File photo.
The Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) board of trustees discussed transportation eligibility changes and the Joint School Council Engagement plan during the Jan. 28 meeting.
Highlights from the meeting include:
Strategic Plan Update
The Board approved adjustments to the Strategic Plan, incorporating two new strategic imperatives: “Optimize Financial Oversight” and “Empower Staff to Thrive Personally and Professionally.” These additions are based on stakeholder feedback from listening circles and stakeholder engagement sessions and aim to address key priorities identified by the community and trustees.
Trustees Advocate for Sustaining Transportation Eligibility Changes
The Board reviewed the Division’s implementation of new transportation eligibility guidelines, introduced in response to Ministry changes. The government has now announced new walk distance changes for 2025-2026, and Senior Administration strongly recommends maintaining the current 1.0 km eligibility criteria, citing significant investments, operational adjustments, and potential disruption to families if reversed.
Trustees expressed frustration over the government’s lack of responsiveness to previous advocacy efforts but indicated their support for maintaining the current criteria for the upcoming year. They committed to reevaluating the program’s financial sustainability next year while advocating for continued flexibility and additional funding to sustain the 1.0 km distance long-term.
Joint School Council Engagement
The Board approved the Joint School Council Engagement plan, which was developed in collaboration with the Alberta School Council Association to strengthen school council and parent involvement. The plan focuses on five key areas, including defining school council roles, enhancing trustee-school council relationships, and expanding consultation at both the school and division levels.
As part of this initiative, trustees endorsed opening the session to all parents, recognizing the opportunity to increase participation and engagement in school councils. While supporting broader involvement, trustees also emphasized the importance of maintaining school council autonomy. The Superintendent will proceed with finalizing session details in preparation for the Feb. 26 meeting.
Night of Gratitude Event
The Board approved the “Night of Gratitude” event to honour long-serving division staff, retirees, and special award recipients scheduled for May 30, at St. Joseph High School. The event will include appetizers, an awards ceremony, and a dance component to enhance the experience.
The next board meeting is scheduled for Feb. 25.
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