May, 2026

Good morning, Horizon.

As we move further into the spring season, there is a growing sense of excitement in our schools as we approach graduation and the many milestones that mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. This time of year offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on how far our students have come, while also looking ahead to the possibilities that await them. As Henry David Thoreau said, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.”

As we celebrate the outstanding achievements of our youth, we are also very aware of the challenges our region is facing due to the added moisture we have seen this spring. Many of our RMs and families in our farming areas are facing significant issues due to road closures and washouts. Some of our communities have and may continue to declare states of emergency. We will do whatever we need to in order to help manage this dire situation. We were to have a DLT meeting on Monday, but I have postponed it to the 11th to ensure principals are in their schools tomorrow so they can help support staff, students, and families as they navigate this critical time. If you have any concerns or issues with getting to work, please communicate directly with your principal or supervisor, and we will support you in whatever way we can. Times like these make me thankful to be part of a caring and strong community like Horizon. We will, as we always have, come together to ensure the care and safety of our communities and each other. 

Division Office

As usual, our Senior Leadership Team began the week with a meeting to share updates and prepare for upcoming meetings. These regular meetings are an important way for us to stay connected and focused on supporting student learning and well-being across Horizon. Following the meeting, we took time to celebrate our division office staff with April birthdays over a potluck coffee break. It was a welcome chance to pause and connect.  

Horizon Central Athletic Association

The Horizon Central Athletic Association held its spring meeting on Tuesday afternoon to review the past season, discuss upcoming events, and plan for continued opportunities that support student participation and growth through athletics. It was also an opportunity to celebrate HCAA coaches for their outstanding contributions to our young people and sport. 

Board of Education - Joint Operations Committee

The Joint Operations Committee, which oversees the partnership aspects of Humboldt Collegiate, met virtually on Thursday afternoon. Committee members from Horizon included Board Chair Linda Mattock and Trustee Melanie Craswell. They met with Greater Saskatoon Catholic School Trustees and staff to review financials, discuss shared priorities, and ensure the continued success of this important partnership. Staff joining me from my office were Superintendent of Finance Services Sarah Reding, Superintendent of Human Resources Cory Popoff, and Executive Assistant Marni Sogge.

2026-27 Budget

On Wednesday morning, I met with Sarah, Cory, and Assistant Superintendent of Finance Services Lori Washkowsky to review the potential staffing allocations for the 2026–27 budget, ensuring our plans align with Board and divisional priorities and support student learning across Horizon.

Student Mental Health Day

On Thursday, the Student Wellness Team hosted Horizon’s second annual Student Mental Health Day, where a group of Grade 7–12 students from almost every school in the Division came together for a day focused on well-being, connection, and learning. The day featured a resource fair and keynote presentations by Kyla Thompson and DJay McGrath, who shared powerful messages with students. Entertainment was provided by Matt Gore, known as “The Ginger Ninja,” adding an engaging and memorable element to the day.

Thank you to everyone who participated and those who organized the event, including the Horizon counselling staff, Superintendent Terry Leibel, and Coordinator Darlene Popoff. Thank you to our keynote speakers and entertainer, and to the many partners who contributed to the resource fair. Your collective efforts helped create a supportive and impactful experience for our students. A number of our trustees were able to attend as well, and I certainly thank them for making the day a priority in their busy lives.

Humboldt Public School

Executive Director Sean Chase, Director Stephanie Casper, and Consultant Rosemarie Gress from the Ministry of Education’s Student Achievement and Supports department visited Humboldt Public School on Thursday afternoon. Humboldt Public assigned a Specialized Support Classroom for the 2025-26 school year, and Sean and his team took the opportunity to visit and see the excellent work happening at HPS as part of the program. 

I was joined by Superintendent Jacquie Bergerman, Coordinator Darryl Dickson, and Superintendent Jeremy Rolheiser, as Principal Paul Strueby and Vice Principal Jennifer Showers toured the group through the school, focusing on the classroom. 

New Training Facility

On Friday morning, I attended a formal announcement at the new location of the Government of Saskatchewan, BHP, and Carlton Trail College along Highway 5. The event marked a significant milestone for the region, with the announcement of a multi-million-dollar investment to support the development of the new BHP Technical Training Centre in Humboldt.

