Panther News
April 2025
Online Safety Presentations
Internet Safety Affects Everyone - You Don't Want to Miss This!
Scholastic Book Fair
Join Us at our Family Event!
Bentley School is excited to welcome back the Scholastic Book Fair from March 31 – April 4! Students will have the opportunity to visit and make purchases during class time throughout the week.
📅 Special Family Shopping Event:
🗓 Tuesday, April 1
⏰ 3:30 – 6:00 p.m. (The night of the Online Safety Presentation for Parents)
Thank you for supporting our school and fostering a love of reading!
Bentley School Travel Club
Exploring Europe in 2026!
Attention all students in Grades 10-12! The Bentley School Travel Club is gearing up for an unforgettable European adventure in March 2026. This exciting trip will take students through Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary, exploring rich history, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking architecture.
Some highlights of the trip include:
- The Berlin Wall
- Checkpoint Charlie
- St. Mary’s Church
- Wawel Cathedral
- Auschwitz & Birkenau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
- Budapest Baths
- And much, much more!
A Parent Information Meeting will be held on Thursday, April 3, at 6 PM in the High School. A $199 non-refundable deposit is required to secure a spot, with discounts available for early sign-ups. For more details, reach out to tayler.button@wolfcreek.ab.ca. Get ready to pack your bags and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Swim to Surive Swimming Lessons
April 7-10 & April 14-17
Bentley School is excited to offer Swim to Survive lessons for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students at the Nexsource Centre in Sylvan Lake!
Key Details:
✔ Dates: April 7-10 & April 14-17
✔Schedule: Check out the calendar for specific swim days for each grade: https://bentley.wolfcreek.ab.ca/calendar#/month/2025/04
✔ What to Bring: Swimsuit & towel on swim days
✔ Lunch Reminder: Some students will eat on the bus—pack non-heatable meals and easy snacks
✔ Cost: $40 includes transportation and lessonsAbout Swim to Survive:
🔹 Helps all skill levels—from beginners to strong swimmers
🔹 Focuses on core survival skills in a fun and engaging way
🔹 Uses lifejackets and floatation aids so all students can fully participate
Swimming is a vital life skill, and we are thrilled to provide this opportunity for our students!
Big Brothers, Big Sisters In-School Programs
Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lacombe and District is excited to offer the Healthy Bodies Healthy Minds (HBHM) program at our school! This engaging four-session program focuses on developing healthy minds and bodies through fun activities and meaningful discussions. Students will explore topics like friendships, mindfulness, self-care, and movement while participating in activities such as vision board creation, journaling, games, and mindfulness exercises. Each session runs for 60 minutes, providing a supportive space for learning and growth. All Grade 5 students are welcome to join! Watch for permission forms coming home in April.
Game On!
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lacombe and District is bringing the Game On program to our school! This exciting in-school program consists of four engaging sessions designed to promote a healthy lifestyle through active games, sports, and meaningful discussions. Game On helps youth develop life skills, communication strategies, and emotional well-being, empowering them to make positive, lifelong choices. Each session runs for 60 minutes, creating a fun and supportive space for learning and activity. All Grade 5 students are welcome to join! Watch for permission forms coming home in April.
May Hot Lunch Available to Order
Thank You, Lora Walker!
After 15 amazing years of dedication, Lora Walker is retiring from making school hot lunches. Lora started the hot lunch program in 2009, and her hard work and commitment have made a lasting impact on our school community.
While we will miss Lora, we’re happy to announce that Darla Stavropoulos will be taking over the hot lunch program next year, so there’s no need to worry—our students will continue to enjoy delicious meals!
Please join us in thanking Lora for her years of service and welcoming Darla to her new role! 💙💛
Elementary Track and Field BBQ
📅 Order Deadline: May 25 – Don’t miss out!
School Spirit Days
World Autism Awareness Day – Wear Blue to Show Your Support!
