Paul Critchley

The Board reviewed the Divisional Strategic Plan for 2026/27 and its focus areas. They approved the Five Year Capital Plan and a refinement to the accessibility policy. Additionally, the Board approved the School Committee Elections Resource manual for upcoming general elections, ratified and approved several school trips, and discussed social media policies and facility relocation updates.

The Board of Trustees discussed and approved the 2026/27 budget, strategic plan, and school calendar. Key actions included the decision to reopen San Antonio School, the authorization of religious exercises at Wanipigow School, and the ratification and approval of various higher care school trip requests. The board also reviewed committee reports regarding policy revisions and pension fund investment management. Additionally, administrative reports, conference updates, and correspondence were addressed, and a general discussion took place regarding student attendance, social media policy, and school committee meeting processes.

The Board ratified and approved multiple higher care school trip requests and disbursements. Key actions included the approval of a five-year capital plan, an updated school committee elections resource manual, and the implementation of a revised accessibility policy. The meeting also featured updates on tender awards, administration reports regarding strategic planning and staffing, and a discussion concerning the division's social media policy and freedom of speech.

This strategic plan outlines the Frontier School Division's direction, focusing on student success for "Mino Pimatiwisin -- The Good Life." The plan is built upon foundational resources including the Manitoba Framework for Learning, Mamàhtawisiwin, and Standards for Appropriate Education. Key focus areas are student hopes and aspirations, sense of belonging, meaning, and purpose. The approach emphasizes collaboration, ongoing school planning, community and family engagement, and fostering joy for learning. The vision encompasses healthy, successful students, strong family foundations, academic excellence, equitable programming, safe and inclusive schools, celebration of culture, and a collective commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

The Board reviewed the refocused Division Strategic Plan and the National Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, subsequently approving the plan and the 2026/27 Budget with a focus on academics, Indigenous way of life, and student services. Key decisions included approving the 2026/27 school year calendar and meeting dates, the reopening of San Antonio School, and several pension investment fund changes recommended by the Employee Pension Committee. The Board also approved a request for religious exercises at Wanipigow School, updated the accessibility policy, discussed preparations for the Annual School Committee Conference, and ratified various school field trips.