SPS Report to the Community 2015-16 by Saskatoon Public Schools

ADEN BOWMAN ALVIN BUCKWOLD BEDFORD ROAD BREVOORT PARK BROWNELL BRUNSKILL BUENA VISTA CAROLINE ROBINS CASWELL CENTENNIAL CITY PARK COLLEGE PARK CONFEDERATION PARK DR. JOHN G. EGNATOFF DUNDONALD

EVAN HARDY FAIRHAVEN FOREST GROVE GREYSTONE HEIGHTS HENRY KELSEY HOLLISTON HOWARD COAD HUGH CAIRNS V.C. JAMES L. ALEXANDER JOHN DOLAN JOHN LAKE KING GEORGE LAKERIDGE LAKEVIEW LAWSON HEIGHTS

LESTER B. PEARSON MARION M. GRAHAM MAYFAIR MONTGOMERY MOUNT ROYAL NORTH PARK WILSON NUTANA PLEASANT HILL PRINCE PHILIP PRINCESS ALEXANDRA QUEEN ELIZABETH RIVER HEIGHTS ROLAND MICHENER ROYAL WEST SASKATOON CHRISTIAN

SASKATOON MISBAH SILVERSPRING SILVERWOOD HEIGHTS SUTHERLAND TOMMY DOUGLAS VICTORIA VINCENT MASSEY WALTER MURRAY WESTMOUNT WHITECAP DAKOTA WILDWOOD WILLOWGROVE W.P. BATE

Students at Lawson Heights School put a face on the Education Week theme of Celebrating Each Student by taking part in a schoolwide art project. Each classroom was assigned a specific color for students to draw self-portraits. All of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff members also contributed a colourful self-portrait.

Devin Austin Never Give Up ADEN BOWMAN COLLEGIATE Photography 20

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Table of Contents 6

Message from the Board Chair

Ray Morrison

8 Message from the Director

Barry MacDougall

10 Academic Achievements 17 Facilities for Learning 29 Progress on Strategic Priorities 41 Partnerships with our Community 59 Saskatoon Public Schools Foundation 69 Celebrating Excellence 86 Fiscal Indicators 89 Trustee and Ward Directory 5

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

I am proud to present Saskatoon Public Schools’ Report to the Community for the 2015-16 academic year. This book is overflowing with stories of innovation, resilience and success. It charts the progress of our more than 24,000 students and the dedication of our 2,400 staff members. This book demonstrates the unequivocal value of public education. Saskatoon Public Schools is the largest school division in Saskatchewan and we continued to see incredible growth this year. With the addition of 539 students in September 2015, we reached a new all-time enrolment record of 24,029. However, this was prior to the unexpected arrival of 200 Syrian students during the winter of 2016. Welcoming this many students in just a matter of weeks was an unprecedented curveball for our schools. For staff members who give their all every day, this required a new best, but they rose to the challenge. By the end of the school year, students who couldn’t speak a word of English when they arrived mere months before could now read Robert Munsch books and didn’t want the school year to end. As we have done for years, our schools became an essential piece of their new Canadian identity. Our board remained committed to its strategic priorities. Literacy for Life and Collegiate Renewal continue to increase the achievement and engagement levels of all our students through a focus on literacy, numeracy and improving graduation rates. These priorities reflect the goals laid out in the provincial Education Sector Strategic Plan, including enhanced engagement for First Nations, Inuit and Métis students. Through new, innovative opportunities like the FLEX Program or expansion of French Immersion and the International Baccalaureate program, we 6

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are challenging our students and supporting their progress both in and out of the classroom. While unique programs help broaden their horizons, we are focused on building the foundation every student needs to succeed, whether it be through additional reading and writing support or using new instructional strategies to aid their understanding of mathematical concepts. Every day in our schools, we are lifting up our students. Our school division also progressed in its commitment to reflect and respond to Indigenous students. As you will see in this book, both the Nêhiyâwiwin Cree Language and Culture Program at Confederation Park Community School and the Métis Cultural Program at Westmount Community School continued to provide important teachings and connections to the community for our students. In an historic move, we raised the Treaty 6 flag at Confederation Park and the Métis flag at Westmount, both of which will proudly fly every day. Most importantly, our board adopted a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. The response was thoughtfully and collaboratively written and takes into consideration our students, staff members, partners and school communities. The response outlines our goal to educate students about Canada’s complete history in order to achieve reconciliation. It will guide our work both inside and outside of the classroom. This year, we welcomed new leaders to the school division’s administrative team with Barry MacDougall as the new director of education and Shane Skjerven moving to the deputy director role. We have also seen changes around the board table with the departures of Kevin Waugh and Bronwyn Eyre. We welcomed

“This book is overflowing with stories of innovation, resilience and success. It charts the progress of our more than 24,000 students and the dedication of our 2,400 staff members.”

Charmaine Bellamy to the Ward 9 seat and will see a new face in Ward 7 after the October municipal election. Our school division continued to invest in the infrastructure and renovations needed to provide supportive learning spaces for all our students. Construction is moving ahead on four new neighbourhood elementary schools. These schools are expected to open in time for the start of the 2017-18 school year and will be welcome additions to the Saskatoon Public Schools’ family.

Once again, our school division has taken the lead to offer innovative and responsive programs and opportunities for our students to ensure they are prepared for their future. Our valued staff members have gone above and beyond to help every student be successful. The future is full of possibilities but one thing will remain unchanged: students are at the heart of our work.

BOARD CHAIR

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR

Welcome to Saskatoon Public Schools' 2015-16 Report to the Community. Every year this book tells our story—the dedication of our students, the ingenuity of our staff members and the overall success of our organization. As a public school division we believe in being open to all. This is not only our belief when it comes to students and families, but also for our community. The work we are doing is an incredible investment in our community’s future.

At Saskatoon Public Schools our mantra is to inspire learning and we are doing that in numerous ways. The comprehensive programming found in our public schools remains unmatched in Saskatchewan. Through the innovative thinking of staff members and our respected community partnerships, our students are being challenged in exciting ways. Pathways to possible careers are being forged in their primary years and experience gained through secondary courses is setting them up for future success.

For 12 years now, our board of trustees has set forth learning priorities to attain greater outcomes for students. Literacy for Life remains focused on building the foundation for our students starting from their first introduction to school. Nurturing students’ growth in reading, writing and mathematics provides the base for students to become literate citizens. Collegiate Renewal addresses our students’ growing interests, fosters their critical thinking, challenges their creativity and engages them in their learning.

Speaking of the future, we are constantly working to build our students' confidence and competence in navigating their ever-changing world. Through digital citizenship lessons, we are equipping students with the skills to adeptly and ethically manage their online presence while understanding developing technology and the opportunities it creates for them. Through our work with partners like the Canadian Red Cross, we are teaching students about safe, caring and respectful relationships and how to stand up for their friends and classmates.

Through both priorities, we focus intensively on engaging Indigenous students in order to help them reach their potential. Increasing student literacy and numeracy and addressing graduation rates for Indigenous students are both part of the provincial Education Sector Strategic Plan, which has focused the work of all school divisions in Saskatchewan since 2014. The plan allows us to draw from the very best ideas from around the province. The bold provincial goal of having 85 per cent of our students graduate on time by the year 2020 emphasizes the moral imperative that we all feel for our work.

As we look ahead, we are also learning lessons from our past. When the Board of Education adopted our school division’s response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, it laid the foundation for our work going forward. Our school division believes education is the key to achieving reconciliation and, as educators, we proudly take on this work. We must build understanding of the impact of residential schools from our youngest students to our most seasoned employees. This is important work, but we look forward to it with excitement about what the incredible outcomes could be.

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“Our school division believes education is the key to achieving reconciliation and, as educators, we proudly take on this work.”

Education shouldn’t be stagnant; it should evolve and adapt to meet the diverse needs of students. Our school division is dedicated to doing what is best for students because we understand the importance of a curious, enthusiastic mind. We are all learners who are constantly striving to attain new skills, explore new ideas and become better than we were yesterday. I am proud of the more than 2,400 employees of Saskatoon Public Schools who never lose sight of keeping students at the heart of our work. Our staff members are making great efforts to learn more about students and their unique needs so we can

better support them on their educational journey. There is a continued commitment to finding ways to engage and support all of our students and differentiating lessons for those who struggle. By meeting students where they are, we can take them where they have never been before. Thank you for taking the time to read our Report to the Community. I know you will find it inspiring.

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

2015

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Award of Excellence

Recipient

Tanner Zekonic Tanner Zekonic is the recipient of the 2015 Award of Excellence, presented annually by the Saskatoon Board of Education to the student who best exemplifies the goals and values of Saskatoon Public Schools. Zekonic, a graduate of Mount Royal Collegiate, had an average of 98.6 per cent in his Grade 12 classes, including marks of 100 per cent in two classes. He received the prestigious Loran Award, a national scholarship in which recipients are selected based

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on their character, service and leadership potential. He is described by his teachers as committed, articulate, trustworthy, generous and mature. As a leader in the school community, Zekonic was active in many activities and was a driving force in building school spirit. Zekonic also contributed to the wider community through volunteer involvement with a number of organizations. Zekonic is studying at McGill University.

Madeline Martel Aden Bowman Collegiate

Simranjeet Singh

Bedford Road Collegiate

Christopher Campbell

Thomas Lee-Janzen

Julia Opdahl

Christine Hay

Tyya Stewart

Rafia Bosan

Centennial Collegiate

Evan Hardy Collegiate

Tommy Douglas Collegiate

City Park Collegiate

Marion M. Graham Collegiate

Walter Murray Collegiate

2015

Outstanding Graduates

Scholarships Our graduates have their choice of universities and other post-secondary institutions to attend across North America and beyond. Each year, several top graduates receive generous and prestigious scholarships to attend university. Here are some examples of scholarships accepted by our students in 2016.