This new centre will expand Carlton Trail College’s existing campus and play an important role in preparing the next generation of skilled workers. It is encouraging to see such strong collaboration between government, industry, and education, and the lasting economic and learning opportunities this investment will bring to our communities. We look forward to updates on the renovations and the facility’s opening scheduled for fall of 2027. 

Celebration Day Lunch
Trustee Melanie Craswell joined me at Schell School’s celebration day lunch on Friday. Staff enjoyed a well-deserved meal while Superintendents Jacquie Bergerman, Terry Leibel, Cory Popoff, and Coordinator Darryl Dickson supported supervision. Thanks to Executive Assistant Marni Sogge, Administrative Assistants Kim Loose and Shelley Schell, and our work experience student from Carlton Trail College, Christine Tschetter, who made sure the lunch and celebratory cake were organized! We were warmly welcomed and appreciated the hospitality of Schell’s wonderful school community.

Graduations

This past Friday marked the beginning of celebrations for Horizon’s Class of 2026, with graduation ceremonies at Lake Lenore and Winston High schools. It was wonderful to see students recognized for their accomplishments and to share in this important milestone alongside families, staff, and community members.

Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall Scholarship

Congratulations to Minh (Tien Nguyen Hanh) Nguyen from Wakaw School, who was awarded the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall Scholarship for his leadership and commitment to education, school, and community. We wish Minh the very best!

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 afternoon, everyone. 

Welcome back from a beautiful weekend. I think it is safe to say that we are on the home stretch of the school year, but that certainly does not mean things are slowing down. There is still so much learning, celebration, and activity happening across Horizon in the weeks ahead, and it is always one of the most rewarding times of the year to see our schools so full of energy and accomplishment.

This past weekend in Edmonton was a profound reminder of the beautiful cycles of life. As I enjoyed time with two of my sons and their significant others, I also rejoiced with my oldest son and his wife as they prepare for the next chapter in our family story with the impending birth of a baby boy in early September. Mother’s Day is about to take on an exciting new dimension for them and for all of us. With that anticipation and deep regard, I extend a truly heartfelt Happy Mother’s Day to every mother and surrogate mother across Horizon and beyond. The bond a mother shares with her children is timeless. No matter how many years pass or how old we become, a mother remains a source of strength, guidance, and unconditional love that is critical to her children's lives and the fabric of her family. To those who nurture, lead, and love with everything they have, thank you for all that you do.

Having recently turned 58, you expect to have many of the answers. And yet, while I was rejoicing this Mother’s Day Sunday, I also found myself in a quiet space that I’ve never occupied before…my first Mother’s Day without my mom. For anyone who has experienced this first, you understand the hollow ache that comes with the realization that her warm voice and reassuring touch have transitioned from a regular part of reality into a memory that must be worked at to hold on to. I have heard it said that it is a profound shift to go from being someone's child to being the keeper of their legacy. I now have a deeply personal understanding of that perspective. 

As we head into this new week, that loss brings a sharp clarity to the work we do in Horizon. For many of the children walking into our classrooms this morning, you become the primary source of that “reassurance”. You are the steady, kind, and fair presence they rely on when their own worlds feel uncertain. In every decision you make and every bit of warmth you extend, you are a transition person for them. Thank you for taking on this vital role with such heart. You aren’t just teaching or supporting, you are truly making the world a softer, better place for our students.

Humboldt & Area Guardian Angels

On Monday, I had the pleasure of attending the Humboldt & Area Guardian Angels' annual general meeting to share a little about Horizon and the work underway in our schools and communities. The Guardian Angels is a dedicated group of volunteers who knit, crochet, and sew beautiful handmade items for those in need, and their generosity has supported our Christmas Hamper project for many years. We are incredibly grateful for the care and compassion they continue to show to families across Horizon, and I appreciated the opportunity to thank them personally and spend time with the group during their AGM.

