June, 2026
June 1-5, 2026
Good morning, Horizon
“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” — Anthony J. D'Angelo
As we move further into spring and closer to the final stretch of the school year, I’m reminded that some of the most important work happens when people come together around a shared purpose. Last week provided many opportunities for collaboration, discussion, and celebration as we continued supporting student learning while also recognizing important milestones for our students and school communities.
Directors’ Leadership Team
We began the week with a virtual meeting of the Directors’ Leadership Team, where we discussed key priorities and our efforts to continue supporting student learning and effective operations across the division. This was the last of our online meetings with the DLT for the 2025-26 school year, and we look forward to our final in-person meeting and wind-up on June 16, 2026.
Learning Improvement Plans
Last week was another focused mainly on Learning Improvement Plan (LIP) review meetings. Along with Superintendents Jacquie Bergerman, Terry Leibel, Bryan McNabb, and Jeremy Rolheiser, and Instructional Coach Bridgette Millen at their assigned schools, we met with principals and vice principals to review school data and discuss ways to support student learning and well-being.
We met with LeRoy, Englefeld, Cudworth, Archerwill, Rose Valley, Kelvington, St. Brieux, Three Lakes, Lake Lenore, Annaheim, Muenster, Lanigan, Drake, William Derby, and Bulyea Elementary schools. Again, we recognize and thank our staff and school community councils for their continued dedication to student achievement.
Board of Education - Governance Committee
The Board’s Governance Committee met on Tuesday afternoon, including committee members Jennifer Lemky (Chair), Garth Anderson, Rhonda Kayseas, and Dana Stefanson, along with ex officio members Linda Mattock and Mark Fedak. Joining me from staff were Superintendent Sarah Reding and Executive Assistant Marni Sogge. The Governance Committee will share recommendations with the Board at the June meeting later this month.
Public Section General Meeting and Professional Development
On Thursday evening and Friday, trustees and directors attended the Public Section general meeting and professional development sessions in Regina. Trustees deepened their understanding of governance, strengthened connections with colleagues from across the province, and exchanged ideas to support their shared work as a public school division in Saskatchewan. We are also proud to have our Board Chair, Linda Mattock, serving as Chair of the Public Section, providing leadership at the provincial level.
2026-27 Budget
Following the AGM, the Board and I met to finalize the 2026-27 budget. It is exciting to have this important work completed, enabling us to move forward with the final components of our staffing and to address our operational expectations as outlined in the Board’s strategic plan.
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
June 8-12, 2026
“The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings.” — Masanobu Fukuoka
Good morning, Horizon!
Last week offered many meaningful moments, from celebrating our graduates to engaging students in hands-on learning about agriculture and mining, to educational trips, preparing for final assessments, and continuing our Learning Improvement Plan meetings.
Learning Improvement Plans
We continued this year’s Learning Improvement Plan meetings on Monday, visiting Punnichy Community High, Punnichy Elementary Community, and George Gordon Education Centre. On Thursday, we met with Bruno Central School and rounded out the week on Friday morning at Humboldt Public School. Once again, thank you to the principals, staff, and school community councils for their amazing work in preparing these plans to support student learning and safe and caring schools.
Student Agriculture Day and Student Mining Day
Last week was one to remember as we welcomed students from across the division to two remarkable learning events. On Tuesday, about 520 Grade 10 students from Horizon schools gathered to learn about the vital role agriculture plays in our communities, economy, and daily lives.
We were honoured to be joined by The Honourable David Marit, Minister of Agriculture, who spoke powerfully about the values of resilience, community, and opportunity that underpin Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector. We were also joined by Mrs. Racquel Hilbert, MLA for Humboldt-Watrous, whose presence underscored the importance of this work not only as an economic driver but also as a way of life that sustains families and shapes futures.
Our region, often referred to as the Iron Triangle of Saskatchewan, is a powerhouse for agriculture, home to thousands of jobs, hundreds of millions of dollars in exports, and numerous examples of hard work and innovation.
During Student Agriculture Day, Nutrien announced an exciting new partnership with Horizon School Division, including a $250,000 investment to support the installation of a hydroponic grow container at Lanigan School. This innovative indoor farm will provide students with hands-on learning opportunities in agriculture, sustainability, science, technology, nutrition, and food production, while helping them develop practical skills and a deeper understanding of modern agriculture.
We greatly appreciate Nutrien’s continued support of our students and schools. Their investment in experiential learning will create meaningful opportunities for students across Horizon School Division and leave a lasting impact for years to come.
With more than 500 Grade 11 students in attendance, alongside teachers, trustees, staff, and industry partners, Student Mining Day was a tremendous success. Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to engage with valued partners and a wide range of exhibitors who generously shared their expertise, experiences, and passion for the mining industry. Their contributions helped create a meaningful and inspiring learning experience for all participants.
