R E P O RT TO T H E C O M M U N I T Y
2013-2014 School Year Report to the Community 2013-2014
i
MEETING OUR MISSION Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School’s (STS) Report to the Community celebrates our achievements and examines how we meet our mission as an educational institution. This annual publication reports on the September 2013 to August 2014 school year – highlighting snapshots of our achievements – and is distributed to parents, alumni, parents of alumni, faculty and staff. We hope you enjoy reading it and we welcome your feedback.
Class of 2014
Our Vision A leading educator recognized nationally and internationally for delivering exceptional programs in a unique setting with an
Our Core Values Integrity Kindness
enduring sense of community.
Respect
Our Mission
Responsibility
To develop well-balanced students for
Safety
a life of purpose by inspiring excellence in
Service
scholarship, leadership and character.
S t r a t h c o n a - Tw e e d s m u i r S c h o o l
CONTENTS MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD .................................... 2 MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL ............................................. 4 STRATEGIC PLAN ................................................................................................. 6 ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE ....................................................................... 10 STUDENT LIFE .......................................................................................................16 HEALTH, SAFETY AND THE ENVIRONMENT ................................... 26 ADVANCEMENT AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS ....................... 30 FINANCE REPORT ............................................................................................. 44
Report to the Community 2013-2014
1
M E S S AG E F R O M T H E C H A I R O F T H E B OA R D J o h n Ko u s i n i o r i s ‘ 8 2 Our School enjoyed another successful year in 2013/2014. The high level of academic achievement exhibited by our students is something that the entire School community can be proud of. As impressive are the achievements of our students in all of their co-curricular activities including speech and debate, Model United Nations, the fine arts, community service and athletics, with high levels of participation among the student body. These achievements reflect the School’s mission of developing well-balanced students for a life of purpose by inspiring excellence in scholarship, leadership and character. The focus at STS is on educating the whole student, which is what makes our School and its programming unique.
The primary focus of the Board of
in the 21st Century. Interactions with
Governors over the past academic year
the broader School community over the
has been on monitoring the School’s
past two years have reaffirmed wide-
progress in meeting the five pillars of
spread support for the vision of being a
its strategic plan while ensuring that
leading educator, recognized nationally
the School retains its sound financial
and internationally for delivering
position. Significant progress was made
exceptional programs in a unique setting
in advancing each of the strategic goals
with an enduring sense of community.
which set the direction for the School
The feedback received has also
(you can read more about the strategic
highlighted parents’ desire for teaching
plan on pages 6-9).
excellence and facilities that enable the
In addition to focusing on the School’s strategic objectives, the Board, faculty and staff continuously review and assess key performance indicators in relation to academic results, leadership and character, participation in co-curricular activities, health and safety, admissions and financial stability. These measures are reviewed critically to ensure that STS continues to provide an enriched learning environment for our students, in a safe and sustainable manner. The STS leadership is currently very much focused on the future of the School and in ensuring that it continues to evolve to meet the needs of our students
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
effective delivery of leading integrated academic programs that provide a global perspective in accordance with evolving best practices. This is helping provide direction to decision making for the future of the School and has highlighted the importance of advancing fundraising capabilities to ensure that STS continues to meet the aspirations and expectations of parents and guardians for their children, while maintaining its position as one of the leading independent schools in the country. There were some changes to the Board of Governors in 2014. I would like to thank our departing Governors, Pam Heard ’73 and David Farran, for their
contributions to the Board and the School. Their leadership, vision, counsel and commitment are very much appreciated. I would also like to welcome Paul Storwick ’78 to the Board as a representative of the STS Alumni Association. We all look forward to his participation at, and contributions to, our Board meetings. My term as Chair of the Board has come to an end in 2014. It has been a privilege to be able to serve the School and I look forward to continuing to serve on the Board under the leadership of Scott Kirker who has recently agreed to take on the role. Scott’s ongoing contributions to the STS community and the Board, and his dedication to, and vision for, the School are inspiring to us all. In closing, I would like to thank the Board of Governors, the STS Foundation, Dr. Jones and the entire School administration, and every teacher, employee, parent, alumni, volunteer and donor for contributing to the unique student-centred community that is STS. The School’s success in developing well-balanced students for a life of purpose is only possible because of the generous support and contributions of you all. Your commitment and support make the School the vibrant and exceptional place that it is and ensures its current and future success. 2013-2014 Board of Governors Back row (left to right): Scott Kirker, Mike Jackson, Ted Rozsa. Middle row (left to right): Chris Shopperly ‘80, Michele Kalny, Deb Marshall Shopperly, David Farran. Front row (left to right): John Kousinioris ‘82, William Jones. Missing: Bruce Chernoff, Pam Heard ‘73, Jan Waterous, Deborah Yedlin.
John Kousinioris ’82 Chair of the STS Board of Governors
Report to the Community 2013-2014
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M E S S AG E F R O M THE HEAD OF SCHOOL D r. W i l l i a m J o n e s
A glance back over the past year reveals strong progress on the School’s strategic initiatives as we have continued to strive to ensure a bright future for STS and its students. As you will see in the pages that follow, our students have demonstrated very high levels of accomplishment academically and in a broad range of co-curricular endeavours intended to strengthen their character and leadership abilities. In addition, the School finds itself in a very sound financial position, and we continue to make advances in fundraising that will help to ensure our strength and permanence as one of Canada’s leading independent schools. Student engagement is often cited in educational
we strive to develop intercultural literacy through
literature as a potent catalyst with respect to
our language programs and trips, Round Square
motivation, persistence and ultimately student
activities, Model UN, Humanitarian Outreach Projects,
achievement. Over the past year, we have experienced
international service trips, student exchanges, and
increased participation in many of our co-curricular
other international experiences such as this year’s
programs such as athletics, Model United Nations,
band trip to Russia. This year we introduced the Global
speech and debate, fine arts, and Elementary
Scholar program as an incentive for Senior School
clubs. Growing participation rates reflect a strong
students to engage in activities that will enrich their
commitment by students and teachers to these
global perspective.
vital experiential learning opportunities and I am confident that these programs are enhancing students’ confidence, character and leadership abilities, and providing an empowering sense of accomplishment.
4
Positioning STS as a Centre for Excellence in Teaching was a key strategy of the strategic plan and we have made considerable advances with this initiative this year. These have included the implementation of
One of our ongoing goals is to broaden students’
a new Professional Growth and Evaluation policy
global perspective in order to prepare them for an
for teachers, further development of the mentoring
increasingly interconnected world and the high
program for new teachers and ongoing professional
probability that their careers will involve interaction
growth opportunities such as working with the
on a global scale. We approach this through the
Galileo Program around inquiry learning. In addition,
internationally-minded IB Programmes, which we now
we have instituted an inspiring speaker program to
offer continuously in Grades 1 through 12. In addition,
bring in global leaders in education beginning in April
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
of 2015 and we have begun to host professional development events for our teachers and other teachers on the STS campus including a fine arts Professional Day in the winter and the CAIS Leadership Institute for independent school teachers from across Canada in the fall of 2014. The Gordon Freight Excellence in Teaching Grant also continues to provide robust learning opportunities for our faculty. Collectively, these opportunities are advancing the development of our teachers and raising the profile of
and I will continue to host these
In addition, I would like to thank our
STS within the Canadian educational
meetings throughout the 2014-2015
current and former parents and alumni,
community.
school year.
whose ongoing and multi-dimensional
I believe that community engagement
It is my hope that this Report to
is a critical element in shaping and
the Community provides you with
building support for the future of STS.
a compelling overview of our
To that end, I have held more than 30
accomplishments throughout the
roundtable discussions with parents,
last year. These would not have been
alumni and parents of alumni over
possible were it not for the leadership
the past 18 months. Each of these has
and vision of a dedicated Board of
Dr. William Jones
provided valuable feedback regarding
Governors, devoted volunteers and
Head of School
our vision and strategic initiatives.
members of POSTS, a competent and
Overall, these sessions have affirmed
committed faculty and staff, and a Senior
wide-spread support for the School’s
Leadership Team who execute their
vision, mission and strategic direction
duties thoughtfully and proficiently.
support foreshadows a bright future.