Quratulaein Butt Bedford Road Collegiate

Barsa Saha Walter Murray Collegiate

› Chancellors’ Scholarship, University of Saskatchewan $30,000

› President’s Award, University of Saskatchewan $30,000

Xilonen Hanson Pastran Bedford Road Collegiate

Davneet Shergill Royal West Campus

› Gordon M. Shrum National Entrance Scholarship, $25,000

› Peter Lewochko Bursary, University of Saskatchewan, approximately $30,000 (over four years)

Erin Haunsperger Marion M. Graham Collegiate › Arts and Science Scholarship, University of Alberta $9,000 › Academic Achievement $6,000 › Entrance Scholarship $3,000

Matthew Hetu Centennial Collegiate › George and Marsha Ivany President’s First and Best Scholarship, University of Saskatchewan $40,000

Annelise Jahnke Aden Bowman Collegiate › Entrance Scholarship, McGill University $12,000

Lars Kischuk Walter Murray Collegiate › Chancellor’s Award, University of Saskatchewan $40,000

Alana Krug-MacLeod Aden Bowman Collegiate › 2016 Schulich Leader Scholarship, University of Saskatchewan $60,000 › President’s First & Best Scholarship $40,000

Prapti Patel Marion M. Graham Collegiate › Entrance Scholarship, University of Saskatchewan $9,300

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Rigel Smith Bedford Road Collegiate › Circle of Scholars, University of Regina $20,000

Liam Taylor Centennial Collegiate › Partial Academic & Athletic Scholarship, Mount St. Mary University $37,700

Saed Teymuri Bedford Road Collegiate › IB Excellence Award, University of Saskatchewan $15,000

Kylie Tootoosis Royal West Campus › Wally and Mavis Pieczonka Bursary, University of Saskatchewan $30,000

Shayna Uhryn Tommy Douglas Collegiate › Best and Brightest Scholarship, University of Saskatchewan $30,000

Joel Wong Walter Murray Collegiate › President’s Award, University of Calgary $40,000

A Royal First Kylie Tootoosis accomplished a first for Royal West Campus. Tootoosis was awarded the Wally and Mavis Pieczonka Bursary to the University of Saskatchewan worth $30,000. This is the largest amount ever awarded to a Royal West student.

Saskatoon Public Schools First Nations, Inuit and Métis Student Scholarship The 32nd annual Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre Aboriginal Graduation welcomed more than 700 people, including students, families and school staff members representing all Saskatoon Public Schools' collegiates. The division was proud to recognize 82 First Nations, Inuit and Métis graduates at the event. Major award/bursary winners included: • Sienna Waskewitch (Aden Bowman) Saskatoon Public Schools First Nation Youth Award • Jade Badger (Bedford Road) Saskatoon Indigenous Artist Community Award and the Saskatoon Police Service Award • Heidi Lavallee (Bedford Road) University of Saskatchewan College of Arts and Science Award • Teagan Marion (Bedford Road) Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre Award

• Emily Noon (Bedford Road) Amiskusees: Semangis Worme Family Foundation Award and the Kate Monture Memorial Fund Inc. Award • Jocelyn Ens (Centennial) University of Saskatchewan College of Arts and Sciences Award and the Saskatoon Public Schools Métis Cultural Youth Award • Keshay Mitsuing (Evan Hardy) Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan Award • Laura-Lee Daniels-Smith (Nutana) Kate Monture Memorial Fund Inc. Award • Krystal Awasis (Royal West Campus) Saskatoon Public Schools John Dewar Spirit and Resiliency Award • Kieran McIntyre (Royal West Campus) Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Saskatoon and Area Award • Shayna Uhryn (Tommy Douglas) Saskatoon Public Schools Academic Achievement Award

SaskTel Aboriginal Youth Awards of Excellence It was a fantastic evening for Saskatoon Public Schools at the 18th annual SaskTel Aboriginal Awards of Excellence. More than half of the 89 nominated students were from SPS secondary schools and every collegiate had nominated students. Major award winners included:

• Education—Shayna Uhryn, Tommy Douglas Collegiate • Sports and Recreation (Female)—Kaylan Muir, Walter Murray Collegiate • Fine and Performing Arts—Emily Noon, Bedford Road Collegiate • Outstanding Achievement (Male)—Liam Cummins, Bedford Road Collegiate

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Clear Eyes, Full Hearts As part of the Saskatoon Secondary Schools Athletic Directorate (SSSAD), Saskatoon Public Schools supports collegiate athletic teams in 12 different sports with 3,639 student athletes participating. 15

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FACILITIES FOR LEARNING

Facilities work in the school division during the 2015-16 school year continued to focus on creating supportive learning environments for all students. It included the completion of a wide variety of projects and planning for several exciting initiatives on the horizon. The construction of Sylvia Fedoruk School (Evergreen), Ernest Linder School (Hampton Village) Colette Bourgonje School (Rosewood) and Chief Whitecap School (Stonebridge). is progressing well. Construction began in the fall of 2015 and the facilities were past the 50 per cent construction completion stage by September 2016. Tenders for furniture and equipment have been awarded, and planning for set up and occupancy by staff and students for August 2017 is well underway. These new schools will set new benchmarks for exemplary student learning environments and serve as important centres for the residents of their respective communities and the general public for many years to come. The school division has welcomed hundreds of new students in recent years, and its facilities have been adjusted to meet the needs of students and to support important programming opportunities. During the 2015-16 school year, four new portable classrooms were added at two schools—two for École Henry Kelsey and two for École Alvin Buckwold School.

Seven new portable classrooms are also under construction—four at Centennial Collegiate, two for Willowgrove School and one for École Henry Kelsey. These new learning spaces are expected to be ready during the 2016-17 school year. The Phase I Repurposing of City Park School took place during the summer and fall of 2015 and the project was substantially complete by the end of December 2015. Phase 2 work took place during the summer of 2016 including renovations to accommodate the division’s new Montessori elementary program and an expanded early learning centre—Maggie’s Daycare—that increased from 14 to 34 spaces. It is expected that additional planning and design work will be required to address other renovations and upgrades at City Park School in the future. The focus on healthy and safe learning environments continues to be a top priority of the school division as it invests in its existing schools, some of which are more than 100 years old and all of which are significant educational and community assets. Ongoing infrastructure renewal work includes items such as roofing replacement, mechanical and electrical system upgrades, boiler replacement, interior and exterior painting, as well as field and tarmac maintenance and restoration.

Design Award for Willowgrove Joint-Use Project The Willowgrove School/Holy Family Catholic School joint-use project was awarded an Honourable Mention in the Integrated Design Category at the Premier’s Awards of Excellence in Design program. The Integrated Design category was created to showcase projects that show evidence of strong integration between design professions, leading to a successful project. In addition to Saskatoon Public Schools the partners in the project were: Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, Kindrachuk Agrey Architecture, Edwards Edwards McEwen, WSP Canada Inc., Crosby Hanna & Associates, Daniels Wingerak Engineering Ltd. and PWA Engineering Ltd. The award program is hosted every two years by the Design Council of Saskatchewan. 17

Golden Years Three Saskatoon Public Schools celebrated golden anniversaries in 2016. Ă&#x2030;cole Alvin Buckwold and Caroline Robins schools both recognized 50 years of elementary learning with celebrations for current and former students and staff members. Evan Hardy Collegiate hosted a weekend full of events to welcome back alumni and former teachers to celebrate with current students and staff members.

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Publishing Parent Knowledge Living as Mapmakers: Charting a Course with Children Guided by Parent Knowledge, the latest book from University of Saskatchewan professor Debbie Pushor, includes contributions from five Saskatoon Public Schools teachers: Ryan Dignean, Kristen Kobylak, Gwyn Fournier, Mandy Hollands and Melanie Lynchuk.

Kevin Waugh @KevinWaugh_CPC Thank you grade 5 class at Buena Vista School. Teacher Jalynn Middleton great job preparing students @StoonPubSchools 2:14 PM - 17 Mar 16

Literary Lunch Sutherland School celebrated community and the joy of reading with its annual Literacy Lunch as students and their families gathered to eat lunch on the lawn and read a book. The school purchased books so that all 337 students went home with something new to read. The day also included a donation of technology by the Angels and Friends Foundation. The contribution of six iPads along with noise-cancelling headphones allowed the school to create audio learning stations.

Bedford Bikes Caitlyn Kirkpatrick, a Grade 12 International Baccalaureate student at Bedford Road Collegiate, partnered with Care & Share to create the Bedford Bikes program. Students who wished to receive a bicycle submitted an application noting why they needed it and how they would pay it forward by creating positive change in their community.

Seven students were chosen to receive bicycles during the initial distribution, including two sisters who enrolled at Bedford Road after arriving from Syria earlier in 2016. Sisters Christine and Joelle Romeah welcomed the independence that the bikes provided and they were a benefit to their entire family as their parents did not have a vehicle.

"At Bedford, we're a very close community and we often try and promote good in our school and to promote healthy, active lifestyles" said Kirkpatrick.

“I want a bike because I would like to ride it," Christine said in her application. “In Syria, you can’t take your bike to school, and in general females don’t ride bikes, just men.”

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Leader of the Band Stacey Mortenson-Spokes, the band director at Walter Murray Collegiate, received the Keith Mann Outstanding Band Director Award during the national MusicFest Canada competition in Ottawa. The WMCI band also won gold at the event.

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PROFILE

FLEX Program at City Park School A unique Saskatoon Public Schools program is providing students with the opportunity to balance education with their involvement in the arts, athletics or other pursuits. The FLEX Program based at City Park School was launched in September 2015 to provide students with the opportunity to combine their learning with the pursuit of skill development outside of traditional school offerings. Students receive a combination of classroom and online instruction within a flexible learning environment. The initial class included 25 students in Grade 7–9 who, in addition to their education, have committed a large portion of their time to involvement and high-level training in activities such as music, dance, equestrian, hockey, diving and gymnastics. For 2016-17 the program will expand to include students in Grade 10. In order to enrol in the program, students must meet a requirement of significant involvement in a specific skill-training opportunity outside of school. The blended-learning model offered by the FLEX Program allows it to adapt to meet the individual needs of each student. The program includes face-to-face instruction as well as online components to provide students with scheduling flexibility. All aspects of learning, whether in the classroom or online, are guided by the program’s two teachers. The program’s daily schedule includes flex time opportunities for students to connect with teachers to ask questions and receive direct feedback on their online learning.

The program builds strong lines of communication between students, teachers and families in order to ensure student success in balancing education with their outside passions. Students receive support in their learning not only from the school team and parents, but also their classroom peers. Students enrolled during the program’s first year embraced the opportunities offered by the blended-learning model. They thrived academically and socially while building independence and their ability to be organized and adapt to a busy schedule. Being part of a classroom setting provided the opportunity to develop friendships with like-minded individuals. “Academics is the focus, but there are a number of positive outcomes,” said teacher Mark Peterson. “In conversations with the students themselves—and with their family members— they talk about how they have grown and you can see it in your everyday interactions with them.” The program’s ability to meet the needs of individual students by providing a flexible schedule during the school day for training, competition and related commitments offers balance to a student’s overall educational experience and family life. More information on the FLEX Program is available at www.saskatoonpublicschools.ca/flex

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Incredible learning spaces for @sps_flex Ecoquest and Outdoor School students at City Park School #spslearn 2:35 PM - 21 Apr 2016

Best Buddies A buddy program between John Dolan School and W.P. Bate Community School brings together students for unique learning and experiences. The partnership has seen students from John Dolanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Junior Achievers program and Grade 6 students from W.P. Bate establish friendships as they come together for field trips and to celebrate special occasions. John Dolan students benefit from peer modelling of play and social skills by the Grade 6 students, and, in exchange, the interaction offers students of W.P. Bate greater awareness of children of differing abilities and helps to build self-esteem.

