Division joins provincial advisory group on disability supports

Pembina Hills School Division is helping to shape how children with disabilities and their families get support in Alberta.

Since the spring, the Division has taken part in a provincial advisory group on child development and disability supports. The group brings together families, doctors, service providers, educators and others. It looks for ways to improve programs such as Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) and Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD).

The work began in May 2026, when the Alberta Medical Association’s Section of Pediatrics asked for a school trustee to join its advocacy work. In June, the Board approved its participation and created a short-term committee for this work.

Pembina Hills brings a rural public education view to the group, including the growing needs of students, how hard it can be to reach services in rural areas, and the value of early help.

At its September 23 meeting, the Board approved the appointment of Trustees Kane and Truckey to the advisory group, with Trustee Kane as the Board’s official representative. Any formal letters or statements made on behalf of the Board will first come to the full Board for approval.

2026-2027 Early Enrolment Update

Each year, Pembina Hills compares first-day enrolment with the projections used to develop the budget. Early enrolment numbers at some of our community schools are currently below projections.

September is a period of considerable movement in student enrolment as families move into and out of the division, students change schools, and registrations continue to be processed. The official provincial enrolment count takes place on September 29, so the numbers we have today are not yet the final count that is used for funding purposes.

Vista Virtual School is also continuing to process applications, with additional primary students expected to enrol. These enrolments may offset some of the lower-than-projected numbers at our community schools.

Several schools also began the year with enrolment above projections, including R.F. Staples Secondary School, Pembina North Community School and Barrhead Composite High School.

Administration will provide the Board with an updated enrolment picture at its next meeting. We will share that information with our communities once it is available.

Internal audit report gives assurance on Division operations

At its September 23 meeting, the Board received the Internal Audit Assurance Report for 2025–2026. Each year, Division staff review how schools and departments manage finances, insurance, safety and records. The report gives trustees confidence that operations are well run and follow the rules.

The report showed a clear shift in how families pay school fees. Online payments have more than doubled since 2022–2023 and are now the most common way families pay.

Safety was another key focus. The report reviewed fire and lockdown drills, defibrillators (AEDs), first aid kits and training, safety meetings and building inspections. Alberta Education and Childcare also checked samples of student records from several schools to confirm that students were properly registered and attending.

Finally, the report explained Alberta’s new privacy laws, the Protection of Privacy Act (POPA) and Access to Information Act (ATIA), which have replaced the former FOIP Act. The new laws require a formal privacy management program, staff training, reporting of privacy breaches, and advance notice when artificial intelligence (AI) tools are used with personal information.

Superintendent’s report: a strong start to the school year

The 2026–2027 school year is off to a strong start, according to the Superintendent’s Report presented at the September 23 Board meeting.

The Superintendent has visited all 16 Pembina Hills schools, attending school council meetings and visiting classrooms.

The report shared progress on the Division’s three priorities:

• Wellness: School wellness teams received training, and schools reported positive start-ups to the year.
• Thriving communities: A plan for the year has been created under the Division’s Métis Education Services Agreement.
• Engaged learners: Students in Grades 1 to 10 are completing reading and math screeners and assessments. The Division also signed a three-year agreement with CAREERS: The Next Generation.

On September 18, staff gathered for a professional learning day featuring keynote speaker Katie White, who spoke about how assessment can build hope for students.

Coming up this fall: student and staff surveys, the Terry Fox Run, Truth and Reconciliation activities, and a review of last year’s provincial test and diploma exam results.

 READ MORE: Board meeting agenda and minutes

Next Regular Board Meeting
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
Division Office
9:30 a.m.

The post September 23, 2026 Board Meeting News appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

For generations, First Nations, Métis and Inuit children were taken from their families and communities and placed in residential schools. These schools were designed to separate Indigenous children from their families, cultures and languages. The impacts of this history continue to be felt by Survivors, their families and Indigenous communities today.

Truth and Reconciliation Week provides an opportunity to learn about these truths, honour the experiences of Survivors and their families, and deepen our understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, languages and contributions.

Learning is part of reconciliation

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey. It asks us to learn about the past, listen to Indigenous voices and consider how we can build respectful relationships and contribute to positive change.