Report to the Community 2013-2014
5
S T R AT E G I C P L A N 2010-2015 Building for the future
Our Strategic Plan, Inspiring Excellence, outlines five strategic differentiators and specific performance indicators designed to create an exceptional learning experience for current and future students. 2013-2014 was an exciting year in our overall progress.
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
S T R AT E G I C P L A N 2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 5
A key outcome of our goal to become a Centre for
capacity of our Elementary School faculty related to
Excellence in Teaching is the White Paper, which calls
inquiry-based learning. The teachers are focusing on
for an internal task force to research and implement best
practices that make learning visible and promote 21st
practices in teacher development and commits STS to
Century skills through performance-based tasks.
explore new approaches to attracting and developing top teaching talent. In its first phase of implementation, the task force is focusing on four activities: attracting teachers to STS; a framework for supporting action research; an Inspiring Speakers Series; and opportunities to host IB and CAIS conferences.
In addition, we hosted a new Fine Arts day of professional development for teachers from across Alberta and enhanced our teacher professional growth plans to reflect the STS Model of Teaching Excellence. A new teacher Growth and Evaluation policy, highly regarded for building teaching excellence, has been
The year also saw our partnership with the Galileo
implemented. Combined with past initiatives, our efforts
Education Network Association (GENA) evolve.
are already having a positive effect on teaching and
A national leader in evidence-based professional
learning throughout the School.
development for teachers, GENA’s team is building the
Report to the Community 2013-2014
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S T R AT E G I C P L A N 2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 5
Our strategic focus on the STS
100 90
has led to remarkable communication
80
and contact. The Head of School
70
Community and Alumni Network
60
Global Perspective
Roundtables continued to promote open dialogue and shared perspectives; we implemented new methods for alumni engagement via networking events,
Percentage Complete
Community and Alumni Network
50
Integrated Programming
40
Unique Rural Campus
30
social media and new websites; and we
20
targeted our approach to advertising
10
and media relations to introduce STS to
Centre for Teaching Excellence
0 Strategic Differentiators
an expanded student market. Through more sophisticated and
and exploring ways that leadership and
collaborative planning and fundraising
complex approaches to community
character can be integrated into the
process. Improvements to the campus
engagement and fundraising, STS
curriculum.
and facilities continued this year,
experienced an unprecedented level
including upgrades to the parking lot,
of financial support, led by the first $1
In the realm of Global Perspective, a
million gift to the School in two decades
significant initiative stands out: the
and amplified by generous gifts from
new Global Scholar Diploma. This
parents of the class of 2014. In addition,
program is being piloted in 2014-2015
the Governors and STS Foundation
with 33 Grade 12 students and 12 faculty
Directors have been enormously
members. The diploma is a unique STS
supportive, an indication of the strong
designation that students can pursue
STS community.
by participating in global activities
As we enter the final year of the strategic
pond water quality, roofs and several sections of our trail system. We laid the groundwork for the new Campus Master Plan, which outlines the phases of campus development we will pursue going forward.
such as Round Square, second language
plan, we are working together to
For our Integrated Programming
learning and international service trips.
ensure that Nil Nisi Optimum resonates
differentiator, we are thrilled to be
This diploma recognizes our efforts to
everywhere. The impressive impact
the first school in Alberta certified to
prepare students for the challenges of an
of the improvements led by Inspiring
offer the IB curriculum from Grade 1 to
increasingly interconnected world.
Excellence is a tribute to the collective
Grade 12! As a result of our Middle Years Programme authentication, STS is truly
Finally, our commitment to enhance
a school of international excellence and
our Unique Rural Campus was on
distinctive identity. We are also mapping
display in the completion of the new
out the diverse connections of our
Forest Learning Centre – Aspen Lodge
curricular and co-curricular programs
– which followed an extensive and
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
commitment to the School.
S T R AT E G I C P L A N 2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 5
While continuing the projects underway, here are some highlights of the initiatives in the final year of Inspiring Excellence that will achieve the goals of our five strategic differentiators.
LOOKING AHEAD
CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING
INTEGRATED PROGRAMMING
We will pursue several White Paper
As we assess our co-curricular
recommendations: the speakers’ series,
offerings through an inventory of
relationships with educational leaders
existing activities and an audit of
around the world, research into adult
student engagement, we will create
learning and teacher development.
a map of co-curricular connections
We will also finalize the process
within the curriculum. We can then
for the new three-year Professional
increase the number of leadership and
Development plans and establish
character development opportunities
new STS guidelines for 21st Century
in the core curriculum and establish
teaching excellence. November
written curricular frameworks that will
2014 saw us host the CAIS Leadership
formalize connections to co-curricular
Institute, which welcomed independent
programs. In addition, we are exploring
school leaders to STS.
online learning possibilities that could
STS COMMUNITY AND
benefit students from STS and beyond. GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
ALUMNI NETWORK
UNIQUE RURAL CAMPUS With the Global Scholar Diploma
We are expanding grandparent
underway, we are assessing and
The immediate emphasis is on
engagement and opportunities for
expanding all of our global offerings.
integrating the new Aspen Lodge into the
parents of graduating students to stay
Priorities include advancements in the
curricular and co-curricular offerings.
connected to the School. We are also
IB MYP with the new Personal Project in
The long-range view involves moving
encouraging philanthropic investment
Grade 10 and expansion and promotion
beyond the planning phase of the
in our long-term funding priorities.
of the Round Square IDEALS throughout
Campus Master Plan toward helping the
Alumni engagement is also a key
the School. We are also working to
community understand the various ways
focus for the coming year, including
increase the presence of second
in which facilities enhance teaching
education about STS, promotion of
languages in daily school experiences
and provide meaningful learning
financial assistance opportunities,
while exploring the possibility of
opportunities for students.
expanding alumni volunteering and
offering Mandarin, online through the
leadership opportunities, networking
IB organization and through a Mandarin
and mentoring and consideration of
club.
recognition programs for alumni. Report to the Community 2013-2014
9
AC A D E M I C PERFORMANCE The STS academic program is a rigorous one and its primary goal is to provide an environment where each student can reach their academic potential. This includes equipping students with the skills and dispositions necessary to be engaged, ethical thinkers while living a life of purpose. Our students are prepared to thrive as contributing citizens in the 21st Century.
approach to learning through inquiry-
external assessments such as Alberta
based instruction. Authentic learning
Education’s Provincial Achievement
experiences are provided through
Tests written in Grades 6 and 9 and on
hands-on activities in the classroom,
Diploma Exams written in Grade 12. Our
and on our country campus which
Grade 12 students also do exceedingly
provides unparalleled opportunities to
well on IB exams that are written in
learn outside.
May of each year. These strong results
Student in Grades 7-10 learn the Alberta curriculum through the lens of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) of the IB Programme. Learning experiences use global contexts to connect learning
are another validation of the strength of our academic program and further evidence that we are indeed providing a challenging academic program that is setting our students up for success both at STS and after they leave our School.
Our small class sizes provide students
to real world ideas and issues. A
with individual attention from faculty
great strength of the MYP is that it
to ensure their academic success.
deliberately teaches and assesses
Our two learning strategists augment
critical thinking and problem solving
individualized instruction with students
skills. All assessment uses rubrics
in all grades when extra help is needed
which helps students understand what
Through a rigorous academic IB and
and support teachers’ efforts with each
is expected and focuses efforts for
Alberta Education curriculum and our
student. The Student Success Centre
improvement.
students’ exposure to experiential
is a place that supports the learning of students in Grades 7-12 and provides a quiet space for students to work, engage in peer tutoring or write tests.
