Home Based School
April 2026
A Message from Principal Holbrow
I like to understand what others enjoy. When friends or family tell me about a show, a podcast, a tidbit of trivia that they thought was interesting, I want to learn more about it myself. Sometimes I don’t succeed. Sometimes I don’t get it. I know people have loved Grey’s Anatomy, but I’ve tried it and did not see what others saw. Other shows, I understand the appeal, but it doesn’t draw me in enough to keep watching, like Avatar.
Sometimes, despite best efforts, we get dragged into appreciating what others enjoy. Having grown up in Saskatchewan, I was always a fan of football, but never got into hockey. However, it is tough to be living near Edmonton and not become a fan of the Oilers.
At the dentist last week, the background music was a modern pop music station and I realized that I did not recognize a single song until about 25 minutes in. I’m obviously not aware of what is popular anymore. It is also tougher to know what is popular when there are so many sources available to watch, stream, etc.
I think it is important to continue to work on this. It’s not about trying to remain current for the sake of being cool or trendy. It is about understanding, connecting, and appreciating those around me. Making a bond with someone over something positive and cultural helps make it easier when we need to have difficult conversations. It helps build empathy. It is a steady reminder that a person’s taste is not their personality.
School, jobs, life can be hard at times, but understanding others, and feeling understood makes it easier. It can take work, like listening to Chinese opera, but when you get it, it is worth it. I know the staff here work to try to understand their students. It is one of the main reasons, when we meet new students, we ask them what they like to do outside of school.
I want to encourage the students to continue working to build that connection with your teachers. Alternative education can make that challenging, but it will help students succeed with their work, too.
Mr. Holbrow
Principal
Put This On Your Calendar...
2025-2026 School Year
Spring Break March 28 - April 5
April 6 Easter Monday
April 7 School resumes
April 21 Cooking Connections
April 23 Electric Car Event
April 24 PD Day - No School for students
Thursday, April 23 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
ELECTRIC CARS!
Students will get to keep their car!
Grades 1-6 ONLY. Capped at 12. Form will close on April 20 or if we reach the number of participants, whichever comes first.
This activity will start right on time and we would LOVE to see every student immersed in the entire activity so please be sure too drop them off PROMPTLY at 1:00!
Kickstand
Kickstand Connect is a virtual walk-in clinic for Albertans aged 11-25 (but they said their age range is soft; kids will not be denied if they are older or younger than that). Their services are provided by Alberta-certified providers, and there is NO COST associated with them.
There is NO limit to how many times a kid can access the walk-in services; they will be directed to further support if their needs are more intensive. This program has a TON of connections to other mental health support programs in the province.
Mission Statement
Black Gold is a leading school division in creating innovative programming to inspire and create success for students. Black Gold Home-Based School is committed to providing flexible learning options so every student can achieve. Home-Based education choices work in cooperation with students, parents and Black Gold Schools to ensure quality program planning and transition. Home-Based School provides opportunities for Parent-Directed or Teacher-Directed programs and is respectful of parent choice and collaboration. We believe to achieve their full potential, children must be the center of all decisions related to learning and provide course work online or in print in a variety of environments. Home-Based education allows for a personalized learning opportunity for students who require flexibility.