Across Pembina Hills, students are engaging with these ideas in age-appropriate ways through stories, lessons, discussions, art, language and other learning experiences. This learning is not limited to one week, but Truth and Reconciliation Week provides an important opportunity to pause and focus our attention on this work.

Families and community members are encouraged to take part in the learning, too. Learning together can create opportunities for meaningful conversations with children and young people and help us better understand the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous peoples.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation & Orange Shirt Day – September 30

Why an orange shirt? The orange shirt has become a symbol of remembrance, belonging and the commitment that Every Child Matters.

The story began with Phyllis Webstad, who, at six years old, arrived at the St. Joseph Mission Residential School in British Columbia wearing a new orange shirt that her grandmother had bought for her. When she arrived at the school, her shirt was taken away. Phyllis has shared her story for many years to help others understand the experiences of children who were separated from their families, communities, cultures and languages through the residential school system.

Her story inspired the Orange Shirt Day movement and continues to remind us of the importance of listening to Survivors, remembering the children who attended residential schools, and ensuring that every child is valued, respected and able to grow up connected to their family, culture and community.

Read Phyllis Webstad’s story, in her own words.

Continue your learning

There are many resources available to help us learn more about residential schools, Indigenous histories and reconciliation:

• Rupertsland Institute offers lesson plans and learning resources, including age-appropriate resources about residential schools. Explore Rupertsland Institute resources.
• The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation offers videos and educational resources organized by grade level. Explore NCTR educational resources.
• The Downie & Wenjack Foundation provides resources to help Canadians learn about Indigenous history, culture and reconciliation.
• Orange Shirt Society website offers activities, videos and guides in both English and French.
• Government of Canada website has many learning resources and graphics for sharing

The meaning behind the visual

Image: From the Government of Canada website

The design honours the children who never returned home from residential schools, Survivors, their families and communities.

In the centre are three symbols: a feather, a narwhal, and a flower. Each symbol represents the distinct cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, brought together in a circular flowing composition to reflect the connection between the groups.

Above the central elements, stars surrounding the moon honour the children who never returned home from residential schools and symbolize their enduring place in our thoughts and memory. The dotted patterns evoke beadwork and reflect the importance of passing down art, culture and traditions from one generation to the next.

Flowing lines connect the elements of the design, reflecting the connections between land, water, communities and generations. Their winding path represents the journey of reconciliation and reminds us that reconciliation is an ongoing process.

The colour orange represents remembrance and the enduring message that every child matters.

The post Truth and Reconciliation Week: Learning, Listening and Remembering appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

As the new school year gets underway, work continues throughout the building on the Modernization and Right-sizing project.

With students and staff now settling into the school year, we wanted to provide an update on the progress being made across the school, including areas that are now ready for use, work that is nearing completion and what’s coming next.

Some completion dates have shifted from earlier expectations as work has progressed, while other areas are now ready for students and staff. We will continue to share updates as spaces are completed and ready for use.

Junior High Wing

Students and teachers are expected to move into the refurbished junior high hallway within the next week. New classroom furniture has been assembled and placed in all five classrooms.

The junior high washrooms are also back in use, with only a few small finishing details remaining.

The hallway connecting the refurbished classrooms with what was formerly the Grade 7 wing has reopened. This means students and staff can remain indoors to reach all areas of the building.

Student Services

Renovation of the Student Services offices is expected to be completed in the next few weeks.

Once complete, the renovated offices will provide space for the school’s Wellness Coaches, School Family Advocate and School Resources Officer.

East Gym and Change Rooms

Work continues on the enlarged East Gym, with the space now anticipated to be ready toward the beginning of October.

Remaining work includes flooring, graphics and installation of the curtain that will separate the two sides of the enlarged gymnasium. The new change rooms are also expected to be completed as part of this work.

Career and Technology Studies

Modernization and refurbishment of several Career and Technology Studies (CTS) labs is ongoing.

The Automotive and Mechanics lab is expected to be turned over to the school at the end of September.

