(rdnewsNOW staff)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Summer break is over

Red Deer Public Schools prepares to welcome students back next week

Aug 28, 2025 | 7:43 PM

Red Deer Public Schools is preparing to welcome over 11,000 students and 1,200 staff members back to school after the long weekend.

Barring a strike, students will head back to the classroom on Sept. 2, with staff preparing their classrooms and schools since Aug. 25.

During the 2025-26 academic year, Red Deer Public Schools have 11,432 students and will welcome 34 new teachers who’ve taken over roles left by retirements, resignations, and leaves of absence. There will also be three classified staff who will join the division.

“Our focus has always been helping every student succeed, and this year is no different,” said Chad Erickson, Superintendent. “We are excited to see students return to classrooms full of enthusiasm to learn. Together, with our staff, families and community, we will continue to create learning environments where students are challenged, supported and inspired to grow.”

The division will continue its priorities that align with the Alberta Education Assurance Domain, which includes Student Growth and Achievement; Teaching and Leading; Learning Supports; Governance and Local and Societal Context.

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“Our priorities help us respond to the changing needs of students and strengthen the supports in place for staff, families, and the community,” Erickson added.

New to Red Deer Public Schools this school year, the board of trustees will launch regular online engagement opportunities throughout the year which will invite input from students, staff, and community members on various topics that will shape the division.

“Hearing directly from our students, staff, families and community is essential,” said Nicole Buchanan, board chair. “We’re committed to building strong connections through regular engagements, and to using what we learn to guide our decisions in meaningful ways.”