May, 2025

Good morning, Horizon!

I hope you had a wonderful Easter and a great first week back. These final weeks of the school year are always a busy and exciting time, filled with field trips, celebrations, graduations, and the many moments that mark the end of another successful year. As we head into this season of reflection and recognition, I am reminded of Paulo Coelho’s words: “Teaching is only demonstrating that it is possible. Learning is making it possible for yourself.” Thank you for the role each of you plays in inspiring students to believe in what’s possible, and for helping them make it their own.

Following a busy week leading up to Good Friday and spending time in Regina engaged with a number of our students, parents, and families at the final Sask Cup of the year, I headed to Creighton, SK, to provide care for my dad (and mom) during his recovery from open heart surgery. I was grateful to have that time with them and to lend a helping hand where I was needed. Like some of you who have older parents, we become what some call the “sandwich generation”, where we are still providing support for our adult children, but we are also providing much-needed care for our parents who are getting older. The odd time my thinking wanders off to the “have-to-dos”, I remind myself that I GET to provide this care. So many, young and old, do not have their parents, so I will remain grateful. Like almost everything in this world, we have the ability to choose our weather and often to choose what we do. I will choose to be happy and thankful for what I have…it is a far better place and far healthier place to be. I know I have great examples of this life lesson when I observe each of you.

Administrative Professionals Day

Wednesday marked Administrative Professionals Day—a time to recognize the incredible administrative staff who help keep our schools and offices operating each and every day. Whether it’s managing the front desk, coordinating schedules, or supporting staff, students, and families behind the scenes, your work makes a difference. Thank you for your dedication, your care, and the many ways you help our school communities thrive. Your professionalism and positivity set the standard for excellence in our workplace. We are far better because of you. Happy belated Administrative Professionals Day!

Senior Leadership Team

We began this past week with a senior leadership team meeting—a valuable opportunity to align our focus, reflect on key priorities, and prepare for the days ahead. A portion of our discussion was centred around the budget and our plans for addressing the Board’s vision. However, we also had a meaningful discussion related to flag protocols and ensuring that the work in our schools continues to address the needs of all our children and youth while recognising the importance of the meaning of flags. 

Canadian Association of School System Administrators (CASSA) Executive Meeting

On Monday, I joined the CASSA executive board meeting virtually in my role as the western representative to the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) and executive member of CASSA. This was our final meeting ahead of the annual general meeting taking place this summer. I value this work and these opportunities to connect with colleagues from across our country and continent.

Budget 2025-26

This week, I worked closely with Superintendent of Finance Services/CFO Sarah Reding and our senior leadership team to develop Horizon’s budget. We’re preparing to present a preliminary version to the Board in late May for their review and approval, ahead of submitting the final plan to the Ministry of Education. This year again, having spent time working together with the Board during our budget priorities meetings, we were able to understand quite clearly what the will of the Board is in relation to our budget. These processes allow us to get out of the gate much faster as it relates to our human resource needs.

Throughout the process, we have always engaged with principals to understand the needs of staff and the general needs of their schools, whether related to staffing, resources, transportation, or facilities. These conversations are essential to ensuring our budget reflects the realities in schools and allows us to respond in thoughtful, effective, and efficient ways.

Saskatchewan Student Assessment

A points-of-contact update meeting for the Saskatchewan Student Assessment initiative was held on Wednesday, continuing the work to develop a provincial assessment plan aligned with Saskatchewan’s student learning priorities.

Significant progress has been made across the education sector in preparation for this work. We’re grateful to Superintendent Trish Maxwell, her learning team, and the Horizon teachers who stepped forward to contribute—your dedication is deeply valued. 

Kelvington School

Work continued last week to prepare for the upcoming consolidation of Robert Melrose Elementary and Kelvington High into the new Kelvington School. This included interviews for the vice principal position, who will join Principal Kim Nicholls on the school’s leadership team and the Director’s Leadership Team. I shared the announcement that KHS staff member Jill Semko has been named to the position. Jill is super excited about this appointment, and we look forward to bringing her passion and compassion to this leadership role. Congratulations Jill!

