Every day in our schools, on our buses, and throughout our communities, I see the incredible ways you make a difference. I hear stories of bus drivers who greet students with a smile, making their mornings brighter and staff who go out of their way to support a child having a tough day. I see teachers fostering kindness in their classrooms and colleagues stepping up for one another in ways big and small. These moments—often quiet and unseen—are the heart of who we are at BTPS.
As we celebrate Staff Appreciation Week, Random Acts of Kindness, and Pink Shirt Day, I want to thank you for the care, compassion, and commitment you show every day. The kindness we extend to students and to one another creates a culture where everyone belongs. Our impact goes far beyond the walls of our schools, shaping lives and strengthening our communities. I am deeply grateful for each of you and the difference you make.
Be Well,
Michelle
The BTPS Board of Trustees has been actively participating in stakeholder engagement sessions to help shape the division’s next Four-Year Education Plan. These sessions provide an opportunity for students, staff, parents, and community members to share their perspectives on the future of education in BTPS.
The Board is listening to valuable feedback that will guide decision-making and ensure the division continues to support student success. Thank you to everyone who has contributed their insights—we appreciate your voice in this important process!
If you have not yet had the opportunity to join a session, we invite you to participate in the next online session on Wednesday, February 26, at 7:00 p.m. The link to join can be found on the BTPS website.
VES celebrated our success in reading and in participation in our Legion Poster and Poetry contest for Remembrance Day. We further celebrated our Accelerated Reading success with having each student who had earned their goal points ordering a book for our Learning Commons. Twelve students were awarded monetary prizes for the Legion contest with two of the local Legion Members coming to make the presentation.
Buffalo Trail Public Schools (BTPS), in partnership with Lakeland College, has been awarded $105,000 in funding through Alberta Education’s Pathways to Career Success Grant to support the Automotive Technician Dual Credit program and Career and Technology Studies (CTS) trades courses for high school students in the upcoming school year.
This funding aligns with the BTPS Education Plan by advancing two key priorities:
- Supporting Success for All Students – By providing enhanced opportunities for skill development, dual-credit programs, and career-focused learning. The program will support the Dual Credit Automotive Technician program and High School CTS offerings.
- Building Strong Collaborations – Through strategic partnerships with Lakeland College, this initiative strengthens collaboration and engagement with stakeholders.
This project will positively impact over 450 students, representing approximately 45% of BTPS’ Grade 9–12 rural student population. It provides a cost-effective and scalable model for rural education that strengthens Alberta’s skilled workforce and supports economic development.
Through innovative programming and strategic partnerships, BTPS and Lakeland College are ensuring students gain the training, support, and pathways needed for success in trades, post-secondary programs, and future careers.
QR Codes Exposed: From Convenience to Cybersecurity Nightmare
QR codes have become a go-to solution for quick access to information, from Wi-Fi logins to digital menus. But while they offer convenience, they also present significant cybersecurity risks—something all Buffalo Trail Public Schools employees should be aware of.
Cybercriminals are exploiting QR codes to direct users to malicious websites, steal credentials, or install malware. These attacks, known as “quishing” (QR phishing), can bypass traditional email security filters, making them a growing threat in school environments.
To stay safe:
✅ Verify Before Scanning – If you receive a QR code via email or an unfamiliar source, double-check with the sender before scanning.
✅ Use a Trusted Scanner – Some mobile security apps can detect and block malicious QR codes.
✅ Watch for Red Flags – Be wary of QR codes that prompt unexpected login requests or downloads.
As technology evolves, so do cyber threats. Stay vigilant and help keep our school networks secure!
February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black Canadians. This year’s theme, "Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build," encourages us to reflect on the rich history and lasting impact of Black communities while looking ahead to a future of equity, inclusion, and opportunity.
At BTPS, we recognize the importance of learning from the past and embracing the stories that shape our collective future. We invite our students and staff to engage in meaningful conversations, explore diverse perspectives, and honour the legacy of Black excellence in Canada and beyond.
To support learning in Alberta schools, educators and students can explore valuable resources, including:
- Government of Canada: Black History Month – Learn more about Black History Month in Canada, key historical figures, events, and ways to celebrate.
- Black History Month Teaching Resources – A guide from the Alberta Teachers' Association with articles, videos, and learning materials about Black history in Canada.
Buffalo Trail Public Schools is proud to celebrate Freedom to Read Week from February 23–March 1, 2025!
Freedom to Read Week is an annual event that encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom. Reading is a powerful way to expand our understanding of the world, and this week reminds us of the importance of intellectual freedom in our schools and communities. Whether it’s a favourite classic, a new discovery, or a thought-provoking read, we encourage students and staff to explore the joy of reading freely.
Join the movement by reading freely, sharing your favourite books, and promoting the right to read! Learn more at freedomtoread.ca.
On February 26, 2025, Buffalo Trail Public Schools is proud to support Pink Shirt Day—a movement dedicated to promoting kindness, respect, and inclusion. This year's theme, "Let Kindness Grow," highlights how small acts of kindness can create a more welcoming and supportive environment within our schools and communities.
By wearing pink, we demonstrate our commitment to creating a supportive environment where every student feels valued. Let's cultivate empathy and compassion, working together to build a world free from bullying.
Join us in this important initiative and learn more at pinkshirtday.ca.
Support & Resources
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available:
Call: Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868
Text: 686868 to connect with Kids Help Phone
Together, we can make a difference. 💕
Strong Minds Strong Kids, Psychology Canada
Spring 2025 - Free Open Call Sessions
For more information, please visit strongmindsstrongkids.org
