Titan News

Tofield School

Address: 4824 58 Ave, Tofield, AB T0B 4J3

Battle River School Division

780-662-3133

We acknowledge that Battle River School Division is located on Treaty 6 territory, and we respect the histories, languages, and cultures of First Nations, Metis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community. We acknowledge that the connections to the land and each other are vital to the work we do.

O Canada! Our home and native land!

True patriot love in all of us command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,

The True North strong and free!

From far and wide, O Canada,

We stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Mr. Gordon Thompson, Principal (Grades 10-12)

Dr. Karen Gartner, Assistant Principal (Grades 7-9)

Mr. Clayton Roe Assistant Principal (Grades 5-6)

Welcome to May! This is always a bittersweet yet exhilarating month at Tofield School. It is a season of "last firsts" for our seniors and a time of careful preparation as we look toward the 2026-2027 school year.

Honoring the Class of 2026

Our focus this month is firmly on our 67 Grade 12 students. On May 8, 2026, we will gather for their Farewell to celebrate the incredible journey they’ve taken to reach this milestone.

While the June diploma exams are on the horizon, these students have already proven they are more than just their academic results. Throughout their time here, they have consistently exhibited:

• Kindness toward their peers.

• Compassion for those around them.

• Empathy for the Tofield community.

These attributes are what truly change the world. As you embark on your next chapter, know that you aren’t walking alone. You have the unwavering support of your parents, the Tofield School staff, and this entire community. We believe in your unique talents and cannot wait to see the brighter future you will create. Congratulations!

Planning for the 2026-2027 School Year

Even as we celebrate our graduates, we are hard at work building the foundation for next year. We are currently designing course offerings for our Junior and Senior High students, and your voice has been a vital part of that process.

• Your Feedback Matters: Thank you to the students, parents, and staff who provided input through our March and April surveys. Once culminated we will be using this data to help guide our programming.

• Next Steps: We are currently awaiting staffing allotments from BRSD leadership. Once those figures are finalized, we will build our tentative schedules and communicate how the upcoming school year will roll out.

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Academic Support & Course Selection

For students looking to finalize their paths for next year, our Academic Counselor, Mrs. Laurel Osness, is ready to help. Students can access support in several ways:

1. Direct Outreach: Visit the school office to connect with Mrs. Osness.

2. Digital Resources: Check the High School+ Google Classroom for information.

3. Meetings: Schedule an in-person meeting or a Google Meet to discuss your goals.

Additionally Tofield School is planning a Grade 10 Orientation session Thursday May 7th at 6:30 p.m. in the Library Commons. During the session we will review:

• Alberta high school Diploma, Certificate of Achievement, and Certificate of Completion requirements

• How the Alberta high school credit system works

• Potential high school pathways toward Diploma or Certificate completion

• Provide information on the courses Tofield is able to offer to our students

• Provide time for any questions parents/guardians may have.

Note: Course selections will not be made at this time, this is an information session only.

Thank you for being such an integral part of the Tofield School family. Let's make this May one to remember!

The Titan Sightings program recognizes students for being "awesome" through character, not just grades. We’re looking for those who go above and beyond in their daily school life.

What We’re Looking For:

• Kindness: Helping peers or being inclusive.

• Helping Hands: Assisting staff or keeping our school clean.

• Community Spirit: Showing sportsmanship and school pride.

• Integrity: Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

How It Works:

1. Get "Sighted": A staff member catches you doing something great.

2. Get Recognized: You receive a Titan Sighting slip for the bulletin board (located across from the Office).

3. Win Prizes: Every slip is an entry into our monthly prize draw!

Keep showing that Titan spirit and fill our board with excellence! Questions? Ask your teacher for details.

2026–27 school registration will open in February. The current registration form is for families joining our 2025–26 school year. The 2026–27 form will not be live until February.

May 1st: No School PD Day

May 7th: SAFFRON Internet Safety presentations

May 7th: Grade 10 Orientation evening

May 8th: Grade 12 Farewell

May 14th: Gr 9 Immunization

May 14th: Grade 5 Aviation Museum Field Trip

May 18th: No School

May 20th: Gr 6 Immunization

May 26th: SAFFRON Internet Safety presentations

May 27th: Tofield PowWow

May 28th: Bus Driver Appreciation BBQ

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May 8th: Chill N Grill

May 13th: Hot Dog Golden Club

May 21st: Skywheel Chinese Food

On April 15-17, the senior Drama class participated in the Zone 3 One Acts Festival at Ardrossan Jr/Sr High School. The students achieved personal bests in their performances of “What’s Your Name?” and “Lieutenant’s Mission.” The senior Drama class received the following awards:

"Lieutenant's Mission" (written and directed by Emma Hillyer & Kate Chicoine)-- Honourable Mention for excellence in dance choreography and Honourable Mention to Daria Waddington for her performance.