Pamela GouldenMcLeod @McPam42 @Cmdr_Hadfield tells We Day you are the sum total of your decisions. Be intentional @StoonPubSchools 10:13 AM - 2 Mar 16

JUNE 5, 2016

DEC 15, 2015

MAY 2 2016

centcollegiate Charger Outdoor Education Club finished the hike to Grey Owl's Cabin in Prince Albert National Park.

pipeandscarf Birch baskets, a Red River cart, snowshoes, pics of Marie Antoinette (bell), Michif language program AND Louis Riel! Westmount has it going on! #yxe #spsdlearns

saskatoonpublicschools Students in the Earth Rangers group at Caroline Robins School are tackling waste and raising awareness in the school with the help of "Wes-Ikle" their robot recycling mascot. #spslearn

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Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Bluejay Linklater, a student at Confederation Park School, says it is his turn to pass on the knowledge and keep it going with young people. 7:08 PM - 15 Mar 16

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Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) released its Calls to Action after completing hearings into the effects of residential schools in Canada. Our duty to recognize and educate students about this difficult period in Canada’s history saw Saskatoon Public Schools engage in a collaborative consultation with key groups within the division to develop our response to the commission’s Calls to Action. Saskatoon Public Schools, located on traditional Indigenous territory (Cree, Dakota, Dené, Lakota, Métis, Nakota, Saulteaux), exists to promote growth and opportunity for all students. We are committed to answering the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that pertain to education. We believe our students’ hearts and minds are open for learning. We are responsible for teaching them about Canada’s history of colonialism and the impact of residential schools, which is a difficult yet essential aspect of their educational journey. This knowledge is foundational to the goal of reconciliation. Our school division focuses on integrating Indigenous knowledge in the classroom and through experiential learning. We ensure these vital lessons are age appropriate and respectfully presented in order to ensure student comprehension. Developing relationships with our students will strengthen our work together on this journey. We answer the call to honour Indigenous identity by providing respectful, culturally responsive environments that foster positive learning relationships and by teaching the curriculum that infuses Indigenous ways of knowing.

Saskatoon Public Schools staff members are leaders and role models. We strive to provide our staff members with a richer understanding of Indigenous history on this land and the resources they need to carry this learning in their work. We know that our division must model the changes we seek to realize. We answer the call by building our organization’s cultural competencies through division-wide processes and professional learning that grow our collective understanding about Indigenous identity, histories, worldview, and systemic barriers. We believe strong partnerships with families, elders and communities are vital to – reconciliation. Our Okicı yapi Partnership with Saskatoon Tribal Council and Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. has strengthened our Cree and Métis language and culture programs. Our alliance agreement with Whitecap Dakota First Nation demonstrates a collaborative vision to provide the best available education to students. We answer the call by enriching our partnerships in order to enhance educational opportunities for our students. At Saskatoon Public Schools, we believe in creating safe spaces where knowledge of our past is seamlessly embedded in our work. Striving for a more respectful, inclusive community is our common goal. We honour the survivors of residential schools and their descendants and purposefully answer the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action by aspiring to live by our school division values: Respect, Excellence, Joy and Responsibility.

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PROGRESS ON STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

Literacy for Life GOAL: All Kindergarten to Grade 8 students will achieve at or above grade level in reading, writing and mathematics. They will be engaged in their learning and graduate as active participants in lifelong learning and as responsible, caring, culturally responsive citizens in the community, nation and world. In pursuit of this goal, we will focus intensively on the engagement, achievement and graduation rates of First Nations, Inuit and Métis students. Literacy for Life has been a strategic priority of the Board of Education for 12 years. During the 2015-16 school year our school division continued work with the Saskatchewan Reads document, which was created in the fall of 2014 to improve the reading levels of all provincial students by the end of Grade 3. All Grade 1–3 teachers received professional development with this guiding document and our school division was represented at the provincial team training sessions for administrators. These resources highlight powerful consistencies of practice that guide our work.

their repertoire of high-impact instructional strategies. Informed by current research, relevant professional learning opportunities were provided in a number of ways, including: literacy consultants supported new elementary teachers in understanding a culturally responsive perspective for students; PreKindergarten and Kindergarten teachers developed skills for creating language-rich classrooms aimed at students’ oral language development; learning leaders supported teachers in 14 schools; and mathematics learning communities helped develop the skills of 160 K-9 teachers.

Literacy for Life has continued to address the needs and support students in their learning journey through numerous practices. Families are being connected to classroom learning through technology apps that use digital documentation to show parents their child’s work. At some schools, home visits by PreKindergarten teachers are helping ease the transition for students entering school and engaging parents in their learning. Peer tutoring is being used in some French Immersion classrooms to develop students’ reading skills in a second language.

The 11th annual Literacy for Life conference welcomed acclaimed Canadian author Joseph Boyden in May. The conference included two days at the University of Saskatchewan campus for 4,000 Grade 3–8 students, a presentation by Boyden for 1,600 high school students, writer David Homel speaking to 800 French Immersion students, presentations to Saskatoon Tribal Council schools and a business leaders’ luncheon with keynote speaker Ali Abukar, executive director of the Saskatoon Open Door Society.

One of the most powerful ways to improve student learning is for teachers to develop

To view the Literacy for Life 2015-16 progress report, visit www.saskatoonpublicschools.ca

MJ Devine @Mjmdevine Superheroes and Super Readers celebrating literacy @StoonPubSchools! #Westmount #spslearn #readingisoursuperpower 1:09 PM - 7 Oct 15

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Collegiate Renewal GOAL: All collegiate students will be engaged in their learning so that they graduate as competent, active participants in lifelong learning and as responsible, caring, culturally responsive citizens in the community, nation and world. In pursuit of this goal, we will focus intensively on the engagement, achievement and graduation rates of First Nations, Inuit and Métis students. During the 2015-16 academic year, Collegiate Renewal emphasized a staff focus on the success of Indigenous learners through holistic relationships, formative assessment and responsive instruction. Emphasis was placed on increasing the effectiveness of staff collaboration to improve instruction and student learning and consistently reviewing and acting on data. Focused work continued in the areas of literacy, mathematics and career and arts education. Staff and administration in each collegiate committed to improving results for students with an emphasis on First Nations, Inuit and Métis students and learners who required extra support to be successful. Staff in each school conducted and analyzed student assessments and—with guidance and support of administrators, learning leaders, the data team and learning coordinators—responded with interventions designed to help struggling students succeed. Staff gauged the effectiveness of the interventions by monitoring students’ performance in classes through course marks, assignment completion and attendance. Each collegiate reported the interventions led to greater student success.

support recognizes the need for a second set of eyes and additional expertise to problem solve within the classroom context. Learning leaders worked with second-year instructional coaches to deepen their understanding of how school personnel could increase authentic collaboration and enhance teaching practices for all students. Instructional coaching practices complemented the efforts of teachers working with the Following Their Voices protocols to activate and enhance culturally responsive practices. The First Nations, Inuit and Métis Student Achievement Program continued this past year. This initiative, operated in nine collegiates, provides one-on-one tutoring for Indigenous students who request support for specific classes. During the year, 391 students worked with tutors in the program, including 291 who received extended, intensive assistance. Overall, 81.8 per cent of these student participants who received intensive assistance gained the credits they were working toward. Read the Collegiate Renewal year-end report at www.saskatoonpublicschools.ca

Instructional coaching continued to be a significant support for activating responsive and effective instruction. This professional learning

PROGRESS ON STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

New programs, new opportunities Saskatoon Public Schools is launching new programs and expanding educational opportunities for students in the 2016-17 academic year: • Montessori elementary program will be offered at City Park School starting in September 2016. The program will provide an education to students in Grades 1–8 that teaches the provincial curriculum through the Montessori philosophy. • Functional Life Skills programming at Centennial Collegiate will add one more classroom. • Autism support programming at John Dolan School will increase to assist more students. • French Immersion will be expanded by one grade level at École Alvin Buckwold School, École Forest Grove School and Centennial Collegiate. • Late French Immersion will be expanded to Grade 7 at École Alvin Buckwold School and École Forest Grove School. • Flexible Schedule Blended Learning Program will be expanded to Grade 10, providing more students with flexible learning options while they pursue a skill development program outside of school.

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Developing Global Leaders Sumaya Murabit, a Grade 7 student at Roland Michener School, brought forward the idea of a poster competition to raise awareness of the United Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 17 sustainable development goals. Grade 7â&#x20AC;&#x201C;8 students in the school division were invited to create a poster highlighting one of the goals along with a summary of why the goal is important to them. A celebration was held at Roland Michener School in May to recognize the UN sustainable development goals and announce the winner. 33

Making a Link Providing a smooth transition to high school is the motivation behind a special program for students entering Grade 9 at Walter Murray Collegiate. The goal of the Link Crew Program is to ensure that the first year of high school is a positive experience for students, both academically and socially. The program welcomes and supports Grade 9 students by assigning each of them a Link Leader who serves as a mentor to the incoming student. Link Leaders are older students who meet the qualifications of being a good role model and a positive leader in the school.

Good Morning Nutana In March, Nutana Collegiate won a CBC Saskatoon competition to host a live radio broadcast of the station's morning show. For more than two hours, students, staff and community members shared their stories on air about what makes Nutana special and unique.

Winning Ways Wendy James, the division's coordinator of Collegiate Renewal and Curriculum and Instruction received three awards during the College of Education's Academic Awards ceremony in November 2015. James, who was on educational leave during 2015-16 school year, received the Lownsbrough Memorial Scholarship in Education, awarded to fully qualified, full-time students in the first year of a doctoral program of studies in Education. She also received the Graduate Teaching Fellowship for which individuals must have the knowledge and training to provide the service requiredâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;leading tutorials, teaching and marking. James was also awarded the Dean's Scholarship.

