​Approximately 157 community members attended one of five SJASD Community Consultations this spring as part of a larger effort to develop a new four-year strategic plan covering 2023-2027.

The strategic plan will formalize the school division's key priorities for teaching and learning and guide decisions and resources for school improvement.

Attendees have been gathering with other families, Trustees and school and divisional administrators to discuss and provide insight into five draft priority areas, including:

• Literacy and Numeracy or High-Quality Learning
• Indigenous Success and Reconciliation or Education for Reconciliation
• Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Family Connections/Partnerships
• Supporting and Celebrating Excellence

SJASD Board Chair Cheryl Smukowich said she has been very pleased with the participation of the community in these important events.

“I do appreciate everyone who comes out because we want to hear all different voices. It is a true consultation. Nothing is set in stone and we will be looking at all the information we gather," she said.

Meagen Jones is a parent of two girls currently attending Crestview School and Hedges Middle School. She attended the consultation event at the John Taylor Collegiate Family of Schools on April 20.

“It's a great opportunity to build connections and partnerships with the students, school division and families to build a better future generation," she said.

John Taylor Collegiate Principal Walt Lipinski says families were eager to share their perspectives.

It's really essential to get feedback from our community so that we can reflect our community in the schools," he said.

Over the next few months, the Board of Trustees will compile and review all the feedback. A new strategic plan is expected to be released at the beginning of the next school year.