The senior high Woods & Construction and Welding & Fabrication labs are scheduled for completion later in the school year. No classes are scheduled in these spaces until the next school year, allowing the work to continue without affecting this year’s scheduled classes.

Phase 2 is underway

Phase 2 of the BCHS modernization and Right-sizing project began at the end of June 2026.

Work on the Centre Gym is underway, including demolition of the stage and preparation of the basement beneath it to house machinery being consolidated from other areas of the school. When complete, the Centre Gym will be significantly longer, providing additional space for physical education.

The Fit Pit, or weight room, originally planned as part of Phase 1, has been moved into Phase 2. Construction materials for the Centre Gym need to move through this area, making the change in phasing necessary. Completion of the Centre Gym and Fit Pit is expected toward the end of semester 1.

The new cafeteria has been moved to Phase 3. This change will allow several hundred meals to continue being served daily while maintaining convenient access to the cafeteria for students and staff.

Phase 3 is also scheduled to include renovation of the centre hallway, expansion of the graphic arts and photography lab, and construction of the new library and student commons. Classes currently located in the centre hallway have been relocated to what was formerly the Grade 7 wing in anticipation of construction beginning in that area around the end of Semester 1.

Work continues throughout the building

In addition to the work associated with each phase, construction teams have continued working on various areas of the school’s roof, as well as insulation and cladding around the building’s foundation.

Excessive rain this summer has created challenges in some areas, slowing work and causing damage that has required additional repairs. Leaks in the school’s Band Room have resulted in some classes being temporarily relocated. Classrooms in the vacated centre hallway will also be used for the next few months while cleaning and repairs are completed.

Looking ahead

There is still significant work ahead, but progress is becoming increasingly visible throughout BCHS. The renovated classrooms, junior high hallway and washrooms are already giving students and staff a glimpse of the improvements underway, while work continues on the larger spaces that will transform how the school is used.

We appreciate the patience and understanding of students, families, and staff as the modernization project continues. We look forward to sharing further updates as more spaces are completed and ready for use.

The post Barrhead Composite High School Modernization Update – Fall 2026 appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

From agriculture and entrepreneurship to welding, heavy equipment operation, forestry and health care, Career Camp provided students the opportunity to explore a wide range of career possibilities while developing practical skills they can use as they move into high school and beyond.

Throughout the week, students heard from local businesses, organizations and career professionals, while taking part in workshops and hands-on activities designed to help them learn more about themselves and the world of work.

Students started the week by exploring the Green Certificate program and opportunities in agriculture, followed by an entrepreneurship workshop with Community Futures and an introduction to CAREERS, which supports students as they explore work and career opportunities.

The focus then shifted to practical job-search skills. Students learned about resources available through Westlock Employment, created their own resumes and cover letters, and learned about field services through Farmer’s Business Network. They also explored how apprenticeships work through Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training.

Career exploration went beyond the classroom as well. Students took part in activities focused on personal wellness, mental health, budgeting and financial literacy before heading out for career experiences with Kiewit, Pembina Pipeline and Westlock Precision Labs.

At Kiewit, students explored heavy equipment operation, while Pembina Pipeline provided a look at careers in the energy industry along with hands-on activities. Westlock Precision Labs introduced students to the career of a Medical Laboratory Technologist.

The final day brought another hands-on experience, with Woodland Operations Learning Foundation (WOLF) and WorkWild showcasing careers in the forestry sector through simulators and displays. Students also had the opportunity to try welding through NAIT before reflecting on what they had learned throughout the week.

Career Camp is designed to help students discover opportunities, make connections and begin thinking about the skills and experiences that can help them reach their goals. It also provides students entering high school with an opportunity to complete components of their CALM coursework.

With 27 students participating this year, Career Camp once again provided a chance for students to get out, get involved and start exploring where their interests might take them.

A big thank you to all of the businesses, organizations and presenters who shared their time, knowledge and expertise with our students!

The post Exploring What’s Possible at Career Camp 2026 appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

New Board Leadership

Pembina Hills School Division is pleased to welcome Trustee Judy Lefebvre as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees, and Trustee David Truckey as the new Vice-Chair.

