Summer break is officially here, and the closure of the school year has Hanover School Division's (HSD) leadership reflecting.
"It was a year with a lot of learning," says Joe Thiessen, superintendent of the HSD.
For Thiessen, this summer not only marks the close of another school year—it also wraps up his first year in the role of superintendent.
"It has been really great to be able to see all the schools, and see our division from a different perspective and gain a better understanding," he says.
"I continue to be impressed by the commitment that our school staff, our teachers, our (Educational Assistants) EAs and all our support staff, put into helping kids and helping our communities in any way possible. Parents too—we've just been very blessed."
A growing division
Thiessen says there is a lot for families and staff to be proud of coming out of this school year, including HSD's 608 graduates.
"This is such a great group of young men and women that are entering into adult life," he says.
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The number of grads is also reflective of the division's continual growth.
In September 2024, 8,934 students enrolled in September, as per the Manitoba Government's most recent school enrolment report. That's 2.1 per cent more than the previous year.
Such growth is a part of what makes the construction of Parkhill School so exciting.
"It's going to be an amazing building, and I think the community is going to love it. Overall, it really creates some space for us in the early years in the City of Steinbach, and that's something greatly needed," Thiessen says, noting space is at a premium in the division.
He adds the division also looks forward to long-anticipated renovations at Green Valley School. More announcements are expected to be made on this in the upcoming school year, he says.
Other highlights from the year
Among many exciting things from over the school year, Thiessen says a new program called "Bridges", a farewell to long-time employees of the division—some who were there for more than 40 years, teacher recognition awards, and incredible student achievements stand out.
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"We've had so many more positive things that we're able to reflect on," Thiessen says, with gratitude for the division's community from staff to families.
"A big thank you for their...dedication to our community and to the children of our community," he says, wishing everyone a safe, and relaxing time with family and friends over summer break.