We were fortunate to have two Members of the Legislative Assembly with us, and we appreciated the support from both Mrs. Darlene Rowden, MLA for Batoche, and Mrs. Raquel Hilbert, MLA for Humboldt–Watrous.
Mining is a cornerstone of Saskatchewan’s economy, and our region is no exception. While widely recognized for our agriculture and manufacturing, mining plays an equally critical role in shaping our local and global future. From potash and uranium to copper and rare earth elements, the minerals of our province help feed and power the world.
For me, this event also held personal significance. Having grown up in a mining family in northern Saskatchewan, I have seen how this work supports families, strengthens communities, and creates pathways into careers in trades, technology, transportation, and more. It was meaningful to share a part of my own story with students and encourage them to see the many possibilities ahead.
I would like to sincerely thank our Division Office team for coordinating such a significant undertaking, and our school staff for supporting and guiding students throughout the experience. We are grateful to Southland Transportation bus drivers for ensuring safe travel, and to our Board of Education for their continued support of experiential learning opportunities. Finally, thank you to our sponsors and industry partners and sponsors whose investment in education and in our students made this day both meaningful and memorable.
Human Resources
I spent Thursday morning with Superintendent of Human Resources, Cory Popoff, as we interviewed for a couple of administrative positions. We sincerely appreciate all of the candidates who put their names forward and participated in the selection process. We look forward to announcing the successful candidates for these roles in the near future.
Education Services Agreement
On Thursday afternoon, I joined Director of Education Gerry Guillet for a meeting to discuss the current Education Services Agreement between Horizon and Fishing Lake First Nation. Superintendent of Finance Sarah Reding also joined the meeting. We discussed the current agreement and any potential changes that would support both the Board and Chief and Council from FLFN. Our next steps will involve engaging our Trustee Rhonda Kayseas, and finalizing the document for ratification.
Graduations
It was all hands on deck across Horizon Friday night as we celebrated the graduation of many of our Grade 12 students. We offer our congratulations to the Class of 2026 from Bruno Central, Englefeld, Foam Lake Composite, Humboldt Collegiate, Imperial, Kelvington, Lanigan, Muenster, Raymore, Rose Valley, St. Brieux, Three Lakes, Wakaw, William Derby, and Wynyard Composite schools.
These ceremonies were a meaningful celebration of the hard work, perseverance, and growth our students have demonstrated throughout their educational journeys. It is always a privilege for our Board of Education and members of my office to attend, to offer congratulations in person, and to share in the pride felt within each school community. I was able to attend three grads at Humboldt Collegiate, St. Brieux, and Bruno schools. Thank you to the staff, families, and community members who helped make these occasions so memorable.
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
June 15-19, 2026
Good morning, Horizon.
As we enter the final week of the school year, I find myself reflecting on the many learning experiences, connections, and celebrations that have brought us together over the past ten months.
Yesterday marked National Indigenous Peoples Day, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, languages, and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples. Cree scholar and educator Dr. Verna J. Kirkness’s words, “Education is the new buffalo,” remind us that education is not simply about acquiring knowledge. It is about strengthening relationships, understanding different perspectives, and creating opportunities for future generations. As we approach the end of another successful school year, I am grateful for the many ways our students and staff continue to learn, grow, and support one another.
Learning Improvement Planning
We continued our LIP meetings on Monday morning, travelling to Wadena Composite and Ituna School. I travelled to Vier Lake Colony, Wakaw, and Cudworth on Thursday morning before wrapping up the day at Foam Lake Elementary. I again want to thank the administration at these schools for their continued efforts to support student learning and well-being.
CASSA Board Meeting
On Tuesday morning, we had our monthly CASSA Board meeting to discuss a number of items, including the CASSA Conference that is being hosted in Saskatoon July 2-4, 2026. Former student and acclaimed country music artist Codie Prevost will be performing at the event for the nearly 150 delegates and presenters from across Canada who will be joining us in Saskatoon. I look forward to the opportunity to connect with colleagues and learn about the many impacts on education across our country.
Celebrating Staff
While at Ituna School, I had the privilege of recognizing the service of two retirees, 24-year bus driver and caretaker Patsy Sopel, and 35-year librarian Tammy Kanciruk. It was a great celebration, directly tied to the student awards at Ituna School. It is far too rare that I am able to be part of these celebrations, so I was certainly grateful to join Principal Brittany Gent, staff, and students in Ituna as they bid farewell to these incredible people.