As Chair, Mrs. Lefebvre will preside over Board meetings, act as the Board’s official spokesperson on matters of governance, Board policy and Board decisions, and serve as the Board’s direct link to the Superintendent. As Vice-Chair, Mr. Truckey will support the Chair in that work, share responsibility for the Superintendent’s annual evaluation, and work with the Chair of the Council of School Councils to prepare agendas for those meetings. Both roles are set out in Board Policy 05 and Policy 06.

The Board also extends its sincere thanks to Trustee Victoria Kane for her service as Board Chair over the past year. Mrs. Kane led the Board through a demanding year of governance work, including a comprehensive review of Board policy to meet new provincial requirements. Her dedication, her steady leadership in the chair, and her generosity with her time have been of real benefit to students, families and staff across the Division.

Board Completes Policy Review to Meet New Provincial Legislation

The Board completed a broad review of its governance policies. An Act to Remove Politics and Ideology from Classrooms and Amend the Education Act (often referenced as “Bill 25”) has introduced several requirements that must be in place as of September 1, 2026.

One change is about language. The familiar phrase “welcoming, caring, respectful and safe” has been replaced throughout the Education Act with “a safe and caring environment that fosters and maintains respectful and responsible behaviours.” That wording now appears in Policies 02, 03, 12 and 19, and Policy 19 has been renamed to match.

Students also have a new responsibility. They must refrain from violence at school and at school activities and, where they can safely do so, help prevent it. The Division’s Student Code of Conduct will be updated to reflect this responsibility clearly.

The new rules set expectations for instruction and programming. Any programming outside of the approved curriculum must be delivered impartially, fairly and free of personal bias. Approved curriculum must encourage a range of perspectives, and the Division is now required to monitor how it is delivered, with attention to academic rigour.

There are also new limits on what the Board says publicly. The Board must not issue statements or take positions that are not relevant to its obligations under the Education Act. Going forward, each of the Board’s advocacy priorities will be tied to a specific duty it holds under the Act.

Staff gain protection. No employee can be required, directly or indirectly, to take part in an exercise or affirm a statement that conflicts with their conscientious, political, social or ideological beliefs.

Most of these changes take effect September 1, 2026, with the compliance date and the effective date the same. The environment language and the student code of conduct changes are due December 1, 2026. Requirements for flags, the national anthem, school naming and surplus property depend on regulations the province has not yet released; therefore, several policy updates are still to come.

 READ MORE: Board meeting agenda and minutes

Next Regular Board Meeting
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Division Office
9:30 a.m.

The post August 26, 2026 Board Meeting News appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

Students learn important skills in the classroom, but some of the most meaningful learning happens when they have the opportunity to step into a real workplace.

Throughout the 2025–2026 school year, students at Pembina Hills’  high schools took part in Work Experience and the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP), gaining hands-on experience, developing workplace skills and exploring careers in their own communities. From farms and automotive shops to health-care settings, restaurants, trades, public services and community organizations, our students experienced a wide range of workplaces this year.

For some students, Work Experience or RAP may confirm a career they want to pursue. For others, it may introduce them to an opportunity or profession they had never considered. Either way, these experiences help students build confidence, make connections and better understand the possibilities that await them after high school.

These opportunities are made possible by local businesses, organizations, farms, public services and community members who open their doors to students and share their time, knowledge and expertise. We are incredibly grateful to every community partner who supported a Pembina Hills student this year.

To every employer and community partner who welcomed a student this year: Thank you for investing in our students and helping them take meaningful steps toward their futures! Your support helps bring learning to life and strengthens the connection between our schools, our communities and the future our students are building.

