Prairie Rose Public Schools board meeting highlights: October 14 

Posted on October 23, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

The Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) Board met on October 14 for its regular public meeting. The agenda covered a range of topics, from financial resolutions to innovative programs designed to support students’ diverse needs.

Here’s a short overview of some of the highlights:

The board approved a $750,000 Borrowing Resolution with Alberta Treasury Branches (ATB). This line of credit is a precautionary measure to address emergent operating expenses, ensuring financial stability for the division.

The board reviewed several new and revised procedures, reflecting Prairie Rose’s commitment to inclusivity, academic excellence, and adaptability. Key updates include:

• Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation, and Human Sexuality Topics: Ensuring inclusivity and respect for all students.

• Course Challenge Assessments: Providing students with opportunities to demonstrate proficiency and earn credits.

• At-Home Learning: Supporting flexible learning options.

• Selection and Reconsideration of Learning Materials: Establishing clear processes for choosing and challenging educational resources.

• Extracurricular Athletics: Enhancing opportunities for student engagement outside the classroom.

The board recognized the outstanding efforts of students, staff, and the community. Highlights included:

• School Bee Hives: A unique initiative about environmental stewardship and hands-on learning.

• Summer Renovations at South Central School: Enhancing facilities for a better learning environment.

• Foremost School Rodeo Academy: Acknowledging the support provided to students in this program.

The board was issued a comprehensive demographic report, showcasing significant progress in retaining and attracting students within the division:

• Student Retention: From 2015 to 2025, the number of students leaving PRPS to attend other divisions dropped by 50 per cent, from 868 to 431. Similarly, the number of students attending Medicine Hat schools from PRPS boundaries decreased by 62.21 per cent.

• Enrollment Growth: The division experienced a 12.19 per cent growth rate between 2018 and 2025, with a 2.54 per cent increase projected for 2025/2026.

• Class Sizes: Average class sizes remain favourable, with primary grades (1-3) averaging 14.6 students and senior grades (10-12) averaging 18.4 students.

• Diversity: The division serves 159 self-identified First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students.

Prairie Rose continues to lead with forward-thinking programs tailored to meet complex student needs. Here are some standout initiatives:

• Hippotherapy: This unique therapy integrates equine movement into students’ learning plans, helping calm their nervous systems and build confidence. Community partners across Redcliff, Dunmore, and other areas have been instrumental in supporting this program.

• Prairie Rose Honey: Aimed at neurodivergent students, this program uses the predictable behaviour of bees to foster calmness and confidence, creating optimal conditions for learning.

• Back On Track Program: In partnership with the YMCA, this alternative to suspension focuses on restorative practices, helping students repair relationships and reintegrate into the school community.

• Canine Supports: Facility dogs, Iain and Tasia, provide comfort and encouragement to students during stressful times, bringing joy wherever they go.

These initiatives reflect a deep understanding of the unique needs of rural communities. By prioritizing inclusivity, mental health, and innovative learning opportunities, PRPS is not only retaining more students but also fostering a supportive environment where every child can thrive. Programs like hippotherapy and Prairie Rose Honey demonstrate the division’s commitment to creative, community-driven solutions that make a real difference.