October, 2025
October 6-10, 2025
Welcome back from the long weekend, Horizon! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving on Monday, and that time brought many moments of rest, reflection, and connection with those you care about. This season always reminds me of the importance of gratitude, both in our personal lives and in the work we do each day. As Melody Beattie once wrote, “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.” I am grateful for each of you, as collectively and collaboratively we hold the key to unlocking the great potential that lies in each of our children. Thank you for continuing to give your time, your heart, and your care to our students, our communities, and each other.
Directors’ Leadership Team
We began our week with a virtual Director’s Leadership Team meeting, where our superintendents and I shared key updates related to assessment, safety, instruction, staffing, and other priority areas. These conversations help ensure we remain aligned and focused as a system, and I appreciate the engagement and thoughtful contributions from leaders across our schools. Our shared commitment to student achievement, wellbeing, and safe & welcoming environments continues to guide our work.
Senior Leadership Team
Immediately following the DLT meeting, the Senior Leadership Team continued our strategic planning work, with a focus on deepening support for instructional leadership. This work is central to Horizon’s ongoing commitment to high-quality teaching and learning in every classroom, every day.
Canadian Association of School System Administrators
On Monday, I also participated in a virtual meeting of the CASSA Executive (Canadian Association of School System Administrators). This group brings together education leaders from across the country to discuss national priorities and support the ongoing professional growth of system leaders. It’s always valuable to connect with colleagues from other provinces and territories to share insights and strengthen our collective work.
Directors’ Meeting
On Monday afternoon, Saskatchewan’s Directors of Education met for the second provincewide meeting of the school year at Saskatoon Public Schools’ office. This year, I have the privilege of serving as co-chair of this group, alongside Ward Strueby, Director of Education for Holy Trinity Catholic School Division. It’s a role I’m honoured to take on, as it provides valuable opportunities to collaborate, share perspectives, and strengthen the work we do across our school divisions. The Deputy Minister of Education also met with us to discuss priorities from the Ministry, and we are always grateful to have LEADS Executive Director Ben Grebinski join us to provide updates from our professional organization. It was a positive and productive meeting, one that I believe will help foster even more meaningful dialogue to support the operations of all school divisions in Saskatchewan.
Provincial Education Plan
On Tuesday, I began the day with Superintendents Jacquie Bergerman and Jeremy Rolheiser in Saskatoon, taking part in the Provincial Education Plan Implementation Team Meeting. This team plays an essential role in supporting Saskatchewan’s Provincial Education Plan, helping to ensure alignment between provincial priorities and local actions.
CelebrateAg
Also on Tuesday, I had the pleasure of attending the CelebrateAg Networking Luncheon at Innovation Place in Saskatoon, held in honour of Agriculture Week in Saskatchewan. The event featured remarks from the Minister of Agriculture, a keynote presentation by Dr. Cami Ryan, and thoughtful discussions around the future of agriculture and food in our province and country. A highlight of the morning was seeing Horizon School Division’s own Sandra Hessdorfer receive the Farm & Food Care 2025 Champion Award. Sandra is not only a dedicated employee but a true advocate for agriculture and agricultural education. It was a proud moment to see her recognized in front of her family and colleagues for her leadership, passion, and the meaningful connections she builds between schools and the agriculture community.
Board of Education
Last week was also a busy one for several Board of Education committees. The Indigenous Liaison Committee, Joint Operations Committee, and Elections Committee all met, alongside an Agenda Meeting with our Table Officers. These meetings are essential to the ongoing work of the Board, providing time for in-depth discussion, planning, and coordination. Updates and outcomes from each of these committees will be shared at our upcoming regular Board meeting on October 15, 2025.
As we approach the middle of October, let’s hope this snow doesn’t stick and we can get back to some pleasant fall temperatures. I know there are still some crops to get in the bin, as well.
Have a wonderful week!
-Kevin
Kevin C. Garinger B.Ed., M.A.Ed., Ed.D. (Candidate)
Director of Education/CEO
Horizon School Division No. 205
October 13-17, 2025
Good morning, Horizon.
Last week was a shorter one, bookended by the Thanksgiving holiday on Monday and the Horizon Teachers’ Association Convention on Friday. These moments, both personal and professional, offered opportunities for reflection, gratitude, and growth.
This upcoming week, we celebrate Education Week across Saskatchewan, with the theme “Seeds of Learning, Roots to Success.” It’s a time to recognize the role education plays in shaping not only the minds but also the futures of our students. As the saying goes, “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant.” Thank you for the many ways you plant those seeds each day—with care, intention, and hope for what’s to come.
Board of Education
Once again last week, I spent time at the table with our Board of Education. On Tuesday, morning, I travelled to Punnichy Community High to meet with Principal Heidi Linford. Heidi and her staff are making significant gains in supporting their students, incorporating so many exciting programs such as early childhood education. It allowed me to engage in conversation first-hand with her and VP Shane Watts.