Barrhead Composite High School

Work Experience

• A & W
• Alberta Health Services (Barrhead Hospital Lab)
• Arn-El Farm Ltd.
• Baas Dairy
• Barr North Vet Clinic
• Barrhead Aquatic Centre
• Barrhead Art Club
• Barrhead Composite High School
• Barrhead Custom Meats
• Barrhead Elementary School
• Barrhead Home Hardware Building Centre
• Barrhead Regional Fire Service
• Barrhead One Stop Auto Centre Ltd.
• Barrhead Peoples Pharmacy
• Barrhead Transit Mix
• Bearwood Construction
• Culture Shock
• Dairy Queen
• Dekker Ranch
• FCSS
• Fountain Tire Barrhead
• Freddy’s 2 For 1 Pizza
• Freson Bros.
• Grossenbacher Farms and Trucking
• Integrity Gypsum Contracting (House Cleaning)
• JC Farms
• Jesperdale Dairy
• Jiffy Construction
• Jubilee Farms Ltd.
• Kal Tire
• Lakeview Lodge
• McDonald’s
• Muskeg Farms
• Neerlandia Co-op
• Northplex
• OK Tire
• Pembina West Co-op Food Store
• Pembina West Co-op Gas Bar
• Pembina West Co-op Hardware Store
• Pentagon Farm Centre
• Prairie Chef
• Rentz Farms
• Sal’s Famous
• Sandstone Waste & Water Services Ltd.
• Stephani Motors
• Subway
• The Flower Shoppe
• Total Landscapes
• Town of Barrhead/Agrena
• Thoreson Williams Angus Ranch
• Trevor Kalmbach Trucking
• Versatile Electric and HVAC
• Westlock Honey Producers Inc.
• Whitecourt Transport
• WS Farms Ltd.

Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)

• All Around Manufacturing & Mechanical
• Edge Welding
• Fountain Tire
• Grizzly Trail Motors
• Hairs What I Do
• Horizon Ag & Turf
• Jiffy Construction
• North End Autobody
• Northplex
• Reliance Automotive
• Semlers
• Stalwart Electric Ltd.
• Steele Tech

R.F. Staples Secondary School

Work Experience

• Crop Maxx Inc.
• Dairy Queen
• Fountain Tire
• Horsepower Industries
• Westlock Tractor Museum
• Zadunayski Farms Ltd.

Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)

• Andrew Tagg
• Antler Meadows RV & Mechanical
• DDC Sand & Gravel
• Kiewit
• Luced Services Ltd.
• Pentagon Farm Centre
• Q&S Plumbing and Heating
• Total Plumbing & Heating Ltd.
• Westlock Motors/Collision

Swan Hills School

Work Experience 

• Bohn Petroleum
• Derrick Motel
• Draft Oilfield Services
• Freddy Fender Autoworx
• Nash Steamer & Oilfield Services Ltd.
• Swan Hills Fire Department
• Swan Hills School

Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)

• Freddy Fender Autoworx

The post Building Career Connections: Thank You to Our Community Partners appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

Before turning their attention to the many decisions, plans and priorities that come with a new school year, Pembina Hills school leaders, Division leadership and trustees gathered on Monday, August 24, for a morning focused on connection—to the land, to one another and to the work ahead.

The day began with a circle and smudge led by Knowledge Holder Cheryl Devin through Rupertsland Institute. The gathering offered an opportunity to slow down, listen and reflect together, grounding the group in the importance of beginning the school year in a good way.

That focus on connection continued outdoors, as leaders spent time learning and exploring together with Colleen and Dale Kiselyk of Nature Alive, who served as canoe guides and Outdoor Learning facilitators at Goose Lake. 

For school leaders, time together outside of the usual meeting environment provided an opportunity to build relationships, experience learning in a different setting and reconnect with the land that is an important part of the communities Pembina Hills serves.

While there was plenty of important business to address as the school year begins, taking time to start together in this way was a reminder that leadership in education is ultimately about people and relationships.

As students and staff return to schools across Pembina Hills, the hope is to carry that same spirit of connection, learning and care into the year ahead.

The post Starting the School Year in a Good Way appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

Sessions covered a range of topics to help new staff get started, including an introduction to the Division’s values, priorities and culture, inclusion and student services, Division policies and procedures, professional learning, employment supports, and the roles and responsibilities of teachers and support staff. Orientation also provided an opportunity to connect with school board trustees over lunch.

For new teachers, the orientation continued with sessions on teacher contracts and evaluation, payroll and benefits, and assessment and reporting practices.

While there was plenty of important information to take in, the orientation was also an opportunity to build connections and help new staff feel welcomed as they prepare to join their schools and communities.