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Alaa Murabit June 27, 2016 Alaa Murabit is a UN High-Level Commissioner on Health Employment and Economic Growth and a UN Sustainable Development Goal Advocate.

I was 11 years old and started Grade 8 at a new school in 2001. I didn't know anybody and within the first weeks of school September 11th happened. I began taking my hijab off before coming into class—I didn't want any of my potential new friends to see me with it on. One day Mr. Skjerven, my then Grade 8 teacher, noticed. He told me then that if I wanted to wear my hijab I should be proud of who I was, that I had nothing to be ashamed of and nothing to feel inferior for. I never mentioned our conversation to anyone—not even my parents—and it wasn't some magical quick fix but it has helped me over the weeks, months and years to slowly became more comfortable with myself. Fifteen years later I remember almost nothing I learned about tectonic plates and the pyramids but I still hear those words when I feel out of place, and I can't put into words how often they have reassured me. Thank you Mr. Skjerven—it's been 15 years and I couldn't thank you then for being the kind of person to empathize with a short, confused and pretty scared 11 year old. To all the amazing teachers and principals who create positive environments for their students: thank you. We see the work you do, the effort you put in and the kindness you tackle situations with. We cannot create a more equitable, peaceful, inclusive and accountable world without you. You're the real MVPs. #QualityEducation #GlobalGoals

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

A DAY IN THE LIFE IN SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS June 1, 2016

WATER CARRIERS Mini Awañyañúe Water is essential for life; without water, there cannot be life. First Nations have the shared belief that the Earth is a female who gives and nurtures life. Women are believed to be connected to the Earth and emulate her. Women have been gifted to be the carriers of the waters needed to support new life. It is for this reason that women are responsible for water at many ceremonies. Historically, women were highly regarded and treated with the utmost respect in First Nations cultures. In recognition of this, a Mini Awañyañúe (Water Carrier) is appointed annually to be responsible for water at Saskatoon Public Schools' First Nations ceremonies.

CHANDRA GERICH 2015–16

KAREN PETERSON 2014 –15

JANIE FUNK 2011–12

CEC CHAMBUL 2010–11

TAMMY GIROLAMI 2013 –14

TRACY ROADHOUSE 2012–13

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Leadership meeting this morning includes the annual Fire Keeper and Water Carrier presentation. #spslearn 8:40 AM - 1 Jun 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

FIREKEEPERS Óeþa Awañyañúe Fire plays an essential role in perpetuating life by providing light, warmth and the ability to cook. The spirit of fire is highly respected in all First Nations cultures. Long ago, each First Nations camp had an appointed Firekeeper who was responsible for maintaining the council lodge fire and to carry live embers to the next camping site to light a new fire. Each society had a Firekeeper who was responsible for making and tending fires for societal ceremonies and activities. The Firekeeper kept a coal from their previous fire to use to rekindle the fire when needed. In recognition of fire’s significant role, a Firekeeper is appointed annually to support Saskatoon Public Schools' First Nations ceremonies and activities.

MICHAEL JUTRAS 2015 –16

JODY GLINES 2014 –15

IAN WILSON 2013–14

DAVID WIPF 2012 –13

CODY HANKE 2012 –13

BOB BRAYBROOK 2011–12

DEREK BARSS 2010 –11

KEVIN EPP 2009 –10

SHANE SKJERVEN 2008–09

DEAN NEWTON 2007–08

JOHN DEWAR 2006 –07

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PARTNERSHIPS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

Emergency Response Planning As part of our commitment to student and staff safety, Saskatoon Public Schools has developed an Emergency Response Plan with experts including: Saskatoon Police Service, Saskatoon Fire Department and Saskatoon Emergency Measures Organization. Ideally, prevention is the best defence against the occurrence of a disruptive event, but an emergency response plan is critical in all situations to guide responses, co-ordinate actions and minimize the disruptive and negative impacts resulting from an event. The effectiveness of staff response to an event depends upon well-defined procedures and the preparedness of staff to implement those procedures. This year the students, staff and families of City Park School participated in an emergency response exercise. The exercise involved Saskatoon Police Service, Saskatoon Fire Department, MD Ambulance and Saskatoon Emergency Measures Organization. Our division emergency response team was able to practice the evacuation of a school and the reunification of parents/caregivers/guardians with their children. Observers from the Ministry of Education, RCMP and Public Safety Canada learned from and provided suggestions for enhancing our divisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emergency response procedures.

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Briefing underway for training exercise at City Park. Thanks to partners @StoonEOC @SaskatoonFire @SaskatoonPolice 9:55 PM - 26 May 16

Saskatoon Police Service School Resource Officers The Saskatoon Police Service School Resource Officer (SRO) Program allows police officers to serve as a daily resource to students, families, parents and staff within Saskatoon Public Schools. This long-standing partnership helps to create safer schools and communities. School Resource Officers work cooperatively with school staff to: • proactively identify and address school concerns; • prevent crime; • provide education on community safety issues to students, staff and parents;

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

• build positive relationships with students and families; • work with school staff on school zone safety; and • respond to police-related matters affecting schools. The SRO officers are an essential part of the schools. Students' faces light up when they see their school's SRO, as they recognize another person in their community who is there to help and guide them. This valued partnership has a positive impact on students and the community on a daily basis.

Healthy and Respectful Relationships Saskatoon Public Schools is committed to creating safe, caring and accepting learning and work environments. It is our goal to work together with parents/caregivers/guardians and community partners to support students as they develop moral values, display ethical conduct and achieve to the best of their ability. Throughout our school division, we discuss and promote healthy and respectful relationships, align with Canadian research and work together with community partners.

Parents and caregivers engaged in conversations on how to best provide guidance to their children in developing their online presence. We work with community partners that have expertise in creating safe, caring and accepting schools including: The Restorative Action Program (RAP), Saskatchewan Red Cross, the Ministry of Education, OUTSaskatoon and the Saskatoon Police Service. These partnerships support our staff and students in creating safer schools and communities.

In November 2015 students from Saskatoon Public Schools participated in the Ministry of Education Student First Anti-Bullying Forum as part of Saskatchewanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Action Plan to Address Bullying and Cyberbullying. The theme of this online forum was Stand Up to Bullying: Activating the Bystander. Students interacted with others from across the province to identify actions they could take to create safe learning environments. During Day of Pink in February 2016, Dr. Alec Couros, a professor of educational technology and digital fluency at the University of Regina, worked with more than 80 students to develop positive digital citizenship. In the evening Dr. Couros and Coralee Pringle-Nelson, coordinator of counselling services for Saskatoon Public Schools, presented to more than 100 parents on the topic of "Raising the Selfie Generationâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Are you preparing your kids for the digital age?"

Pamela GouldenMcLeod @McPam42 Photo shoot with @thepinkdeal @TheScottMcHenry on Brunskill School buddy bench @StoonPubSchools @RedCrossSK 6:40 PM - 11 May 16

PARTNERSHIPS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

Saskatoon and Area Community Threat Assessment and Support Protocol (CTASP) Saskatoon Public Schools, as part of its Safe, Caring and Accepting Schools core strategy, works with 19 community partners in the Saskatoon and Area Community Threat Assessment and Support Protocol. The protocol is a major initiative in the area of violence threat risk assessment. This unique multi-agency protocol, first signed in August 2011, is guided by the principle that violence prevention in schools and neighbourhoods is a community responsibility. The protocol facilitates proactive sharing of information

among agencies, allowing for the development of strong intervention and support plans for children, youth and families. Each agency that signed the protocol recognizes that working together is a necessity to meet the goal of safe schools and healthy communities. In January 2016 the Saskatoon and Area CTASP welcomed Saskatchewan Polytechnic to this violence prevention partnership that now serves over 70,000 students.

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools A guiding principle of CTASP is that the safety of young people is a community responsibility. #ctasp 9:23 AM - 13 Jan 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

School Zone Safety At Saskatoon Public Schools, student safety is our top priority. At Silverspring School, staff and School Community Council worked with the City of Saskatoon’s Transportation department and Saskatoon Police Service to implement the “Kiss and Ride” program. For the last four years, families at Silverspring have had the opportunity to use the program during drop-off and pick-up times at the school. A designated area of the school zone is denoted as a drop-off and pick-up zone only. While the driver of the car remains in the vehicle,

school staff meet the students being dropped off, welcome them and ensure they enter the school safely. Creating a designated zone keeps the flow of traffic moving, reduces congestion and increases the ability of pedestrians and drivers to see each other. "Kiss and Ride makes a huge difference to traffic safety in our school," said Principal Ellen McEwen. "We enjoy being able to greet our students and families every morning—it’s a great community builder.”

SPS Traffic Unit @SPSTraffic #SlowDownYXE results are in: 0 tickets in Lakeview #schoolzone! WTG #yxe drivers! Thanks for slowing down for the kids! @StoonPubSchools 9:46 AM - 4 Feb 16

Saskatoon Open Door Society Saskatoon Public Schools has had a long-standing affiliation with Saskatoon Open Door Society. The school division has relied on the strengths and skills of the Settlement Support Workers in Schools (SSWIS) to support newcomer families and their children who are transitioning to a new school environment. This past year that strong relationship was evident as the school division welcomed more than 200 Syrian refugee children and their families to the city. Given the large number of families

arriving within a short time frame and their varying needs, good communication skills and co-ordination were a critical component of this relationship. With the expertise of interpreters, settlement workers and SSWIS, the eager students and their families were received efficiently and welcomed warmly in schools. This experience has strengthened the partnership. This immense task would not have been possible without the Saskatoon Open Door Society.

PARTNERSHIPS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Okicı–yapi Partnership –

Okicı yapi—working together for the better good (common purpose) –

The Okicı yapi Partnership represents a valued relationship Saskatoon Public Schools has with the Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) and Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI). The partnership was originally signed between the school division and STC in 2003. In June 2006, CUMFI joined the partnership.

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The Okicı yapi Educational Partnership promotes, strengthens and facilitates First Nations, Inuit and Métis education by developing and implementing enhanced services, programs and curricula in Saskatoon public and Saskatoon Tribal Council schools. This landmark partnership works to ensure Indigenous and treaty knowledge is a vital component of the learning that takes place in schools.

Nêhiyâwiwin Cree Language and Culture Program The Nêhiyâwiwin Cree Language and Culture Program is a bilingual/bicultural program that started in the fall of 2005 at Confederation Park Community School. The program offers PreK–Grade 7 programming. It is a joint project – of the Okicı yapi Partnership involving the Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. and Saskatoon Public Schools. Transportation is provided for any interested students in Saskatoon. The program was recognized as an Indspire Successful Practice during the 2015-16 school year.

