ymzlyd" data-start="560" data-end="614">Edmonton: Monday, April 13, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m.</li><li data-list-item-id="eab8ce4a937a9fa9e4669c44931407408" data-section-id="1exk0id" data-start="615" data-end="674">Province-wide: Monday, April 20, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m.</li></ul><p data-start="676" data-end="833">Participants who register in advance will receive a phone call just prior to the start of the town hall and can choose to join the conversation at that time.</p><p data-start="835" data-end="913">To register, visit: <a href="alberta.ca/education-and-childcare-budget-2026-town-hall">alberta.ca/education-and-childcare-budget-2026-town-hall</a></p><p data-start="835" data-end="913">Read the letter from the Minister of Education: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SANXFeZyGfP3_Q377cnCk5OTXUasR5LM/view?usp=drive_link">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SANXFeZyGfP3_Q377cnCk5OTXUasR5LM/view?usp=drive_link</a></p>
Mar 2026 BM Highlights NEWS
2026-03-13 18:30:23.756 +0000 UTC
Board Meeting Highlights - March 10, 2026
<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>
2026 Trustee Awards NEWS
2026-03-11 16:29:38.955 +0000 UTC
2026 PRPS Board of Trustees Awards of Recognition
<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>