On Wednesday, April 2, we recognize World Autism Awareness Day by wearing blue to show our support, raise awareness, and celebrate the unique strengths and contributions of individuals with autism. By increasing awareness and fostering inclusion, we create a more understanding and supportive community for everyone. 💙
Jersey Day – Honouring the Humboldt Broncos
On Monday, April 7, we invite all students and staff to wear a jersey in honor of the Humboldt Broncos. This day is a tribute to the lives lost and those affected by the tragic bus accident in 2018. By wearing a jersey, we show our support for the team, their families, and the entire hockey community. Let’s come together to remember, reflect, and stand strong in the spirit of unity. 💛💚
Anything But a Water Bottle Day – Friday, April 25!
Get ready for a fun and creative challenge! On Friday, April 25, we’re hosting Anything But a Water Bottle Day! Instead of using your regular water bottle, bring your drink in something unique, wacky, or creative! 🎉Will you sip from a teapot? A flower vase? A giant measuring cup? The possibilities are endless—just make sure your container is clean, and school-appropriate!
Join the fun and show off your most creative drink holder! Prizes for the most creativity!
Registration for Pre-K & Kindergarten is Open for 2025-26
Bright Futures Play Academy Registration Open
Bentley School’s BFPA Preschool Program is accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year! 🏫✨
✅ For children aged 3 or 4 (by Dec. 31)
✅ Half-day programming, two mornings per week
✅ Led by certified teachers with small class sizes
✅ Play-based learning to support literacy, creativity, and social-emotional growth
✅ Access to speech therapy, occupational therapy, and more
💰 Fees: $150 enrollment + $1350 tuition
🚗 Parents responsible for transportation
📅 Apply early—spots fill fast!
📍 Register through the Parent Portal or contact Bentley School at 403-748-3770 or for more information visit: Bright Futures Play Academy.
Kindergarten Registration Now Open!
Is your child turning 5 by December 31, 2025? It’s time to register for Bentley School’s 2025-26 Kindergarten Program! 🎉🏫
✅ Two full days per week
✅ Rural students eligible for busing
✅ Register by March 31 to assist with program planning
📍 Register online: bentley.wolfcreek.ab.ca/registration
📞 Questions? Call 403-748-3770
Bus Registration for 2025-26 is Open
Students who live in the country and are NEW to busing OR have moved to a new rural location are required to apply for busing. All rural Kindergarten students must be registered to ride the bus.
Athletic & Club Highlights
Jr. High Reach Team Moves on to Provincials!
Congratulations to our Jr High School Reach team as they placed 4th at Regionals on March 15 in Ponoka. They qualify to compete at provincials which is being held on April 12 in Red Deer! Good luck!
Junior High Curling Success at the Wolfcreek Bonspiel!
Our junior high curling teams hit the ice on Thursday, March 20 at the Wolfcreek Bonspiel in Lacombe.
Silver Medalists: Edwin, Hunter, Brook, and Hudson battled their way to an impressive second-place finish!
Fourth Place Finishers: Calder, Ava, Madelyn, and Cole showed great skill and teamwork, securing a strong fourth-place spot!
A huge thank you to Coach Jenn for her guidance and support—our teams couldn’t have done it without you!
Thank You for a Fantastic Ski & Snowboard Season!
A huge thank you to all the volunteers, students, and staff who made this ski and snowboard season such a success! Your enthusiasm, dedication, and support helped make this a great experience on the slopes. We wrapped up the season with a full day at Canyon Ski Hill on March 21, and it was a fantastic way to finish off our time together. We’re grateful for everything you did to make it happen—see you next season!
Athletic News
Badminton Season is Here!
Jr & Sr High Badminton practices started Tuesday, March 18. Practices are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. in both gyms.
Important Dates:
Friday, April 11 - Sr. High Areas Badminton Tournament
Tuesday, April 22 - Jr High WC South Badminton Tournament
Tuesday, April 29 - Jr High WC Badminton Championship
Handball Season is Here!
Jr. high handball practies are Monday & Wednesday after school from 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. and senior high handball practice is Monday & Wednesday from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. To view the sr. high league schedule visit our athletics calendar.