"What's Your Name?" (written and directed by Nick Macmillan)-- Outstanding Lead Performance to Catie Behiels, Outstanding Student Playwright to Nick Macmillan, and Most Outstanding Play.

Because “What’s Your Name?” received Most Outstanding Play, that means Tofield School is going to Provincials to perform “What’s Your Name?” on May 7 in Lethbridge. The senior Drama class is beyond thrilled that Tofield School was chosen to represent Zone 3 at the Provincial Festival since the last time Tofield School performed at the AHSDFA Provincial Festival was 2015.

Get ready to turn up the volume! We are thrilled to announce that the Jam Club will be taking the stage for their annual performance on Friday, May 29, 2026, during Period 8 in the gym.

Our talented student musicians have been hard at work every Tuesday after school all year long, honing their craft and perfecting a high-energy setlist of 4–5 songs to share with the entire school community. It’s going to be a fantastic showcase of dedication and local talent that you won’t want to miss!

A Special Thank You

This program wouldn't be possible without the incredible support of our community partners. We want to extend a massive thank you to the Wild Oats and Notes Festival. This marks their eighth consecutive year of sponsoring this vital extracurricular event, providing our students with the resources and opportunity to find their musical voices.

Mark your calendars and get ready to cheer on our performers!

Our Grade 6 classrooms were buzzing with innovation this week as students dove headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship. Partnering with Enriched Academy, our young learners explored what it takes to turn a bright idea into a blossoming business.

The presentation covered the fundamentals of the "entrepreneurial mindset," focusing on:

• Problem Solving: Identifying needs in the community and creating solutions.

• Risk and Reward: Understanding the courage it takes to start something new.

• Financial Literacy: Learning the basics of how money moves within a business.

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To put their new knowledge to the test, the session wrapped up with a high-energy Kahoot! challenge. The competition was fierce but friendly, with students showing off their impressive recall of business terms and financial concepts. It was inspiring to see our students thinking so critically about their future possibilities!

Whether they end up running a Fortune 500 company or a local creative shop, these students now have a few more tools in their professional toolkit. A huge thank you to Enriched Academy for sparking such great conversations in our hallways!

MetisALIVE brings Metis history, culture, traditional arts and dance ALIVE in the classroom and community through multi-sensory and interactive cultural experiences.

Our cultural experiences include:

• - voyageur and buffalo hunt historical experiences
• - hands-on exploration of Metis contemporary and historical artifacts
• - engaging storytelling
• - Metis dance instruction (Red River Jigging, Broom Dance, Sash Dance, Belt Dance, Heel Toe Polka, and more)
• - traditional art instruction for all ages (beading, wool mittens, capotes)
• - traditional art project kits
• - early education professional development sessions

The steady, rhythmic thump of the drum—often called the "heartbeat of Mother Earth"—echoes across the grounds long before you see the vibrant blur of regalia. For the uninitiated, a powwow might look like a festival of dance and color. But for Indigenous communities across North America, it is far more than a performance; it is a vital act of cultural reclamation, survival, and connection.

A Bridge Across Generations

At its core, a powwow is a social gathering that brings together different Indigenous nations to dance, sing, and honor their heritage. In a world that once attempted to suppress these traditions through colonial laws, the modern powwow stands as a powerful symbol of resilience.

• Elder Knowledge: It is a space where oral histories are passed down.

  
  

• Youth Engagement: Younger generations learn the intricate footwork of the Grass Dance or the storytelling of the Fancy Shawl Dance, ensuring the culture remains a living, breathing entity.

  
  

• Family Bonds: Many families spend months hand-sewing regalia, bead by bead, turning the preparation into a communal bonding experience.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond the spiritual, powwows serve as essential economic hubs for Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs. From handmade silverwork to traditional foods like frybread and bison, the "vendor row" supports local economies and keeps traditional craftsmanship viable in a globalized market.

