Superintendent’s Message – Reg Klassen

At times education seems to be an elusive entity that exists in the midst of countless interpretations of what education should look like. As a society, we would argue that it is very important, so much so that we have legislation directing many aspects of education throughout our country. However, as we all know, legislation does not guarantee success. Added to this “no guarantee” is the fact that success in our ever changing world can be and is measured in a multitude of ways. So then, how do we sort our way through this seemingly convoluted challenge of education?

Of course I have a number of notions of how we might face that challenge and achieve that success but will focus on one that I deem to be extremely important. Let me begin by stating that education is everybody’s business. We all need to view education as our collective responsibility simply because its impact on our society will remain with us a long time. I also believe this responsibility should challenge all of us to spend more time in dialogue, discussion, and asking questions about educational topics and issues. This dialogue, discussion, and questioning should be an ongoing activity, not just when we see our tax bill or when we are dissatisfied with a particular aspect of education. All members of the community need to be a part of this conversation, not just parents, students, and employees of the school division. With everyone involved in the conversation we create a platform for making good decisions. In her book turning to one another, Margaret Wheatley says that “when we humans don’t talk to one another, we stop acting intelligently”. She goes on to say that “conversation is the natural way that humans think together”.

The Board of Trustees of Rolling River School Division agrees with the above statements and believes that in order to carry out its educational mandate, ongoing dialogue involving parents, students, staff, elected officials and all other community members is required. To that end the Board of Rolling River School Division has created a “Community Engagement in Education Decision Making” policy. The purpose about community engagement is to make recommendations to the Board on communication, educational matters, and to promote appropriate communication between the Board and all stakeholders. The most exciting aspect about this policy is its provision for communities and Division to meet regularly in order to discuss education. Therefore, the following dates have been set for communities and the school division to meet during the 2011-2012 school year. Please check for the meeting involving your community.

These sessions will provide opportunity for the Board to liaise with the community and discuss on-going educational trends and requirements. As well, it will require informing the public of the happenings of the School Division and soliciting input from all stakeholders to improve educational delivery.

The Board believes strongly that through this educational partnership and continued dialogue it will achieve a higher level of success in their mandate as outlined by the Rolling River School Division Vision, Mission and Belief Statements, as noted on this page.

We look forward to spending time with you in discussion about education at the scheduled meeting in your community.

Reg Klassen
Superintendent