On the operational side, I joined Trustee Jim Lissinna, Superintendent of Operational Services Justin Arendt, and Manager of Facility Services Kam Kiland for a meeting with the Town of Kelvington’s mayor and council as we discussed future plans for the Robert Melrose building once the elementary program relocates. Kelvington will transition to one school for the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, and having had the opportunity to tour the building, it is undoubtedly getting a much-needed facelift. The school will be in the enviable position of having almost zero deferred maintenance following the construction. What was very clear in my observations and discussions was just how flexible and understanding the staff has been throughout the construction process. It is also very clear how incredible Miner’s Construction has been in managing our needs and the learning needs of our students during this busy time. Well done, everyone. In less than four months, we will be whole in Kelvington. 

Smile Cookies 

I ended the week spending the morning at Tim Horton’s with Communications Officer Jesse Green, Administrative Assistant Melanie Gray, and Superintendent Terry Leibel, putting smiles on the faces of cookies. Thank you to Jesse for setting up this opportunity and to Melanie and Terry for being such great contributors to this necessary project. It is such a busy time of the year for everyone, so I know we had a long list of others who would have stepped in to ensure this volunteer endeavour was done effectively. We also know that finding time in hectic schedules can be challenging, but giving back to organisations like the Hospital Foundation is very important.  

Have a great week, everyone.  

-Kevin

Kevin C. Garinger B.Ed., M.A.Ed., Ed.D. (Candidate)

Director of Education/CEO

Horizon School Division No. 205

[email protected]

@kevingaringer

Good morning, Horizon.

“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” – Margaret J. Wheatley

This past week offered powerful reminders of what we care about most in Horizon—our students, our people, and our shared commitment to learning. From national leadership conversations to division-wide professional development, and from celebrating the heart of our Horizon team to engaging families in the power of early learning, it was a week that truly showcased the strength of our community and the depth of our purpose.

American Association of School Administrators (AASA) Budget

On Monday morning, I attended the AASA annual budget presentation as the western Canadian representative and a Canadian Association of School System Administrators (CASSA) executive member. This presentation provided an overview of the proposed operating budget for AASA for the coming year, beginning July 1, 2025. While the review was scheduled for an hour, it was a concise and focused discussion. Voting on the budget will open on May 19th, following any final questions brought forward through regional executive committee calls.

Director’s Leadership Team Professional Development

The rest of Monday was dedicated to professional development with our Director’s Leadership Team, bringing together all principals and vice principals in Humboldt for a full day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. We began with a warm welcome and land acknowledgement from Punnichy Community High School students, followed by some opening remarks. The day featured updates on Horizon’s Assessment Administrative Procedure guidelines, and handbook, and provided multiple opportunities for collaborative conversations over coffee and lunch.

We explored innovative approaches to classroom engagement through presentations on BHP’s STEM Pilot Project by David Crowell, and STEAM strategies shared by Jim Swan. A highlight of the day was a keynote session by Dr. Sarah Aiono, who challenged us to reimagine classrooms as spaces where playful learning is purposeful, visible, and valued. Her insights into learning through play sparked rich dialogue among leaders and reaffirmed the importance of fostering joy and curiosity in our schools.

Early Years Education Evening with Dr. Sarah Aiono

On Monday evening, Horizon School Division hosted an inspiring public event featuring renowned early years expert Dr. Aiono. Held at our Division Office in Humboldt, the evening began with refreshments and conversation in the courtyard, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families, educators, and community members.

Dr. Aiono shared powerful insights into how quality early learning builds strong students, healthy communities, and long-term economic growth. She emphasised the rapid development that takes place in a child’s brain during the early years, and the importance of play-based, purposeful learning. Drawing on her experience as an educator and international consultant, she offered practical strategies for making learning both meaningful and developmentally responsive. Her message clearly resonated with attendees, reinforcing our shared commitment to supporting every child’s early learning journey.

Thank you to Superintendent Trish Maxwell and our learning team for organizing this event and for their continued leadership in championing early learning across Horizon.

Board Agenda Meeting

On Tuesday afternoon, I met with Board Chair Garth Anderson, Vice Chair Mark Fedak, CFO Sarah Reding, Communications Officer Jesse Green, and Executive Assistant Marni Sogge to set the agenda for the May Board meeting. We are looking forward to essential discussions at this week’s meeting.