Moreover, in an era where many Indigenous people live in urban centers away from their ancestral lands, the powwow acts as a cultural anchor. It provides a sense of belonging and "coming home," regardless of where one’s physical home may be.

A Welcome to All

Perhaps the most important aspect of the modern powwow is its role in education. While certain ceremonies are private, most powwows are "intertribal" and open to the public. They invite non-Indigenous neighbors to witness the beauty of the culture firsthand, breaking down stereotypes and fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous sovereignty and pride.

As the dancers move in a clockwise circle—following the path of the sun—they aren't just dancing for themselves. They are dancing for their ancestors who couldn't, and for the future generations who will.

"We dance to remember, we dance to heal, and we dance to show the world we are still here."

STRATHCONA COUNTY – The halls of Millennium Place were a little louder and a lot more energetic this week as the Grade 8 class took over the facility for their annual spirit field trip. Trading textbooks for swimsuits and sneakers, students spent the day diving into a variety of sports and team-building activities.

The day was a whirlwind of motion, spanning everything from the hardwood courts to the deep end of the pool. Here are the highlights from the field:

• The Big Splash: The leisure pool and wave pool were the undisputed fan favorites. Whether they were racing down the slides or simply floating in the current, the students enjoyed a much-needed break from the classroom grind.

• Court Battles: Over in the gymnasium, the competition was fierce but friendly. Badminton nets were packed with students testing their reflexes, while several high-energy volleyball matches broke out, showcasing some surprisingly impressive serves and rallies.

• Precision and Focus: For those looking for a change of pace, the billiards tables provided a space for strategy. Groups gathered around the green felt to practice their bank shots and talk shop between more physically demanding games.

To help the students (and anyone following along) understand what makes these tiny cars fly, here is the breakdown of the engineering involved:

• Aerodynamics: At the speeds these cars reach, air resistance is the biggest enemy. The goal is a "teardrop" shape that lets air flow smoothly over the body.

• Mass: According to Newton's Second Law, Since the "Force" (the CO2 cartridge) is constant, a lower "Mass" results in higher "Acceleration."

• Friction: This occurs where the axles meet the body and where the wheels hit the track. Proper sanding and lubrication (like graphite) are game-changers here.

Things got a little "hair-raising" in the Science 9 classroom this week! Our junior scientists stepped away from their textbooks and into the world of high-voltage physics as they explored the wonders of the Van de Graaff generator.

The hallways were filled with the mouth-watering aroma of sizzling garlic and soy sauce today as our Grade 9 Foods class tackled the art of the perfect vegetable stir-fry.

If you’ve walked past the Learning Commons lately, you’ve likely noticed a new addition to the hallway that is stopping students and staff in their tracks. Our official 2026 Grad Tree has been "planted," and it is already in full bloom!

This display serves as a powerful visual reminder of the journey our seniors have taken. Each framed portrait represents a unique story of growth, late-night study sessions, and years of friendship within these walls. Much like the branches of a tree, our graduates are all starting from the same strong roots here at [School Name], but they are now preparing to branch out in dozens of different directions—pursuing careers, trades, and higher education.

Why the Tree Matters

• A Legacy on Display: It allows the younger grades to see the goal they are working toward.

• A Moment of Recognition: Every student deserves their moment in the spotlight before they head out into the world.

• Community Connection: It transforms a plain hallway into a gallery of achievement.

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We encourage everyone to take a moment this week to stop by the Learning Commons, admire the display, and perhaps offer a word of congratulations to the faces you recognize.

To our seniors: Look at how far you’ve grown. We can’t wait to see where your branches reach next!

We are officially traveling to the Archipelago! Over the next few weeks, we’ll be listening to Impossible Creatures Audiobook, building our own imaginary islands, and researching the "mythology" behind our own names in the next couple weeks.

16 Senior High Badminton players took part in the Area 3 Playoffs hosted by Camrose Composite School on Wednesday, April 15th. Everyone played hard and there were some really good matches.

Congratulations to Chloe Radley and Julia Douet who won the Intermediate Girls Doubles Gold Medal. Badminton season is officially in high gear, and our local athletes are leaving it all on the court.

Keep an eye on the court—the smash is back!