In June 2016 a celebration was held at Confederation Park to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the Nêhiyâwiwin program. Students, families, current and former staff members and community supporters gathered for the celebration, which included several performances by dancers and drummers from the program. The event culminated with the raising of the Treaty 6 flag in front of the school. Confederation Park is the first school in our division to fly the Treaty 6 flag daily, right beside the Canadian flag.

PARTNERSHIPS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

Métis Cultural Program The Métis Cultural Program at Westmount Community School aims to preserve, strengthen and transmit Métis culture and traditions in Saskatchewan. The program engages students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 and is delivered from the Métis perspective. The program aligns with Saskatchewan curricula and meets arts education, English language arts and social studies outcomes. Students are engaged in building Métis cultural leadership skills and experience inter-generational learning opportunities. Partnerships and support from

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. and Gabriel Dumont Institute are essential to the success of the Métis Cultural Program This year, Westmount hosted its first Métis Cultural Day celebration. The day-long celebration welcomed hundreds of students from several public schools to take part in cultural activities and learn more about Métis history. The day began with the raising of the Métis flag in front of Westmount, the only school in the division to fly the Métis flag every day.

Saskatoon Public Library The joy of reading extends beyond the walls of our classrooms and into the homes of families. The school division is fortunate to have a learning partnership with the Saskatoon Public Library. Through field trips, book clubs, Pooh Corner and other events, children and their families experience the gift of literacy. During the Summer Reading Camps professional storytellers shared their talents with schools.

As part of a larger family engagement project, storytellers, game nights, finding just-right books and other activities engaged children and adults as they listened and participated in this unique learning partnership. Saskatoon Public Schools is fortunate to have a wide variety of opportunities to share with the Saskatoon Public Library.

Saskatoon Library @stoonlibrary RT @captainorange: Hey, @StoonPubSchools had a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Superâ&#x20AC;? time celebrating reading at Westmount school #spl #spslearn 5:09 PM - 7 Oct 15

PARTNERSHIPS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

Saskatoon Industry-Education Council (SIEC) The Saskatoon Industry-Education Council (SIEC) is a bridge between Saskatchewanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s career opportunities and Saskatoon and area youth. Through partnerships with business as well as secondary and post-secondary schools, unique, hands-on career exploration events and programs are designed and delivered to students. These opportunities help students find a career that connects their passion and natural talents with current and future workforce needs. Saskatoon Public Schools values its partnership with the SIEC and appreciates the substantial benefits and career knowledge this partnership brings to students. During the 2015-16 school year more than 3,200 students in Grades 7-12 participated in SIEC events. This number continues to grow as students, parents, educators and the business community work collaboratively to provide experiential learning opportunities

A popular program with students is the annual Cardboard Boat Race challenge. This year more than 700 Grade 8 students were engaged in building boats from cardboard and racing them across the pool at the Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre. The Summer Youth Internship Program placed 27 Saskatoon Public Schools students with companies in the trades, culinary and information and technology sectors. Many of those students received high school credits and safety training during the six-week program. For more information about SIEC programs and sponsorship please visit www.saskatooniec.ca.

The SIEC provides career development and discovery events for youth, educators and career practitioners through a variety of programs including: Spotlight on Careers, Skills Boot Camps (automotive, culinary, information technology and web development); Digitized (careers in information technology); Health Link (careers in health care); ManuQuest (careers in manufacturing); Try-A-Trade (careers in the trades), and SaskCareers (a career development web system).

SIEC @saskatooniec SYIP 2016 is underway! We have over 50 companies participating and mentoring over 65 youth in the trades this summer! 3:00 PM - 6 Jul 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Care and Share Care and Share is a valued and committed stakeholder on the community school landscape. Care and Share’s commitment to its mission—“To ensure all children have an opportunity to develop all of their potential: in sports, in culture and in recreation”—is evident in all of the opportunities it supports. The mentors that partner with elementary community schools are key to student success. The strong commitment from the Care and Share board and the mentor organizations

facilitate building a better community one child at a time. Students enjoy access to new school supplies, holiday lunches, bike safety training, babysitting courses, yoga, bowling, soccer and enhanced literacy programs. Community school coordinators are able to purchase items as needed for the children they work with through the dignity fund. Saskatoon Public Schools values this significant partnership and is grateful for the generosity of all devoted to Care and Share.

PARTNERSHIPS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

Saskatoon HBA @SaskatoonHBA So cool! @IAmPaulLafrance and @DamonBennett_ visiting HCAP students today! @StoonPubSchools #yxe #skilledtrades 1:30 PM - 11 Mar 16

Paul Lafrance @IAmPaulLafrance A helicopter @ a high school? No fair! Amazing visit 2 @mrcmustangs @StoonPubSchools #HCAP #LovethisSchool #jealous 10:39 PM - 11 Mar 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Mount Royal Partnerships Saskatoon Trades and Skills Centre (STSC) The Saskatoon Trades and Skills Centre continues to grow and develop in Saskatoon at its Avenue W Campus attached to Mount Royal Collegiate. This centre operates under four basic pillars: 1. Engage vulnerable youth and adults in entry-level skill training 2. Transition learners to meaningful employment

The STSC assists all people with an opportunity for employment based on skills acquired. Saskatoon Public Schools is one of the key partners that works with STSC in helping with growth and prosperity for many young adults. The facility is second to none to providing building programs and space for learning. Each year there is an increase in the number of trained skilled labourers for whom STSC is able to help secure jobs.

3. Build communities through partnerships 4. Ensure organizational stability and accountability.

High School Carpentry Apprenticeship Program (HCAP) The High School Carpentry Apprentice Program continues to create opportunities for hands-on learning for youth in Saskatoon public high schools.

In 2015-16 the program continued its partnership with Whitecap Dakota First Nation by building two homes and a shed for families on the First Nation.

The program is an opportunity for students to receive real experience in all aspects of residential construction and gain apprenticeship hours toward a career in the trades. Based at Mount Royal Collegiate, the program is open to secondary students from all Saskatoon Public Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; collegiates.

Students also played host to two HGTV stars. Paul LaFrance and Damon Bennett visited with HCAP students in the PotashCorp Learning Lab. Over lunch, students asked questions of the experienced contractors before doing some work with them on the latest home being built for Whitecap.

PARTNERSHIPS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

Whitecap Dakota First Nation Saskatoon Public Schools and Whitecap Dakota First Nation have a long-standing relationship which was formalized in October 2014 with the signing of the Alliance Agreement. This innovative approach to shared education is an excellent example of a First Nation and a large urban public school division collaborating to best support student success. During the 2015-16 school year highlights included: • Whitecap Dakota First Nation hosting the Saskatoon Public Schools Welcome Back Powwow in September 2015 (more than 4,000 students attended from Whitecap and SPS); • Collection of baseline data to show growth in reading for all Whitecap elementary school students in Kindergarten to Grade 4 (same data collected for all SPS students); • Construction of an Early Learning Centre (which opened fall 2016); and • Community consultation and planning for the inclusion of Dakota language and culture at Whitecap Dakota Elementary School. The future of the partnership is exciting with the current construction of the Stonebridge P3 joint use school underway for a scheduled opening in fall 2017. Whitecap students will attend the school starting in Grade 5. Included in this new facility will be an elder’s space, cultural room and an archives room, which will house Dakota language and culture resources.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

School Community Councils (SCC) On behalf of the School Community Council (SCC) co-chairs Sue Gauthier, Ray Morrison and myself, Catherine Weenk, I would like to provide this report to the community regarding SCC Assembly activities at Saskatoon Public Schools. Once again this year we structured our meetings around themes that members felt were important areas of interest in their schools. We had three SCC Assembly meetings during the 2015-16 school year. The first was at City Park School and focused on the innovative programming offered in our school division. The second was a Q&A with Minister of Education Don Morgan. Topics discussed ranged from bandwidth to the funding distribution model. The third was led by the superintendents of our school division and gave parents the opportunity to provide ideas as to how they would recruit new members and pursue diversity and innovative and effective ways that SCCs can support school initiatives. All meetings also provided members with an open forum where they could express their opinions and thoughts on topics that were important to them. The last meeting concluded with SCC co-chair nominations and an election. Welcome Debra Whittingstall, a SCC member from Ă&#x2030;cole Henry Kelsey and Bedford Road Collegiate, who was elected as our new co-chair. A questionnaire was also distributed to get input for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s agenda items. Many thanks to our director and deputy director of education for their strong leadership and to all of the superintendents and trustees who continue to support the parents by attending these meetings and providing valuable input. We would also like to thank Withman Jaigobin, superintendent in charge of SCCs, for his continued effort in ensuring that these assembly meetings give parents an open opportunity to let their voices be heard. And, finally, it is with deep gratitude that we say thank you to Sue Gauthier who has held the position of SCC co-chair for the past few years but has decided to step down from this position to let others have the opportunity to serve. Sue, you will be greatly missed for your dedication, openminded approach and extensive knowledge!

