Division Newsletter: April 2025

April 23, 2025

Hello,

We hope you are having an enjoyable Spring Break! We are entering the final stretch of the school year, and our division and school teams are working together to promote the engagement, support, and success for each learner. The coming weeks will highlight much of student learning, celebrating achievements, and showcasing gratitude for our learning community.

Here's what we have for you this month:

Meet our Edwin Parr Award Nominee
School Leadership Announcements for 2025-2026
69堂精品app April 2025 addresses good governance in FSD
Print & Decorate your Bus Driver Appreciation Day card
Learn about our Ready to Learn Strong Start process
A few website updates to celebrate
See what's happening around the division
& More!


Meet our 2025 Edwin Parr Award Nominee 69堂精品app is proud to announce that Justine Johnson, a first-year teacher at École Joe Clark, in High River, has been nominated for the prestigious Edwin Parr Teacher Award! This award, named after past Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) President Edwin Parr, recognizes outstanding first-year teachers who have demonstrated excellence in the Teaching Quality Standard. Justine Johnson has truly excelled in her role, showcasing remarkable dedication and passion for teaching. She has built strong, positive relationships with students and families, creating a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment. Currently teaching grade 1 in the French Immersion program, Mme. Johnson's innovative teaching methods and commitment to professional growth have significantly enhanced student engagement and learning outcomes.

2025 - 2026 Leadership Appointments We are pleased to announce the following principal appointments for the 2025-2026 school year: Rob Gallacher, Principal at Longview School Lauren Frandle, Principal at Westmount School Griffin Ellis, Principal at Cayley School & Colony 69堂精品app Emily Baranyay, Acting Principal at Millarville Community School Please click on the links above to read the full announcement for each esteemed school leader. More announcements to follow as the staffing process continues.



Board of Trustees with Superintendent Fuzessy in the Oilfields School Learning Commons
Board of Trustees 69堂精品app is governed by six elected officials who represent the five wards of the division. They set the strategic direction of the division and allocate resources to achieve the Education Plan. . Board Meeting Dates Public Board Meetings are held on the 2nd Floor Board Room at 129 4th Avenue SW in High River. Meetings begin promptly at 1:00 pm. April 30 May 14 May 28 June 11 (Board Recognition Lunch) June 25, 2025 To learn more about board operations, please see
2025 - 2026 Board Meeting Dates The FSD Board of Trustees have approved the 2025-2026 Board Meeting Dates. You can find these dates at our website: /page/88/about-board-meetings

	69堂精品app Good Governance: Behind the Scenes of Student Success Trustee elections are October 20 Trustees are elected leaders. They are not involved in school daily operations, but they do set the strategic direction and hold the system accountable. Learn more about the Trustees, governance, and evidence of good governance in our system in the April edition of 69堂精品app.


Bus Driver Appreciation Day is May 5 For many, they are the first smile at the start, and the last 'goodbye' at the end of a school day. Help us celebrate our bus drivers by showing your appreciation. On Monday, May 5, 2025, hand your driver a custom decorated FSD Bus Driver Appreciation Day card! How to get started: Print Colour & decorate Throw on your biggest smile and hand a card to your bus driver on May 5

Website Updates If you have visited our website recently, you may have noticed a small change to our navigation bar. The navigation is now a vertical dropdown, making finding content easier. Additionally, “Publications and Reports” has been renamed to “Strategic Planning & Reporting” to house our Education Plan, AERR, Budget, Financial Statements, and Capital Plan. Policies and Procedures has been moved out from under that category and is now readily available under “Our Division”. Though these changes, it is our intent that our learning community can find the content and resources more efficiently. Our website is updated frequently. Be sure to check it often for the most up-to-date resources!


	A Thoughtful Moment: Trustee Elections and the Call to Governance As we approach the upcoming trustee elections on October 20, 2025, it’s a great time to reflect on the important role trustees play in shaping the educational experience within the 69堂精品app (FSD). Understanding the Trustee’s Role Trustees are more than elected officials—they are community leaders who help connect the voices of families, students, and staff to the broader work of education. Their responsibilities include: Strategic Oversight: Trustees approve and monitor the Division’s strategic priorities, making sure the educational direction reflects both community values and student needs. Policy Development: They create and review policies that guide school operations, helping ensure fairness and consistency across the Division. Fiscal Responsibility: Trustees approve the annual budget, balancing resources to support classroom learning, student wellness, transportation, and other essential services. Community Engagement: By visiting schools, attending school council meetings, and staying connected to their communities, trustees help ensure that many perspectives are reflected in decision-making.

