The Director of Education for the Bruce Grey Catholic School Board says 2011 was a year of challenges, opportunities and achievements.
Bruce MacPherson says they had to deal with declining enrolment and tighter budgets — but he feels they accomplished many great feats.
The board achieved one of the highest literacy success rate in its Reading Recovery program and improved standardized test scores.
Mother Teresa School in Walkerton was also recognized for its academic success.
MacPherson says they also introduced a new “Mental Health First Aide” program to help staff deal with students struggling with mental health issues.
MacPherson says they also invested in technology by purchasing iPads for students with learning disabilities.
School cafeteria menus also underwent changes as deep fried delights and pop vending machines were replaced with healthier choices and juice and milk.
MacPherson hopes 2012 will have more positive changes.
One of the focus points for 2012 is an attempt to make school excursions more affordable for families, by having more trips take place closer to home.