Grade 11 and 12 students pursue their interests and goals by selecting from a variety of Alberta Education courses and they can choose to take
Students in the Elementary School
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
complete the Alberta Education
Programme courses. Both are excellent
curriculum which is enhanced by the
preparation for university. The success
Primary Years Programme (PYP) of
of our students after they graduate is
the International Baccalaureate (IB).
clear evidence of their effectiveness.
This programme takes an integrated 10
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
Our students earn excellent scores on
This is proven annually as our graduates gain acceptance and achieve excellence at post-secondary institutions of their choice at home and abroad.
learning, trips, clubs, athletics and outdoor education, STS students learn to collaborate, think critically and creatively as well as manage their time to meet deadlines in their busy schedules. These skills, along with their academic excellence, ensure student success in a variety of chosen fields when they graduate from STS and contribute to their work and volunteer communities.
AC A D E M I C P E R F O R M A N C E
2 0 1 3 - 2 0 1 4 P R OV I N C I A L T E S T S A N D G R A D E 1 2 F I N A L C O U R S E R E S U LT S STS students continue to excel in academics in all major subject areas. We are proud of our students’ academic achievements. The table below compares STS with the province, showing Provincial Achievement Test (PAT) scores for Grades 6 and 9 and final course marks for Grade 12 students as well as the percentage of students who achieved acceptable or excellence ranking. Over the next few years, the Alberta Government is phasing out Provincial Achievement Tests and replacing them with assessments that occur at the beginning of the school year. In the fall of 2014, STS was chosen to pilot the new assessment for Grade 3s, entitled Student Learning Assessments (SLA). The intent of this change in philosophy is to provide students, teachers and parents with a student-centred learning profile to inform learning goals for the upcoming year. The Grade 6 and 9 PATs will continue until the 2016-2017 school year when SLAs will be piloted. Grade / Course
Test Scores (%)
Acceptable (%)
Provincial Achievement Tests (PAT) Province STS Province
Excellence (%) STS
Province
81.9
61.4
17.6
97.7
72.7
52.3
15.3
65.8
97.7
75.4
77.3
25.3
83.8
65.0
97.7
70.2
61.4
21.6
Grade 9
STS
Province
STS
Province
STS
Province
ELA
82.1
66.5
97.1
76.3
59.4
15.0
Math
75.0
59.6
89.9
65.9
44.9
16.9
Science
80.1
66.1
97.1
72.5
58.0
22.0
Social Studies
80.6
64.2
92.8
64.8
58.0
20.3
Grade 6
STS
ELA
78.9
67.0
97.7
Math
77.8
57.0
Science
85.4
Social Studies
Final Course Marks Grade 12
STS
Province
STS
Province
STS
Province
Biology 30
83.7
72.4
100
94.5
72.0
37.1
Chemistry 30
80.2
72.3
100
92.3
56.7
38.5
English 30-1
79.1
68.4
100
96.5
53.2
17.1
Physics 30
77.4
73.3
96.6
93.2
55.2
40.2
Pure Math 30
78.3
68.2
97.0
86.4
53.7
29.6
Social Studies 30-1
80.0
69.9
100
97.5
54.7
21.8
58%
of STS students achieved the standard of excellence, more than double that of the Provincial average.
Report to the Community 2013-2014
11
AC A D E M I C P E R F O R M A N C E
I N T E R N AT I O N A L B AC C A L A U R E AT E P R O G R A M M E In 2013-2014, STS became the first full International Baccalaureate (IB) independent school in Alberta. With the accreditation of the Middle Years Programme, students receive the full benefit of the IB Programme, from Grade 1 through 12, which promotes critical thinking while guiding students through real-life applications. IB goes beyond the textbook. It challenges students to step outside of the classroom to become leaders of tomorrow. Our community of learners embrace technology to access and then present students’ cumulative understanding.
PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME (PYP) HIGHLIGHTS:
• Grade 3 students explored Cinderella stories from around
that met ethical, innovative and
the world, discovering common
recyclable guidelines. Students
themes among them, to look
then sold their products at the
field guide of local wildlife to get
deeper into the stories they grew
“Mini-Mall for Micro-Credit”, where
to know the world around them.
up with. Using their “recipe for a
half their proceeds were donated
Working with their Grade 4 buddies,
fairytale”, students created a digital
to Kiva, a global micro-credit
they researched an animals’ needs,
story, reflecting their own cultural
organization that helps sustain
characteristics and adaptations.
attributes.
small businesses around the world,
• Grade 1 students created a digital
Students then created interactive presentations demonstrating their
• Grade 4 students visited the Royal
as a way to give back to others. • Grade 6 students worked
new understanding of animals native
Tyrell Museum to study the fossils
to Alberta.
and landforms of some of the
collaboratively with experts and
world’s oldest known creatures
mentors to research a global topic
• Grade 2 students researched
in Alberta. They investigated
of concern to them, and shared
the history of our school and the
what features make excellent
with the community through fun,
House system by exploring our
documentary films and created their
interactive presentations for their
founders. Understanding our
own film based on their learning.
Grade 6 PYP Exhibition. This is the
history and traditions can help students understand the present
• Grade 5 students put a new twist
school we are today. As part of
on the cherished tradition of
their research they interviewed
Mini-Mall. Students focused on
the school’s archivist. They then
environmentalism, ethical business
created documentaries which were
and entrepreneurialism in their
presented at Elementary assemblies.
study of business. They worked collaboratively to write a business
12
plan and create a product line
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
culminating project that reflects the global learning of the Elementary students through six years in the PYP.
AC A D E M I C P E R F O R M A N C E
2,100 In 2013-2014, Middle School students accumulated over 2,100 hours of service during the school year.
MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAMME (MYP) HIGHLIGHTS: • Grade 7 students designed a school building for
the genetics of species to preserve diversity?” Students
isolated communities in Canada’s north as part of the
created a research funding proposal to bring back an
Connected North partnership, an interdisciplinary
extinct species through genetic engineering technologies.
unit with design, math and art. This process engaged
Within their proposal students considered the ecological,
students with architect mentors, 3-D computer design and
moral and ethical implications of their actions.
modeling, and taught them to pitch their ideas. • Grade 8 students in design class visited the Town of
• All MYP faculty partnered with one or two Grade 10 students in the completion of their MYP Personal Project.
Okotoks skate park in order to inform student-generated
This project asked students to consolidate and extend
improvements in park design. Key questions students
their prior learning through the exploration of a project of
considered included, “How can we change the culture of a
their personal interest. MYP projects ran the gamut from
skate board park through design principles?” and “Should
getting a private pilot’s licence to writing a children’s book
skate board parks serve all members of a community?”
to building recycled eye glasses for third world countries.
Student designs were inspiring and creative using innovations in technology to deliver a new age skate park design. • Grade 9 science students actively applied the concepts learned in a unit, Biological Diversity, by asking the
• Continuing the tradition of excellence in service, STS tracks all MYP students’ community service hours allowing for students, parents, and faculty advisors to have a better pulse on the activities and accomplishments of students.
question, “To what extent should humans manipulate Report to the Community 2013-2014
13
AC A D E M I C P E R F O R M A N C E
100% of our full DP candidates received an IB Diploma, for the third straight year.
IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME (DP) HIGHLIGHTS: Building for the Future • The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is designed to prepare students for success in higher education and as members of
out above the world average by
a global community. The Programme
over seven percent higher with
is internationally recognized by
an average grade of 5.02 in their
leading universities and most have
subject areas. STS IB Diploma
a distinct IB Diploma admission
recipients averaged 33 out of a
standard that grants special
possible 45 points, 71st percentile in
recognition to IB credits earned
the world and above the IB Diploma
in high school. Many universities
admission standard in all Canadian
allow credit transfer or advanced
universities.
placement for IB credits. • Another 40 students registered in Ongoing Success • Every year a large majority of the STS graduating class takes at least one IB course. In 2013-2014, there were 52 students registered in one or more IB courses. • Our 12 full DP students came
a variety of IB subjects with a total of 193 subject entries. Of those, 73 percent achieved a subject score of four or higher and 50 percent earned a score of five or higher, which is recognized by most Canadian universities as the standard for university credit transfer in the first year of a post-secondary degree.
