Empowering Student Learning Through Trustee Professional Development

Trustee professional development is an essential component of effective educational governance, directly impacting student achievement and well-being. Our Board continuously refines our skills and expands our knowledge, strengthening our ability to lead and support Foothills School Division, ensuring that every student benefits from a high-quality, inclusive learning environment. 

Guiding the development of policies and strategies that foster student success and well-being is a fundamental duty of the Board of Trustees in its governance role. Our responsibilities include maintaining a focus on achievement, fostering equitable access to education, and cultivating inclusive learning environments that prioritize respect and engagement. Strong governance depends on trustees who are well-informed and committed to the continual improvement of their leadership practices.

To stay current with evolving educational standards and governance practices, trustees engage in a variety of professional learning opportunities. The Board Annual Work Plan found in Policy 2, Appendix A, outlines the monthly Board Learning through presentations from Directors and School Team Leaders with ongoing training sessions and workshops. 

Our participation in provincial events include the Alberta School Boards Association conferences, Zone 5 monthly meetings, and Rural Caucus meetings.  The national Canadian School Board Association Congress is held annually, our Board attended and presented a session in July 2023 and is preparing another session for the July 2025 Congress. These development activities equip the Board with the expertise necessary to advance the goals of Foothills School Division. A strong foundation in governance enables trustees to:

• Develop policies that promote student success
• Ensure equitable access to high-quality education
• Create positive, safe, caring, welcoming, inclusive and respectful learning environments

Prioritizing professional development, the Foothills School Division Trustees strengthens its governance framework, ensuring that trustees remain empowered to drive meaningful educational progress and create lasting benefits for students.

Yours in learning, 

Sharon Nichols
Trustee, Ward 4