When I woke up this morning, the weather channel said it was -42C with the wind chill. The buses were not able to run due to the extreme wind chill. My first thought was, why do we live in Saskatchewan? However, as I walked into a very quiet building, I remembered how lucky we are to live here because all children have the right to attend our school. It may be cold, but we are free and have equal opportunities for all.
This week is Staff Appreciation Week. Living Sky School Division provided lunch for the staff Feb. 11. It was a very nice treat. I know we appreciate each other and it is nice to greet each staff member in morning with a friendly smile and a warm greeting. Each member of our staff plays an important role and makes the school a great place to work and learn. Thanks to everyone.
Our curling teams participated in the Battle West District playoffs last week in Spiritwood. We had three teams participating. The girls' team, consisting of Kcarli Maxwell, Ice Maxwell, Tori Hamp and Arielle Hamp had a lot of fun and gave a great effort. They did not advance to regionals. The mixed team with Sean Brehon, Carlee Hamilton, Matthew Favel and Tia Montgrand finished with one win and one loss. Unfortunately, because of a family tragedy, Tia was unable to attend. Therefore, the team was disqualified.
The boys' team, consisting of Tyson Wawryk, Richie Acaster, Connor Rothenburger and Ty Fouhy played very well and won three straight games to become Battle West District champions. They advance to the regional playoffs in Rosthern Feb. 14 and 15. Congratulations to all the teams for showing great sportsmanship and representing our school so well. Good luck to the boys at regionals.
The junior boys' basketball team finished their season. They lost their last league game so were unable to advance to the playoffs. They learned a lot this season and developed their skills. They will be ready for next season.
Ty Fouhy, Grade 9, participated in the Battle River Archers 3D Provincial Championships in Battleford Feb. 1. Archers ranged from ages six to 82. There were more than 130 archers participating in the shoot. Ty won the bronze medal in the cadet male category. Well done, Ty.
The school office was decorated with balloons and streamers Feb. 6. Our secretary, Mrs. Christine Combres, was having a significant birthday that day. Mrs. Jackson had reached the same milestone Monday, but tried to keep it quiet. Happy 49 plus 1, to both Christine and Jean Anne.
Katie and Cassidy Serhienko, along with Sean Brehon, participated in the Gold Fins' Winter Classic swimming competition in Saskatoon on the weekend. Each one of these very talented swimmers achieved some personal best times. I am sure the water felt nice and warm on the cool weekend. Congratulations to all.
Ashton Harris plays with the Peewee North Battleford Provincial A Hockey team. They played some exhibition games in the Maymont arena to prepare for their provincial playoffs in March. We wish Ashton the best of luck.
This weekend, after Tyson Wawryk is done curling, he and his sister Kimberly will travel to Prince Albert to participate in the Saskatchewan Winter Games. They are members of the Rivers West District and will be racing in the downhill skiing events. They will ski at the Wapiti hill and race Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in their respective age groups. Their dad, Dennis, is the manager of the Rivers West ski team. I know you will both do very well.
The school will be closed from Feb. 17 to 21. Classes will resume Monday, Feb. 24. I am sure it will be nice and warm by then!