Ama Urbinsky

The Wild Rose School Division's Education Plan serves as a roadmap to foster academic excellence, well-being, and life-changing opportunities for all students. It is built upon the Powerful Learning Environment (PLE) Framework, emphasizing continuous improvement and a commitment to the success and health of the community. Key strategic domains include Student Growth and Achievement, Teaching and Learning, Learning Supports, and Governance, with a specific focus on improving outcomes and advancing Truth and Reconciliation for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. The plan aims to empower students and staff to thrive by prioritizing core literacy and numeracy, addressing diverse learning and mental health needs, ensuring school safety, and collaborating with stakeholders.

The Board meeting focused on leadership elections for the upcoming school year, setting future meeting dates, appointing committee representatives, and approving the board work plan. A committee was established to review trustee compensation and reimbursement rates. Additionally, the Board approved the 2026-2027 annual budget, which accounts for an operating deficit to be covered by reserves, and reviewed and approved the 2026-2030 Education Plan in alignment with provincial requirements.

The meeting included several action items such as grade changes for various programs, approval for an out-of-country field trip, and the renewal of locally developed courses. The board reviewed self-evaluation reports, a sports field letter of support, and various administrative reports from the Superintendent and the Department of Business and Finance. Discussion topics covered ASBA awards, the privacy management program, advocacy initiatives, and long service awards. Additionally, the board reviewed Policy 08 regarding committees and conducted closed session discussions on human resources, land, and legal matters.

The board meeting covered several key items, including final approval for a school field trip, the appointment of an auditing firm, and the addition of a grade nine level to specific middle schools. The board also designated an Access and Privacy Officer, approved a Joint Use Planning Agreement with Clearwater County, and implemented transportation fees for the upcoming school year. Additional topics included the review of policy regarding the Vice Chair, updates on school division reports, graduation planning, and advocacy concerns related to Bill 25. The meeting concluded with reports from various trustee committees and a closed session to discuss human resources and social media litigation.

The board approved adding the ninth grade level to two middle schools to support a referral-based hybrid programming model. A motion was passed to implement new transportation fees for the upcoming school year, with provisions for early registration discounts and fee caps to minimize deficits. Additionally, the board approved a new Joint Use Planning Agreement in partnership with Clearwater County to facilitate long-term development of school and municipal facilities.