Yuill School of Agriculture to strengthen education, innovation, and Alberta’s agri-food future

Courier/Commentator Photos Submitted. INNOVATION: Prairie Rose Public Schools announces the creation of the Yuill School of Agriculture. (Below) Local Philanthropist Bill Yuill announces the donation of land and funds.

Submitted by Angela Baron
Prairie Rose Public Schools

A new era of agricultural learning is taking root in Southern Alberta as Prairie Rose Public Schools announces the creation of the Yuill School of Agriculture, an innovative partnership designed to cultivate hands-on learning and community growth.

Set to open in the fall of 2027, the new school will serve students in Grades 10 through 12, offering a comprehensive program that blends classroom instruction with real-world agricultural experience. Operating under Prairie Rose Public Schools in partnership with Neubauer Farms, the initiative builds on a shared commitment to developing the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026, supported by a collaborative investment from the Yuill Family Foundation, the Government of Alberta, and Prairie Rose Public Schools.

Reflecting the Foundation’s strong values of education, youth development, and community growth, the Yuill Family Foundation has donated land valued at approximately $1.03 million, along with an additional $600,000 toward construction of the facility. This significant contribution demonstrates a continued commitment to strengthening opportunities for young people and communities across Southern Alberta.

“The Yuill Family Foundation is incredibly proud of our partnership with Prairie Rose Public Schools and the creation of the Yuill School of Agriculture,” says Cori Cuthbertson, Administrator for the Yuill Family Foundation. “Together, we are fostering hands-on-learning opportunities that connect students to the land, their community, and the vital role of agriculture in our future.”

Support from the Government of Alberta includes $725,000 in collegiate funding to assist with start-up expenses. This investment will provide students with access to high quality learning environments and pathways into Alberta’s expanding agri-food industries.

“This investment reflects our commitment to hands-on, career-connected learning that prepares students for the future,” says Cypress Medicine Hat MLA Justin Wright. “Programs like the Yuill School of Agriculture strengthen local communities and help ensure the next generation of Albertans are ready to lead in one of our province’s most important industries.”

Students enrolled in the program will have opportunities to earn certifications, complete dual credit courses, and gain practical experience in areas such as crop and livestock management, agri-business, greenhouse operations, and agricultural technology. The school’s design and curriculum are being developed collaboratively by Prairie Rose Public Schools and Neubauer Farms to balance academic learning with industry-relevant experience.

“This project is about creating meaningful connections between learning and real-world application,” says Prairie Rose Superintendent of Schools Reagan Weeks. “The Yuill School of Agriculture will provide students with the chance to explore the science, business, and technology behind modern agriculture while helping sustain the values that have long defined rural Alberta.”

The Yuill School of Agriculture marks an important step forward in advancing agricultural education and workforce development in Alberta, combining industry partnerships, community collaboration, and innovative learning opportunities for students.