Chloe and Julia advanced to the Central Zone Badminton Championships which was hosted by St. Joe's School in Red Deer on Friday, April 17th. The girls ended up placing 3rd in their pool. Good job Chloe and Julia.

Pictures of the Senior High Badminton team.

Thank you to the Senior High Badminton Coaches this year: Mrs. Helfrich, Mrs. Pennington,

Mr. Roe, Mr. Trevoy and Mr. Flasha.

To Our Coaches: Thank you for the countless hours spent developing our student-athletes. You were instrumental in teaching technical skills, promoting strong teamwork, and building lasting character and resilience.

To Our Volunteers: You are the essential backbone of our teams. Your work in coordinating events, managing logistics, and providing unwavering support ensured a smooth and positive experience for everyone involved.

The positive impact you have had on our students goes far beyond the scoreboards. Thank you for investing your time and passion in the lives of our community's youth.

Did you know that School Council is a way for parents and caregivers to have a voice in their child’s education?

School Council is made up of parents, guardians, caregivers, and school administration working together to support student success and strengthen our school community. Meetings provide an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and share parent perspectives on topics that impact students and families.

You do not need special experience or a long-term commitment to attend — whether you come once or every month, your voice is welcome and valued.

• BRSD school calendars for the 2026–2027 and 2027–2028 school years

These conversations are a great example of how School Council helps ensure parent voices are heard and shared.

If you’ve ever wondered what School Council does or wanted to be more involved, we encourage you to join us. We do not recruit volunteers at these meetings. They are friendly, informative, and focused on collaboration.

We hope to see you at an upcoming meeting!

Chair: Leann Strilchuk
Vice-Chair: Heidi Fisher
Secretary: Jessica Woodruff
Director: Stacey Hawkins

If you have questions or would like to connect, please feel free to reach out to us at tofieldschoolcouncil1@gmail.com.

School Breakfast Program is back and serving our students this year!

This program offers more than just a meal; it provides students with:

• Healthy food to start the day.

• Improved ability to focus on learning.

• Valuable social opportunities outside of the classroom.

We rely on donations to keep this very important endeavor running and meet the needs of our students throughout the year. We sincerely thank you for your generosity and support!

To contribute or if you have any questions or concerns, please contact the main office

780-662-3133 or Mrs. Kropielnicki.

Thank you!

While we were saddened to hear about the cancellation of this year’s Annual Snow Goose Festival, the spirit of the Tofield community found a way to turn a disappointment into a massive win for our students.

In a wonderful act of generosity, the Town of Tofield redirected the festival's hospitality supplies to our school. This unexpected donation has provided a significant boost to our morning breakfast program, ensuring our students start their day with full stomachs and bright smiles.

• Fresh Fruit: Plenty of bananas and oranges.

• Dairy & Grains: A generous supply of cheese and fresh bread.

• Treats & Hydration: Cookies and juice boxes for that extra bit of midday energy.

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A Heartfelt Thank You

On behalf of the students, staff, and parents, we want to extend a huge thank you to the Town of Tofield. Your thoughtfulness has turned a "snowed-out" weekend into a season of abundance for our school family.

We just wrapped up our second big breakfast of the month on April 29th! Combined with our event on the 10th, our amazing volunteers have served up 360 eggs using our community coupons.

A massive thank you to everyone who helped us pull off back-to-back successes. You’re the reason our mornings start sunny-side up!

We are excited to share an update on our school concession! Whether you’re looking for a quick snack between classes, a refreshing drink, or a warm meal, our concession is stocked and ready to serve.

We’ve worked hard to provide a wide variety of options that cater to every craving and budget. From classic snacks to hearty microwaveable meals, there is something for everyone.

On the Menu

• Warm & Hearty: We offer a variety of Michelina’s frozen meals ($4.00), Noodle Bowls ($3.00), Chimichangas, and Beef & Bean Burritos ($2.75).

• Quick Bites: Grab a Hot Rod, GoGo Squeez, or Ritz Bitz for a quick energy boost. We also carry Beef Jerky, Protein Bars, and Corn Nuts.

• Sweet & Salty Treats: Choose from a wide selection of Chips (including Lays, Doritos, and Miss Vickie’s), Fruit Snacks, Dad’s Cookies, Bear Paws, and Hi-Chew.

• Beverages: Stay hydrated with Water Bottles, Juice Boxes, AHA Sparkling Water, Gatorade, or Vitamin Water.

