BTPS Newsletter

As graduation season unfolds across Buffalo Trail Public Schools, we are reminded of the power and purpose of our collective work. Watching students cross the stage is more than a single moment, it’s the culmination of years of learning, growth, and support. From students’ first steps into kindergarten to the confident strides they take as graduates, every staff member plays a vital role in that journey. Whether in classrooms, offices, hallways, buses, learning commons, or playgrounds, your impact is lasting and deeply appreciated.

Our mission in BTPS is to be “committed to maximizing student learning in a safe and caring environment supported by a highly effective team.” Graduation is a shining example of that mission in action. It’s a celebration of not just academic achievement, but of relationships built, challenges overcome, and futures unfolded. Every diploma handed out reflects the dedication of our entire team: teachers, support staff, administrators, bus drivers, central office personnel, and the partnerships we have with various groups. It truly takes all of us working together to empower students to reach this milestone.

One of my favourite quotes is by Rita Pierson: "Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them." Each of you has been that champion in your own way, helping students navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and grow into the individuals they are today. Thank you for the influence you’ve had on every BTPS student graduating this year. I encourage you to take time to enjoy these celebrations, they are as much yours as they are the students’. Graduation is a time of pride, joy, and hope, and it is because of your dedication, care, and unwavering belief in our students that they have reached this incredible milestone.

The BTPS Board of Trustees plays an active role in advocating for the needs of our students, staff, and school communities. Their efforts focus on key priorities such as hiring and retention, aging facilities, and wellness.

🌟 Check out the Board Advocacy page to learn more about how the Board is working to support public education in our division.

During Mannville School’s Celebration of Learning evening in May, Mannville students Cori Lynn and Sara added a special touch by creating handmade pins for our Trustees and Superintendent!

At Provost Public School, the past few weeks have been filled with energy, creativity, and connection as students and staff came together to celebrate learning and belonging in a variety of meaningful ways.

Last week, our halls were alive with imagination during Drama Week, as students and teachers poured their time and talent into preparing for our school performance of Alice in Wonderland. The Drama club hosted two evening performances. One evening also consisted of a dessert theatre with our performers in character. It was exciting to see a celebration of Arts in our building and the community it created.

As part of our ongoing commitment to fostering a strong sense of belonging,Treat Tuesdays and school-wide celebrations continue to foster a sense of school community.

Our May assembly centred around the theme of perseverance, a fitting focus as we near the final stretch of the school year. Students were nominated by staff members for demonstrating perseverance in a variety of ways and awards were presented by our graduating class. This gesture served as a beautiful symbol of the relationships we are working to build across the grades.

To further celebrate perseverance, students took part in a cross-grade “Minute to Win It” obstacle course where they collaborated to complete quick challenges and work together on a final group puzzle. Laughter, encouragement, and determination were definitely present.

Cross grade learning experiences have also taken place through collaborative projects including: Collaborative writing projects between English 20 and our 3/4 combined class, Bunny Projects and Monster Stuffies between our grade 9 and 1 classes, and Poetry Exchange between grade 8 and Kindergarten. These learning partnerships have fostered relationships and leadership.

Our Student Leadership Advisory Council has also been actively involved in creating school spirit, organizing events like Jersey Day and working hard behind the scenes to prepare for our very first Colour Run, which will take place in June.

What’s Been Happening at Kitscoty Elementary School

The past couple of months have been buzzing with activity at Kitscoty Elementary, and we’re excited to share some of the highlights!

Grades 1, 2, and 4 had the opportunity to attend Ag Days in Lloydminster, where they explored the world of agriculture through fun and educational exhibits. It was a fantastic hands-on experience that helped our students learn about the importance of farming in our community.

Our Drama Club wowed audiences with a delightful performance of Jack and the Beanstalk. The students worked hard in rehearsals, and their efforts paid off with a show full of charm, creativity, and laughter. Congratulations to all the young actors and dedicated staff for putting on such a memorable production!

During Education Week, we celebrated learning and community with a variety of special events. Students enjoyed Lunch from the Past, where they shared a meal with last year’s teachers, reconnecting and reminiscing. We also had Juice and Cookie Day, Hats on for Mental Health to raise awareness for student well-being, Drop Everything and Read to foster a love for reading, and a Community Cleanup to help keep our village beautiful!

A special highlight was a visit from the Alberta Musical Theatre Company, who treated us to a magical performance of Rapunzel. The students were captivated by the live storytelling, music, and costumes! We were also thrilled to return to the Klondike Relays—our first time participating since 2019! Students travelled to the Butterdome in Edmonton and showcased great sportsmanship, teamwork, and enthusiasm.

Thank you to all our staff, students, and families for making Kitscoty Elementary such a vibrant and supportive place to grow and learn!

As part of a one-time memorial initiative, the Cadet Kevin Audet Fitness and Academic Scholarships were awarded this spring to two students within Buffalo Trail Public Schools. This unique scholarship, developed by local RCMP members in partnership with community sponsors, honours the legacy of Cadet Kevin Audet by recognizing excellence in both physical fitness and academics.

After a competitive application and evaluation process, Cooper Saville from Marwayne Jubilee School received the fitness award following a police fitness assessment, while Sarah Leighton from Kitscoty Jr/Sr High School received the academic award based on overall academic performance. The initiative demonstrated strong community collaboration and celebrated student achievement across our division.

Congratulations to Our April Wellness Draw Winner!
A big shoutout to Ashley Doetzel, winner of the April Wellness Survey draw! Thank you to everyone who participated, your feedback is helping shape a wellness program that reflects and supports our staff’s needs.

As part of our Mindful May series, this week’s Motivation Monday shines a light on the power of gratitude, a simple yet impactful practice that can help lower stress, boost emotional resilience, and cultivate a more positive mindset.

This week’s resource features five easy ways to weave gratitude into your daily routine, along with a short video that shows how even the smallest moments of appreciation can make a big difference in your mental well-being. 🌟 Take a moment to check out the gratitude strategies and video, it’s a small step that can lead to a brighter day.

☀️ Coming Soon: Jump Into Summer
As we get ready to wrap up the school year, we’re adding a little extra fun to our wellness journey. Watch for our Jump Into Summer Wellness Challenge launching June 2. Each Motivation Monday will bring light-hearted, movement-based activities designed to boost energy, spark joy, and add a touch of playfulness to your week.

We’re keeping the momentum going from Mindful May and shifting our focus to creativity, nostalgia, and connection through movement. Because sometimes, the best way to take care of ourselves is to simply play. Stay tuned!

Welcome to Our Summer Students!

We’re excited to welcome our summer students to Buffalo Trail Public Schools! Please join us in saying hello to Eastyn Mannix, Ally Grunow, Ava Herbert, and Kirby Steele. If you see them around the division, be sure to give them a warm BTPS welcome!

As we look ahead to June, Buffalo Trail Public Schools is proud to recognize National Indigenous History Month, a time dedicated to honouring the history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples in Canada.

This month offers an important opportunity to reflect, learn, and celebrate the contributions of Indigenous communities past and present. At BTPS, we remain committed to truth and reconciliation and to creating inclusive spaces where Indigenous voices and perspectives are valued.

Stay tuned throughout June as we share resources and activities that support learning and celebration across our schools.