Catherine Weenk

School Community Council (SCC) Co-Chair

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools @SaskMLA addressing the SCC Assembly, reminiscing about his time on the Saskatoon Board of Education. #spslearn 7:33 PM - 27 Jan 16

PARTNERSHIPS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Confederation Park School has had a teaching garden for six years. Teaches students about where good food comes from. #spslearn 9:14 AM - 15 Apr 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Red Cross SK @RedCrossSK Incredible act of kindness and generosity by @RKinggeorge students donating Gr. 8 farewell money to @RedCrossSK 3:43 PM - 6 May 16

Ian Wilson @PrincipalMrW Students from #VMassey at the #RockYourRoots walk for #Reconciliation 10:40 AM - 22 Jun 16

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Principal Tammy Girolami: every student who finishes at Royal West rings the bell "loud and proud" surrounded by staff #spslearn 1:54 PM - 24 Jun 16

Bio Genius Melody Song, a Grade 10 student from Evan Hardy Collegiate, received second prize at the Sanofi Biogenius Canada national competition. Song, the winner of the Saskatchewan Regional competition and one of just nine participants in the national event, earned high praise for research in which she developed an expressed sequence tag-based molecular marker to identify fava bean mutants with reduced levels of two toxic glycosides. The project was completed with the support of mentors Dr. Kirstin E. Bett and Dr. Hamid Khasaei of the University of Saskatchewan.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

The Saskatoon Public Schools Foundation is a non-profit charity dedicated to celebrating public education and enhancing learning opportunities for students of Saskatoon Public Schools. The foundation partners with a community of highly committed donors to support high-impact programs and initiatives that go above and beyond core educational services There was much for the foundation to celebrate during the 2015-16 school year. The Early Learner Literacy Tutor Program marked a third successful year of providing intensive, one-to-one support to young learners behind in their reading. With the support of private donors, the program was able to expand to benefit 216 children who gained an average of three reading levels during the program. PotashCorp’s generous contribution of $200,000 to the PotashCorp Food4Thought Nutrition Program was celebrated at a special spring-time gathering. Throughout the year PotashCorp’s contributions helped provide nearly 700,000 nutritious meals and snacks to students from 19 schools, giving them the nutrition they need to be successful in the classroom. The Summer Reading Camps continued to grow thanks to a generous $62,000 donation from Brian and Kathy Turnquist, supporters of the program since its inception. This year, more than 230 children benefited from the two-week Summer Reading Camps hosted by 14 public schools across Saskatoon. A new math component was piloted at two camps and a partnership with SaskSport brought afternoon sports activities to four locations.

campaign. The Project Welcome campaign, launched in partnership with the Saskatoon Open Door Society, generated more than $5,000 for enhanced learning tools such as dual-language books and picture dictionaries. The work of the foundation is made possible by the support of motivated and committed donors who believe in the power of education and give generously to strengthen learning opportunities for children and youth in our community. Along with numerous corporate and individual donors, the Saskatoon Public Schools community continues to offer significant support in numerous forms, such as payroll giving by staff and trustees and fundraising efforts of schools and alumni. The foundation extends its sincerest gratitude to all who have contributed throughout the year. Board of Directors Zeba Ahmad (President) Leanne Bellegarde Lee Braaten Bruce Bradshaw Kathleen Brannen (Secretary) Wayne Brownlee Ray Morrison Jesse Radu (Vice President & Treasurer) Shane Skjerven Janet Uchacz-Hart (Advisory Member) Stephanie Yong Staff Alison Robertson–Executive Director George Rathwell–Executive Consultant Avon Whittles–Executive Consultant Stephanie Waldner–Administrative Assistant

Each year, the foundation provides grants to schools to support innovative, high-impact initiatives that fall outside regular curriculum. This year the foundation’s Program of Excellence Grants were awarded to 17 schools, totalling nearly $40,000. Increasing learning opportunities for new Canadians was the focus of a Saskatoon Public Schools Foundation special holiday season

Photos courtesy of Remai Modern

Art for Life Two legacy pieces, as well as hundreds of pieces of student art and a unique opportunity to engage in learning and the artistic process, were part of a three-year Art for Life partnership between Caswell Community School and the Remai Modern that concluded in June 2016. Principal Susan Pattison said the way in which the partnership was supported testified to the creative and collaborative spirit of Caswell’s students and families. The school embraces many cultural traditions, including First Nations, Métis and newcomer students, and the opportunity to work together on special projects was meaningful for the school community The first of the legacy projects consists of uplifting thoughts that were stencilled on plywood squares and installed around the school. The powerful words were chosen by students who are intent on “giving back” to their school with positive thoughts and actions. The second legacy piece featured nature images and text and was created by members of the Grade 6 SAGE class for outdoor installation on one of the school’s fences.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Charging to the Top Daniel Zhou of Centennial Collegiate tied for the top score in Canada in the Fermat Math Contest written by 16,000 of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top Grade 11 math students. Daniel, who was in Grade 11 at the time, was also one of five national champions in the Euclid Math Contest, which was written by more than 19,000 students, most of whom were Grade 12 students.

Let's Get Physical Enriching the lives of all students through movement and quality physical education programs is one of the goals of Saskatoon Public Schools. Thanks to the generosity of a Good Life Kids Foundation grant, approximately 75 students enrolled in the Functional Life Skills and Autism Support programs will benefit from enhanced, inclusive physical literacy programming. The grant of $8,730 will be used to provide professional development, resources and equipment specific to the meet the needs of these programs.

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Vincent Massey School celebrates this morning as winner of Mosaic Extreme School Makeover. Congratulations! #spslearn 9:21 AM - 11 Sep 15

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools "Do you have a toaster in space?" Answer: no, fire hazard. And imagine the crumbs. @Astro_DavidS @csa_asc #spslearn 9:20 AM - 10 Feb 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Cst. Matt Maloney @SPSMattMaloney So proud of SPS Cadets! @StoonPubSchools Princess Alexandra youth got their race car today!!! #yxe #socool #vrooom 3:35 PM - 14 Mar 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

PROFILE

Special Needs Preschool Programming Three unique preschool programs in Saskatoon Public Schools provide early intervention and a positive introduction to learning for young students. Saskatoon Public Schools operates the Step Ahead Preschool Program at both Caroline Robins Community School and Silverwood Heights School, as well as the Language Learning Preschool at Lawson Heights School, to serve three- and four-year-old children with special needs or learning delays. The overarching focus for these preschool programs is to provide appropriate intervention as early as possible in order to set students on a positive learning path and ensure they have a smooth transition to school. The programs run half days from Monday to Thursday and transportation is provided for the students who come to the programs from throughout the city. In addition to the special education teacher for each preschool class, the programs offer a number of support services for students including classroom educational assistants (EA) and the specialized skills of the division’s speech language pathologists (SLP). The expertise and knowledge invested in supporting students helps make a difference in their developmental skills during the preschool years and better prepares them for success once they enter kindergarten. The preschool program at Caroline Robins is for children whose development is delayed for a variety of reasons. The program’s focus is on developmental aspects and building readiness through play and interaction with others. A large part of the program involves academic readiness—learning rhymes, singing songs and learning numbers and letters—but it also addresses the social and behavioural aspects of preparing students for future learning.

For children with autism, early intervention is particularly important and the preschool program at Silverwood Heights School works to support students and families. Children with autism experience delayed language, especially expressive language, but the program also works on the sensory challenges that students may face as well as their development of social and behavioural skills. The Language Learning Preschool at Lawson Heights School provides early learning opportunities for children with communication and hearing needs and focuses on language development. Many of the students have received, or will receive, cochlear implants. As a result the program emphasizes the importance of listening and spoken language skill development. The preschool’s early intervention model means some students may not require intensive supports once they get to Kindergarten or Grade 1. Overall, Saskatoon Public Schools’ special needs preschool programming served 84 students during the 2015-16 school year through the congregated preschool, the division’s PreKindergarten classes and its preschool support program. In addition to its own programs, Saskatoon Public Schools is also one of five partners in the Ready, Set Go Preschool located at the Kinsmen Children’s Centre adjacent to Brunskill School. The program works with children who have a motor impairment and therapy services are embedded in the program as part of a multi-disciplinary approach to meeting student needs.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Aspiring Authors The Grade 3 class at Hugh Cairns V.C. School, along with teacher Stephanie Elliott and teacher-librarian Tamzen Kulyk, held a book launch with family and friends to celebrate the publishing of their picture books. Using mentor texts, students studied story elements, strategies for writing brilliant beginnings, descriptive middles and excellent ways to end a story, as well as techniques used to illustrate texts. Parents and grandparents enjoyed reading the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; books and hearing about the learning journey of these proud young authors and illustrators.

Saskatoon Police @SaskatoonPolice Thanks Mount Royal Collegiate shop class for building #PSDOz's new dog house. He feels right at home already! 1:13 PM - 29 Feb 16

Jennifer Brokofsky @JennBrokofsky Amazing afternoon in a math class at Wildwood School. So excited to see students critiquing, debating, and defending their math!! #spslearn 6:05 PM - 21 Apr 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

Every Board of Education meeting provides an opportunity to celebrate the work of the Saskatoon Public Schools community. Celebrating Excellence highlights the accomplishments and achievements of our students, staff members and schools, and provides an update on our continuous work to strengthen our learning community and meet our organizational goals.

OUR PEOPLE GOAL STATES: “Our people will be committed to a constructive educational culture that values people, excellence, and lifelong learning.”

OUR STUDENT LEARNING GOAL STATES: “Our students will engage in relevant and challenging learning opportunities to enhance their academic, personal, and social/cultural growth.”

OUR ORGANIZATION GOAL STATES: “Our organization will be principled, innovative, collaborative, accountable, and effective.”

OUR COMMUNITY GOAL STATES: “We seek to build with our community shared ownership and responsibility for the well-being and education of our children and youth.”

“Crack the Code” Math Event at Howard Coad School A partnership between the school community council (SCC) and staff at Howard Coad Community School provided students and parents with the opportunity to “Crack the Code” on math. The event gave families the chance to gather at the school to engage in an evening of fun learning in mathematics. The event built upon the school’s instructional goals, highlighting the fact that numeracy happens naturally every day and that families already do many things to support their children’s learning. “Our main goal was to present the concepts in a very approachable way and break down the conception that math is just for ‘math geeks’ and show that math is in our daily lives,” said Rachel Fehr, chair of the SCC. “We wanted to encourage parents and caregivers to see how they can support math learning in fun and hands-on ways.”

The event incorporated the skills and talents of parents and staff to include aspects of technology, reading, home economics, physical activity, music and board games. Families were encouraged to move through stations, receiving letters at each station that allowed them to “Crack the Code” at the end of the evening to receive a bag of math activities and a guide to continue the learning that had taken place during the event. The evening was a learning opportunity for parents as well as students. “I realized through this math night that math is radically different from when I was growing up,” said parent Karyn Teichroeb, “and that math is not taught as this ‘horrible subject’ that you must learn but as a perspective on life, a way of looking at the world and interacting with the world. It is relevant here and now, and you can use it as a tool. I was really impressed.”

French Immersion Peer Tutoring Bringing students of different ages together to share in the learning experience is helping improve the literacy skills of French Immersion students. Peer tutoring is a co-operative learning strategy that has been adopted by all of Saskatoon Public Schools’ elementary French Immersion schools. Older students are partnered with younger students who are still building their fluency and vocabulary and together they have the opportunity to read, discuss and think about reading, language and comprehension in a unique manner. “Two students—one older, one younger—spend time reading together and the older one helps

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

the younger student become a better reader. At the same time the older student continues to develop fluency and vocabulary in French,” explained Kaleb, a Grade 7 student at École Henry Kelsey who was paired with a Grade 2 student. Paul Bazin, the division’s instructional consultant for French Immersion education, said peer tutoring is an excellent complement to classroom instruction and a positive way to encourage daily reading, particularly among younger students who benefit from the model provided by their older peer partners.