Collective Bargaining Agreement Implementation Meeting

On Wednesday morning in Saskatoon, I joined fellow Directors of Education, Superintendents of HR,  and Chief Financial Officers from across Saskatchewan for a meeting organized by the Saskatchewan School Boards Association. Also in attendance were Board Chairs and personnel from the Government Trustee Bargaining Committee. From Horizon, I joined Board Chair Garth Anderson and Superintendents Sarah Reding and Cory Popoff for valuable conversations about implementing the new Collective Bargaining Agreement. These discussions are vital in ensuring clarity, consistency, and fairness as we apply the agreement across divisions—ultimately supporting the well-being of staff and the smooth operation of our schools.

Celebration Day

On Thursday, staff from across Horizon came together for our annual Celebration Day—this year held at the Elgar Petersen Arena in Humboldt. With all staff groups in attendance, it was a truly special day to recognize the achievements, dedication, and milestones of our Horizon team.

The event began with a Land Acknowledgement from Board Vice Chair Mark Fedak, and a welcome from Trustee Irma Anderson. Opening remarks from Board Chair Garth Anderson and an inspiring performance of O Canada by Grade 4 and 5 students from St. Brieux School completed the event’s introduction.

I was honoured to share a few words reflecting on the school year and the impact each of you has made. We celebrated years of service awards, acknowledged our 2024-25 retirees, and presented the Excellence in Teaching Awards to Steve Armstrong and Mikayla Farrell, who exemplify dedication to student success and innovative practice.

Throughout the day, we were treated to performances from other students from LeRoy, Archerwill, and Humboldt Collegiate Institute. An additional highlight was the induction of the Honourable Judge Michelle G. Marquette into Horizon’s Wall of Fame. Michelle shared a moving address that underscored the power of education in shaping young lives.

Thank you to everyone who made the day a success—from those who helped organize the event, to those who performed, presented, or simply came to celebrate and connect. It was a wonderful reminder of the strength and heart of our Horizon community. Please feel free to email me directly with any comments or thoughts you have regarding the day. At some point, we will send out a survey as well, but immediate feedback, as we know, is valuable to our growth in classrooms, as well as our growth as an education system.

Lanigan

Finally, congratulations to the students and staff of Lanigan Elementary and Lanigan Central High School, who are starting a new journey today. Lanigan School opens its doors for the first time today and will be home for our children and families from Lanigan, Drake, and other communities in the area for years to come. Thank you for your flexibility, patience, and positive spirit throughout this mid-year transition. A special thank you as well to COO Justin Arendt, Facility Manager Kam Kiland, and their teams for the incredible work and coordination behind this important milestone.

Have a great week, Horizon!

-Kevin

Kevin C. Garinger B.Ed., M.A.Ed., Ed.D. (Candidate)

Director of Education/CEO

Horizon School Division No. 205

[email protected]

@kevingaringer

Good morning, Horizon!

As the days grow longer and the school year moves steadily forward, I am reminded of how deeply our collective efforts shape the experiences and outcomes of our students. This past week offered several opportunities to connect, reflect, and collaborate across our division, province, and beyond – all to serve our shared commitment to the students of Horizon. In the words of Helen Keller, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Provincial Directors’ Meeting

On Tuesday, Directors of Education from across Saskatchewan convened for a Provincial Directors' Meeting in Saskatoon. This gathering provided an opportunity to discuss the recently signed provincial collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and its implications for our schools.

A significant outcome of the new agreement is the inclusion of classroom complexity provisions, acknowledging the diverse needs within our classrooms. The agreement also introduces a $20 million annual fund to hire additional teachers and enhance support, particularly in rural areas.

Provincial Education Plan Implementation Team (PEPIT)

On Tuesday afternoon, Superintendent Trish Maxwell and Coordinator Jeremy Rolheiser were engaged in a productive session focused on advancing the Provincial Education Plan 2030. These collaborative efforts are essential as we work together to implement the Provincial Education Plan 2030, ensuring that all students in Saskatchewan have the support and resources they need to succeed.

