Our B Boys had a game last night at CHHS, they won 5 sets and lost 1, way to go boys!! *If any parents manage to take any pictures of future games if you wouldn't mind forwarding some of them on to me that would be much appreciated. My email is [email protected] #ParksidePythons

<p><i>Featured: The team from Western Tractor pose with trustee Graeme Dennis after receiving the Community Champion Award.</i></p><p><i>------</i></p><p>Prairie Rose School Division came together this week to celebrate its community champions, organizations and individuals whose dedication and support continue to shape education from kindergarten to grade 12.</p><p>Board trustee Shauna VanderSpruit opened the celebration by sharing how these partnerships strengthen the division. “Education is not the work of just the school alone,” she said. “It is the work of an entire community that believes in its young people. These partnerships truly set us apart as a school division. They ignite minds, forge futures, and kindle hearts.”</p><p>That community spirit is clear in the work of the Bow Island Fire Department. Fire Chief Blaine O'Donnell recalled how their fire academy began. “The superintendent asked if we'd be interested in starting a fire academy, and our members were all gung-ho. This is our second year, and we're enjoying it immensely.” For O’Donnell, the program is about more than training. “It's the future of our town. Hopefully, some of them will stay in our town and become volunteer firefighters. That's our goal, and to make them better people.”</p><p>Cypress County Fire Manager Jason Linton agreed, pointing out that firefighting teaches students much more than technical skills. “Firefighting is such a team effort, but there is a classroom aspect to it by really working closely as a team, working with your peers, working with all different agencies, really just life skills and helping them grow at a very, very young age.” He added that those lessons prepare students to transition into the workforce and contribute meaningfully to their communities.</p><p>Beyond emergency services, local businesses also play a key role in shaping students’ futures. At Deerview Meats, co-owner Perry Deering has seen first-hand how hands-on learning transforms young people. “We focus on teamwork, responsibility, and industry-specific training,” he explained. “Many of our former students have moved on to provincial and federal careers. Working in a group setting makes that person feel like they're just part of a big adult setting, and that's part of the growth.”</p><p>Western Tractor in Medicine Hat also opens doors for students, encouraging them to see the bigger picture of agriculture. “Many students would leave this area and not come back to farm and be a part of something,” said Scott Hershmiller. “We see it where a lot of people were unaware of some of the things we do in our industry. It puts a smile on our face to see these kids succeed and come back and ask questions.”</p><p>For Hershmiller, the message is clear: agriculture is about much more than farming. “It’s technology, it’s engineering, it’s accounting,” he said. “We want students to see there’s a future here.”</p><p>That same belief guided Craig Lehr of Short Grass Ranches, who first became involved by donating cattle for a school beef project. “Initially, we were just asked to donate some steers for the beef project at Irvine School, and we thought it was a great opportunity. But quickly, it became clear this was about mentorship, education, and showing students that agriculture offers diverse and rewarding opportunities.”</p><p>Lehr hopes programs like these inspire students to explore a wide range of career paths. “We employ multiple people on our operation, and it's getting harder and harder to find qualified people who want to be in primary agriculture production. Programs like this can help bring people in and show there’s opportunity here. Even if it's not the direct primary production of beef, maybe if they have the introduction in primary production, they learn more about other aspects, being a nutritionist, working in processing, or marketing. I hope they broaden their horizons on what agriculture entails.”</p><p>As VanderSpruit reminded the crowd, these champions make a lasting difference. “These programs remind us that education is a community effort,” she said. “They ignite minds, forge futures, and inspire our students to achieve their best.”</p><p>The full list of award winners can be found here: <a href="https://www.myprps.com/news/prairie-rose-board-recognizes-community-champions-for-education-20250923214012">https://www.myprps.com/news/prairie-rose-board-recognizes-community-champions-for-education-20250923214012</a></p>

Today Parkside celebrated Orange T-shirt day. A huge thank you to Ms Lagasse for her Slideshow that was presented during PSC, giving the students an insight into the significance of wearing an orange t-shirt. As a Metis woman herself Ms Lagasse was kind enough to give us an insight into her Indigenous background and what Orange T-shirt day means to her. What does Orange Shirt Day mean to me: Ms. Lagasse I am a Métis woman; my family's roots are in the Métis Red River Settlement, known by its colonial name, Winnipeg. Orange Shirt Day is an important day to honor and respect the children and families that have been and continue to be impacted by the Residential School System. As a Métis woman, it has meant that my daughters and I are working towards reclaiming our culture, traditions, and language; for others, it is much more. Some of the ways my family participates in Orange Shirt Day are attending local events, wearing our orange shirts and ribbon skirts, listening to the stories of our elders, and respecting all our relations. We share what we have learned and work in collaboration with others to bring awareness not only to the past but also to our collective future. #OrangeShirtDay #ParksidePride

