DIRECTIONS NEWSLETTER

Visit our online calendar to view division and board events.

Big Skies, Bright Futures: Learning in Saskatchewan

The talented École Centennial School Stars 8th Notes Choir had the honour of singing O Canada to open the Chinook Teachers’ Convention on November 2nd!

Presented by Travis Kelln, Superintendent of Schools and Transportation

The Chinook School Division Transportation Department remains dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient student transportation while maintaining responsible fiscal management. Operating 151 total urban and rural routes, division buses travel 26,008 kilometres daily to transport approximately 3,100 students safely in and around communities across southwest Saskatchewan.

Responsible Budget Management

The 2025-26 transportation budget of $10,803,269 concluded the fiscal year $264,692 (2.45%) under budget, driven primarily by $237,135 in fuel and oil savings. Additionally, an ongoing partnership with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division generated $321,901 in revenue to cover transportation costs for All Saints Catholic School students at the joint use school.

Improved Student Ride Times

Strategic route planning yielded substantial gains in ride efficiency. 110 rural routes now operate under 75 minutes, and routes exceeding the 75-minute guideline dropped to just 4 routes (11 students total), which is down from 15 routes two years ago. Average rural route length decreased to 215 km.

Fleet Renewal & Modernization

With Board approval, the division invested $2.22 million to purchase 15 buses (14 new and one used) and added three new 15-passenger vans (expanding the school van fleet to 20 units across 16 schools), while recovering $150,021 through the sale of 14 retired buses. The active route fleet maintains a young average age of 6.15 years, and spare fleet age improved to 12.5 years. Future enhancements include an active tender for up to 10 additional right-sized buses and potential upcoming technology rollouts, including a GPS pilot project and camera installations.

Fewer Weather Disruptions

Improved operational coordination and conditions resulted in a significant reduction in weather-related route cancellations, dropping from 515 days in 2024-25 to 304 days this past school year.

Driver Development & Engagement

Driver connection and training were prioritized through Professional Development Days held in Shaunavon, Swift Current, and Maple Creek, alongside bi-monthly driver newsletters and expanded 15-passenger van safety instruction. Driver recruitment remains an ongoing priority, supported by a $200 employee referral allowance for staff who successfully recruit new casual drivers.

The Transportation Department expresses its gratitude to the dedicated drivers, mechanics, school administrators, Board trustees, and community partners for their continuous support in delivering high-quality transportation service for Chinook students every day.

Presented by Sharie Sloman, Chief Financial Officer

The Board of Education has officially approved the appointment of MNP as Chinook School Division’s auditor for a three-year term starting August 31, 2027, with an option for a two-year extension. This decision follows a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) process conducted in accordance with division purchasing policy to ensure systematic monitoring, transparency, and prudent use of financial resources.

Following an evaluation of submitted proposals based on capacity, experience, references, alignment with division needs, and cost, MNP was selected as the recommended firm. The selection offers a significantly lower proposed fee for the division and aligns with the best practice recommendation to transition audit service providers every 5 to 10 years.

The Board extends its sincere appreciation to Stark and Marsh for their dedicated service and support to Chinook School Division since amalgamation in 2006. Sound financial management and reporting remain a cornerstone of the division's strategic operations, and the Board looks forward to working with MNP to maintain high standards of fiscal accountability.

Presented by Sharie Sloman, Chief Financial Officer

The Chinook Board of Education passed a motion to extend the property appraisal services contract with Loss Control Consultants Limited for a five-year term running through December 31, 2031, for a total cost of $54,093 plus applicable taxes. Regular professional property appraisals are essential to maintain accurate asset valuations and appropriate insurance coverage across all school division facilities, central administration offices, and Hutterian schools.

By exercising the optional five-year extension, the division secures substantial financial savings compared to current market rates, estimated at $220,000 to $230,000, while maintaining service continuity with a proven provider familiar with division assets. The formal five-year extension agreement takes effect on January 1, 2027.