The Invite – CRPS’ October list of school events open to the media

CRPS asks that the media confirm its attendance with the school!

Canadian Rockies Public Schools

Reflecting on Truth and Reconciliation: Assemblies Across CRPS

In honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, school assemblies will continue throughout October, offering students, staff, and parents a meaningful space to engage with the history and ongoing work of reconciliation. After two powerful gatherings at Elizabeth Rummel and Exshaw Schools on Oct. 2 and 3 at 1:30 p.m., the journey continues with upcoming assemblies at Canmore Collegiate High School on Oct. 7 at 11 a.m., Alpenglow School on Oct. 7 at 1 p.m., Lawrence Grassi Middle School on Oct. 16 at 1:30 p.m. and Banff Elementary School on Oct. 17 at 1:30 p.m. All of the assemblies have been designed to feature prayers, tobacco offerings, and the Grand Entry, led by dancers and Knowledge Keepers, followed by reflections on the history of residential schools. The healing power of Jingle Dancing will also be shared, with students invited to participate. As reconciliation remains an ongoing journey, staff are encouraged to continue embedding its principles into their daily practice, deepening understanding and fostering a more inclusive environment across CRPS’ schools. Contact the school(s) to inform of your attendance.

Alpenglow School

Sparking Fire Safety Knowledge at Alpenglow

On Oct. 9, Alpenglow School's K to G. 3 students will experience an interactive presentation on fire safety, led by the local fire department. The students will learn essential safety tips through engaging demonstrations, followed by an exciting visit from the fire truck. This hands-on experience, coordinated by Erin Winter Krohe, offers young learners an opportunity to understand fire safety in a fun and memorable way. The visit aims to build critical awareness among students and foster safety practices at an early age. Contact Erin Winter Krohe for full details.

Exploring Living Systems and Weather on Location

Alpenglow Grade 5/6 students are embarking on two exciting field trips this October, blending science with hands-on experiences. On Oct. 8, they’ll explore living systems at the Outdoor Learning Centre (OLC) as part of their curriculum. Later, on Oct. 24, students will venture to Mt. Sulphur to study weather patterns. Led by Noer Wuisman, these outings aim to deepen students’ understanding of the natural world, turning theoretical lessons into real-world applications. From investigating ecosystems to observing atmospheric conditions firsthand, students will gain valuable insights into the living systems around them and the forces shaping our climate. These engaging field trips are part of a broader effort to inspire curiosity and foster experiential learning in young scientists, encouraging them to ask questions and make connections between classroom knowledge and their surroundings. The trips highlight how outdoor environments can be powerful classrooms, bringing science to life for students. Contact Noer Wuisman for full details.

Banff Community High School (BCHS)

Turkey Trot Tradition Continues

The annual BCHS Turkey Trot returns on Oct. 11 at 11:15 a.m., bringing students, families, and the Banff community together. This beloved event sees students racing through Banff, with spectators encouraged to cheer them on. After the run, participants will gather in the BCHS gym for awards, celebrating both effort and community spirit. For decades, this tradition has fostered a sense of camaraderie, with the event becoming a highlight of the fall season in Banff. Contact Susan Reid for more information.

An Evening of Excellence at Banff Springs

BCHS will celebrate the hard work and achievements of its honour roll students during a special evening at the Banff Springs Hotel on Oct. 10 at 7:00 p.m. Teachers, parents, and students will gather in the iconic hotel theatre to recognize outstanding academic accomplishments. This annual event fosters a sense of pride and community, honouring both the students' dedication and the supportive role of teachers and families. The evening serves as a reminder of the collective effort that drives student success at BCHS, while providing an opportunity for the Banff community to celebrate educational excellence. Darren Anderson, Assistant Principal, encourages participation and congratulates all students for their commitment to learning and academic growth. For more information, contact Darren Anderson.