Inspiring Success

On Wednesday, Board Chair Garth Anderson joined Trish and Jeremy as they participated in a focused session dedicated to Inspiring Success: First Nations and Métis PreK-12 Education Policy Framework, one of the four Provincial Education Plan pillars. This framework envisions a provincial education system that fundamentally places Indigenous knowledge systems, cultures, and languages within its structures, policies, and curricula, ensuring an equitable and inclusive system that benefits all learners.

The session also explored the Indigenous Education Responsibility Framework (IERF), a tool designed to support school divisions in evaluating and planning their Indigenous education activities, aligning with the goals of Inspiring Success. This framework encourages continuous growth and fosters the development of conditions needed for ongoing dialogue through an ethical engagement space.

The session underscored the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives and ways of knowing into all aspects of education, promoting reconciliation, and building partnerships that support the success of First Nations and Métis students across Saskatchewan.

Board of Education - Regular Meeting

At Thursday’s regular monthly meeting, the Board of Education continued its focused work on strong governance and effective leadership. It was a productive meeting, and key highlights will be shared in the upcoming issue of the From the Board newsletter.

Horizon Teachers’ Association Executive

Following the Board’s meeting, trustees and senior leadership joined the Horizon Teachers’ Association executive for a shared meal. This gathering provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen relationships, share perspectives, and engage in meaningful conversation about our shared commitment to student success.

Learning Improvement Plans

We began the second of two Learning Improvement Plan (LIP) review meetings for the 2024–25 school year. Alongside Superintendents Jacquie Bergerman, Trish Maxwell, Bryan McNabb, and Terry Leibel, I will have the opportunity to meet with principals and vice-principals at each school to examine data and discuss strategies to support continuous growth related to our goals of learning, safe and caring, and graduation and transitions.

On Friday, we met with administrators at William Derby, Bulyea Elementary, Nokomis, and Drake schools, and I appreciated the thoughtful planning and dedication each team brought to their LIP presentations. Our conversations focused on literacy and numeracy development, as well as the ongoing work to maintain safe and caring school environments for students, staff, and families.

Seeing how School Community Councils contribute to this work was also great. Their input into LIP development is a valuable part of ensuring strong connections between schools and the communities they serve.

These review meetings are a meaningful opportunity to connect with members of the Director’s Leadership Team and reflect on how school teams align their efforts with Horizon’s goals and priorities.

Graduation 2025

I wrapped up Friday at the second graduation of the year, this time in Ituna. I joined Board Chair Garth Anderson, Principal Brittany Gent, staff, students, families, and community members for an excellent meal followed by an inspiring ceremony. The graduation was Horizon’s second of the year. It followed Winston High’s grad on May 2nd, where Trustee Jennifer Lemky and Superintendent Terry Leibel joined Principal Terry Braman and the Winston school community for a wonderful celebration of the success of our Grade 12 students from Watrous and the area. 

Finally, although the weather was poor, our pre-district track meets were able to get off the ground, and many of our athletes from the three host schools will compete at the district meet held in Saskatoon this upcoming week. Congratulations to all the athletes who were able to compete and represent their schools. It is inspiring to see our kids do the things they love to do, both inside and outside our classrooms. While track was happening, we also had flag football in full flight, and many of our volleyball, softball, baseball, and basketball club athletes were away at tournaments across Saskatchewan and even in Edmonton, Alberta, for a national competition. We saw incredible finishes in these sports by many of our kids, and even other notable accomplishments in sports like equestrian by some of our students. This was also the week for some of our last drama and band productions held throughout Horizon, and many of our children are beginning year-end trips that, for some, even include activities like camping. 

Our students would never have these opportunities if it were not for our Horizon staff and families. I applaud each of you for truly understanding what Helen Keller meant by “working together to accomplish so much”.  

Have a great week, everyone.  

-Kevin

Kevin C. Garinger B.Ed., M.A.Ed., Ed.D. (Candidate)

Director of Education/CEO

Horizon School Division No. 205

[email protected]

@kevingaringer

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey

Good morning, Horizon team. I hope you enjoyed a restful weekend and found some time to recharge and connect with those who matter most. As we head into June, the final month of our school year, I’m reminded of how quickly time passes and how much we accomplish together when we stay focused on our shared mission: helping every student thrive.