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
Community engagement • The philosophy of the IB Programme promotes a universal education: Community, Action and Service (CAS) are required components for full DP candidates and these elements are strongly encouraged for all students taking DP courses. • In 2013-2014, all Senior School cocurricular activities were filled with IB DP candidates. Leading members of the school musical, Model United Nations and senior sports teams were DP candidates. DP candidates participated in service trips to Latin America and served as Prefects.
AC A D E M I C P E R F O R M A N C E
U N I V E R S I T Y E N T R A N C E I N F O R M AT I O N
Once again, 100 percent of STS’ 69 Class of 2014 graduates were offered places at post-secondary institutions. Ninety-six percent of our graduates are currently continuing studies in health sciences, commerce, engineering, history, history of art, human nutrition, international relations, kinesiology, life science, meteorology, neuroscience, CANADA
peace conflict and justice, psychology
UNITED STATES
and public relations, among others.
Dalhousie University
7
Brigham Young University Idaho
1
Three graduates deferred acceptance for
Huron University College
1
Oklahoma State University
1
a year to pursue service and adventure
McGill University
3
University of Southern California
1
initiatives. Our graduates are currently studying at various universities around the world.
69 GRADUATING STUDENTS Country
Province
Canada
63
Alberta
10
USA
3
Bristish Columbia
16
Year Off
3
Nova Scotia
10
Ontario Quebec
Mount Royal University
2
Queen’s University
10
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
2
Saint Mary’s University
2
St. Francis Xavier University
1
Thompson Rivers University
1
University of Alberta
4
University of British Columbia,
8
Vancouver University of British Columbia, Okanagan
2
University of Calgary
1
24
University of Guelph
1
3
University of Lethbridge
1
University of Victoria
5
University of Toronto
3
University of Waterloo
2
Western University
7
$500,000 Last year’s graduates were offered more than $500,000 in scholarships from top universities across North America.
Report to the Community 2013-2014
15
STUDENT LIFE
STUDENT LIFE
LIVING A LIFE OF PURPOSE
• In 2013-2014, the Elementary Humanitarian Outreach Projects (HOP) group grew to 65 passionate and engaged students. These students
The STS community puts our mission to “live a life of purpose” into action. Students have the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom, explore the world and gain an understanding of other cultures and our natural environment, and are inspired by their community every day. Reinforcing the value of giving to others, in 2013-2014, STS students raised funds for: The Terry Fox Foundation, Project Somos, The Lantern Fund, The Prince Alexander Project Fund, Love of Reading Program, Pa, Burkina Faso, Africa, and Immigrant Services.
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
made and sold a variety of craft items to raise funds to build a community center in Pa, Burkina Faso, West Africa, the philanthropy project initiated by parents and students of the Class of 2020, helping bring the total raised for Pa to over $26,000. • HOP Grades 4, 5 and 6 members helped prepare and serve dinner to patrons during three visits to the Drop-In Centre.
STUDENT LIFE • Elementary HOP students were honoured with a hand-made shaker box inscribed with the word “Remember” by a member of the public who was touched by the students’ efforts to name the children buried without names at the former Dunbow Road Residential School. The special STS naming effort was shared in the successful documentary, ‘Little Moccasins.’
• During spring break, 10 students and
• In recognition of National Bully
two teachers travelled to Guatemala
Awareness Week, the entire student
Square students learned of,
for the annual Global Service trip
body took a stand against bullying.
discussed and adopted ‘The Lantern
where they were involved in several
The intention of the week of events
Fund’, to support teacher training
humanitarian and environmental
was to empower all members of
in Afghanistan. Throughout the
endeavors, including building a
the STS community to play a role
year, students raised $1,000, enough
fence and the foundation for a
in building and reinforcing positive
to educate a female teacher, with
new library at the Project Somos
relationships and prevent bullying.
fundraising and fun activities.
Children’s Village.
• About 30 Middle School Round
• Round Square students were regular
• The entire STS community
• STS has been one of the top fundraisers in the province for The
volunteers at the Interfaith Food
deepened their empathy and
Terry Fox Foundation for almost 30
Bank, the Mustard Seed and Heritage
service by adopting 24 families in
years, raising over half a million
Park as well as assisting senior
need, through the Adopt-a-Family
dollars during that time. This year,
residents at Bridgeland Manor.
Christmas Campaign, many of whom
the students raised over $16,000.
• Agencies continues a decadeslong tradition in Grade 11, part of the curriculum for half the
were affected by the devastating floods in the summer of 2013. • STS students led an inaugural
• The seniors at the Kerby Centre have become part of our community; spending time with our Grades 1
year. Students work weekly
Diversity Week to underscore
and 2 students in Phys Ed class and
with physically challenged
the importance of inclusivity of
serenaded by our choirs at the 37th
children and residents of various
sexuality, faith, gender, ethnicity,
annual holiday luncheon hosted by
seniors’ facilities in the southern
colour and physical appearance
Grade 6 students.
communities of Calgary. As a result
to create a safe and caring school.
of this experience, through service
Special guest, Calgary Mayor Naheed
and leadership, they acquire and
Nenshi presented on the importance
demonstrate new skills and values.
of protecting diversity in Canada. Report to the Community 2013-2014
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STUDENT LIFE
S P E E C H , D E B AT E A N D M O D E L U N I T E D N AT I O N S Continuing the strong culture and tradition of public speaking at STS, students continue to gain confidence through presenting in front of peers, teachers and audiences at various competitions. The experiences gained by students expressing themselves publicly are some of the most valued and long-lasting of the STS legacy.
Debate • Fifty-seven students from Middle and Senior School entered at least one of six tournaments. • Three Senior School teams (of two
Speech
• At the International Independent
• More than 60 Middle and Senior School students participated in Speech tournaments throughout the fall.
the biggest speaking competition in the world, STS placed fourth out of
Tournament.
astounding fifth place in the world. • Twenty Senior School students
STS and Alberta in the National
them placed in the top two in their
Tournament in Montreal.
to the Junior National Tournament
Senior Nationals in Winnipeg in
held in Vancouver. At Junior
February.
place.
60 Speakers
53 to Provincials 7 to Nationals 1 to Worlds
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
fourth place, qualifying to represent
attended Provincials, where five of
(out of a possible six places) advance
to the finals and two placed in third
• Three Middle School teams advanced to Provincials where one team won
categories and three advanced to
Nationals, three students advanced
• STS hosted the Middle School and Senior School Provincial Debate
advanced to the Provincial Speech
• STS had four Middle School students
Vancouver.
students qualified to attend World’s
• Thirty-three Middle School students
three medals.
in the prestigious Oxford Cup in
52 schools. One of our Senior School in Lithuania, where they placed an
Tournament, where STS won 18 top
18
School Public Speaking Competition,
students each) qualified to compete
• Eleven Senior School teams competed in the Provincial Debate tournament.
57 Debaters
14 teams to Provincials
1 team to Nationals
STUDENT LIFE
Model United Nations • This year the Model United Nations
• In March, 2014, 28 STS MUN delegates
(MUN) program attracted over 65
attended the 62nd annual Berkeley
participants planned, organized and
Senior School participants.
Model United Nations. A great deal
executed an in-house STS Model
of learning and skill development
UN for the Grade 9 class. This
• For the first time, STS attended
• As a culminating activity, MUN
occurred and our relatively
introduced Middle School students to
the Regional High School MUN in
inexperienced delegation earned five
the MUN experience and enabled the
San Francisco, in December. Our
research awards and another Best
senior students to further develop
40 member delegation represented
Delegate award.
skills necessary for success in the
themselves and the school in an exemplary fashion, and were honoured as a Best Delegation for their pre-conference preparation and committee performance and earned three Best Delegate awards for their committee work.
