Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SASKTODAY.ca
HUMBOLDT – Horizon School division children were back in school and the division says it will be involved with two new mental wellness programs this year.
Kevin Garinger, Director of Education for Horizon School Division said, “Guidelines around use of personal electronic devices have been in place in our classrooms, so although this is a new provincial mandate, it will not be a huge change for students and staff. We have shared information with families, and our administrative procedure has been finalized.”
“Our administrators, including several new vice principals and principals, benefited from hearing Cadmus Delorme speak about Truth and Reconciliation, an excellent note to begin our school year. All our administrators are involved in the leading to learn initiative, which focuses on ensuring anti-oppressive, anti-racist environments for our students.”
Currently, Horizon School Division has four capital projects underway. Updates on the Lanigan and Kelvington school projects are progressing and the Humboldt Collegiate Institute and Humboldt Public School are both receiving new portable classrooms.
Garinger said, “We are fortunate to offer a Michif program out of Wakaw School, with support from the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan. Last year, we began the journey, and this school year will mark the beginning of a fully integrated Kindergarten program directed at learning Michif.”
Horizon will also be involved with two new mental wellness programs this year. “We are excited to bring the Project 11 initiative to Horizon. It was founded by the Winnipeg Jets and owner Mark Chipman in support of Rick Rypien, the former NHL player who suffered from depression and died by suicide more than a decade ago.”
“This initiative is well-aligned to our Saskatchewan curriculum and is a great support tool for the mental well-being of youth. We are also implementing the STOPit organization to bring the HELPme app to our schools, allowing students and parents to connect with professionals in times of need,” said Garinger.
