The Battle River School Division (BRSD) has gotten off to an “extraordinary success.”
“With an increase in student enrollment and flourishing extracurricular activities for positive student learning, we are set for yet another year of excellence in education,” says BRSD media relations via a release.
One change seen in the division is a “significantly increased” bus ridership, with over 700 students catching school-provided transportation.
“Our transportation team worked diligently to offer this convenience to our families while rolling into the new school year,” continues the release.
Celebrating the return of students, and helping everyone get back into the routine of a new year, BRSD has hosted a variety of “welcoming events” across the division.
These events have included open houses, pancake breakfasts, and “meet the staff”-type functions for the schools, strengthening partnerships between schools and communities.
“The positive energy and enthusiasm displayed by our students, staff, and community members during this school startup have been truly inspiring,” said Superintendent Rhae-Ann Holien.
“We are dedicated to building on this momentum, ensuring that every student in our division has the opportunity to succeed.”
According to the release, students have taken to the new school, and the associated activities with “positive energy.”
Highlights of the year-to-date include participation in golf, volleyball, and cross-country running, including the 2023 Battle River XC Race Series.
On Sept. 28, hundreds of students gathered in New Norway for BRSD’s annual Spartan Race with participants coming from across the province ranging in age from Kindergarten to Grade 12. To help make the raise more inclusive for students of all abilities, a para/unified race was added.
“These activities not only promote physical fitness, but foster teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship among our students,” continues the release.
Students weren’t the only ones team building; on Sept. 25 BRSD staff came together for a learning day where they took part in a variety of learning sessions. Even the bus drivers met up at the Norsemen Inn to “connect and engage with staff while learning.”
“Aligning with our division priority of High-Quality Teaching and Optimum Learning, we recognize that staff members work to create optimum learning environments,” the release continues.
“These professional staff learning days are pivotal, ensuring that our educators remain equipped with the latest pedagogical strategies and knowledge. This empowers leaders and staff to provide the highest quality of education and support for our students.”
One focus of this learning, both inside and outside of BRSD classrooms, is the evolution and curriculum integration of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
“Recognizing the significance of this day in Canada’s history, BRSD is dedicated to ensuring that the legacy of Indigenous peoples and their experiences are acknowledged (and) respected,” the release continues.
Another area that BRSD continues to be proud of is the annual participation in the Terry Fox Run and the contributions made towards cancer research.
“This serves as a reminder of our collective ability to make a difference in the fight against cancer and the power we can exercise to mitigate other societal challenges when we work together,” notes the release.
“Our schools are dedicated to raising awareness and funds for cancer research, emphasizing that even small steps can lead to significant change. Our participation not only fosters unity and purpose among our students but also reaffirms our commitment to nurturing them as responsible and compassionate global citizens.
“BRSD would like to thank all parents, guardians, students, staff, and community members for their continued support and involvement in our educational mission. Together, we look forward to a year filled with growth, learning, and achievement.”