When I returned, I joined a meeting of the School Community Council (SCC) Engagement Committee. The committee met to begin planning this year’s SCC Workshop. A sincere thank you to everyone who responded to the planning survey, as your input is helping us shape a professional development event that reflects the needs and interests of our school communities.
On Wednesday, the Board held its regular monthly meeting. These opportunities are an essential part of their governance work, allowing trustees to hear from me and other senior leaders so they can engage in meaningful dialogue, review key updates, and make decisions that help chart the course for our division's progress.
Annual Audit
On Thursday, I had the opportunity to meet with Nadine Gibney from MNP, auditor lead for our annual audit. It is always an excellent opportunity to meet with the auditors and discuss areas for consideration for their audit. As has been the case in the past, the Provincial Auditor is involved in our audit this year and they always have additional matters that need review.
Following the review, I travelled to Drake, Strasbourg, and Bulyea to meet with principals and to hear about the great things going on in our schools. Each administrator and staff member I spoke to was so grateful for the work that is happening in their school. In Drake, Principal Erin Richard talked about the great land-based learning opportunities that are being provided to our young people. In Strasbourg, Principal Kamille Lech took me on a tour of their developing outdoor learning spaces in front of the school. And in Bulyea, Principal Justine Wheeler took me on a tour of their agricultural area where she has five laying hens in a coop that was built by our student from Punnichy Community High School. This is typical of the exciting work happening across our system and I look forward to the next time I am in our amazing schools.
Standing Committee on Public Accounts
On Friday, Superintendent Justin Arendt and Manager of Facility Services Kam Kiland joined me in representing Horizon School Division at the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (PAC). The meeting was held at the Legislative Building in Regina. Alongside colleagues from the Ministry of Education and other school divisions, we responded to recommendations from the Provincial Auditor. Preparing for this session involved reviewing our progress on outstanding recommendations and submitting formal updates to the Committee. I appreciated the opportunity to highlight the work we’ve done to maintain safe, functional facilities across our school division and to share that all the recommendations from the Auditor were implemented.
In summary, I shared with Chair of the committee Trent Wotherspoon, the Provincial Auditor, and the rest of the committee, our appreciation for their work. There are many recommendations from the provincial auditor’s office for every sector in the province. In Horizon, we are always on a journey of continuous improvement and their recommendations help us navigate this journey. I have always said, you don’t have to be sick to get better, and these audits are a prime example of this belief.
Horizon Teachers’ Association
Also on Friday, members of the Horizon Teachers’ Association gathered for their regular convention. This annual event brings together educators from across the division for professional learning, collaboration, and connection. I was genuinely sorry not to be able to attend this year due to my obligation with the Public Accounts Committee in Regina. Still, I was grateful that our Board Chair, Garth Anderson, was able to bring greetings on the Board’s behalf and that Superintendent Jacquie Bergerman was able to step in for me and bring greetings. My sincere thanks to President Verna Lynn Gorrill and the HTA for organizing an outstanding event, including welcoming Olympic gold medallist Catriona Le May Doan as guest speaker. Thank you to all our teachers for your ongoing commitment to growth, student success, and excellence in the classroom.
Wishing you a great start to the week ahead.
Take care of each other, Horizon.
-Kevin
Kevin C. Garinger B.Ed., M.A.Ed., Ed.D. (Candidate)
Director of Education/CEO
Horizon School Division No. 205
October 20-24, 2025
Good morning, Horizon.
I begin this week with the same heavy heart all of us have had for the last week after learning of the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Nathan Reiter. Nathan was as kind and caring a person as many of us have ever known. He had the incredible ability to make you feel like the most important person in the room, and it didn’t matter who you were; he did that for everyone. What shone so brightly from Nathan was his genuine love of people. His entire work career was spent in Horizon, and in that short time, he developed relationships that will last a lifetime. Nathan was promoted to a leadership position as the Technical Services Analyst from his school technician role, both of which he cared deeply about. In hearing from his family, they spoke openly about how much he loved working in Horizon and about how much he cared about his work family.
Nate was an integral part of his Watrous community, having been deeply involved in the Kinsmen and many other volunteer-related endeavours. My heart breaks for Nathan’s wife, Shantel, their son Levi, their expectant child, and his entire immediate and extended family. His absence will be deeply felt by everyone in our system and anyone who had the great fortune of knowing our incredible friend.
In moments like these, we are reminded of the gift of life…and its fragility. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote, “Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” Nathan lived this way: with purpose, joy, and generosity. May we all be inspired to do the same.
I spent Monday connecting with colleagues in Humboldt, Watrous, and other communities across our system, talking about Nathan, sharing memories, and working to ensure that staff were supported. It’s never easy to move from grief into the rhythms of daily work, but I was reminded once again of the strength and care that exists within our Horizon community.