Learning Improvement Plans

Much of last week was spent visiting schools for the second of two Learning Improvement Plan (LIP) review meetings for this school year. Superintendents Jacquie Bergerman, Trish Maxwell, Bryan McNabb, Terry Leibel, and I met with principals and vice principals to review school data and strategies to support continuous student learning.

We appreciate the dedication and care shown by the teams at Sask Central Hutterian, Raymore, Punnichy Community High, Punnichy Elementary Community, George Gordon Education Centre, Ituna, Foam Lake Composite, Foam Lake Elementary, Wadena Elementary, Wadena Composite, Watrous Elementary, Lanigan Elementary, Lanigan Central High, Muenster, New Horizon Hutterian, Wynyard Elementary, Wynyard Composite, Lakeside Colony, and Watson schools.

Our discussions centred on supporting student growth in literacy and numeracy, and on fostering safe, welcoming learning environments. Again, it is encouraging to see the meaningful contributions of School Community Councils, whose involvement helps strengthen the vital link between schools and their communities. 

Cell Phone Policy Think Tank

On Tuesday, I had the privilege of joining a Toronto Metropolitan University Think Tank at the University of Regina, focused on mobile phone policies and the effects of online engagement on youth. Joining me were Terry Leibel, Superintendent of Student Wellness, Kamille Lech, Principal at William Derby School; Michelle Ehmann, parent and School Community Council Chair for Schell School; and Jesse Green, parent and Communications Officer. Together, we shared insights and listened to voices from across the province about the implementation of phone-free classrooms and how best to support our students in this evolving digital landscape.

The discussions covered early successes we have seen since the implementation of K–12 phone restriction policies—such as improved focus in classrooms, reduced conflicts over device use, and positive impacts on students’ mental health. However, we also discussed the real challenges that come with these changes, including finding consistent enforcement strategies, balancing equitable access to digital tools, and navigating the role of personal devices in our communities.

SCC Engagement Committee Meeting 

The Board’s School Community Council (SCC) Engagement Committee met on Tuesday evening to finalize plans for our upcoming SCC Workshop. Committee Chair Dana Stefanson and members Irma Anderson, Jim Lissinna, and Pam Wintringham were joined by ex officio member Garth Anderson, along with me and Executive Assistant Marni Sogge. We’re looking forward to connecting with SCC members and principals to collaborate, share ideas, and continue building strong partnerships that support student success.

Graduations

I joined Trustee Melanie Craswell at Imperial School for their Grade 12 graduation ceremony this past Friday. At the same time, Superintendent Bryan McNabb joined Trustees Rhonda Kayseas and Mary Ann Jones for the Wadena Composite School graduation. Also on Friday, Trustee Jennifer Lemky was joined by Superintendent Terry Leibel at the grad at Viscount Central School, and Superintendent Jacquie Bergerman joined Trustee Mary Ann Jones for the Quill Lake School graduation. On Saturday, I joined Trustee Jim Lissinna at the final graduation of Kelvington High School (KHS). Starting next year, Kelvington High will no longer exist as Robert Melrose Elementary School will amalgamate with KHS to become Kelvington School. The end of KHS will signal a change in structure, as the facility will host a Kindergarten to Grade 12 school, accompanied by a significant facelift for the new school. Congratulations to all of the graduates and their families on this important milestone. Thank you to staff, families, and community members for the heartfelt ceremonies and for the support you've shown our students throughout their educational journeys.

Finally, I wanted to extend my thoughts and prayers to all those who have been displaced during this fire season. I shudder to call it a season, but it seems that our country and beyond have been challenged on a year-to-year basis, and this year is no different. My hope, and I know each of you shares the same, is that people will be able to return home safely in due time. 

Have a great week, everyone.  

-Kevin

Kevin C. Garinger B.Ed., M.A.Ed., Ed.D. (Candidate)

Director of Education/CEO

Horizon School Division No. 205

[email protected]

@kevingaringer