The following information was sent to Pembina Hills families on November 7, 2025.

Pembina Hills Families:

In the weeks ahead, our schools’ top priority will be classroom instruction and student learning outcomes. While extra-curricular activities—including Remembrance Day Ceremonies and Christmas concerts—remain valued parts of school life, some events may look different this year. Pembina Hills is fortunate to have so many dedicated teachers, staff, and community volunteers, and I encourage everyone to extend patience, understanding, and kindness as we move forward together.

Important updates about student learning, reporting, and upcoming assessment schedules

Kindergarten to Grade 9

• October Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews: These interviews will not be rescheduled. Parents with concerns about their child’s progress are encouraged to contact the teacher directly.
• Goal-Setting Interviews: Schools with semestered courses in Grades 7–9 may hold goal-setting interviews in November. Teachers will reach out to parents with details.
• Progress Reports: November progress reports will be delayed until January.
• March Interviews and June Final Reports: will proceed as planned.
• Ongoing Communication: Teachers will continue to share updates on student learning and progress throughout the year.
• Grade 9 Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs) scheduled for January 2026 have been cancelled.

Grades 10 to 12

As previously shared, the Government of Alberta has cancelled all January 2026 diploma exams. Students will receive a notation on their transcripts to ensure there is no impact on graduation or post-secondary admissions. Students who wish to write diploma exams may do so in April or June 2026 instead.

With the cancellation of diploma exams, high schools are adjusting January schedules to maximize learning time. The days traditionally set aside for exam week will now be used for regular classes. Schools may still hold school-based final exams. Your child’s school will share specific schedules in the coming weeks.

• Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews: High school interviews will be completed by the end of November.
• March Interviews and January/June Report Cards will proceed as scheduled.

Calendar Adjustments for the Remainder of School Year

This month, division administration will meet with school principals to discuss any potential changes to the school calendar. These discussions will focus on ways to maximize instructional time and support student learning for the remainder of the year. The Pembina Hills Board of Trustees will review these recommendations and make a decision about calendar adjustments at their November 26 Board Meeting. Any changes will be communicated to families following the board meeting.

The labour disruption has been challenging for everyone, and we recognize the emotional and practical toll it may have taken on families and staff. I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support as we return to a steady rhythm of learning. Our schools have experienced a smooth and positive reopening, thanks to the hard work and resilience of our students, staff, and families.

If you have any questions about your child’s learning, please reach out to their teacher or school.

Brett Cooper
Superintendent of Schools