65
MUN Participants
MUN environment and provided them with a valuable, experiential learning Best delegation,
opportunity.
research and best delegate awards
Report to the Community 2013-2014
19
STUDENT LIFE
O U T D O O R E D U C AT I O N
39 1,420 311 33 254
OE trips student field days
instructor field days
faculty student leadership days
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
An integral part of an STS education, Outdoor Education (OE) involves students in outdoor experiences with class camping trips beginning in Grade 4. Learning extends outside the classroom as students through Grade 9 partake in annual outdoor trips to hike, camp, canoe, backpack and cross-country ski as part of their Physical Education curriculum. In Grade 10, OE is a popular and valued option chosen by many students.
STUDENT LIFE
• Every OE trip has three intended goals: outdoor skill development, life skill development and curriculumrelated outcomes. • This year, STS received the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) accreditation. At the time of the accreditation, we were the only school OE program in Canada to receive this highest standard of excellence in the management and delivery of OE programs. • All staff involved in the OE program commit to three training sessions per year. Training is intended to strengthen the individual capabilities of teacher leaders, as well as build relationships with land managers, better understand trip plans and ensure the utmost safety for everyone involved. This year, the fall training entailed reconnaissance and maintenance of flooded areas to understand
identify recommendations and
time spent with faculty on trips as
operating guidelines and safety for
they establish relationships and
all OE trips and plans.
personal connections with teachers
• OE results in endless positive gains
changes required to continue safe
for students, translating into lifelong
trips, the winter training involved
enjoyment of activity and a healthy
avalanche training, and in the
lifestyle, and skills, aptitude and
spring teachers undertook canoe certification. • Annually, incident reporting and proactive debriefing are used to
• Students also benefit from extended
follow-up to continuously upgrade
confidence in leadership, self-
which translates to the classroom. In many cases, curriculum content is integrated into OE trips with leadership by faculty who are subject specialists.
care, navigation, risk management, decision-making, conflict resolution and communication.
Report to the Community 2013-2014
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STUDENT LIFE
F I N E A N D P E R F O R M I N G A RT S
Fine and performing arts continue to enrich school life at STS and provide students in Grades 1 to 12 with the opportunity to develop and express their creative talents in the areas of music, art, drama, choir and band – many of which have culminating performances and shows to showcase student talent and deep skills development.
• Audiences were impressed by the talent of over 60 actors, singers, dancers, musicians and technicians, who came together for six performances of the musical production of Shrek the Musical. STS was the first school in Canada to secure the rights to perform this fun-filled, large-scale production. • May saw the premiere of an annual Middle School Play, The Suessification of a Midsummer Night’s Dream, featuring the talents of over 50 students. • The drama department entered a one-act play into the Zone 5 West Drama Festival at Springbank Composite High School, claiming two of the five acting awards. • Choirs performed at school concerts and participated in Choralfest where the intermediate and junior choirs received two golds each. All five choirs, comprised of Grades 1 through 12 students, have seen an increase in participation with STS choristers numbering close to 190 strong.
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
STUDENT LIFE
• Bands performed at school concerts in the
110
Alberta Band Festival, where the Grade 7 band received two excellent ratings, the Grade 8 band one superior and one excellent and the Grade 9 band received two superior ratings and won a gold award.
actors and crew • Our 20th Annual Spring Art Show, with well over 200 pieces of artwork, was on display in April, and featured for the first time,
190
amazing 3D “Steam-Punk” creations along with a variety of 2D work. • Elementary students worked together in their grades to create professionally-
their paintings made them feel to personal
inspired paintings and Art 20 students
critiques and reflections.
singers
combined their creative talents to produce three nature-themed signs for a cottage
• Many students will reflect on the Senior
retreat. All of these were auctioned at the
Band’s trip to Russia at spring break as
annual Black Watch event aimed at raising
the trip of a lifetime. The band performed
funds for the outdoor forest learning centre,
at elite music schools in Moscow and St.
Aspen Lodge.
Petersburg, interacting with local students, and attended a master class with a Russian
• Grade 6 Art Club students designed, built,
conductor.
pieces of art
decorated and displayed skateboards. This venture included staff members and older
• Students initiated a Middle School a capella
students working as mentors for diligent
group that entertained throughout the
Elementary students.
year and raised money for the Lantern Fund with sing-a-grams during Valentine’s
• Grade 1s celebrated the culmination
200+
Day, performed a flash mob to Journey’s
of their PYP Inquiry, How We Express
“Don’t Stop Believing” in the Middle
Ourselves, with the 2nd annual Grade 1
School assembly and topped off the year
Art Gallery. The students invited many
with a performance at the Middle School
guests to their show, where they expertly
celebration.
140 band students
answered an abundance of questions from how they created their colours and how
Report to the Community 2013-2014
23
STUDENT LIFE
AT H L E T I C S
The STS Spartan Athletic Program continues to thrive. Nearly all of our students participate in some athletic endeavor during their school years at STS. Further, we are often commended for the character and sportsmanship attitudes and behaviours exhibited by our athletes. The Spartan Athletic Program helps to develop our strong sense of school community, while at the same time, showcasing our teams and facilities as we host a number of yearly events and competitions.
70% 24
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
of Senior School students are involved in athletics, often leading to Provincial experience.
STUDENT LIFE
• Cross-Country Running: STS hosted a Foothills Meet for Grades 4 to 6 for the first time. Middle School placed first at Divisionals and Zones. Senior School also placed first at Divisionals and Zones, where two runners placed first and 19 qualified for Provincials. There, the School came first for the fourth consecutive time. • Volleyball: We hosted numerous tournaments and achieved four first place standings in the league. The School won three first place standings at Zones and the Senior
a student received a prestigious sportsmanship award. • Basketball: The school hosted several tournaments. Two teams
• Track and Field: Middle School saw 22 first place finishes and was the second school overall at Divisionals
and placed first. The Junior Varsity
then placed fourth at Zones. Senior
Girls placed third at Zones.
School saw 35 students qualifying
• Badminton: STS hosted Middle School Zones for the first time. At Divisionals, STS received two second and two third place standings. • Field Hockey: Both the Junior
Provincials.
hosted and attended tournaments
placed third at Provincials and
Zones.
Junior Varsity boys hosted Zones
Varsity and Senior Varsity teams
in Zones. Both boys and girls teams
tournaments and placed second at
placed second in their leagues.The
Varsity girls won second place at
• Golf: The boys team finished first
• Rugby: The team played in several
for Zones, earning seven first place finishes and second school overall, and second place at Provincials with 12 students competing in 16 events. • Many students are actively involved in athletics in roles such as assistant coaches, officials, race marshals, timekeepers, statisticians,
and had successful seasons with
managers, scorekeepers, and as
two bronze medals.
members of planning committees for intramural activities, ceremonies, assemblies, and banquets.