2026-27 Budget

On Tuesday morning, I met with Superintendents Sarah Reding and Justin Arendt, along with Assistant Superintendent Lori Washkowsky, to review next year’s budget for Horizon’s operational services needs. A great deal of discussion takes place at these meetings, as every line item is reviewed to ensure we prepare budget considerations for the Board’s review that align with the priorities they have established.  

Canadian Association of Principals

This year’s Canadian Association of Principals conference, themed as “Growing Leaders, Growing Communities”, was held in Regina. I was able to join the event on Wednesday and part of Thursday with some of our Horizon administrators, and enjoyed the excellent collaboration and learning, including keynote speakers such as Saskatchewan’s Katie White, who is an award-winning author, coach, and education consultant who has worked with our DLT and teachers in Horizon. I appreciated CAP's invitation to attend as a member of the executive of CASSA, the Canadian Association of School System Administrators. 

Celebration Day Lunch

Annaheim School’s Celebration Day lunch was held on Thursday, with Board Chair Linda Mattock and me joining staff for a meal while Superintendents Cory Popoff, Jacquie Bergerman, and Terry Leibel, and Inclusive Education Coach Jolene Gullacher stepped in to supervise the lunch hour. Congratulations to everyone at Annaheim School. Thank you to Principal Karma Knittig, her staff, and students for the warm welcome, and thank you to the team from the division office for organizing lunch and cake for everyone. 

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. 

I hope each of you had a wonderful Victoria Day weekend! I know the weather didn’t cooperate with those of you camping, or trying to get some yard work done (like yours truly). I certainly hope you stayed warm and dry and still found time to enjoy some downtime away from the important work you do in classrooms, offices, and buses across the system. 

This past week highlighted the importance of taking time to come together, learn from one another, and recognize the people who make Horizon such a strong and caring community. From meaningful professional learning with our Director’s Leadership Team to our system-wide Celebration Day, there were many opportunities to reflect on the relationships and shared commitment that continue to shape our Division. Irish suffragist Margaret Cousins said, “Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary.”

Canadian Association of School System Administrators (CASSA)

CASSA Executive met on Monday morning to go through items in preparation for the upcoming May Governing Board meeting. There is a great deal going on in CASSA, specifically as we prepare for the July 2-4 opportunity in Saskatoon, the first time the CASSA annual conference has been held in Saskatchewan since 2007, when the event was hosted in our Queen City of Regina. 

Board of Education

The Indigenous Liaison Committee Meeting met on Monday afternoon to discuss student data, including enrolments, Kindergarten readiness, literacy, attendance, and credit attainment. At the meeting were Trustees Rhonda Kayseas (Committee Chair), Irma Anderson, Mary Ann Jones, Cheryl Norleen, Paul Crow-Buffalo, and Albert Pinacie, along with ex officio member Board Chair Linda Mattock. Joining me from the Division Office were Superintendent Bryan McNabb and Executive Assistant Marni Sogge. 

Following the committee meeting, Board Chair Linda Mattock, Vice Chair Mark Fedak, Executive Assistant Marni Sogge, Communications Officer Jesse Green, and I met to prepare the agenda for this week's board meeting. There is certainly a great deal going on as we head into the last days and weeks of May and the busy month of June. It is hard to believe we are already talking about June!

Director's Leadership Team Professional Learning

We held the final Director’s Leadership Team professional learning session of the year on Tuesday, after it was postponed earlier this month due to flooding that made travelling a challenge. The day included valuable assessment updates, important discussions around student attendance, and several other meaningful conversations focused on supporting student learning and well-being. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the learning and conversations throughout the day as we continue working together to support student success and well-being.

Project Synergy

As one of two LEADS members on the Project Synergy committee, I joined the monthly meeting with other members from the sector. Project Synergy is a major system modernization initiative undertaken by the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Retirement Plan (STRP), which is administered by the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) and provides pension benefits to STF teachers and system administrators from LEADS. The project centers on a comprehensive upgrade of the STRP’s core pension systems and technology infrastructure, with the goal of implementing the system by 2027. 

Celebration Day

On Thursday, staff from across Horizon came together for our annual Celebration Day 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, 20 years after six divisions were amalgamated into one.

