Adam Hicks is the Regina Board of Education Trustee for Subdivision 3.
As a proud University of Regina business graduate, CPA and professional board director (ICD), I have had the privilege of serving two terms on the Regina Board of Education and am looking forward to a potential third term. It is an honour to work alongside the dedicated individuals in our schools, our division office and our School Community Councils (SCCs).
SCCs are comprised of volunteers who pour countless hours into enriching our children’s lives, often with little fanfare but with enormous hearts. Thank you to all our staff and volunteers who are working to make a difference each and every day.
As a trustee, and especially as one with significant interests in all things financial, rather than talk about myself in this article, I would like to point out some of the realities that public education faces.
Did you know that the per student funding for Regina Public Schools has increased by only $21 since 2015. This adds up to an increase of 0.22% over eight years. Per student funding for the division is currently $9,731; had it kept pace with inflation, it would be a more realistic $11,000. Funding that keeps up with inflation at a bare minimum can ensure that our staff and schools are equipped to meet the growing needs of our diverse population of students. Advocacy for funding that supports every child is important.
I invite all readers to have a look at our annual report, which will be published early in 2024 here. In that document, there are a number of issues that your Board continues to track. One is First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) graduation rates. Although, as a school division, we have seen some movement to increase this graduation rate, it still needs a lot of work. Did you know that on-time graduation rates for FNMI students are currently at approximately 50% successful graduation and that 19% of our 26,000 students self-identify as Indigenous. That means there are potentially thousands of FNMI students who will not graduate—we as a community must do better—every child truly matters.
The Division’s Strategic Plan 2023-2027, among other priorities, demonstrates the School Division’s commitment to address the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and work towards increased Indigenous student achievement. I invite all readers to browse the Strategic Plan available here.
I wholeheartedly believe in the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Our community, working hand in hand, can make a lasting impact. Building relationships is key and having even one trusted adult or a reciprocal friendship in school can significantly improve a student’s chances of success. Every positive relationship results in positive outcomes for students.
There are several innovative and unique programs that have been established and build brighter outcomes and futures for Regina Public Schools students. They deserve some celebration. A few examples include STEAM Academy at F.W. Johnson Collegiate, Martin Academy, Balfour Arts Collective, Scott Police Academy and Campus Regina Public. I invite all readers to click and read more about these programs that are seeing results for students from all parts of the Regina.
As we continue our education journey, let’s remember that each step we take, no matter how small, contributes to a larger journey toward a brighter future for all students. Let’s continue to support, celebrate and amplify these efforts as well as the contributions of the School Community Councils. As a trustee, I pledge to continue work on advocating for and supporting better futures for all young people in our 57 schools.
Subdivision 3 schools:
- Argyle School
- Harbour Landing School
- Lakeview School
- Ethel Milliken School
- Dr. A.E. Perry School
- Sheldon-Williams Collegiate