Report to the Community 2013-2014
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H E A LT H , S A F E T Y A N D T H E E N V I RO N M E N T
H E A LT H , S A F E T Y A N D THE ENVIRONMENT
H E A LT H A N D S A F E T Y The health and safety of our students is of utmost importance. STS undertakes extensive processes and management including training, inspection and assessments to ensure the highest standards of health and safety at the School. 26
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
• STS met the extensive and rigorous criteria required to receive full accreditation towards the Certificate of Recognition (COR) for the next three years, “based on the full scope” inspection and awarded for “improvement of an already strong health and safety management system.” The certification reinforces STS’ commitment to exceeding
industry health and safety standards. • The Health and Safety Committee meets every two months to discuss health and safety concerns, review incident reports, and make health and safety recommendations. They also receive concerns and investigate, make recommendations to Head of School regarding
H E A LT H , S A F E T Y A N D T H E E N V I RO N M E N T
improvements and training required,
further training, including:
regularly check to ensure employees
review statistics and policies
emergency operations centre
are working safely,’ ‘positive
and participate in workplace
orientation, formal inspection
reinforcement is provided for
inspections. The School undertakes
training, hazard assessment
working safely’ and ‘safety, health
regular, proactive inspection of
training, health and safety
and security issues are addressed
facilities, equipment and vehicles
orientation, facility site specific
appropriately.’
to address needs and corrections in
training and anaphylactic training.
advance of problems. • Training is a key component to STS
• STS employees conduct health and
• Over the summer, the parking system was rearranged to increase
safety inspections on a monthly
space for all drivers, improve the
health and safety standards. All
basis of both the facility and
overall flow, and therefore safety, of
employees annually participate
campus grounds. Last year there
traffic, and improve the emergency
in emergency response training,
were at least 100 such inspections
evacuation procedure. There was
incident reporting and an annual
to identify existing and potential
a net increase of about 50 parking
health and safety review. Over
hazards, assess their risk, prioritize
stalls while retaining a bus pick-up
80 percent of our faculty and staff
the hazard and determine action in
and drop-off area.
are certified in first aid and CPR
a timely, proactive fashion. There
training. Many employees undertook
were 13 full-school drills to ensure everyone is prepared in the case of an emergency.
“STS is committed
• STS’ safety record is better than the
to providing a
industry average of independent
safe and healthy
schools in Alberta and thereby
learning and work
ranked at the second lowest rate of risk as determined by the Workers’
• The Fine Arts area was reroofed in an ongoing effort to protect the building from water infiltration. • The reverse osmosis system was overhauled and redesigned to provide a better tasting water source, resulting in more students drinking water in their refillable bottles.
environment. It
Compensation Board (WCB) of
is an essential and
Alberta. This is due to low lost time
• Over the summer, additional lockers
claims and high safety performance,
were installed to provide sufficient
translating to lower WCB premiums.
space and storage to meet our
integral part of all school activities.” STS Health and Safety Commitment*
• The annual employee safety survey reinforced continuous
increasing enrollment level. • The Black Watch Bistro added
improvement and high ratings from
gluten-free product offerings
faculty and staff concerning the
to address the health needs of
safety of the school, most notably
customers.
in the categories of ‘supervisors *Complete Health and Safety Commitment can be found at sts.ab.ca/explore/policies Report to the Community 2013-2014
27
H E A LT H , S A F E T Y A N D T H E E N V I RO N M E N T
E N V I R O N M E N TA L S T E WA R D S H I P
Protecting the beautiful and diverse environment around us is a priority at STS. We believe in order to make an authentic, broad and enduring impact, every member of our community can and must play a role in environmental stewardship. Demonstrating this philosophy, STS students take initiative, implement creative solutions and become ambassadors of many environmental initiatives on our campus.
Some examples of environmentally-focused projects and initiatives taking place at STS in the past year include: • Aspen Lodge, the outdoor forest learning centre, was designed and built to complement its natural environment with environmental features including reclaimed wood, low impact products and a green roof. • In Grade 9, students sampled and tested the pond water to measure and track the impact of our activity on it, which they discovered was minimal. • Biology 30 and Grade 9 students undertook plant sampling to ascertain the biodiversity of our country campus.
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
H E A LT H , S A F E T Y A N D T H E E N V I RO N M E N T
• 2014 saw the addition of a new east trail along the upper fence line, called Ridgeline Trail, which extended the outdoor graded running trails to seven kilometres. • Environment Week was spearheaded by students
“STS is committed to incorporating environmentally responsible practices in all aspects of our campus and community operations.” STS Environment Policy*
with events organized each day of the week focused on an improvement to the School’s environment including reducing gas consumption, paper usage, electricity, water and waste (‘litterless lunch’). • The School upgraded and fine-tuned the Building Management System to maximize energy efficiency and comfort. • During the service trip to Guatemala at an ecosustainable village, STS students helped build part of a library using earth bag construction and insulation created from reused plastic bottles and waste. • In Outdoor Education 15, students received ‘Leave No Trace’ certification, widely recognized and used around the world to minimize the impact of outdoor activities on the environment. Students learned how to leave places the way they were found, or better, to ensure everyone can enjoy the same experiences after they leave. • Grade 7 students studied the diverse plants and flowers around our beautiful country campus to identify the native and invasive species around the school and understand the uniqueness of their learning environment.
*Complete STS Environment Policy can be found at sts.ab.ca/explore/policies
Report to the Community 2013-2014
29
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
Parents and alumni continue to elevate the learning opportunities for STS students with their generous annual donations. Like all our sister CAIS schools, annual giving, major gifts and periodic planned gifts provide essential ‘non-budgeted’ funds that enhance the student experience in all programs. This year’s annual giving was particularly visible and successful, resulting in a greater number of parents donating than ever before, and raising $526,000 in annual giving for our School’s priorities.
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
$526,000 Funds raised, exceeding our $500,000 goal.
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
A DVA N C E M E N T R E P O RT
Program Enrichment - $22,000 Flagship programs like Speech, Debate, Model United Nations, Athletics, Fine
Thanks to our community of donors, our
to elevate classroom discussion, mentor
and Performing Arts and Outdoor
students will benefit from the following
peers and lead within our school
Education (OE) invested designated gifts
donations:
community. Additionally, a new cohort
in equipment for rugby and other sports,
of Forever Woods Scholars received
wireless microphones for performances
these highly acclaimed and competitive
and a new bass amplifier. In the spirit
scholarships.
of ‘paying it forward’, our OE program
Aspen Lodge - $340,000 Two years of fundraising and a hugely successful Black Watch 2014 ‘Inside Out’ raised all remaining funds necessary to
Teaching Excellence - $21,000
purchased new camping stoves with donors’ gifts and then turned around and
build our forest learning centre. This
Donors love recognising our hard working
gave the old ‘gently used’ OE stoves to a
unique outdoor classroom, nestled in the
faculty and show their appreciation with
local school in Okotoks.
aspen grove to the south of the science
their generosity. The coaching fund
wing, will bring learning outdoors and the
augmented professional development
outdoors into the classroom. Students
for our faculty athletic coaches through
We are grateful to our community of
love learning in authentic ways and our
various coaching clinics and conferences.
donors who give the Head of School the
faculty will leverage Aspen Lodge to
Dr. Dale Lonis was last year’s Artist-
discretion to invest gifts to support the
enhance experiential learning on our
in-Residence. His broad expertise was
greatest priority or emerging needs. The
unique country campus.
shared with band students and rugby
Head of School designated these funds in
athletes, and faculty during an intense
projects mentioned above and retains the
Professional Day (PD) focused on the fine
balance for long term priorities aligned
It cannot be overstated how much STS
and performing arts. Gallileo Educational
with the strategic plan.
appreciates the volunteer efforts of our
network augmented valuable PD for
POSTS Black Watch volunteers. This
Elementary faculty to bring about visible,
Thank you to our community of donors
year’s ‘Inside Out’ fundraiser was a
authentic learning through inquiry on our
whose generosity improved the learning
smashing success, raising $145,000 in
rural campus.
of students.
Black Watch - $145,000
Head’s Initiatives - $117,000
support of Aspen Lodge. Scholarships and Bursaries - $52,000 Several more students are benefiting from a Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School experience thanks to help from financial assistance totalling $213,175. These students contribute in countless ways
Report to the Community 2013-2014
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A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
GIFT ANNOUNCEMENTS G OV E R N O R S S U P P O RT T H E F U T U R E . remains at the forefront of education – here in Calgary and across Canada. They have attended to issues concerning fiscal management, governance and the strategic plan. They have given countless hours envisioning where STS has to be in 10, 15, 50 years time, and have guided management to advance the vision. Another important common thread for these three families is that they each have a child in the Class of 2015, so even though they may not have children in the school to directly benefit from planned enhancements to facilities, they are still donating so other students can benefit. (From left to right) Amar ‘09, Asheet, Shiv ‘15, Sonal and Anshul ‘06 Ruparell
What are parents of our Class of 2015 graduates thinking about? The end of an STS era, University destinations, empty nesting? Not so fast. For several graduating parents who have worked strategically to prepare STS for a strong future, they are thinking about the quality of education, the dedicated faculty and the STS community that has supported their family along their journey through STS. These families have partnered with the school over many years in the education and personal development of their children. They have also served tirelessly on the Board of Governors to ensure STS
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
We say a big thank you to these families as they add their philanthropic support to our bright future.