Happy Sunday Parkside Families!!! Here is a look into the week ahead at Parkside. Have a great rest of your weekend and we will see you all tomorrow in your Orange t-shirts. 🧡 #ParksidePride #Community #soonbechristmas

Congrats to all Parkside cross country athletes on running in the 21st Annual Echo Dale Cross Country Meet hosted by Eagle Butte High School. Every runner showed effort and resilience, with all athletes successfully completing their events, an accomplishment to be proud of! A special shout-out goes to the following athletes who placed in their race categories: 2nd - Westen Dorn (3km, boys 14-15) 4th - Nash Pahl (2km, boys 12-13) 7th - Abygail Schneider (2km, girls 12-13) Thank you for representing Parkside with strength, spirit, and dedication on the course! 🐍💚 #gopythons #parksidepythons #pythonspride

The Parkside Pythons "B" Boys Volleyball Team climbed their way back to the Championship game. After losing by points in their first match, the team had to play back-to-back against two more opponents to get back on track to the finals. They were tired, but played with heart and determination, battling for every point. In the end, their grit and teamwork carried them through to the Championship, where they proudly finished in 2nd place at the Seven Persons "B" Boys Volleyball Tournament. #heartandhustle #gopythons #pythonspride #parksidepythons

What a great way to end the week with all of our Parkside students taking part in the Terry Fox Run. We had runners, joggers, walkers and plenty of smiles at the end. Great effort Parkside. #TerryFoxRun #ParksidePride

Parkside Volleyball!! An overview of the games played this week. A Girls - The girls split sets with MHCS and lost both sets to Notre Dame. B Girls - The girls split sets with Notre Dame and CHHS and won both sets with St. Marys. B Boys - Won 3 sets and lost 3 sets @ NDA. All our athletes played with skill, heart and unwavering sportsmanship. #ParksidePythons #TeamSpirit

Exciting news from Parkside!! Our Term 1 Electives have kicked off with a bang! Students are diving into an incredible range of options, from CO2 Cars and Baking to Art and 3D Printing. It's a wonderful way for our talented students to explore their passions and showcase their creativity. Keep shining everyone! #ParksideElectives #3CreativityUnleashed

Volleyball schedule for week beginning 29th of September. Monday 29th - B Girls Practice 2:45 - 4 A Girls Practice 4 - 5:15 Tuesday 30th - No School B Boys Game @ CHHS 4 - 6:30 Wednesday 1st - B Boys Practice - 2:45 - 4 C Girls Practice - 4 - 5:15 B Girls Game @ WLC 4 - 6:30 Thursday 2nd - C Girls Practice - 2:45 - 4 B Boys Practice - 4 - 5:15 A Girls Game @ St. Marys 4 - 6:30 Friday - A Girls Tournament @ NDA Saturday - A Girls Tournament @ NDA