Indigenous Art, Song, and Dance Instructional Program The Indigenous Art, Song, and Dance Instructional Program is aimed at strengthening cultural awareness and pride among Indigenous students by providing instruction in many aspects of Indigenous culture and arts for both elementary and high school students. Don Speidel, cultural resource liaison with the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Education Unit, said the program has grown significantly, with 85 elementary and high school students taking part in the eight-week program during the fall of 2015. The program is part of the division’s commitment to culturally responsive learning

and the vital role that culture and the arts play in the development of strong learners, schools and communities. The testimony of students on how cultural instruction has given them encouragement in their academic pursuits and a sense of belonging underlines the success of the program. “These are things that bring families together. These are things that generationally we have been trying to focus on in the school system; bringing people together to share a sense of pride, a sense of belonging to our communities,” Speidel said.

MJ Devine @Mjmdevine Indigenous Ensemble & Little Prairie Steppers performance 'Resilience' was incredibly powerful, & moving #spslearn 12:30 AM - 23 Mar 16

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

Future Problem Solving Program The Future Problem Solving Program is an opportunity for students in Grades 4–8 to use higher-level thinking skills, consider real-life problems focused on the future and work in a team environment. Students meet for four, full-day sessions to discuss issues, learn problem-solving skills and look into the future, all with the guidance of a teacher-facilitator. For many students the program provides a chance to expand their scope of learning outside of regular classroom opportunities while also building critical thinking, communication and leadership skills.

“(One) thing I improved at as a result of the workshops was solving problems logically. Ultimately this helped me with projects and assignments back at my own school,” said Liam Scramstad, a student at École River Heights School. The program was introduced to help address the needs of gifted students who did not attend a Saskatoon Academically Gifted Education (SAGE) program. In addition to good feedback from students, the program has received a positive response from parents who report a high level of engagement and interest in learning by their child.

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Students engage in higher level thinking, consider real-life problems & work in a team environment during four, day-long sessions. #spslearn 7:08 PM - 8 Dec 15

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Skills Canada Competition Thirty-six Saskatoon Public Schools’ collegiate students took part in the 2016 Skills Canada Saskatchewan competition with nine of those winning a provincial gold medal and earning the opportunity to compete at the national level. The Skills Canada program offers competition in more than 40 categories for both high school and post-secondary students at a provincial, national and international level. The program emphasizes the nine essential skills—continuous learning, digital, document use, numeracy, oral or communication skills, reading text, thinking, working with others and writing—that are important for students both now and in their future careers. Lori Neigum, a commercial cooking teacher at Mount Royal Collegiate, said the program provides an opportunity for students to showcase their learning, explore something they are passionate about and receive a realistic view of career possibilities.

“Skills Canada further develops students’ independence, organization skills, creativity and their confidence. I have observed students become more passionate and take pride in their learning, and the task they are performing, and celebrating it with their peers and their teachers,” Neigum said. “I have seen the increase of dedication towards training and the determination for students to get better. There is something about seeing a student’s excitement and success to make you, yourself, be better. We (at Mount Royal) have had huge success but we have also had some tears; it is emotionally draining to work so hard and so long and put it all out there for a long, strenuous competition day.”

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Riyad, @mrcmustangs student who came to Canada from Bangladesh 4 years ago, impressed with technology at school. Competed in TV production. 7:10 PM - 10 May 16

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

Engaging Families in Early Learning Parents of kindergarten students at Willowgrove School receive regular insight into their child’s school day with a little assist from technology. Teacher Nicole Lemstra uses an app to create a digital portfolio that can help increase the connection between home and school and engage families in their child’s learning. “When they go home at the end of the day they can share their school day experience with their family. On a daily basis I witness four- and fiveyear-olds eagerly documenting their learning because they are excited to share what they have been doing during their day,” Lemstra said. The app supplements traditional communication methods with families, and Lemstra received a positive response from parents. The ability for a student to share their work in a visual manner—particularly for English as an additional language families—provides an opportunity for discussion at home. Feedback from students and families indicates that the opportunity to share students’ work through the app is helping to create a sense of connection and excitement.

Nicole Lemstra @MrsLemstra Our first coding activity of the week! Write and create. #hourofcode #spslearn #kindergarten 1:07 PM - 7 Dec 15

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Autism and Asperger’s Resource Program at Marion M. Graham Collegiate High school can be a challenging environment for students as they balance their academic and social experience and engage with others as part of high school life. Learning how to strike that balance can sometimes be a greater challenge for students with a diagnosis of high-functioning autism or Asperger’s syndrome, but the Autism and Asperger’s Resource Program at Marion M. Graham Collegiate works with students in a variety of innovative ways to help them succeed both academically and socially. One of the innovative aspects of the program is the inclusion of vigorous physical activity as a means to self-regulation, something which is proving very effective for many students. The students participate in physical activity at regular intervals and experience a variety of benefits. In practice, this equates to approximately 15 minutes of physical activity per Resource class.

Learning coordinator Coreen Dutka stressed the importance of students being aware of how they are feeling and where they are on a five-point regulation scale. The time spent on physical activity allows students to elevate their heart rate and can help kickstart the self-regulation process before they return to their studies. In addition, she has observed increased wellness and social growth among the students. “There is definitely a decrease in anxiety in the students who are able to maintain that exercise program. We see that in their ability to come back to class and identify what their priority work task is,” she said. “I notice that there is increased socialization with attendance in the weight room because students are down there talking with each other, high-fiving each other and giving each other kudos.”

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Taylor: it's a great program, would be beneficial to all autistic students. After going to program, helped him make friends, lower anxiety. 7:14 PM - 9 Feb 16

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Brightwater Science, Environmental and Indigenous Learning Centre Programming The Brightwater Science, Environmental and Indigenous Learning Centre provides unique land-based programming for middle years and high school students of Saskatoon Public Schools. Each year more than 3,000 students participate in Brightwater experiences. The centre offers experiential learning opportunities which enhance the curriculum outcomes. Programming is delivered through the integration of a variety of subject areas and is based on the ecological knowledge of native prairie landscapes including Indigenous perspectives, content and ceremonies. “We are so passionate and so proud of the ways in which we can help our students make meaningful connection to the land through our integration of western and Indigenous perspectives. Brightwater leaves lasting impressions by inspiring our students to care and wonder about their place in nature while learning from the best teacher possible—Mother Nature,” said Teri Clark, Brightwater project leader. Brightwater, which celebrated its 25th anniversary during the 2015-16 school year,

was founded and piloted in 1990 by innovative Saskatoon Public Schools’ educators who championed the value of educational experiences in nature for student learning and achievement. When students and teachers experience Brightwater they are welcomed into a natural learning environment that informs and guides them toward a global ethic of active, responsible and sustainable environmentalism, economics and social justice through inquiry-based instructional programming, visitations and opportunities to engage in cultural ceremonies. Brightwater enhances outcomes by demonstrating the collective value of sustainable use of natural resources for future generations; helping students understand the impact of human society on the environment; encouraging the exploration of a variety of career paths; and emphasizing holistic reflection and self-awareness within the context of nature and ceremonies honouring the spiritual connection to the land of Indigenous people.

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Dale Harvey from @centcollegiate shares how Brightwater creates experiential learning for students & enhances curriculum outcomes #spslearn 7:10 PM - 8 Sept 2015

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Student Vanessa says Brightwater provides opportunity for team building, to observe nature & learn about Indigenous perspectives. #spslearn 7:17 PM - 8 Sept 2015

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

First Nations, Inuit and Métis Student Achievement Program The goal of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Student Achievement Program is to support First Nations, Inuit and Métis students in completing course credits by working directly with teacher coaches. The program was launched at two collegiates during the 2013-14 school year and then expanded to additional collegiates with the help of funding from the Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan. Through the program, students receive targeted support in numeracy and literacy from the coaches as they work toward attaining high school credit and the goal of graduation.

Coaching support is provided by master teachers who are recently retired or working part-time in the school division. Instruction is studentspecific and created in consultation with the classroom teacher and school administration. The coaches work with small groups or oneon-one to provide support in areas such as completing assignments and exam preparation. They also play an important role in helping students address any gaps in previous learning so they can keep pace with current courses.

EagleEyes Technology at John Dolan School The use of the innovative EagleEyes technology at John Dolan School has allowed many students to share their learning and understanding. It allows individuals with significant physical disabilities to interact and learn. EagleEyes is eye-control technology that sees five electrodes placed on the student’s face. The electrodes read the electrical potential that comes off the eye and allows the user to control a computer mouse with their eyes. The technology is a valuable tool for education, recreation and communication purposes. For the students at John Dolan it has provided opportunities to create, communicate and interact with peers and program staff, as well as the chance to display their personality.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

“We have noticed an increase in student engagement because EagleEyes has allowed learning to be fun. EagleEyes has provided a way of including students in activities that they would normally be unable to complete without assistance. They are active participants; they are not just watching and observing what is going on,” said teacher Cynthia Cole-Hynes.

FIRE Cadet Program A partnership with the Saskatoon Fire Department provides a unique opportunity for high school students to explore future careers. The Fire Introduction Recruitment Experience (FIRE) Cadet program saw Saskatoon Public Schools’ students from Bedford Road, Mount Royal and Tommy Douglas collegiates participate during the program’s second year of operation. Two training sessions per week during an eight-week period provide students with hands-on opportunities to learn and experience a range of firefighting and emergency response skills.

“It was a great way to be hands-on with the Saskatoon Fire Department and get to experience some of the things they do on a dayto-day basis,” said Britney Malyk, a student at Bedford Road Collegiate. “Every day that I went to attend the program I was nothing but thrilled.” The program is available to Grade 11 and 12 students who are enrolled in a Career and Work Explorations program. It provides the 50-60 hours of practical experience through a work placement that students require in order to complete their credit.

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools .@BRCSaskatoon student Renee says she doubted her ability to be a firefighter but program gave her confidence to pursue it @SaskatoonFire 7:19 PM - 7 Jun 2016

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

Westmount Community School Kohkum Group The kohkum group at Westmount Community School welcomes the community into the school and supports the kohkums (grandmothers) who are directly and indirectly involved in raising their grandchildren. “It all began by building and forging relationships with our families and knowing our community,” said Principal Nicola Bishop-Yong. “(We wanted to) bring them together in a very welcoming, non-threatening environment that was about forging relationships for them so that they can build their relationship with the school.”

