Wolf Creek School Division Update - Oct 27, 2025

PONOKA COUNTY -- It was a busy month for the Wolf Creek School Division.

Despite classes currently not being in session due to the ongoing teachers' strike, several noteworthy decisions were made at the Division's Board of Trustees meeting on October 16. This was followed by the 2025 School Board Election four days later on October 20.

New school buses on the way:

On October 16, the Board of Trustees approved the purchase of six new school buses. According to the Division, the new buses will be paid for using capital reserve funds and the Alberta Education conditional bus purchase grant. They add that the investment ensures the continued safety and efficiency of student transportation. They're expected to be on the road sometime during the 2025-2026 school year.

Report on driver evaluations and route reviews:

The Board received a report outlining updates to driver training and route review processes within the Transportation Department. This year, the Division says that the evaluation schedule has been moved forward from January to October, allowing earlier feedback and support. The office team has also scheduled fall route review sessions for drivers at both the Ponoka office and the Lacombe shop. 

Facility maintenance report:

The report shows that staff are currently focused on cleaning, routine maintenance, and plumbing upgrades to support safe, efficient schools. In addition, projects like framing in skylights and classroom restorations are ongoing. Overall, the Division says that the department remains focused on readiness and building upkeep. A new labourer, Raul Cuellar, has joined the maintenance team after ten years as a caretaker at IREC.

2025 School Board Election:

Luci Henry (Ward A) and Jamie Coston (Ward C) were elected via acclamation, while Lana Thompson beat out Kathy Bogath in Ward B. Brent Buchanan and Paula Law were elected for Ward D, and Karla Danser overcame Jamie Hoover in Ward E. Former Trustees Trudy Bratland, Kelly Lowry, and Darryl Stendie, chose not to seek re-election.