Board Agenda Meeting
On Monday afternoon, I joined Board Chair Linda Mattock, Vice Chair Mark Fedak, Superintendent of Finance Sarah Reding, Executive Assistant Marni Sogge, and Communications Officer Jesse Green for our last agenda meeting of the school year. There was a lot to discuss, and the agenda was prepared for the last Board meeting of the year.
Board of Education - Joint Operations Committee
The Joint Operations Committee oversees the partnership aspects of Humboldt Collegiate. Committee members Linda Mattock (Chair) and Melanie Craswell, along with Superintendent of Finance Sarah Reding, Superintendent of Operational Services Justin Arendt, and Superintendent of Human Resources Cory Popoff, met with Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools trustees and staff to review financials, discuss shared priorities, and ensure the continued success of this important partnership.
Directors’ Leadership Team
Director’s Leadership Team members travelled to Humboldt on Tuesday for a day of professional learning focused on assessment practices. We also bid farewell to those who are retiring or moving on to other opportunities, and welcomed new members to the team. We finished the day with a celebration and meal, wrapping up an eventful and successful school year while taking time to honour the people who make Horizon such a great place to learn and work.
PowWow in Humboldt
Thursday was an important day, as the first-ever powwow was held in Humboldt. Through a partnership with George Gordon First Nation, George Gordon Developments Ltd., the City of Humboldt, and Carlton Trail College, Horizon was proud to provide leadership to support this event. With the theme of Honouring the Land and Our Relations, the day provided an opportunity to celebrate culture, strengthen understanding, and bring the community together in a spirit of respect, learning, and connection.
Seeing the arena packed with students and community members for the Grand Entry was a powerful and moving experience. There are just too many people to mention, but to the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, dignitaries, sponsors, dancers, drum groups, Powwow Head Staff, and our amazing students, thank you for a beautiful day.
Thank you also to the planning committee for their amazing work over the last year to bring this vision to life. Our sincere thanks to Superintendent of Indigenous Education Bryan McNabb, Indigenous Instructional Coaches Amanda Moosemay and Patrick McNabb, Administrative Assistant Melanie Gray, and Agriculture Education Officer Sandra Hessdorfer, along with Jennifer Fitzpatrick representing the City of Humboldt, Crystal Francis from Carlton Trail College, and Angie McNabb from George Gordon First Nation.
SHSAA AGM
On Thursday evening and Friday, I was in Prince Albert with Trustee Jim Lissinna and several delegates from Horizon for the 2026 Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association (SHSAA) AGM. Thursday evening was the awards ceremony, and two of our own Horizon employees won significant awards for their service to student-athletes and their families. Joel Taphorn won a prestigious “service award” for his outstanding contributions to students involved in athletics, while the SHSAA’s Merit Award was received by Darin Faubert, former principal of Wadena Composite School. Congratulations to Joel and Darin on these honours. The AGM wrapped up Friday afternoon in time to make it back to Humboldt and to get ready for the LeRoy School graduation ceremony.
Graduations
On that note, congratulations to the Watson and LeRoy Class of 2026, who celebrated their graduations on Thursday and Friday. It is always a pleasure for our Board and senior staff from my office to share in these celebrations with each of our school communities. Again, congratulations to the grads, staff, families, and community members who help make these milestones so special.
Sportsmanship Award
Congratulations to the Winston High School Boys Basketball team on winning the 2026 HOOPLA SaskMilk Sportsmanship Award. We are always proud of the way our students represent our schools and school division. There is always a high degree of respect, integrity, and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the various seasons, and this is certainly a deserving award for these basketball athletes and the coaching staff. Well done and well-deserved!
I’ll send out the final, abridged version of This Week in Horizon on Friday morning. Have a great last week of school, everyone!
-Kevin
Kevin C. Garinger B.Ed., M.A.Ed., Ed.D. (Candidate)
Director of Education/CEO
Horizon School Division No. 205
Enter your text here...June 22-26, 2026
Good morning, Horizon.
“Time is too slow for those who wait,
too swift for those who fear...
But for those who love, time is eternity.”
-Henry Van Dyke
As another school year comes to a close, those words feel especially fitting. The months seem to have passed in the blink of an eye. While the year has brought its share of challenges and opportunities for learning, it has also been filled with moments that remind us why this work matters. It is a privilege to work alongside people who care so deeply about helping children learn, grow, and thrive.
Below are a few highlights from across the year, followed by a brief recap of our final week of the school year. While this is by no means a comprehensive list of accomplishments, it offers a snapshot of the many reasons we have to celebrate.
Horizon received provincial recognition through the Lieutenant Governor's Award for innovation and leadership in education, celebrating hands-on learning, Indigenous knowledge, and strong partnerships that connect students to future careers in the agriculture sector. Our project, “From Field to Future”, continues to resonate within our Division and communities, and across our province.
