YORKTON — The Good Spirit School Division’s (GSSD) board had a busy agenda during its most recent meeting Oct. 9.
The division says the Canora Composite School roof and envelope project is facing higher-than-expected costs. Tender submissions for the project came in above the estimated budget.
According to the division, the upgrades include a new roof, windows and exterior improvements to enhance safety and efficiency. GSSD staff are reviewing options with the Ministry of Education with a goal to bring a recommendation to the next board meeting.
“The division remains committed to completing this important project responsibly for the Canora community,” states a board meeting report.
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Several GSSD trustees will attend the Saskatchewan School Boards Association’s (SSBA) fall general assembly in Regina Nov. 16-18.
In preparation, the board appointed voting delegations. SSBA resolutions will be reviewed at the next GSSD meeting Nov. 6. A press release from the division said this ensures trustees attend with a solid foundation while gaining valuable insights and connecting with board members from across Saskatchewan.
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The board reviewed and approved updates to board policies 2, 2A, 3, 3A and 3B. A notable change is the April 23, 2026, regular board meeting has been rescheduled to April 30. The reviewed policies are now available on the division’s website.
Policy 2 governs the role of the board; Policy 2 Appendix A is the annual work plan; Policy 3 is the role of the board member; Policy 3 Appendix A is for services, materials and equipment provided to trustees; and Policy 3 Appendix B is for board member visits to schools.
Policy 2 appendix B for board self-evaluation process was tabled to a future meeting to allow for further changes.
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In his report, director of education Quintin Robertson said August and September were filled with professional development (PD) opportunities. From school start-up sessions to curriculum-based PD and a division-wide keynote, he said every GSSD employee had the chance to learn and grow ahead of the 2025-26 school year.
October brings even more opportunities, he said, including role-focused PD, a session on continuing the journey to becoming an anti-racist educator, a non-violent crisis intervention refresher and more. A full breakdown of all sessions will be available in the upcoming September and October In-Focus release.
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The board received the Parent and Public Strategic Plan for the 2025-26 school year. This comprehensive document highlights selected work plans in key focus areas that will guide the division’s efforts throughout the year.
The division says the plan reflects GSSD’s commitment to student success.
“Fully aligned with the Saskatchewan Provincial Education Plan (PEP), the strategic plan ensures provincial priorities are brought to life in meaningful ways across our schools and communities,” the meeting report states. “This annual adaptation and review process keeps the division responsive, focused and connected to the evolving needs of students, parents and the broader community.”
The report can be viewed on the division’s website.
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The board was informed of the administrative procedures (AP) that have undergone revision and review since the Aug. 14 meeting. APs have been updated on prekindergarten, kindergarten, preschool and parent education program; early years evaluation; supervision and evaluation of professional staff; performance improvement plan for professional and support staff; and leadership evaluation.
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Trustees shared several positive updates from their schools, the school community councils (SCCs) and communities:
*Trustee Jaime Johnson reported on a joint celebration between Norquay School and Sturgis Composite School’s senior basketball team, who raised funds in support of a teammate battling brain cancer. The funds were donated to the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, which has since nominated the team for the National Youth Philanthropist Award. The recognition banquet will be held in Saskatoon in November.
*Trustee Christopher Balyski noted a strong start to the school year, highlighting that Preeceville School’s new principal has been warmly welcomed by staff, students and parents. The senior girls’ basketball team presented a cheque for $3,000 to the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation.
*Trustee Nicole Pohl shared that school community councils (SCC) at Springside and Yorkdale Central Schools have started the year with new members stepping into leadership roles. While overall engagement remains a challenge, Pohl believes both SCCs are off to a positive start.
*Trustee Kelly Palmer commended the SCCs in the area, noting impressive efforts at Langenburg Central School, which hosted a pancake breakfast for more than 300 students and staff. He also recognized the enthusiasm and organization within Churchbridge, Saltcoats and Langenburg SCCs, as well as the great work done to improve school facilities over the summer.
*Trustee Kendra Stav shared updates from Melville Comprehensive and Grayson Schools, where both principals reported encouraging progress. She highlighted the Ignite Melville initiative, a community event uniting local leaders to discuss growth opportunities. Partnerships between the schools, the City of Melville, and the youth council are expanding, with another event scheduled for Oct. 29. She also noted Grayson School’s ongoing playground fundraising efforts.
*Trustee Jan Morrison is excited to engage with Columbia School as she will be chaperoning the upcoming Halloween dance.
*Trustee Steve Variyan shared plans to attend the upcoming SCC meeting at the Yorkton Regional High School.
*Trustee Cara Makort reported that MC Knoll School will hold its annual general meeting Oct. 20, with elections for new SCC members.