The members of the group strive to develop strong connections with students, staff and the wider learning community by sharing Métis worldview, ways of knowing, being and doing. Westmount is home to the school division’s Métis Cultural Program, and Kohkum Linda Pritchard helps teach the Michif language. “Westmount has made me feel so very proud of who I am. I went to Westmount not knowing who I was and today I am very proud. I’m a Michif . . . these people have made me feel proud,” Pritchard said.

Ian Wilson @PrincipalMrW Our Board Chair @Mcbicycle engaged with Kohkum Lily after the Celebrating Excellence part of Board Mtg. 7:29 PM - 21 Jun 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Saskatoon Public @StoonPubSchools Greystone Heights Senior Jazz Band takes centre stage at The Bassment tonight. #spslearn 8:05 PM - 9 May 16

With Glowing Hearts Ă&#x2030;cole College Park School joined in the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Canadian flag by taking part in a massive, nation-wide recording of elementary school students singing O Canada. Organizers of the Flag of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Hometown Proud program created a rendition of the national anthem by travelling across the country to record students singing the anthem at approximately 80 schools, including Kindergarten to Grade 8 students at College Park, and combining their voices into one recording. In addition to singing O Canada, the school had to create a piece of art representative of Saskatoon and prepare speeches on what the flag means to their community.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

PROFILE

Pre-Engineering at Bedford Road Collegiate Solving problems through the application of technology is the goal of students in the Pre-Engineering program at Bedford Road Collegiate. “What we have established here is a class about problem solving,” said teacher and program leader Curtis Clements. “Engineering is problem solving so I think the term fits. The focus of the entire program is to solve problems through design and using teamwork and communication. “One of the important things we do is work as a team because in anything outside of the academic world you are going to be working as a team—whether you are an engineer or in any other career. Being able to collaborate and solve a problem with someone else—and the communication involved in that and the conflict resolution—is going to be an employability skill down the road.” The hub of the program’s learning is the Cameco Centre of Excellence in Science and Mathematics, a unique learning environment funded by a generous contribution from Cameco Corp. The centre provides students with the opportunity to experience different areas of technology and solve problems through the use of such things as pneumatics, electrical control, micro controllers, 3-D printing and a CNC (computer numerical control) mill. The students use their skills and the technology to design and document a solution to an authentic engineering challenge at the end of the term.

In addition to the learning lab, the program’s partnership with Cameco has paid off in other ways, including a unique field trip that provided 14 students with the opportunity to tour and engage in learning at the company’s mine located at Cigar Lake in northern Saskatchewan. Pre-engineering is still a relatively new program but one that is beginning to grow. After offering a 10-level class that attracted students from all of the senior grades during its first two years of operation, pre-engineering has expanded to offer the 20-level for the 2016-17 school year. There are also plans to offer a spin-off 30-level course combining technology and woodworking that would extend the program’s reach to an even wider number of students. Some students are drawn to the program because of their interest in fields such as programming or robotics, while others take advantage of the opportunity to explore learning beyond the traditional high school subjects. Either way, the challenge the course presents in terms of working together, managing time and resources and co-operating to resolve conflicts is the same for every student. “What I do like is students leading the charge of their own learning,” Clements said. “I want them to complete a certain thing at a certain time but when they surpass that—when a student comes in after school to work on whatever they are doing or they use the knowledge to apply to something else—that’s what I get excited about.”

Singing in Solidarity

Photos courtesy Saskatchewan Rush / Josh Schaefer

Members of the Mount Royal Collegiate singers shared their music and culture as part of a tribute to La Loche during a Saskatchewan Rush home game.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

2015-16 SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Superannuated

Employees

Lynn Allardyce

Marlene Flaman Dunn

Linda Marsh

Debbie Andrie

Marilyn Forester

Dale McWillie

Ray Baldwin

Phyllis Fowler

Claire Miller

Carol Barbour

Lyle Fruson

Mary Morin

Marilyn Barrington

Marla Fruson

Holly Njaa-Davis

Jane Best

Linda Gillis

Rod Osborne

Daryl Boehme

Verlyn Gossen

Susan Pattison

Alfred Bond

Lezlie Goudie-Cloutier

Patricia Prowse

Doug Boyd

Mary Lou Grahn

Barrie Redford

Bruce Bradshaw

Rita Gunning

Norma Rempel

Kathy Bradshaw

Kenneth Hale

Paul Runalls

Lyvia Buck

Sherry Halstead

Vida Sadler

Norman Bull

Bill Harrison

Barry Saunders

Don Burgess

Graham Hughes

Kathleen Sharman

Marilyn Butler-Berry

Roberta Irinici

Linda Shirley

Rhonda Carlston

Brian Jack

Bob Shmon

Myra Comrie

Tim Jantz

Linda Smith

Keith Cote

Carol Janzen

Margaret Symon-Lungal

May Cummings

Marlene Kells

Judy Terry

Nick DiSanto

Lynda Kisby

Doreen Thiessen

Nicholas Dzus

Sandra Laliberte

Scott Thompson

Hanan Elbardouh

Marilee Langill

Rita Wall

William Eng

Alain LeClerc

Sandra Willner

Linda Essar

Sharie Loeffler Parkinson

Cheryl Wolfe

Willa Fernets

Arlene Long

Henry Wolfe

Brian Flaherty

Joel Loseth

Dianne Young

FISCAL INDICATORS

Consolidated actual revenues of the Saskatoon Public Schools for the year ended August 31, 2015 totaled $251,565,598. Revenues were attributed to the following sources:

Provincial grants

$125,118,559

Property taxation

106,259,797

School generated funds

External services

7,432,133

Tuition and related fees

3,368,794

5,006,384

Other

1,306,804

Complementary services

3,073,127

Total revenue

$251,565,598

The school divisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consolidated actual expenses for the year ended August 31, 2015 totaled $241,607,571. Expenses were attributed to the following sources: Instruction

$176,765,027

Plant

34,931,496

School generated funds

5,280,105

Administration

6,522,780

Transportation

6,607,151

Complementary services

3,191,910

External services

6,571,074

Governance

741,120

Tuition and related fees

281,020

Other Expenses

715,888

Total expenses

Surplus for the year*

$241,607,571 $9,958,027

* The revenues and expenses for the year are in accordance with Public Sector Accounting Principles. The surplus in 2014-15 relates primarily to grants received for capital projects. The corresponding expense that is recognized in the financial statements is amortization, which is recognized over the useful life of the asset.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

2014–15 Consolidated Actual Revenues 42.2%

Property taxation

$106,259,797

49.7%

Provincial grants

$125,118,559

8.0%

Other *

Total revenue

$20,187,242 $251,565,598

* Other revenues include tuition and related fees, cafeteria, investment and rental revenues, and provincial grant revenue for PreKindergarten and the Associate Schools.

2014–15 Consolidated Actual Expenses 73.2%

Instruction

14.5%

Plant

6.9%

Other **

2.7%

Transportation

$6,607,151

2.7%

Administration

$6,522,780

Total expenses

$176,765,027 $34,931,496 $16,781,117

$241,607,571

** Other expenses include governance, teachers’ salaries for the Associate Schools, PreKindergarten costs, interest and cafeteria expenses.

FISCAL INDICATORS

2015 –16 TRUSTEE AND WARD DIRECTORY

HOLLY HOLLYKELLEHER KELLEHERWard Ward11

VERNON LINKLATER Ward 2

DONNA BANKS Ward 3

DAN DANDANIELSON DANIELSONWard Ward44

COLLEEN MACPHERSON Ward 5

KATHLEEN BRANNENWard 6

DARRELL DARRELLUTLEY UTLEYWard Ward88

CHARMAINE BELLAMY Ward 9

RAY MORRISON Ward 10

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Our Board of Trustees is a group of dedicated, hard-working members of the Saskatoon community who are committed to making Saskatoon Public Schools the premier public education system in Canada. We welcome your input on any initiatives we are pursuing and invite you to attend board meetings regularly to keep abreast of all that is happening at Saskatoon Public Schools. Trustee Kevin Waugh resigned on November 16, 2015. Charmaine Bellamy took over the Ward 9 seat following a byelection. Trustee Bronwyn Eyre resigned on April 30, 4 2016. Her seat in Ward 7 2 will remain vacant until the fall civic election.

WARD 1 Holly Kelleher kelleherh@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8461 WARD 2 Vernon Linklater linklaterv@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8462 WARD 3 Donna Banks banksd@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8463 WARD 4 Dan Danielson danielsond@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8464 WARD 5 Colleen MacPherson macphersonc@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8465 WARD 6 Kathleen Brannen brannenk@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8466 WARD 7 position vacant 306.683.8200 WARD 8 Darrell Utley utleyd@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8468 WARD 9 Charmaine Bellamy bellamyc@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8469 WARD 10 Ray Morrison morrisonra@spsd.sk.ca, 306.683.8460

Angie C @skmetisteach #spslearn So proud to be part of a division where we have trustees who are supportive AND fun loving! 10:01 AM - 28 Aug 2015

Library Leaders The Saskatchewan School Library Association recognized two Saskatoon Public Schools' educators. Teacher-librarian Laurie Hnatiuk was awarded the Connie Acton Award of Merit. Principal Nicola Bishop-Yong received the Art Forgay Award of Recognition for Administrators. Both were recognized for their strong support of school library systems, which foster student learning.

Ilona Vashchyshyn @vaslona Wow. Fantastic job, #TDC students and staff! So much fun and learning at #TDCMathFair2016. cc: @StoonPubSchools 6:32 PM - 15 Jun 16

Active Experience Students in the Functional Life Skills programs at Dundonald, Willowgrove, Brownell and Hugh Cairns schools and the autism program at Prince Phillip School built their physical literacy during an event with Saskatchewan Special Olympics. The students had the opportunity to come together to participate in a variety of organized sports and activities designed specifically for their individual abilities.

College of Education @UofSEd The 2016 Think Indigenous Education Conference kicks off today with Youth Day at Nutana Collegiate! #usask #TIEC2016 8:34 AM - 15 Mar 16

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Mr. Hockey Remembered at King George King George Community School remembered the life of one of its best-known students when hockey legend Gordie Howe died June 10 at the age of 88. Flags at King George and all Saskatoon Public schools flew at half-mast in the days leading up to Howeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funeral and the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special No.9 flag was also raised. A school assembly provided an opportunity to remember how Mr. Hockey maintained a close, deep-felt connection with his childhood elementary school. Howe came back for King George's 65th and 75th anniversary celebrations and he also made several unannounced visits over the years. Whenever Howe visited the school, he would leave his signature on a chalkboard or other location in the school for students and staff to find.

SASKATOON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

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