Aspen View Public Schools

June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich histories, cultures, languages, traditions and contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. As we approach National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, we also take time to reflect on the importance of learning from Indigenous perspectives and building meaningful relationships rooted in respect and understanding.

Across Aspen View Public Schools, Indigenous education is not limited to a single day or month. Throughout the school year, students engage with Indigenous perspectives, teachings and ways of knowing through classroom learning, cultural activities, land-based learning experiences and community partnerships.

In recent weeks, several of our high schools have celebrated Indigenous Graduation Ceremonies, recognizing the accomplishments of Indigenous students while honouring culture, family and community.

Students from Thorhild Central School, H.A. Kostash School and Vilna School also participated in the Hand Games Tournament hosted by Vilna School at the end of May. The event brought students together through friendly competition while celebrating an important Indigenous cultural tradition.

Earlier this month, students and staff from Vilna School were invited to participate in a community and school powwow on Whitefish Lake First Nation. The visit provided an opportunity to connect with community members, Elders, and students from Pakan School, helping to strengthen authentic relationships between the two communities. Seven Vilna students participated as dancers, proudly representing both their culture and school community. Experiences such as this provide meaningful cultural learning opportunities while advancing the goals of Truth and Reconciliation through connection, understanding and partnership.

Many Aspen View students have also participated in field trips to Métis Crossing throughout the year. These experiences provide opportunities to learn directly about Métis history, culture, traditions and ways of life in a setting that brings learning to life.

Aspen View Public Schools remains committed to creating learning environments where Indigenous cultures, histories and contributions are valued and reflected. We are grateful to the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, families, community members and staff who help make this learning possible.

As we celebrate National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day, we encourage our students, staff and families to continue learning, listening and reflecting on the rich and enduring contributions of Indigenous peoples to our communities, province and country.

Creating schools where all students feel welcomed, respected and supported is an important part of fostering positive learning environments.

At Aspen View Public Schools, our focus remains on helping every student learn, grow and reach their potential in a safe and caring environment. We believe that students learn best when they feel a sense of belonging and know they will be treated with dignity and respect.

We remain committed to fostering school communities where differences are valued, kindness is encouraged, and every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Congratulations to Mikah Burger on his silver medal at senior high track and field provincials this past Friday. Mikah worked hard, battled hard and came home with a silver medal in men’s pentathlon! Pentathlon is a combination of 5 events - 100m, Long Jump, Shot Put, High Jump and 800m. Congratulations Mikah on coming in second in the province!

The Board of Trustees of Aspen View Public Schools held its regular meeting on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Athabasca University. Highlights include:

- 2026-27 Budget
- 2026-29 Education Plan
- New colony schools

Full board highlights can be found here: https://www.aspenview.org/operations/news/post/board-highlights-may-27-2026 -

Next meeting: 10 a.m. Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Athabasca University

Expressions of Interest are being accepted for the provision of food services at Thorhild Central School for the 2026-2027 school year.

https://www.aspenview.org/operations/news/post/food-services-thorhild-central-school -

Deadline for Expressions of Interest is 4 p.m., Friday, June 5, 2026.

Aspen View Public Schools is offering free in-person diploma exam preparation courses for students enrolled in Math 30-1/30-2 or Physics 30.

https://www.aspenview.org/operations/news/post/diploma-exam-preparation-courses-math-30-1-30-2-and-physics-30 -

To register visit: https://www.aspenview.org/for-students-parents/high-school-resources/diploma-prep

On May 15, staff from across Aspen View gathered at Edwin Parr Composite School for our Division-wide Wellness PD Day. Attendees enjoyed informative presentations from Dr. Greg Wells and Dr. Sean Lessard.

Register by June 30 to secure your seat on the bus!

All students requesting transportation for the 2026-27 school year must register for busing as soon as possible — even if they rode the bus this year or they only require occasional transportation.

The deadline to register for transportation is June 30, 2026.

Registration by this deadline is extremely important, as Aspen View Public Schools uses the summer months to build and optimize bus routes for the upcoming school year.

Families who register after June 30 may not be eligible for transportation until after September 7, 2026.

Link to the registration form and additional details here: https://www.aspenview.org/operations/news/post/register-to-ride-2026-27 -