We celebrated years of service awards, acknowledged our 2025-26 retirees, and presented the Excellence in Teaching Awards to Naomi Bauml, Jolene Gullacher, Tina Edwards, and Marla Kelln, each of whom exemplifies dedication to student success and innovative practice. We also recognized years of service, with a truly impressive number of staff members reaching milestones of 5 to 45 years of service with Horizon and its legacy divisions.

Throughout the day, we were treated to performances from our students from Quill Lake, LeRoy, Wynyard Composite, Humboldt Collegiate, and Lanigan schools. It was incredibly special to see students spend their day off performing for their teachers and support staff. Although it was a very large crowd, the talent and dedication they demonstrated were truly impressive. Thank you to each of these students, and to the wonderful staff who supported and encouraged them in preparing for their performances.

We were very honoured to induct John and Bernice Williams into the Horizon Wall of Fame, in recognition of their lifelong commitment to community, leadership, and philanthropy. We are proud and humbled to celebrate their accomplishments and recognize them as outstanding graduates of Horizon School Division. 

John and Bernice continued their spirit of generosity by announcing a $20,000 donation to Horizon School Division to support entrepreneurial opportunities for our students. We are deeply grateful for their continued support of education and for the lasting impact they continue to make in our communities.

Please feel free to email me directly with any comments or thoughts you have regarding the day. Thank you to everyone who made the day a success. What a wonderful way to kick off the first long weekend of spring! 

Mosaic School Nutrition Challenge

Finally, congratulations to Cudworth School and Bulyea Elementary School, recipients of the 2026 Mosaic School Nutrition Challenge. I know we had a number of applications, and each represented the commitment to strengthening nutrition education and supporting student well-being. This commitment from Mosaic truly is a testament to the important role schools play in helping students learn, grow, and thrive, and in supporting food security.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the School Nutrition Challenge, and thanks to the generous support of The Mosaic Company, 20 schools will each receive a $20,000 grant, for a total of $400,000 in funding to support healthier learning environments.

Have a great shortened 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.

Well, we finally got a taste of spring weather, which was more than welcome! Last week may have been a shorter week with the holiday Monday, but like any shortened week, it was significantly impactful. As the saying goes, “Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, and working together is success.” The quote from Henry Ford is a reminder that strong organizations are built through relationships, shared learning, and a collective commitment to moving forward together. 

I started my week with a myriad of phone calls followed by a meeting at HPS with Principal Paul Strueby. I appreciate opportunities to get into schools and engage in discussions with staff and students. 

CEO Panel - EdCan

Following the meeting, I joined two other CEOs, one from Alberta and one from Ontario, for a Canada-wide discussion led by EdCan on mental well-being for students and staff. It was interesting to hear about the effective practices from other divisions outside our province, and I certainly gleaned some important points to consider within our own work. 

Directors Meeting

I co-chaired the provincial Directors Meeting in Saskatoon on Tuesday afternoon, along with Ward Strueby from Holy Trinity Catholic School Division. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity for directors from across the province to come together, share perspectives, and discuss key priorities in education.

Board of Education - Regular Meeting

The Board met for their regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, and highlights will be shared in the From the Board newsletter, which will provide an overview of key discussions, decisions, and ongoing priorities across the division. 

Horizon Teachers’ Association

Following the meeting, Trustees welcomed the Horizon Teachers’ Association (HTA) executive and Horizon’s Senior Leadership Team for a shared meal and practical discussion regarding the rollout of Edsby. Engaging teachers in the conversation and the plan is a critical step to ensuring the training and implementation go smoothly. The HTA members who were present shared their perspectives openly and honestly on the necessary steps toward a successful integration of the program. I appreciate these opportunities as the time together always provides a valuable opportunity to connect, build relationships, and continue strengthening our shared commitment to supporting students and staff across the division.

Learning Improvement Plans

On Thursday, we began the second round of Learning Improvement Plan review meetings for this school year. Superintendents Jacquie Bergerman, Terry Liebel, Bryan McNabb, and Jeremy Rolheiser, and Coordinator of Learning Bridgette Millen will join me at their assigned schools over the coming weeks as we meet with principals and vice principals to review school data and discuss ways to support student learning and well-being. 

