It Takes a Village: Prairie Rose celebrates community support in education

Courier/Commentator Photo Submitted by Angela Baron. RECOGNITIONS: Scott Hershmiller of Western Tractor with team and trustee Graeme Dennis.

Submitted by Prairie Rose Public Schools

Prairie Rose School Division recently gathered to celebrate the community champions who make a lasting impact on education. From fire departments to local businesses, these partners are helping students thrive in ways that reach far beyond the classroom.

“Education is not the work of just the school alone,” said board trustee Shauna VanderSpruit. “It is the work of an entire community that believes in its young people. These partnerships truly set us apart as a school division.”

One highlight of the celebration was the Fire Academy, supported by the Bow Island Fire Department. Chief Blaine O’Donnell recalled how the idea took shape. “The superintendent asked if we would be interested in starting a fire academy, and our members were all gung ho. Hopefully, some of them will stay in our town and become volunteer firefighters. That is our goal, and to make them better people.”

Cypress County Fire Manager Jason Linton agreed, noting that the program builds more than just technical skills. “It is about teamwork, responsibility, and life skills that help students grow and prepare for the workforce,” he explained.

The event also highlighted the vital role of local businesses. At Deerview Meats, co-owner Perry Deering emphasized the importance of hands on learning. “We focus on teamwork, responsibility, and industry specific training. Many of our former students have moved on to provincial and federal careers. It is rewarding to see them grow and succeed.”

In Medicine Hat, Western Tractor is showing students the broader world of agriculture. “Agriculture is technology, engineering, accounting, it is much more than farming,” said Scott Hershmiller. “It puts a smile on our face to see these kids succeed and come back with questions.”

Craig Lehr of Short Grass Ranches added that agricultural programs have grown into meaningful mentorship opportunities. “Initially, we were just asked to donate steers for the Irvine Agriculture Discovery Centre beef project, but it quickly became clear this was about mentorship and education. Programs like this show students that agriculture offers diverse and rewarding opportunities.”

The celebration underscored how every partnership—whether in emergency services, trades, or agriculture—strengthens the foundation for student success. VanderSpruit summed it up best: “These champions ignite minds, forge futures, and inspire our students to achieve their best.”