Important Dates:
April 4 & 5 - Jr. Boys and Girls Tournament at Thurber High School in Red Deer
April 11 & 12 - Sr. Boys and Girls Tournament in Notre Dame in Red Deer
May 2 & 3 - Jr. Boys and Girls Tournament in Sherwood Park
May 2 & 3 - Sr. Boys and Girls Zones
Sr. Boys Win League Championship!
Sr Boys Basketball League Champions 2yrs in a row! This team went undefeated in league and only lost one game in their home tournament. The team hosted Zones (provincial qualifier) tournament on March 14 & 15 and placed 4th. Congratulations to the Forestburg Falcons for taking home the zones championship in overtime! Thank you to all the athletes, coaches, and fans for making this tournament a success.
Rider of the Month
Congratulations to Madelynn!
Congratulations to Madelynn for being selected rider of the month and winner of a 6" sub! Way to go!
March Highlights
Grade 6 Field Trip to the Alberta Legislature
Grade 6 students had an unforgettable field trip to the Alberta Legislature on March 3! They explored the rich history of government in our province, gaining deeper insight into the legislative process they've been studying in class. From witnessing the architectural marvel of the building to learning about the symbols and stories behind its design, the students were captivated. Students also saw portraits of key figures in Alberta's democratic history leaving them inspired and eager to learn more.
Although they did not get to watch a session, they did get to sit in the gallery, learned about the roles and responsibilities of the people who make decisions in our province, and viewed the seat of their current MLA!
Our Grade 6 field trip wrapped up on a high note at the Pehonan Theatre! Students were immersed in an incredible 360-degree screen experience with 4-D effects, learning about the political and social history of Alberta in a whole new way.
Winter Walk Day: Fresh Air, Fun, and Treats!
We had a fantastic time at our Winter Walk Day on the last day in February! Thank you to everyone who joined us for some fresh air, fun, and movement. And of course, the hot chocolate and cookies were a perfect treat afterward! A huge thank you to our volunteers for making the hot chocolate and serving cookies—we appreciate you!
St. Patrick's Day Fun! 🍀
Staff Profiles
Written and edited by students.
Interview with Mr. Lush by Ameliya in Gr. 5
Mr. Lush is the Bentley school Vice Principal. He is also the Athletic Director and makes sure all the teams run smoothly. He is the Guidance Counselor and Work Experience Coordinator in the high school. Mr. Lush has a wife and three children. He has one grandson. The family in the house is his wife, and his children are all grown up and out of the house. He wants to retire in Hawaii. He taught at Fox Creek Public School for 3 years. Then he taught at Eckville for 9 years. And now he has been helping around Bentley School for 16 years so far. He loves helping kids meet their expectations, and he wished that his teachers would have done the same for him. His least favourite part of his job is discipline because he doesn't want the kids to feel bad about themselves.
Interview with Miss Howe by Emersyn in Gr. 5
Jill Howe is the vice principal in our school. She has two people in her house, her and Willa. Willa and Jill Howe live in Sylvan Lake. Jill Howe has attended Gus Wetter, U of A and Wilkes University for school. Her favorite part of her job is watching kids learn something new because it's so exciting and visiting classrooms. Her least favorite part of her job is paperwork because it takes a long time and it's lonely. She makes school a better place by having fun, continually learning and getting to know the kids in the school. She also likes to play tricks on people. Ms. Howe’s hobbies, sports and activities are watching hockey, reading, sitting on the beach and playing with her daughter. Her proud moments and accomplishments are having her daughter and getting her masters. Mrs.Howe is kind, funny, organized, helpful and outgoing. Her happiest memory is the day her daughter (Willa) was born. In ten years she thinks she will be doing the same job and driving her kid wherever she needs. Her favorite activities in the spring and summer are doing anything by the water and in the fall and winter she likes to stay inside and stay cozy any time she can. Friends, family and coffee make her happy. Her favorite music is Pink's music and Christmas Vacation is her favorite movie. If she could go anywhere she would go to Nashville and Belize because she likes music and beautiful beaches. Kind people inspire her because the world needs more kindness. Now that's all about Ms. Jill Howe.
Community News
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