Education Week
Last week, we celebrated Education Week under the theme “Seeds of Learning, Roots to Success.” Across Horizon, schools marked the week in such creative and meaningful ways—from student showcases and classroom activities to community events that highlighted the joy and impact of learning. It was truly inspiring to see how our schools brought this theme to life, celebrating not just education itself, but the relationships, curiosity, and care that help our students grow strong and thrive. Thank you to all the staff, students, and families who made the week so special.
Canadian Association of School System Administrators (CASSA)
On Monday, I took part in the virtual CASSA executive board meeting, representing the western region of the AASA (School Superintendents’ Association in the United States). My ongoing involvement with both AASA and CASSA continues to be a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and stay connected with educational leaders across North America.
Board of Education Strategic Planning
This week, I had the opportunity to spend Tuesday and Wednesday engaged in strategic planning alongside our Board of Trustees. We worked through The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey, a resource that continues to offer powerful insights into leadership, collaboration, and purposeful action. Our time together also included dedicated sessions focused on strategic planning for the division, helping to ensure that our direction remains clear, aligned, and rooted in our shared commitment to student success and well-being.
Project Synergy
As one of two LEADS members on the Project Synergy committee, I was involved in a session with the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation on Thursday afternoon. I joined several colleagues from across the education sector. We met to review the new portal for STRP pensions and provide feedback regarding its impending implementation in 2027.
Indigenous Education at the Canadian Western Agribition
Again this year, Horizon’s Indigenous Education Team will be at Agribition in November to showcase land-based learning and Indigenous connections to agriculture. We are thrilled about the return to Agribition and hope to see many of our classes in attendance. We’ll share more details closer to the event, or you can reach out to Superintendent of Indigenous Education Bryan McNabb or anyone on his team with any questions.
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
October 27-31, 2025
This is one of those wonderful years where Halloween falls on a Friday, giving students and staff a chance to enjoy the festivities without the usual next-day scramble. Whether it was costume parades, pumpkin activities, or classroom celebrations, I hope everyone had an opportunity to experience a bit of seasonal fun and connection this past week. Amid the fun, it’s also a time when we’re reminded how much small moments can lift someone’s spirits.
As author Leo Buscaglia said, “Too often we underestimate the power of a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring—all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”
The School Superintendents Association (AASA)
From Sunday to Tuesday, I had the opportunity to represent Canada at a symposium organized by The School Superintendents’ Association (AASA). I was honoured to share perspectives on the work we are doing in Horizon and across Saskatchewan’s education system, and to gain valuable insights into areas such as student mental health and student-centred learning. System-to-system learning is one of the most important ways we can grow as an organization, and I feel beyond fortunate to be provided this incredible experience.
Christmas Hamper Project
Since 2014, Horizon’s Christmas Hamper Project has brought holiday cheer to thousands of children and families across our division. Thanks to our communities and staff, like each of you, this project continues to grow. That said, we once again need your help this year.
Donations of cash or goods are warmly welcomed. Even a $2 donation per pay period can make a big difference. To contribute, please contact my Executive Assistant, Marni Sogge. Tax receipts are available, and payroll deductions can be arranged. Let’s make the season brighter for many of our Horizon families!
I want to take this opportunity to highlight some of the incredible support for the project. Thank you, President Marie Moore and the executive of CUPE Local 4799, for your amazing and generous $2,000 donation toward the Hamper project! We are truly blessed that our member organizations, like CUPE, contribute so generously to supporting those in need. Thank you again!
Suicide Prevention and Life Promotion - A National Guide For System Leaders
I had the opportunity to join a presentation on Suicide Prevention and Life Promotion: A National Guide for System Leaders on Friday. School Mental Health Ontario developed this resource in collaboration with the Mental Health Commission of Canada, We Matter, CASSA, and many other partners. The guide was created through this partnership, and I had the privilege of representing CASSA as an expert advisor throughout its development, focusing on governance and implementation reviews. As this was the first meeting for Superintendents and Directors from across Canada, I had the humbling experience of acting as the inaugural “Voice from the Field” during the presentation. I was able to share the work of our Board and system in addressing mental well-being and suicide prevention, as well as the pivotal role postvention plays.
The National Guide will be a powerful resource for school system leaders, designed to support mental health leadership teams in building and sustaining practical, evidence-informed approaches to suicide prevention within schools. It outlines key roles for system leaders, including creating conditions for well-being, coordinating programming, building capacity, addressing diverse student needs, fostering community collaboration, and monitoring progress. Importantly, it also identifies practices to avoid, which help ensure that our actions “do no harm”. This guide will be an essential tool as we continue to strengthen our collective efforts in Horizon for mental health and well-being.
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