$750,000 Committed by three Governors as legacy gifts to reflect their children’s experiences and success at STS.
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
Ruparell Family For many within the STS family, the Ruparell name is a mainstay at STS. Eleven members of the Ruparell family have called STS home. Vinay ‘80, Asheet and Jaymal and their wives have generously volunteered their time in support of STS over many years to improve the student experience. Currently, Asheet and Sonal’s son, Shiv ’15, and Vinay and Bhavini’s daughters, Asha ’15 and Jyoti ’18, attend and excel at STS. Asheet has lent his expertise to the Board and its Campus Rejuvenation Committee (CRC). The CRC goal is to guide campus master planning to address facilities that no longer serve our growing programs and to redesign traditional classrooms to align with teaching best practice. Evolving changes in educational practice and improved knowledge of how students learn best impacts the physical layout of optimal learning spaces and design.
(From left to right) Bhavini, Jyoti ‘18, Asha ‘15 and Vinay ‘80 Ruparell
“Our three sons have benefited from STS over the course of 20 years, each in his own unique way. Whether academics, sports, speech and debate or the many opportunities to develop leadership,
The Ruparells have made annual gifts to
they have experienced the strong heritage of excellence and
STS over many decades and have now
citizenship at the School. Today we have a unique opportunity to
committed a major gift. Asheet, Vinay and
renew the generosity and effort to ensure the School continues to
their families have generously pledged
build on this heritage for generations to come.”
to ensure the campus continues to keep pace with the exceptional learning that takes place here at STS. The family has
Asheet and Sonal Ruparell, parents of Anshul ‘06, Amar ‘09 and Shiv ‘15
earmarked additional funds for future donations to scholarships and bursaries.
Report to the Community 2013-2014
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A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
Jackson Family Mike and Sally Jackson chose STS for their three children because of the high academic standards, the breadth of the programs, and the opportunities offered to help build character and leadership traits. Sally and Mike volunteer at STS. Mike has served on the Board of Governors and several Committees since 2004, including as Chair of the Board 2008-2012. Mike and Sally believe the School is delivering on our mission of developing students with the academic knowledge, desire for continuous learning, and character to take the next step in their journey towards successful, happy lives. The Jacksons have made STS a philanthropic priority for many years, contributing to all our School’s annual giving appeals and Black Watch events and leaving STS a planned gift in their estate to support scholarships.
(From left to right) Emily ‘08, Sarah ‘11, Ben ‘15, Mike and Sally Jackson
“To us, it is very evident what a good learning and nurturing environment STS provides to students. To a considerable degree the benefit of STS for
They appreciate that the generosity
our children became more evident after they graduated and moved on to
of donors over the years provided the
university and into adulthood. We believe the most important factor for STS
facilities, high quality teachers and
is the teachers. The knowledge, effort and caring for each student makes
programs that has benefited Mike and
STS a great school. It is vital that the School’s facilities enable teachers to
Sally’s three children. They know that
use best practices and that students have an environment that promotes
as teaching methods evolve so must the
learning. We think it is imperative to help STS at this pivotal time.”
school facilities to support the teachers’ efforts, and for that Mike and Sally have made a $250,000 pledge in support of campus rejuvenation.
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
Mike and Sally Jackson, parents of Emily ’08, Sarah ’11 and Ben ’15
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
Farran/McKenzie Family David Farran and Margaret McKenzie are entrepreneurial in their thinking and actions. They wanted a similar environment for their children’s school. Both have volunteered with the Board and POSTS respectively. Like several other Grade 12 families, their last child is graduating in June, but that hasn’t deterred them from stepping up and making a significant investment to achieve a future vision for STS. They believe in Dr. Jones and the deep-rooted traditions that have made STS great. Yet they acknowledge that STS
(From left to right) David, Leigh ‘12, Tom ‘15 Farran and Margaret McKenzie
must continue to strive for
“Even after a decade at STS, we are still amazed by the beautiful campus and delighted by
improvement. Their generous
the dedicated teachers. The STS community provides a foundation for academic success,
major gift has reinforced our
humanitarian and civic engagement and opportunities to participate in a wide range of
vision.
athletic and artistic activities. Students graduate from STS with the confidence to succeed and the humbleness to lead. It is now our turn to ‘pay it forward’ so that this vibrant community can continue to reinvest in future generations. Please join us in giving to STS.” David Farran and Margaret McKenzie, parents of Leigh ’12 and Tom ’15
These families’ collective generosity is an anchor gift from this year’s graduating parents to inspire others to help leave STS in a better place for the future. Report to the Community 2013-2014
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A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
S T S A L U M N I R E L AT I O N S Alumni play an integral role at STS. They serve as mentors for students, speakers at events, judges for Speech Day and donors to, among other things, scholarships, bursaries and Outdoor Education. The STS Alumni Association welcomes volunteer engagement and responds to the growing demand to keep alumni, parents of alumni and former faculty and staff involved in the fabric of the STS community and life of the School.
Our alumni with children currently attending STS.
Highlights from this year include: Alumni Engagement
• The 8th Annual Calgary Alumni Dinner celebrated Richard Lindseth ’73 as the 2014 Distinguished Alumni
• Homecoming 2013 in September
Award recipient. Over 225 alumni
welcomed 180 alumni back to
and guests were in attendance; the
campus and 130 alumni to reunion
highest participation to date.
class parties. • Two additional Nil Nisi Optimum
• Twenty-four alumni were engaged through the Mentoring and
Notable Alumni, Dr. Jay Cross ‘80
Networking Program to inspire
and Ryan Harris ‘90, were honoured
and guide our students to pursue
for their service to the community
various career choices.
and living the mission of STS.
of alumni in 2013-2014. These multi-generational families reflect a special, deep rooted community. Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
• Alumni gave a total of $52,200 to 2013-2014 Annual Giving. • The graduating Class of 2014 raised $24,700 to establish their class bursary fund, which will bring talented students to our School. Communication • A brand new alumni website was launched – including a job board,
• Sixty-six students (11 percent of the student population) were children
36
Annual Giving
alumni directory and online STS merchandise store.
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
1,100 180 225 66
alumni were engaged through 20 alumni events. alumni volunteered as committee volunteers, speakers, mentors and judges. alumni and guests attended the Alumni Dinner.
students were children of alumni.
STS Alumni Association Executive:
The STS Alumni Association is committed to protect STS core values, traditions and history, while building and strengthening relationships and encouraging engagement with and support of the School. 2014 Distinguished Alumnus, Richard Lindseth ‘73 (middle), with family friend Emperatriz Ellis and his father, Roy Lindseth
• The newly digitized Paidia yearbook collection was added on the STS alumni web portal. To search Paidia online go to sts.ab.ca/ alumni • Five e-newsletters sent during the year, ensured that alumni, former faculty and staff and parents of alumni remain engaged in life at the School and feel a part of our deep-rooted community. • The 2014 Optimum magazine featured several alumni stories, profiling their impressive and diverse contributions, and
Alumni Executive 2013-2014:
Pam Heard ’73, President Paul Storwick ’78, Vice President Jack Schneider ’90, Past President Brigid Stewart, former faculty Dana Lougheed ’90 Latif Jamani ’01 Geoff Evamy-Hill ’10 Mark Le Dain ‘08 Ian Graham ‘93 Linnea Turnquist ‘87 STS Alumni Association Subcommittees:
demonstrating our mission to develop well-balanced students for a
• Annual Events Committee
life of purpose in action.