	A Thoughtful Moment: Building Strong Communities through Connection As advocates for public education, we recognize the importance of understanding and representing the concerns and needs of our community. Our commitment to making ourselves approachable and available is demonstrated through active participation in school councils, the Council of School Councils (COSC), and public events at schools. These interactions are crucial in fostering a transparent and inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. Balancing Responsibilities The role of trustees encompasses dual responsibilities: community representation and education leadership. Striking a balance between these duties requires prioritizing what is important, promoting the greatest impact, and effectively communicating our message. Trustees navigate the complexities of these accountabilities to serve both the local interests and the broader goals of the education system. Building Relationships Strong relationships are the cornerstone of our work. Trustees are dedicated to building and maintaining mutual respect and understanding, which are essential for moving our division in the same direction. These relationships are not just about connections but about sharing strong philosophical beliefs in the benefits of public education, planning, and focus. Read the rest of this ATM at our website
A Thoughtful Moment is posted weekly at the FSD website. These blog posts connect the goals within the Education Plan with the active learning in the classrooms.
A Strong Start to Learning: The Ages and Stages Questionnaire The transition into kindergarten is a big, exciting step! FSD works with families to best prepare each child for success in the classroom. We are already preparing to welcome learners into our schools for the 2025 - 2026 school year. One way we are getting ready is by taking steps to ensure a strong start for all learners in kindergarten. Whether they are attending part time, full time, French Immersion, or Explore: Nature Based Learning, all students need the right resources and materials to succeed. Through collaboration with parents and guardians, we set the stage for a positive transition into kindergarten. Upon registration for any of our kindergarten programs, families will receive a welcome from our Director of Student Learning (JK-6), Dinah Van Donzel and an invitation to participate in the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ). The information in the ASQ helps our teams understand your child's unique experiences and development to assist in the planning for your child's best possible entry into school. The short questionnaire seeks to answer questions about your child so we can meet them where they are at, and explore, develop, and celebrate their abilities. Following the ASQ, families are invited to engage with their child's school in the classroom environment at an open house (dates vary for each school). Our team of educators, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and other support team members will connect with your child, address any questions or concerns you have about their learning experience, and receive resources for a successful entry into kindergarten. Each child has a unique approach to learning. Our Early Learning support team is happy to connect with families to promote a smooth transition to kindergarten. Still considering if kindergarten is the right choice for your child? Connect with one of our schools or visit our website for more information on how FSD early learning programs (Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten) prepare your child for a love of lifelong learning.
Find your School More about Kindergarten Register Now


FSD Summer School July 2 - 29, 2025 Are you a grade 9 student looking for ways to make the most of the summer break? Do you want to free up your timetable for focussed coursework or career experience? Look no further! 69堂精品app Summer School offers an incredible opportunity for high school students to catch up, keep up, or get a head start on their academic and career journey. Summer School runs July 2 to 29, with diploma exams in August. Why choose FSD Summer School? Focused Instruction With dedicated, experienced teachers and tutors available on demand during the day, students receive focused instruction on one subject at a time. This allows for a deeper understanding and mastery of the material. Build Confidence Summer school is a place to build confidence. Small group and individual learning sessions create a supportive environment where students can thrive and feel more prepared for the upcoming school year. Get Ahead with Graduation Credits Summer School is a fantastic opportunity to earn credits and prerequisites for career studies, giving students a head start on graduation requirements. 69堂精品app offers a variety of courses, including Math 15, which is open to grade 9 students entering grade 10. Students entering grade 10 are also encouraged to check out the unique course bundles that can provide up to 9 course credits. Diverse Course Offerings Students are limited to one course, but the offerings are diverse. From Math and Science to English Language Arts, and Social Studies, there’s something for everyone. Some unique opportunities include: Holocaust Studies, CALM (Career and Life Management), Physical Education, Agriculture Safety, Workplace Safety Check out the courses and course bundles at our website! Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity! Registration for summer school is open from April 15 to June 9, 2025. Visit the 69堂精品app Summer School webpage to learn more. FSD Summer School: Catch Up, Keep Up, Get Ahead! Questions? Rob Gallacher, Principal FSD Summer School gallacherr@fsd38.ab.ca