<p>The Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) Board of Trustees gathered with staff and community partners at Desert Blume Golf Course on September 23, 2025, to celebrate organizations whose support has made a lasting difference for students across the division. Five honourees were recognized for their significant and sustained contributions to education, each aligning with PRPS’s three guiding goals: <strong>Ignite Minds</strong>, <strong>Forge Futures</strong>, and <strong>Kindle Hearts</strong>.</p><p><i>“These organizations demonstrate the true power of community partnerships,” said Trustee Shauna VanderSpruit. “Their generosity, mentorship, and innovation are shaping opportunities for students today while opening doors for tomorrow.”</i></p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><h3><img class="image_resized" style="width:35.08%;" src="/images/d764d996-4bc6-4a96-8b7a-e63b4768b83c?fingerprint=ppb20251217025133" alt="Shortgrass Ranches IMAGE"></h3><h3>Short Grass Ranches</h3><p>Short Grass Ranches, led by Craig Lehr, has been a driving force behind Irvine School’s Agriculture Discovery Centre. Over the years, the Lehr family has donated six home-raised steers with a value of approximately $13,000 to fuel hands-on agricultural learning and generate funds for program expansion. This past year, Craig visited classrooms, shared his expertise on feedlot management, and welcomed students to the Short Grass facility. There, students selected livestock for projects and gained first-hand knowledge of low-stress cattle handling systems. His approachable mentorship inspired students to quote him in their final presentations, a clear sign of the impact he has had on their learning and career aspirations.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><h3><img class="image_resized" style="width:35.01%;" src="/images/5e29e5bd-9eb1-46e5-8de4-0cd928536455?fingerprint=ppb20251217023111" alt="Cypress Fire IMAGE"><img class="image_resized" style="width:35.02%;" src="/images/8d2bb8eb-dad4-4829-9edb-427e18679908?fingerprint=ppb20251217023859" alt="BI Fire IMAGE"></h3><h3>Cypress County Fire Services and Bow Island Emergency Services</h3><p>The South Alberta Fire Academy, one of PRPS’s most innovative career pathway programs, owes much of its success to the vision and commitment of Cypress County Fire Services and Bow Island Emergency Services. By working alongside PRPS, they have created an authentic training environment where high school students gain certifications, build confidence, and prepare for futures in emergency response. Students have learned directly from active-duty firefighters, engaged in live fire simulations, and experienced what it means to step into a role of service. This partnership has strengthened student learning while also providing a critical bridge between education and industry.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><h3><img class="image_resized" style="width:35.01%;" src="/images/cfb2c800-696a-455d-8217-ff285177aaf5?fingerprint=ppb20251217024952" alt="Deerview Mts IMAGE"></h3><h3>Deerview Meats</h3><p>Community spirit and resilience define the contributions of Perry and Chris Deering of Deerview Meats. Since founding the business in 2006, Perry has persevered through challenges, including a devastating flood, to build a thriving business rooted in generosity. Through tours, product donations, and support for events, Deerview Meats has influenced countless students across the division. Their involvement in agriculture and 4-H has provided students with opportunities to connect classroom learning to real-world practice. By hosting charitable events that benefit PRPS, Perry and Chris continue to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to education and community wellbeing.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><h3><img class="image_resized" style="width:35.01%;" src="/images/b0c3992c-7581-47f9-a953-f8c974be9385?fingerprint=ppb20251217024502" alt="Western Tractor IMAGE"></h3><h3>Western Tractor</h3><p>Western Tractor has been an essential partner in the AgPro: Machinery and Technology program at Irvine School since 2023. Since the program started, hundreds of students have had the opportunity to learn about sales, service, and operations in agricultural machinery directly from Western Tractor staff. Students explore career pathways while gaining hands-on experience with the latest technology driving modern agriculture. Each year, the company refines and improves its involvement to ensure the program continues to evolve. Their dedication to student success is a strong example of how industry and education can work together to provide meaningful learning that ignites curiosity and fosters career readiness.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>The PRPS Board of Trustees extends sincere gratitude to these organizations for their outstanding contributions. Their leadership and commitment reflect the heart of Prairie Rose’s vision to <strong>Kindle Hearts, Ignite Minds, and Forge Futures</strong>, ensuring students have the support, opportunities, and inspiration they need to succeed.</p>

On Friday the U15 team won 2-1 against Lethbridge U15. They were backstopped by great goaltending by Patrick Curtis. Having taken way too many penalties their penalty kill did a great job of shutting down Lethbridge, only allowing 1 goal on 10 Powerplays. Goals were scored by Mason Bryksa and Cooper Danroth. We're pretty sure the support and cheering from Parkside helped a lot too. Way to go boys!! #SAHAU15PrepTeam #ParksidePride

Happy Sunday Parkside Community! Here's a look at what lies ahead this week at Parkside. All Volleyball practices and games can also be found on facebook aswell as our website. The U15 Prep boys have a few games this week aswell as the Colts who play on Thursday at the Methanex. Enjoy the rest of your weekend and we look forward to seeing you all tomorrow. #ParksideCommunity #pythonsvolleyball #coltsfootball #U15SAHAprepteam

Volleyball Schedule Week beginning 22nd September: Monday - B Girls - 2:45 - 4pm A Girls - 4 - 5:15pm Tuesday - A Girls - 2:45 - 4pm B Girls - 4 - 5:15pm B Boys Game @ NDA - 3:15 - 6pm Wednesday - B Boys 2:45 4pm C Girls - 4 - 5:15pm B Girls Game @ St. Marys 4 - 6:30pm Thursday - A Girls - 2:45 - 4pm B Boys - 4 - 5:15pm A Girls Game @ MHCS 4 - 5:30pm Friday - Boys Tournament @ Seven Persons School A Girls Tournament @ MHHS B Girls Tournament @ MHHS Saturday - A Girls Tournament @ MHHS B Girls Tournament @ MHHS