We’re excited to welcome our newest team members to Pembina Hills and look forward to seeing them in our schools as the 2026-2027 school year gets underway.

Pictured Back Row L-R
Jessica Belanger (École Westlock Elementary School (WES)), Brooklynn Grouette (Barrhead Composite High School (BCHS)), Amy Van Brabant (R.F. Staples School (RFS)), Meagan Mattmann (RFS), Eva Politeski (RFS), Katie Edwards (WES), Kerstin (Outreach Schools), Susan Woo (BCHS), Marie Claire Déom (École Barrhead Elementary School (BES)), Rylee Peck (Eleanor Hall School), Peter A. (RFS), Andrew Podolski (Outreach Schools), Nicole Mulligan (WES)

Pictured Front Row L-R
Katherine W. (BES), Cassy Larson (BES), Amy Wilkinson (BES), Cheryl Moser (WES), Carissa Ashton (Swan Hills School), Shelley Dykstra (BCHS)

The post Welcome to our new staff! appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

Zoe’s hard work, determination, and dedication have helped shape both her accomplishments and her future aspirations.

Growing up on farms and around horse racetracks, Zoe learned the values of patience, responsibility, and perseverance from an early age. Caring for animals and contributing to daily farm life inspired a lifelong passion for wildlife and instilled a strong work ethic that continues to guide her today.

Her love of animals has led her to pursue a future in wildlife conservation, where she hopes to help restore habitats and protect species for generations to come. Alongside her passion for conservation, Zoe has also developed a love for the arts and looks forward to continuing her involvement in theatre and performance.

Throughout high school, Zoe has been actively involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including competitive softball, volleyball, basketball, curling, cross-country, track and field, and dance. As both a catcher and pitcher in softball, she has demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and excellent communication skills while encouraging and supporting her teammates.

Zoe’s commitment extends beyond athletics. She has participated in eight theatre productions and has excelled academically, consistently striving for success while building positive relationships with staff and fellow students.

She has also made meaningful contributions to her community through both volunteer work and employment. Whether assisting with dance classes, festivals, and library programs or working as a babysitter, farm worker, gas station attendant, lifeguard, and swimming instructor, Zoe has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to serve others.

Through her determination, leadership, and commitment to her school and community, Zoe exemplifies the qualities of a well-rounded and engaged student.

The Pembina Hills School Division Board of Trustees is proud to present Zoe McLean with the Grade 12 Citizenship Award in recognition of the positive contributions she has made to her school and community.

Congratulations Zoe!

The post Grade 12 Citizenship Award Winner – Zoe McLean appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.

Paisley is an exceptional student leader whose commitment to service, leadership, and community involvement has made a lasting impact both within her school and beyond.

She consistently demonstrates responsibility through her dedication to academics, work, and extracurricular activities. As Student Union President, Grad 2026 President, and President of the Westlock Youth Rotary Interact Club, Paisley has inspired her peers, promoted school spirit, organized events, and supported initiatives that strengthen her school community.

Giving back to others is at the heart of who Paisley is. She generously volunteers her time through programs such as Snow Angels, community Christmas dinners, Sunday School, and children’s camps. No matter the opportunity, she is always willing to lend a helping hand.

Paisley’s positive attitude and strong work ethic are reflected in all that she does. Through determination and perseverance, she earned certifications as a lifeguard, Water Safety Instructor, and First Aid provider. She not only uses these skills to help keep others safe but also shares her knowledge by teaching valuable life-saving skills to others.

Looking ahead, Paisley plans to attend Bible college this fall before pursuing a hairstyling apprenticeship and working toward her goal of becoming an entrepreneur.

Whether leading her peers, volunteering in the community, or helping others through her training and service, Paisley consistently demonstrates kindness, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

The Pembina Hills School Division Board of Trustees is proud to present Paisley Budgen with the 2026 Citizenship Award in recognition of the positive contributions she has made to her school and community.

Congratulations, Paisley!

The post Grade 12 Citizenship Award Winner – Paisley Budgen appeared first on Pembina Hills School Division.