Division Newsletter: November 2025
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Hello, We are back for another week of teaching and learning at Foothills School Division. We know there have been a lot of announcements and updates lately, so we want to make sure that you have the most current and accurate information, straight from the Division.
As a reminder, our schools will be closed November 10 to 14 for the Fall Break. It was determined that revising the school calendar at this time would affect staffing, transportation, and existing family schedules. |
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A Thoughtful Moment: Compassion & CommunityAs we return to teaching and learning, I am reminded daily of the kindness and compassion shown by the students, staff, and families in our schools. Whether its students lending a hand to classmates, teachers going the extra mile, or support staff greeting everyone with a smile, these moments add up—they shape not just our school culture, but our wider community too. Last Wednesday I had the pleasure to welcome back our educators to École Senator Riley Middle School in High River. There were smiles, laughter, and a warmth that only respect and empathy could bestow. In speaking with my colleagues who were also at schools on Wednesday morning, I know that this was the sentiment across the system. We are a team that truly cares for one another, and bands together to face obstacles. When we work together, we build a community where everyone feels welcome and supported. The positive impact of caring actions inside our schools reaches far beyond the walls of a classroom. Our shared commitment to compassion turns small gestures into lasting change for society. I know that the past month has brought challenges, but it has also spurred an important dialogue about the importance of public education, and the impact of schools and the people within them. By moving forward—together—we advance the engagement, support, and success for every learner. Let’s continue to lift one another up, listen deeply, and celebrate the value and excellence each person brings. Together, we can foster a compassionate commUNITY. Thank you for your ongoing support and for being such an important part of this journey. Yours in learning, Chris Fuzessy |
January Exam Schedule UpdateThere is an important update regarding the January 2026 Grade 12 Diploma Exams and Grade 9 Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs) (Read release from Alberta.ca). On October 31, 2025, at 4 PM, Alberta Education announced that the January Diploma Exams, as well as the Grade 9 PATs, have been cancelled. Here is how it impacts our instructional calendar to assure student learning:
Final Grades
Option to Write Diploma Exams
We recognize that these assessments are significant milestones for our students. Teachers will continue to assess student learning through classroom activities, assignments, and unit exams. As always, student gradebooks are accessible for families to view on an ongoing basis in the Edsembli Family Portal. Please continue to be engaged in your child’s learning and reach out to their teachers if you have any questions or concerns about their progress. We appreciate your understanding and support as we adjust to this change in January 2026 assessments. If you have questions regarding the cancellation of assessments or would like more information, please connect with the Ministry of Education and Childcare. For all other inquiries regarding your child’s learning, please contact your child’s school. For Elementary and Junior High Schools, the January 23, 2026, Professional Learning Day will resume as scheduled. January 23 is an instructional day for High Schools. |
Moving Forward—TogetherFocus on Teaching and Learning in the ClassroomThe Division and its schools will be considering how to prioritize instructional time. This may result in some activities and field trips to be paused or cancelled. The observance of Remembrance Day assemblies will continue but may look different as each school can accommodate. Schools may choose to scale back or maintain other traditions. Division and School FeesOur team is working on applying prorated credits for division-based fees, program fees, and extra-curricular/activity-based fees. Families who paid fees for trips or activities can use them for rescheduled events or receive a credit if the event is cancelled. Please see the Student Fees section of your child’s profile on the Edsembli Family Portal. School CouncilsSchool Councils will resume regular meetings in November. Please check with your school to see how you can be involved in this important partnership that informs school decisions, advocates for students, and enhances learning. Read more about School Council 2025-2026 Instructional Calendar Updates
If you have questions specific to your child’s school, please follow up directly with the school. View the Instructional Calendar at our website View the Part Time Kindergarten Calendar |
Stuff A BusNovember 22, 2025 Be sure to stop in at the High River Co-op Food Store before 3pm on Saturday, November 22, 2025, to make a food or cash donation to the Salvation Army Food Bank! Team FSD will be on site with one of our amazing accessible buses to collect your donations and haul them to the High River Salvation Army Food Bank. The Co-op will have prepackaged donations ready, or you can do your own shopping for needed, non-perishable items. Either way, you will be making an incredible difference in our community. This is the 33rd Annual Calgary Co-op Stuff A Bus—let’s make it the best one yet! |
A reminder to dress for the changing weatherAs the temperatures drop, it is a great time to remind families and students to please dress for the weather. Sturdy footwear for icy conditions and a warm jacket and winter accessories are recommended to promote wellness and safety in chilly temperatures. Should road conditions worsen with ice and snow, bus services may become delayed or cancelled. Please dress for the outdoor temperatures. |