On Thursday, we visited Schell, Watrous Elementary, and Viscount Central schools. There was great appreciation for the thoughtful conversations and the work underway to foster safe, caring learning environments, as well as the intentional strategies being used to support student growth and achievement. Along with school staff, the involvement of School Community Councils continues to strengthen the connection between our schools and the communities they serve, helping to ensure that students are supported both inside and outside the classroom.

Workplace Culture

I took part in a professional learning event over the weekend on workplace culture. The speakers ranged from CEOs of major global companies to leaders in higher education to professionals with lived experience that led to stories about the greatest and most challenging workplaces. I look forward to sharing my learning with our team here in Horizon.

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. 

 

The last few days of May are here and gone, and once again, I’m amazed at how quickly the school year has passed. Congratulations to all the athletes who participated in district track and field in Saskatoon this past week. It was a hot and dusty day filled with incredible athleticism, perseverance, and team spirit. I also want to thank the staff, coaches, and volunteers who made the district championship possible. Our students would not get these opportunities without your continued support and efforts.

I also want to recognize the amazing work behind so many schools’ drama productions this spring. From performers on stage to the staff, volunteers, and families supporting behind the scenes, these productions showcase the creativity, confidence, and dedication of our students in such meaningful ways. As Vincent van Gogh once said, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”

Learning Improvement Plans

We continued with the second of two Learning Improvement Plan (LIP) review meetings last week. Superintendents Jacquie Bergerman, Terry Leibel, Bryan McNabb, and Jeremy Rolheiser and Coordinator of Learning Bridgette Millen joined me at their assigned schools throughout the week as we met with principals and vice principals to review school data and discuss ways to support student learning and well being. 

Throughout the week, we met with Raymore, Sask Central Hutterian, New Horizon Hutterian, Wynyard Elementary, Lakeside Colony, Quill Lake, Foam Lake Composite, Wadena Elementary, and Watson. Thank you to the staff and School Community Councils whose ongoing efforts to support student achievement continue to make a meaningful difference for learners across Horizon.

Graduations

Congratulations to the Ituna, Quill Lake, Viscount Central, and Wadena Composite graduating classes of 2026, whose ceremonies were held this past Friday night. It is always a privilege for our Trustees and members of my office to share in the pride that is felt within each school community. That same pride is felt by the Board and all of us in Horizon as we continue to work together in support of our young people. Congratulations to our graduates, and thank you to the staff, families, and community members who made these celebrations so memorable. I had the pleasure of joining the graduations with Trustee Mary Ann Jones at Wadena Composite School and Quill Lake School on Friday evening. Superintendent Terry Leibel joined trustee Jennifer Lemky at Viscount Central School while Jeremy Rolheiser joined trustee Garth Anderson at Ituna School. Everyone will take a break from graduations this next weekend as the vast majority of graduations (15 of them) will take place on June 12th. 

Board of Education

Horizon’s Board of Education met on Wednesday to review and approve the 2026-27 budget for our Division. We had a productive day as Superintendent of Finance Services/CFO Sarah Reding and I presented the budget. Trustees discussed priorities, challenges, and the resources needed to support safe and caring environments, student learning, staff wellbeing, and more. 

On Thursday, Horizon Trustees joined colleagues from across the region for a Saskatchewan School Boards Association (SSBA) Regional Board Engagement Meeting. The session allowed boards to share perspectives, discuss emerging priorities in education, and strengthen governance practices across the province.

Humboldt Broncos Legacy Bursary

On Thursday evening, I met with Toby Boulet and Ed Tobin to review applicants for this year's Humboldt Broncos Legacy Bursary.  It is inspiring to read through the applications of so many young leaders who are making a difference in their schools, and it is always a pleasure to connect with Toby and Ed.

On Friday, my day shifted a little as I spent the majority of the day at William Derby School in Strasbourg with Vice Principal Marla Kelln and Superintendent Terry Leibel, as we were dealing with a matter that had come up. It is inspiring to see how leaders are able to manage challenging situations and equally inspiring to observe our staff work collectively to ensure the safety of all involved.  

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