School is officially back in session as of Sept. 4 for staff and students in the Prairie Rose School Division. Over the summer break, staff prepared for September’s arrival by planning events and making changes at several schools.
“At Miami School, we’re excited to kick off another great year of learning and growth,” said Nathan Strange, vice-principal. “We’re thrilled to welcome staff and students to our Marlin family. This year, we’re especially focused on building a strong sense of belonging for all of our students and continuing to strengthen the connections between school and community. Our staff is eager to dive into another year with the amazing students of Miami and the surrounding area, and of course, we’re already looking forward to celebrating the grads of 2026 as they cross the stage in June.”
Over the summer, Miami School created a new high school math classroom with whiteboard cupboards, giving students space to collaborate and problem-solve. Another addition coming later this year is a canteen and student lounge, promoting more opportunities for students to learn and grow together.
Strange is also looking forward to hosting an open house and barbecue with the Terry Fox Run this fall. “It’s a chance to celebrate together while supporting a local cause,” he said.
Roland School has made a few changes over the summer. Ashley White and Janik Giesbrecht have joined the teaching staff, and Patti Gerwing has stepped into the guidance counsellor role for the next two years.
The school also installed central air conditioning, which principal Melissa Benner expects to be a welcome feature on warm fall and early summer days.
“Back to school is always an exciting time. I’m looking forward to seeing students’ smiles, their hugs and hearing their stories about summer adventures. Our custodians have done a wonderful job giving the school a freshening up over summer and teachers have been busy getting classrooms ready to welcome their students,” she said. “We look forward to welcoming our Roland Raccoons outside with some music and positive vibes headed into the new school year.”
Bob Beaudry, new principal at École Carman Elementary School, also has updates to share. He and new vice-principal Shane Buck are leading a team that includes many staff returning from maternity leave, along with several new teachers and educational assistants.
“The core group of staff remains the same terrific team you’ve known for many years,” Beaudry said. There were no building upgrades this year, but custodians ensured the school is ready for students.
“The building looks fresh and polished, and one visitor even commented that we have the cleanest school,” he added.
Beaudry is excited to attend community events such as the Roland Pumpkin Fair and Missoula Children’s Theatre with staff and students. Personally, he is eager to support everyone—especially the kids.
“I remember what it was like to get into mischief as a kid. I’m excited to work with these kids and to help them stay on track,” he said.
His goal for the school year is teamwork and ensuring everyone works toward the same goal. “If we’re all pulling on the same rope, we’ll be in a much stronger position to improve the academic and social-emotional success of these kids. Learning is the main focus, but we’ll make sure there are plenty of opportunities to come together as a school to recognize the joy and excitement of the year.”
He added he also wants to strengthen the French Immersion program. “Overall, I think we’re all excited for a year of learning, growth and partnership with families.”
At Carman Collegiate, principal Mary Reimer said the school is undergoing a major roof renovation, with contractors finishing work in the music room, canteen and office over the next few months.
“Unfortunately, this means that these spaces are inaccessible for the time being,” she said.
Despite the disruptions, Carman Collegiate is thrilled to welcome back staff and students. The Parent Advisory Council hosted a back-to-school breakfast on the first day of school, and student council provided a barbecue lunch on the second day. PAC has also planned a bingo fundraiser Oct. 19 at the Carman Legion/Ladies Auxiliary Hall, an event Reimer said she is looking forward to.
One of her major goals is to raise $20,000 during Carman Collegiate’s Mo-ctober and Mo-vember chocolate moustache fundraiser.
“To date, we have raised $51,651, all donated to Boundary Trails Cancer Care,” she said.
Reimer also hopes to continue building the small engines/power mechanics program, which has been growing in popularity, while keeping the school’s pedagogy focused on literacy, numeracy and well-being.
