The Garden Valley School Division (GVSD) is rolling out an exciting new initiative designed to celebrate and showcase the achievements of its schools. Superintendent Dan Ward shares that the "School of the Month" program will give each school an opportunity to highlight its unique programs and initiatives.
“We recognized that when schools presented to the board, they’ve been doing this for many years, but only a relatively small number of people attend the meetings,” Ward explains. “We wanted to find ways to share some of the great work happening in schools with the broader community.”
Sharing stories with the community
The program aligns with regular school presentations to the board and leverages GVSD’s growing social media presence. The division recently launched a Facebook page to complement its Instagram account and website. Ward shares that each featured school will have its presentation condensed into a short article or description to be shared across local media and the division’s platforms.
“We’re going to boil it down to a short story and share that out through our local media as well as our own platforms to get the word out,” Ward says.
Selection process for schools
With 14 schools across 11 school units, each school has a set schedule to present to the board. Ward explains that this schedule ensures all schools are given a fair opportunity to participate in the initiative over time.
“At the beginning of the year, each school knows the evening that they present,” Ward says. “With this new initiative, they’ll also have an opportunity to share what they’re doing at the school level with the broader community.”
Catalyst for the program
The idea for the "School of the Month" program began last school year. Ward recalls how the Community Connections Board Committee was inspired by standout presentations, such as one from Parkland School, which showcased its speech-language program through a short video and presentation.
“These are wonderful ways that schools are utilizing resources and reaching out to the community,” Ward explains. “We think it’s important for our community to see how we’re investing public dollars in supporting students and finding innovative ways to ensure they receive an excellent education.”
Excitement builds for the initiative
GVSD principals and staff are eager to take part in the program, with many enthusiastic about the opportunity to spotlight their schools in new ways. “We’re really excited to share,” Ward says. “I think principals are quite enthusiastic about being able to showcase their schools in the way that we’re planning.”
The first "School of the Month" presentation has already set the stage for what promises to be a vibrant and engaging series that celebrates the excellence of education in the Garden Valley School Division.