BTPS Buzz

We hope your family had a restful and enjoyable spring break. It’s hard to believe there are just two months left in the school year! As we move into this busy and exciting final stretch, we’re grateful for the ongoing support you provide to help our students finish the year strong, whether it’s cheering them on at events, helping with homework, or simply encouraging their love of learning.

This week marks Volunteer Appreciation Week, and we want to take a moment to recognize the incredible contributions of our volunteers. From helping in classrooms to organizing events and supporting school activities, your time and commitment truly make a difference. BTPS and our schools are stronger, more connected, and more vibrant because of the many ways you choose to get involved.

One of the most meaningful ways parents and guardians support our schools is through participation on school councils. These volunteer roles are vital in fostering communication and collaboration between home and school. Recently, our Board hosted a Council of School Councils engagement session, where school council chairs and representatives from across BTPS came together to share insights, ask questions, and learn from one another. It was a valuable and successful evening, and we’re so thankful for the leadership and voices of our parent community.

Thank you for being such an important part of the Buffalo Trail Public Schools community. Together, we are creating supportive, inspiring environments where students can thrive both in school and beyond.

Be well,

Michelle Webb

Superintendent

The BTPS Board of Trustees continues to advocate for the needs of our students, staff, and school communities, with a focus on 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.

The April 2025 Board Highlights are now posted, and all past highlights are available on our website to help you stay informed and engaged with what’s happening in BTPS.

Monthly Student Engagement with the Board of Trustees

Every month, Buffalo Trail Public Schools students join our Board meetings to connect with Trustees and share their learning, thoughts, and ideas. This monthly student engagement opportunity is one way we are bringing to life the commitments outlined in our What We Heard document, where students shared the importance of being heard, feeling valued, and contributing to their school communities.

At the April Board Meeting, students from Irma School, J.R. Robson School, and Kitscoty High School shared their experiences with Career and Technology Studies (CTS) courses, Dual Credit trades pathways and University Transfer courses offered through Lakeland College. They spoke about how these opportunities enriched their learning, opened doors to potential career paths, and provided a welcoming and practical introduction to post-secondary education. Their insights highlighted the value of meaningful, hands-on learning experiences in helping students discover and shape their future goals.

We are grateful to the students for their thoughtful contributions and to the Board for their continued commitment to listening and learning from the voices of BTPS students.

On March 31, 2025, Buffalo Trail Public Schools hosted its second Council of School Councils session of the year at JR Robson School in Vermilion. These sessions are designed to foster meaningful connections between school councils, enhance communication, and support strong, engaged school communities.

The evening brought together representatives from across the division for thoughtful conversations and collaborative learning. Highlights included the “School Council Successes” carousel, where participants shared creative ideas and initiatives from their schools, and the “Building Stronger School Councils” table talk, which offered space for open dialogue and peer learning.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Participants appreciated the opportunity to connect with others, exchange ideas, and engage in valuable discussions about enhancing the impact of school councils.

We continue to encourage parents or community members to take an active role in their local school council. “Many hands make light work”. Contact your local school today to find out more.

Buffalo Trail Public Schools proudly hosted the 13th Annual Superintendent’s Public Speaking Competition on April 15, 2025, an inspiring event that highlighted the incredible talent and confidence of students from across the division.

Students from Grades 4 through 12 took to the stage with confidence and courage, delivering powerful speeches that informed, challenged, and inspired. The competition continues to highlight the outstanding communication skills and thoughtful perspectives of our young leaders.

A huge congratulations goes out to all the medalists and participants who represented their schools with courage and excellence. We are incredibly proud of each student who took the stage and shared their voice.

Division II (Grades 4 to 6)
Gold: Avaya Miles, Vermilion Elementary School
Silver: Georgia Swanson, Hughenden Public School

Division III (Grades 7 to 9)
Gold: Eunice Cunanan, Mannville School
Silver: Anoushka Rath, Wainwright High School

Division IV (Grades 10 to 12)
Gold: Keaton Xu, Wainwright High School
Silver: Jillian Nelson, Dewberry School

This May, BTPS is recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month by encouraging students, staff, and families to reflect on the importance of mental wellness in all areas of life, at school, at work, and at home.

Caring for our mental health is just as important as caring for our physical health. Whether it’s taking a few moments for yourself, checking in on a friend, or reaching out for support, small actions can make a big difference. We are committed to fostering a school culture that values wellness, empathy, and connection.

A range of helpful mental health resources is available on our website to support wellness across our school communities. Visit our website to access these resources and stay connected to all that’s happening in Buffalo Trail Public Schools.