Judi Hunter – Ward 5 Trustee
Hard to believe that we are approaching the end of another year. Our students are working hard the schools are abuzz with activity. So is the Board. The Board continues to advocate for more student spaces – schools and portables. The government is responding with its accelerator program which is welcome news. However, the provincial backlog of needed spaces, construction worker shortages and municipal preparedness may impede the speed at which this program rolls out.
Modular Capital Plan Request to Government
As enrolment continues to increase across the division, RVS needs additional modular classrooms in many of its communities to mitigate space challenges until new schools can be approved and built. RVS has submitted to government a request for 27 modular classrooms and the relocation of one modular washroom unit. These would help relieve some of the overcrowding in RVS schools in Airdrie, Cochrane, Chestermere and Crossfield where schools have the greatest need. Modular classrooms are a temporary solution for schools operating over capacity, and the Board will continue to advocate to the province for the approval of new schools in each of these communities. A decision regarding RVS’ request is expected in early 2025.
Addressing the growing population and school spaces in Cochrane and Chestermere
A thorough review of utilizations across Cochrane schools was conducted by an RVS staff working group. As a result, the Board decided to maintain the current boundaries and grade configurations for Cochrane schools. A student accommodation review will be necessary in early 2027. Boundaries for the communities of Southbow and Rivercrest have yet to be decided. The Board will continue to work with the Town of Cochrane to ensure that suitable school sites are ready. School sites need to be ready before government will consider funding. The Board sent a letter to the Mayor and Town Council urging advancement of sites.
A community consultation was held in Chestermere focussed on addressing interim accommodation solutions until the new K-8 school is built. Finalized plans will be decided in January 2025
Indigenous Learning Creates Self- Reflection Tool for School Staff
The Indigenous Learning department is tasked with supporting learning environments that celebrate diversity and are inclusive. To assist school-based staff and administrators, the Indigenous Learning branch has created a self- reflection tool to help determine a staff member’s understanding and comfort with different areas of Indigenous knowledge and understanding.
Additional Funding Plan Focused on Student Success
The Board approved the spending plan for the additional funding from the provincial government announced in July. It includes additional supports to help schools transition new students with complex needs into their school culture; enhancements to our IT, infrastructure; and resources and technology for schools to support a smooth transition for the student accommodation changes in Airdrie beginning September 2025, an instructional contingency. English Language Learners numbers are up, the additional dollars received will go directly to schools to support those learners.
Ward Boundary Bylaw Second Reading passed
October 17 meeting, the Board approved changes to the current ward boundaries
to ensure equitable representation of constituents. These changes take effect for the October 2025 election and include the addition of a second trustee for Cochrane and the amalgamation of the existing Ward 2 and Ward 4 areas. The third reading is upcoming.
Board Creates Committee to Facilitate Search for New Superintendent
RVS’ Superintendent of Schools, Greg Luterbach, will retire at the end of August 2025, and a search for a new superintendent is required. The Board approved the Terms of Reference to create an ad hoc Superintendent Search Committee to support the recruitment process.
ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICES INFORMATION
Children’s well-being and education results are closely aligned. The following are links to Alberta Health Services information.
www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/about/org/ahs-org-hp-2024-2027.pdf
www.alberta.ca/stats/dashboard/respiratory-virus-dashboard.html
