As the school year comes to a close, Pleasantdale School is celebrating a memorable and fulfilling year that marked a return to normalcy after several years of pandemic-related disruptions.
Principal Devin Aspinall, who just completed his first year in the role, said this school year stood out because it was uninterrupted, allowing students and staff to fully engage in learning and activities without the uncertainties of the past.
“It was a really good year,” Aspinall said. “We were able to do a lot of stuff. We had a great STEM night, a wonderful Christmas concert, drama performances, a glow dance, pancake breakfast, and lots of field trips both in and outside the community.”
Among the many highlights was a visit from internationally recognized hoop dancer Terrance Littletent. He not only performed but also shared the cultural significance of hoop dancing and Indigenous teachings with the students.
The school also adapted to the province’s new cell phone policy, which Aspinall said helped eliminate distractions and supported better focus in the classroom.
“It wasn’t a huge change, but it did make a difference,” he said. “It also took the pressure off schools because it was a decision made above us.”
Looking ahead, the school will welcome a new complexity teacher next year. The role is part of the outcomes of recent collective bargaining and will help provide additional support for students with more intensive needs.
As the school year wraps up, students are celebrating with a week full of special events, including a farewell assembly featuring slideshows and awards, and Pleasantdale’s popular year-end rock-paper-scissors challenge. Each class competes for a school-wide trophy in what has become a fun and friendly tradition.
In athletics, the school saw broad participation, with one standout performance from Grade 8 student Keaton Rosengren. He won all of his events at the district track and field meet and took home the aggregate trophy, something the school is especially proud of.
Saying goodbye to the Grade 8 students is always an emotional moment for staff, Aspinall said.
“We’ve been with a lot of those kids for nine years and have really gotten to know them and their families,” he said. “It’s tough to send them on, but we know there are bigger and better things ahead.”
Aspinall also shared his appreciation for the school community, including parents, grandparents, extended family, and local supporters.
“We’re very lucky. We have a lot of support from our School Community Council and the broader community, which helps create a safe and supportive environment for our students,” he said.
Reflecting on his first year as principal, Aspinall said the transition from vice-principal was smooth, thanks in part to the strong team around him, especially vice-principal Kyle Vibe.
“There were definitely some surprises, but that’s part of the excitement of the job. You never know what the day will bring.”
Pleasantdale School’s last day for students is Thursday, June 27, with staff finishing the year on Friday.