Volleyball season got off to an amazing start this week. Tuesday - B Boys played against AMS 1 and AMS 2 @ Seven Persons, they won 5 sets and lost 1 Wednesday - B Girls played against St, Marys, Alexandra and Seven Persons @ Seven Persons, they won 4 sets and lost 2 Thursday - A Girls played against Roy Wilson and NDA @ Roy Wilson, they won 2 sets and lost 2. Today our C Girls have a tournament at Schuler, followed by our B Boys who also have a tournament at Schuler tomorrow. #PythonsVolleyball #TeamSpirit

Another awesome Meet the Teacher evening at Parkside last night. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces alongside new ones. A massive thank you to our chefs, Mr. Baird and Mr. Hamilton, for treating us to delicious food. The 'Python Burger' was a hit and might just become a staple! Here's to a fantastic year ahead! #MeetTheTeacher #Community

<p>The Desert Blume Golf Course was alive with community spirit on September 11 as golfers, sponsors, and supporters gathered for the inaugural Yuill Family Foundation Golf Classic. The event combined a premier day of golf with generosity and purpose, raising funds for two organizations making a significant impact in southern Alberta: Prairie Rose Public Schools (PRPS) and the Western Canada Professional Hockey Scouts Foundation (WCPHS).</p><p>The Golf Classic marked the first major fundraising tournament for the Yuill Family Foundation, with organizers emphasizing their commitment to supporting programs that build opportunity and strengthen communities.</p><p>For Cori Cuthbertson, administrator of the Yuill Family Foundation, Prairie Rose stood out as a natural partner for the Foundation’s first tournament. “The reason that we chose these two organizations today is that we really like the work that Prairie Rose is doing, and that they’re answering the call of what this community needs and what southeastern Alberta requires,” said Cuthbertson. “We like that the kids are actually coming out of here with some real, tangible skills, and I think they’re making school fun again.”</p><p>Cuthbertson added that pairing Prairie Rose’s innovative academies with the hockey scouting community created a unique synergy. “With the hockey scouts, these are the guys that are seeing the up-and-coming players and also seeing some of the challenges they have. A lot of them are former Tigers, Calgary Flames, and others who know the value of sport in youth development. It just made sense to support both groups together this year.”</p><p>Members of the Yuill Foundation Advisory Committee echoed the excitement. Heather Lemeshuk, an advisory committee member, shared how impressed the board was after touring Prairie Rose’s academies. “We’ve had the pleasure of touring the collegiate building in Medicine Hat and looked at the aviation program, the Hockey Academy, and the Baseball Academy,” said Lemeshuk. “The board is just very excited that these kinds of programs are going on here in our city. Preparing students for future employment at the high school level is really an initiative that’s thinking outside the box, and we give great praise to the management of the school district.”</p><p>She emphasized that the Foundation, with its deep roots in Medicine Hat and surrounding rural areas, is proud to strengthen local education and community opportunities. “We’re very pleased to be a part of this community and strive to make it a better place for our citizens to live.”</p><p>For Prairie Rose School Division, the recognition carried special meaning. Superintendent Reagan Weeks expressed her gratitude for being chosen as one of the inaugural beneficiaries. “I feel so fortunate to be here today for what I think is going to be an annual golf tournament for the Yuill Foundation,” Weeks said. “Prairie Rose is one of the fortunate recipients from the proceeds of this tournament, and we are truly grateful for the Foundation’s belief in our students and programs.”</p><p>The proceeds from the event will support Prairie Rose’s growing suite of career-focused academies, including aviation, agriculture, hockey, baseball, fire, rodeo, and trades. Each of these programs is designed to provide students with real-world skills and pathways to success after graduation.</p><p>Alongside the fundraising, participants enjoyed the unique hospitality of the Golf Classic, with on-course activities, sponsor engagement, and the chance to connect with community leaders and special guests. The atmosphere at Desert Blume reflected the Foundation’s vision: a day that was about more than golf, built instead around generosity, connection, and long-term impact.</p><p>With the success of its inaugural year, the Yuill Family Foundation Golf Classic is already being seen as a new tradition for the region. By bringing together sport, education, and community, the Foundation is setting a strong precedent for future events.</p><p>For Prairie Rose, the day was not only about fundraising but also about recognition of the innovative programs students are engaged in every day. “This is about more than one event,” said Weeks. “It’s about believing in our students and their futures.”</p>