Now in its 12th year, the Board-led Christmas Hamper Project brought communities together to support 147 families and 368 children over the holiday season, thanks to the generosity of students, staff, SCCs, businesses, and donors.
Horizon participated in the rollout of Saskatchewan's new provincial Student Assessment Program and looks forward to continuing to support student learning through this initiative.
Horizon School Division and the Local Implementation and Negotiation Committee successfully ratified a new local collective bargaining agreement, reflecting a collaborative process and shared commitment to supporting teachers and student success.
The Division welcomed Vier Lake Colony School, with Watson Colony School to follow, while celebrating successful school consolidations and grand openings in Lanigan and Kelvington.
Horizon continued its commitment to reconciliation through Indigenous learning opportunities at Canadian Western Agribition and by helping lead the first-ever Humboldt Partnership Powwow, bringing together students, communities, Elders, and partners to celebrate culture, learning, and connection.
This Week In Horizon - June 22-26, 2206
To begin, congratulations to Amanda Moosemay and Lindsey Bear, who both received their Master’s Degrees in Indigenous Education from the First Nation University of Canada this past week. Their commitment to lifelong learning and deepening their understanding of Indigenous perspectives will have a lasting impact on the students, staff, and communities they serve.
Learning Improvement Planning
We completed the second round of LIP meetings on Monday, with visits to Winston High, Imperial, and Nokomis schools. I again want to thank our schools and SCCs for their efforts in supporting student well-being and learning, as well as the Horizon leadership teams, whose dedication and guidance have contributed greatly to a productive, rewarding, and successful school year.
Deputy Minister Louise Michaud
Saskatchewan Directors of Education met with our new Deputy Minister on Tuesday afternoon for introductions and a roundtable discussion. I appreciated the opportunity to connect with colleagues from across the province and to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing education as we look ahead to the coming school year.
Human Resources
I spent Tuesday morning interviewing candidates for the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources position. With me were Superintendent of HR Cory Popoff, who is leaving Horizon to assume the Director of Education position with Prairie Valley School Division this summer, and our new Superintendent of HR, Darryl Dickson. We had an excellent morning with a strong group of highly qualified and motivated candidates, and we look forward to sharing more news soon.
Board of Education
The Board’s Audit Committee met on Tuesday afternoon. Trustees Jim Lissinna (Committee Chair), Cheryl Norleen, Albert Pinacie, Pamela Wintringham, Linda Mattock (ex officio), and Mark Fedak (ex officio) were in attendance, along with Sarah and me. We were joined by representatives from MNP, who presented the 2025–26 Interim Audit results and outlined the scope and timelines for the upcoming audit process.
The Board held its final meeting of the 2025–26 school year on Wednesday. During the meeting, trustees received updates from several committees, approved the budget for the upcoming year, and addressed a variety of other matters. A recap of the meeting is available in the June From the Board report.
Staff Wind Up
Following the Board meeting, Trustees and Division Office staff gathered for their year-end wind-up. The group enjoyed a round of golf and a shared meal, providing an opportunity to celebrate the year’s accomplishments and connect before the summer break.
Graduations
Congratulations to the graduating students at Punnichy Community High, Annaheim, and Cudworth, whose grad ceremonies are our last three of the year. It is a pleasure for our Board Trustees and my office to share in the pride within each school community. Again, kudos to the grads, staff, families, and community members who helped make these nights so special.
*****
As we cross the finish line of another incredible school year, our Board and I want to wish each and every one of you an extraordinary and deeply deserved summer holiday. To those of you leaving Horizon, we want to thank you for your dedication and commitment over the years that you have spent supporting our staff, students, and community. Your impact will be felt for many years to come, and you will be sorely missed.
I have always believed, and will always maintain, that education is of the noblest professions in the world. But let’s be honest about what that truly means…it is also one of the most demanding, relentless callings on the planet. As educators, our work doesn't end when the final bell rings. We carry the stories, the struggles, and the potential of every single child home with us in our hearts and minds. We grapple constantly with the question, “Is our work truly ever done?”
Because your dedication is boundless, your rest must be intentional.
This summer, we want to challenge you to step back and pour the same unconditional care you provided to our Horizon students into yourself. Take the time to rest completely, recharge deeply, and celebrate the profound impact you have made. You have earned every moment of peace that you find. So enjoy a wonderful, restorative holiday, spending time with family and friends.
We will see you in late August, when we will work together to rise, inspire, and change lives once again!
-Kevin
Kevin C. Garinger B.Ed., M.A.Ed., Ed.D. (Candidate)
Director of Education/CEO
Horizon School Division No. 205