With three new schools set to open in September 2016 – RancheView School in Cochrane, as well as Cooper’s Crossing and H. Lorimer Schools in Airdrie – parents who live in the affected zones will soon be going through a transition, prompting Rocky View Schools (RVS) trustees to develop a plan to be implemented in the coming months.
In November, parents received a letter in the mail informing them of their child’s designated school following the attendance area shift. That letter contained information on the registration process, timelines and contact information for additional questions.
“It’s a lot of work, but it’s so key that there is communication and good planning,” Trustee Fiona Gilbert said. “Families that will be transitioning know that we have a plan for them that (will be) seamless, but also maybe a little enjoyable.”
During the 2016/17 school year, a number of activities will be hosted at the new schools designed to get students acquainted and familiar with their new location. In June, barbecues and tours will be held at the new schools for families and staff.
“The best news is we’re getting new schools. With those great things come changes, and changes in routine,” Board Chair Colleen Munro said. “There is a plan, and we’re working on that plan.”
The attendance area boundary changes followed a series of consultation meetings with the community. RVS also solicited feedback through online surveys and open meetings.
Audit approved
RVS approved its audited financial statements for the year ending August 31, 2015, posting a slight operating surplus of $2.7 million.
“We have results that were expected. The only unexpected event was our teacher costs were a little lower,” Associate Superintendent of Business and Operations Darrell Couture said. “We overestimated the costs of teachers. That created a surplus instead of a slight deficit.”
Total RVS enrolments this year were up by 974 students from last year, contributing to a $2.8 million increase in full-time teacher positions. However, compared to the RVS fall 2014/15 budget, teacher salaries and benefits came in $2.6 million lower than anticipated.
“We have increases in our actual funds because we have an increase in students,” Trustee Sylvia Eggerer said. “We’re very happy because we were operating on different thoughts last spring.
“Having the (enrolment growth) part of it funded was great, and it’s kind of kept us going. That does not mean everything is sunny and rosy again.”