• Homecoming Reunion Committee • Class Representatives
• Through the increasingly popular social media vehicles and the
• Nominating Committee
STS website, alumni were able to stay connected “virtually”, while
• Young Alumni Engagement Committee
having access to user-friendly online tools for event registrations
• Nil Nisi Optimum Committee
and alumni news updates. Report to the Community 2013-2014
37
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
PA R E N T S ’ O R G A N I Z AT I O N O F S T S
$145,000 33%
raised in Black Watch donations increase in School volunteers
The 2013-2014 year was a very busy and successful one as the Parents’ Organization of STS (POSTS) supported the STS community on all levels. The POSTS Executive continued their unwavering commitment to the School and to the mission of POSTS through feedback, ideas, creativity, attendance at meetings, and countless hours of volunteer service.
• Over 275 people from the school community attended POSTS’ Black Watch 2014 ‘Inside Out’ at Heritage Park’s Gasoline Alley in April, with rave reviews. The biennial event raised over $145,000 and took funding over the top towards building Aspen Lodge, the new forest learning centre. • There was a significant increase in POSTS volunteers this year, with over 160 volunteers, up 40 from the prior year. These volunteers fulfilled over 400 volunteer duties within the STS community, from sewing costumes and helping out at sporting events to organizing the Black Watch fundraiser. • The volunteer-operated Tweeds and More uniform store moved to the front of the school for easier customer access and much-needed expanded space to showcase consigned uniforms, Spartan wear and a new line of STS-branded merchandise. The Tweeds and More back-to-school process was
2014-2015 POSTS Executive Back row (left to right): Michele Kalny, Susanne Oginski, Kris MacDougall, Teresa Klotz, Sloan Pipella-Clark, Carrie Hunley, Shelley Anderson. Middle row (left to right): Kelly Choi-Vanderwerff, Tara Black, Deb Marshall Shopperly, Jennifer Cole, Nancy Davison, Angela Petryk. Front row (left to right): Cory Royal, Shellina Kherani, Angela Wolfson. Missing: Susan Evans, Shemira Lakhu, Wendy Ralph.
improved, consignment standards streamlined and the computer system updated. All changes were targeted to meet customers’ desires and improve
portal to provide important information about all
service. The proceeds from Tweeds and More were
POSTS activities to parents at sts.ab.ca/POSTS
given to the Head’s priorities at the School. 38
• POSTS launched a suite of webpages on the STS parent
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
A N N UA L G I V I N G 2 0 0 8 – 2 0 1 4 $800,000 $700,000 $600,000 $500,000
Annual Fund Total
$400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 0
2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13* 2013/14 *additional funds due to $225K bequest
D O N O R D E S I G N AT I O N O F A N N UA L G I V I N G
Head’s Initiatives (greatest need): $122,784 (23%) Teaching Excellence: $21,390 (4.1%) Forest Learning Centre: $282,425 (53.9%) Scholarships and Bursaries: $52,000 (9.9%) Other: $47,807 (9.1%) (MUN, OE, Athletics, Speech, Fine & Performing Arts) 2013-2014 TOTAL RAISED: $526,406
Report to the Community 2013-2014
39
A DVA N C E M E N T A N D C O M M U N I T Y R E L AT I O N S
PLANNED GIFTS STS is grateful to the following donors who have supported the School through a planned gift (future and realized). The vision these donors bring to our School will benefit future generations of STS students. Anonymous (2) William Atkinson* Gregory Borm ‘81 Courtland “Tubby” Chapman* Donald ‘47 and Shirley Ann Cross Brock Dundas* Anne Evamy Jason ‘03 and Vivien Fong Graham Gilley ‘82 Pam Heard ‘73 Bonnie Hewson Stephanie Jackman ‘90 Mike and Sally Jackson Matthew Klinkenborg and Rosanne Yaskowich Richard Lindseth ‘73 Bruce McFarlane and Janice Heard ‘75 Frank McKay* Alexander Purdy ‘02 Jack Schneider ‘90 * Indicates
donors who are deceased and whose gifts have been realized.
40
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
“STS gave me incredible opportunities that I would not have received anywhere else. It prepared me for the challenges ahead and gave me the tools I needed to be successful, academically and professionally. More importantly, it taught me that success is not measured only on personal achievements, but also on how you enrich the lives of others around you. It is with that spirit in mind that I have made a planned gift to STS so that future students will have the same opportunities.” Jason Fong ‘03
F I N A N C E R E P O RT
F I N A N C E R E P O RT Revenue
Expenses
The primary revenue source for the School is tuition revenue
The primary expenses for the School are salaries and benefits,
of $12.2 million and other mandatory student fees of $675,000.
representing 62 percent of our total expenses followed by
Alberta Education provides the School with $3.03 million.
busing (7 percent), asset amortization (7 percent), plant (5.4
Contribution from the STS Foundation includes funds received
percent), and academic program costs (5.1 percent). During
for scholarships, bursaries and awards.
this year, $468,000 was awarded for scholarships, bursaries and other student assistance.
Tuition and mandatory student fees
Salaries and benefits
Government grants
Administration and advancement
Busing fees
Busing
Amortization of deferred contribution
Academic
Donations
Buildings, grounds and maintenance
Miscellaneous Scholarships, bursaries and awards
Scholarships and financial aid
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School is incorporated under the Societies Act of the Province of Alberta and is a registered Canadian charitable organization in accordance with the Income Tax Act.
44
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
F I N A N C E R E P O RT
Statement of Financial Position as at August 31, 2014 Assets
2014 $
Statement of Revenue and Expenses for the year ended August 31, 2014 2013 $
Revenue Tuition fees
Current assets Cash
2014 $
2013 $
12,213,749
12,053,719
3,653,517
3,469,024
Government grants
3,037,854
3,605,845
Accounts receivable
793,227
578,376
Busing fees
1,226,492
1,373,224
Prepaid expenses
411,753
426,160
Membership fees
381,500
413,000
Inventory
113,961
72,975
Amortization of deferred contribution
323,022
292,999
Student equipment rental revenues
293,846
303,800
4,972,458
4,546,535
5,720,747
5,264,217
Sundry
203,910
222,142
10,693,205
9,810,752
Scholarship grants/bursaries/prizes and awards
181,105
197,354
Donations - contributions
55,168
184,709
Interest
28,967
19,052
17,945,613
18,665,844
2014 $
2013 $
11,052,655
10,648,939
Busing
1,260,114
1,225,484
1,253,970
1,206,381
Capital assets
2014 $
2013 $
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
183,113
330,418
Student enrolment bonds
47,000
54,500
7,114,771
6,751,243
Liabilities Current liabilities
Deferred revenue
Expenses Salaries and benefits
7,344,884
7,136,161
Deferred contributions
2,686,033
2,336,798
Amortization
Employee future benefits
1,908,600
1,747,800
Plant
960,208
1,120,262
11,939,517
11,220,759
Academic
903,960
1,060,765
Administration
734,112
928,789
2014 $
2013 $
Scholarship grants/bursaries/prizes and awards
467,793
514,746
3,034,714
2,927,420
Information technology
407,886
366,933
-4,281,026
-4,337,427
Advancement
391,220
315,004
Rent
350,000
348,333
-1,246,312
-1,410,007
17,781,918
17,735,636
10,693,205
9,810,752
163,695
930,208
Net assets Internally restricted net assets invested in capital assets Deficit
Excess of revenue over expenses
A copy of the complete STS audited financial statements can be obtained from the School’s Finance Office by calling 403-938-9124
Report to the Community 2013-2014
45
RR 2, Okotoks, Alberta, Canada Tel: 403-938-4431 www.sts.ab.ca What’s different about Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School? Everything.