Test Alert Across Alberta - May 7, 2025 On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 1:55 p.m., the National Public Alerting System will send a test alert across Alberta to all broadcast platforms. During the test, an alert will sound, followed by a text message letting cellphone users know the sound is part of a test and there is no need for concern. Did you know? Wireless public alerts are delivered directly to compatible cellphones that are connected to an LTE network within an area affected by a disaster or emergency. Find out if your cellphone is compatible by checking with your provider or online at . To learn more about emergency public alerting in Alberta, visit . As a reminder, mobile devices are not to be in use during instructional time. Refresh your memory on our Mobile Device Use in 69堂精品app procedure at our website.

Around the Division
	Connecting the Dots: Family Conference Hosted by: Saturday, May 3, 2025 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sheppard Family Park, High River Tickets: $25 with lunch provided Join us for a day that supports and empowers families who have children with disabilities. Hear from local experts, connect with other families, learn helpful tips, and find tools to support your child’s future! To learn more visit

	Breaking Down The Anxious Generation – A Community Dialogue Wednesday, May 14 7:00 PM École Okotoks Junior High School, Okotoks Have you noticed an uptick in anxiety with children? Are you a parent or guardian concerned about the significant increase in anxiety in kids and want to learn more about how to support your child? École Okotoks Junior High (ÉOJHS) School Council invites you to join us for a community dialogue to discuss Jonathan Haidt's book, The Anxious Generation and its key points, providing insights into the causes, effects, and challenges associated with anxiety in children. Join us for this important discussion and be part of a community dedicated to supporting the mental health and well-being of our children. Please follow the link to so we can plan the space for the number of people attending. For more information, send an email to Ms. Paszkowski, Principal at ÉOJHS, paszkowskid@fsd38.ab.ca . Learn More and register at the ÉOJHS website

	Oilfields Drillers Fundraising Society WestJet Raffle Driller Fundraising Society is raising $20,000 to upgrade the Oilfields Gym floor. You can enhance the experience of athletes, and ensure a safe space for recreation by purchasing a ticket (or two) in their West Jet raffle. You can win one roundtrip flight for 2 to any regularly scheduled and marketed WestJet destination. Draw date: June 3, 2025. Visit raffle site:

	Friends of Foothills 69堂精品app Foundation Second Annual FORE Education Golf Tournament Saturday, June 14, 2025 \| 1:00 PM Shotgun Start Highwood Golf Club, High River Get ready for a day of fun, camaraderie, and giving back at the 2nd Annual FORE Education Golf Tournament, held at the beautiful Highwood Golf Club. This exciting event supports the Friends of Foothills 69堂精品app Foundation, dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students in the 69堂精品app. Join us to make a difference while enjoying a great day on the course! Register today and help us drive success for students of 69堂精品app.

Important Dates April 14 to 17 & 28-30 - Learner Conferences April 22 to 25 - Spring Break April 28 - Federal Election Voting Day May 16 - Local Professional Learning Day May 19 - Victoria Day (Stat Holiday) View the year-at-a glance here:

	Celebrations for All: May 2025 Asian Heritage Month recognizes the contributions and influence of Asians and Pacific Islanders to the history, culture, and achievements of Canada. Jewish Heritage Month recognizes the contributions of Jews in Canada’s social, economic, political, and culture fabric. To remember, celebrate, and educate future generations. May 5 - Bus Driver Appreciation Day is an opportunity to thank our dedicated transportation team. May 5 - National Day of Awareness for MMIWG2S \| Red Dress Day A day to bring awareness and a call for Canadians to speak out on violence against Indigenous women, girls, and gender diverse people May 5 - Cinco de Mayo Honours Mexico’s defeat of the French army. A day often used to celebrate Mexican culture


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