The Horizon School Division is celebrating a year full of achievements, community engagement, and new initiatives designed to enhance student experiences. Kevin Garinger, Director of Education, recently highlighted several key accomplishments and projects that showcase the division's commitment to providing quality education and community support.
"We are really excited about the many great things happening in our schools across the Horizon School Division," Garinger said. "One of the standout moments was a school winning an award through the Public Schools of Saskatchewan. It was a thrilling achievement, and now, this year, we have a student from William Derby School representing us on the provincial Youth Council. This is a wonderful opportunity for both the students and our division."
This year has seen a remarkable range of successes, from winning the Mosaic School Nutrition Challenge in Wynyard to an impactful presentation on Indigenous agriculture at the Agribition expo in Regina.
“It was the first time a school division has been involved in Agribition, which is an important link between agriculture and Indigenous education. It was great to have our team there, and they did an amazing job,” said Garinger.
Moreover, Horizon’s community spirit is evident in initiatives like the Christmas Hamper project, where over 400 children in nearly 150 families will benefit.
"I visited a school in Kelvington where students raised $450 for the project," Garinger shared. "It’s this kind of community support—donations, quilts, and more—that makes a real difference."
As Horizon continues to innovate, it is placing a strong emphasis on mental health and student wellbeing, with new programs aimed at supporting youth. This includes the introduction of Project 11, a mental health initiative designed to provide youth with resources and tools to address mental health challenges.
“We’re incredibly proud to be the first in Saskatchewan to implement Project 11,” Garinger stated. “It’s a program focused on mental wellness, and we’re seeing it really take off in our schools. Our students are engaging with the curriculum and learning about mental health in new, impactful ways.”
Horizon is also tackling the issue of digital technology in schools. Garinger noted that the division has introduced a new policy limiting smartphone use in classrooms to minimize distractions.
“While we don’t want to eliminate technology entirely, we recognize the need for balance and for teaching students how to use technology responsibly,” he explained.
In terms of athletics, Horizon has seen outstanding achievements across a variety of sports, with teams and individuals earning recognition at the provincial level.
"We had athletes in cross-country, wrestling, and volleyball achieving great results," Garinger said. "Our coaches are also being recognized for their dedication, which is a testament to the support and leadership they provide."
With the ongoing development of new schools and facilities, Horizon is also preparing for future growth.
"Lanigan School is beginning to take shape, and we expect it to be ready by May 2025. We're also consolidating schools in Kelvington, which is another exciting project," Garinger added.
Looking ahead, Horizon is focused on continued success in education, with a strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and Indigenous education.
“We’re making sure that our students have access to all the resources they need for success,” Garinger concluded. “This is an exciting time for the division, and we’re committed to continuing our efforts in supporting both our students and the communities we serve.”