Canmore Collegiate High School (CCHS)

CCHS Students Go WILD (Wilderness Inspired Leadership Development)

Canmore Collegiate High School is taking full advantage of CRPS’ Outdoor Learning Centre’s WILD program, a transformative outdoor experience for Grade 10+ students that takes them into the Lower Lake backcountry for three nights and four days. Led by WILD teachers Cayla Wolever, Alexa Haugan, and Peter Presesky, this experiential trip connects students to nature, building resilience and fostering personal growth. The trip's immersive setting provides a unique learning environment, allowing students to develop teamwork, problem-solving skills, and environmental stewardship. This annual journey exemplifies how the WILD program promotes leadership and self-discovery in a challenging, supportive environment. For more details, Cayla Wolever and Alexa Haugan will be available to share their insights and captivating photos from their classes’ respective trips, taking place Sept. 24-27 and Oct. 1-4. 

Navigating New Horizons: CCHS Sets Sail Again

CCHS  is sending two groups of CCHS students on the school’s 19th and 20th Tall Ship Sailing trips with the Sail and Life Training Society (SALTS). This unique five-day journey in the Gulf Islands teaches students vital sailing skills—navigation, rigging, and teamwork—while fostering personal growth. Many participants describe the experience as the highlight of their high school years. The students, led by Cayla Wolever and Hans Holthuis, will depart from Swift Landing in Victoria, BC, on Oct. 6-11 and Oct. 20-25. The adventure involves four nights aboard a ship, where students take full responsibility for its operation and navigation, making this an unforgettable learning experience. Through these immersive trips, students not only gain maritime knowledge but also life lessons in leadership and collaboration, helping to chart a course for their futures. Contact Hans Holthuis for full details.

Exshaw School 

Spike for Sportsmanship: Exshaw Eagles vs. Mînî Thnî Mustangs

On Oct. 3, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., the Exshaw Eagles take on the Mînî Thnî Mustangs in a spirited junior high volleyball match. Taking place at the Mînî Thnî Community School Gymnasium, this friendly competition is an opportunity for students and families to come together and enjoy the excitement of teamwork and community. Led by Coaches Jon Krohe and Brooke Smyth, with support from Assistant Principal Kayla Weller, this game showcases not only athleticism but also the deep-rooted connections between these schools. It promises to be an afternoon filled with friendly rivalry, encouragement, and sportsmanship—qualities that both teams cherish. Contact Kayla Weller for further information.

Eagles vs. Mustangs: A Friendly Match to Remember

Exshaw School’s gym will come alive on Oct. 10, 2024, as the Exshaw Eagles take on the Mînî Thnî Mustangs in a friendly junior high volleyball match. Students from kindergarten to Grade 8 will cheer on their House Teams in an atmosphere filled with excitement and community spirit. From 2:10 to 2:50 p.m., the gym will resonate with the sounds of teamwork and celebration, fostering connection between students and families alike. Coaches Jon Krohe and Brooke Smyth, alongside Assistant Principal Kayla Weller, will lead the event, ensuring a fun and memorable afternoon for all. Parents and community members are encouraged to show their support for this high-energy game, where skill and camaraderie are on full display. Join Exshaw’s students and families as they celebrate sportsmanship and friendly competition during this not-to-be-missed event at the Exshaw School Gymnasium. Contact Kayla Weller for further information.

Lawrence Grassi Middle School (LGMS)

Picture Perfect – A Second Chance

For any students at Lawrence Grassi Middle School (LGMS) who missed the original photo day or weren’t satisfied with their first shots, Lifetouch Picture Retake Day is the opportunity for a redo. Set for Oct. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the session ensures everyone at LGMS gets a chance to capture their best moments. The three-hour window is reserved exclusively for students needing retakes, allowing them to present their brightest smiles for school yearbook photos, ID cards, or cherished memories. This picture-perfect event promises to give students a final opportunity to look their best before the images are set in stone. Contact Kelly Proudfoot for further information.