Supporting Every Student

Our primary goal is to ensure that no student goes through the day hungry. We are proud to offer a Free Lunch Program for any student in need.

This includes:

1. A fresh sandwich

2. A serving of fruit or vegetables

3. A snack

Students who require a lunch can access this service —we want to ensure everyone has the fuel they need to succeed in the classroom.

To donate: Please call the school's main office, and you will be directed to the correct person to coordinate your contribution.

Thank you for helping us keep our students happy, healthy, and fed!

A massive thank you to our students, parents, and staff for making this year’s Scholastic Book Fair a record-breaking success! Your support helps us put more books into the hands of eager readers and fuels our school's love for literacy.

Coming Soon to the Learning Commons:

The excitement isn't over! Proceeds from the fair are being used to upgrade our Learning Commons. Stay tuned for:

• New Arrivals: The latest bestsellers and graphic novels.

• Makerspace Kits: New tools for building and creating.

Keep an eye out for these new additions arriving soon. Thank you for helping our library grow!

If you’ve walked through the halls recently, you may have noticed a stunning transformation in our Cosmetology department’s display cases. Our talented students have traded their textbooks for hairspray and bobby pins to create a series of vibrant, high-concept visual tutorials that showcase both technical skill and artistic flair.

Each case tells a different story of hair history and technique, ranging from classic elegance to bold, rebellious statements.

A Journey Through the Trends

The displays feature hand-styled mannequin heads accompanied by beautifully illustrated, step-by-step guides. Here is a peek at what’s currently on "the floor":

• Ballet Chic: A masterclass in the "Knot Your Average Bun," featuring a perfectly sculpted braided bun adorned with delicate floral pins—a true testament to precision and grace.

• Whimsical Meadows: For those who love a softer look, the "Meadow Braid" display captures a romantic, ethereal vibe, complete with faux greenery and wildflowers tucked into loose, textured plaits.

• The Y2K Revival: Taking a trip back to the "Aughts," this case features iconic bubble braids and a "Burn Book" prop that perfectly captures the playful, pop-culture energy of the early 2000s.

• Punk Rock Edge: Perhaps the most striking of all is the "Liberty Spikes" display. With high-def spikes that defy gravity and a backdrop of "Punk" aesthetics, it’s a brilliant example of extreme styling and structural integrity.

We are so proud of our students for turning their technical training into such a professional and inspiring public gallery. Be sure to stop by and take a look next time you’re passing through—you might just find the inspiration for your next look!

Our entire product line is 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and PETA certified. Our products are also free from irritating ingredients like SLS, SLES, parabens, and gluten. With DESIGNME, clean ingredients meet high-performance formulas for hair that feels as good as it looks.

Skills Alberta 2026 is Coming!

Are you a master in the shop, a whiz in the kitchen, or a digital design pro? It’s time to show the province what you can do! Skills Canada Alberta offers an Olympic-style competition where students go head-to-head in over 40 different trade and technology areas.

Winning at the Regional level (this March) could punch your ticket to the Provincials in Edmonton this May—and maybe even a spot on Team Alberta for Nationals in Toronto!

Registration for the 2026 Provincial Skills Canada Competition will open on January 14 at 3:30 p.m.

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The 2026 Post-Secondary Provincial Skills Canada Competition is open for applications!

📅 Event Dates!

• When: May 6 & 7, 2026

• Where: Edmonton EXPO Centre

✅ Eligibility

• Must be an Alberta Resident.

• Must be endorsed by your Technical Institution.

• Age: Generally, born on or after January 1, 2005. (Check specific rules for Mechatronics or non-WorldSkills events: born on or after Jan 1, 2002.)

Ready to showcase your skills? Apply today!

Gr. 11 & 12's - have you checked your MyPass account? Login with your personal email and see your transcript of marks (DAR), diploma results or order transcripts for post-secondary applications or scholarships. Connect with your career counsellor if you cannot access it. Gr. 10's will be set up early in the second semester.

Check out this link to buy some of your own Titan Wear!

Show Your Titan Pride!

Looking for the perfect way to show your school spirit? The Titan Wear shop is now open and has all the clothing and accessories you need!

We have a wide selection of premium gym wear and apparel for everyone, including:

• Hoodies

• T-shirts

• Other great accessories

Browse our full collection and find the perfect gear to represent our school. Every purchase supports our school community.