BTPS Newsletter
September 5, 2023
Superintendent's Memo
Welcome back, BTPS!
School start up is absolutely my favourite time of the year. We get the chance to not only welcome back our students and families, but it is a new year, a fresh start, and a time to see the potential in the year ahead.
As we prepare for a new school year, a great deal has been happening to ensure that this year starts off in the best way possible. I would like to thank the custodians, summer employees, facilities, and maintenance staff, who worked tirelessly this summer ensuring that our buildings and grounds were at their best for when the students returned today. There was a great amount of work done in the transportation department to ensure bus pick-ups went well this morning and our technology department has been busy ensuring classroom technology and school devices are ready to go.
Seeing the teachers return and engage at the BTPS Learning Day was wonderful. The buzz was filled with stories, laughter, and excitement for the year ahead. I am looking forward to seeing support staff as they return and add to the richness of the year ahead.
The senior leadership team has been planning and preparing over the summer to do the best in supporting our schools and the success of both our staff and students. We have been meeting with our teachers and principals to have conversations on how we can grow and continue our commitment to learning. With the first Board of Trustees meeting in August already behind us, our Board is also planning and preparing for great things to come.
Today marks the first day of the 2023-2024 school year and we are ready and cannot wait to welcome our students and families back to our schools to continue learning, building relationships, and preparing for a bright future. I look forward to us all learning together. I am sure it will be a year filled with exciting memories and I am thrilled to be joining you.
Michelle Webb
Superintendent
Human Resources Department
Outstanding Support Staff Award
We are seeking nominations for this year's Outstanding Support Staff Award. It is the time of year for you to identify all of the excellent contributions your support staff make for your students, families, staff, schools, and the division.
Here is a link to the Administrative Procedure that has the criteria and nomination form that you may share with staff. Forward all nomination packages to Camille Quinton prior to September 28, 2023.
Thank you for taking the time to recognize these valuable members of our team!
Learning Services Department
The Learning Services team is here for continued support when you’re needing it. All of the resources and links we presented are here in this 2023 General Curriculum Support Hapara Workspace. To gain access to all of the curriculum Hapara Workspaces, follow these steps:
Go to app.hapara.com/workspace
Click on “Our Library” under the Workspace tab
On the left-hand side (you will see the course options), scroll down to the bottom until you see “Teacher Resources for Curriculum” (there you will find all of our 2022 and 2023 curriculum support Workspaces)
Additional Resources
Remember, there’s no need to make copies, as these are living documents and will be continuously updated.
Instructional Strategies Sheet
Teacher Tutorials & EdTech Tips
More questions regarding new curriculum and resources? Feel free to send us an email!
The Counsellor in the Classroom
Website: https://kidshelpphone.ca/get-involved/are-you-an-educator-check-out-counsellor-in-the-classroom
Technology Department
2 Factor Authentication - Mandatory September 11, 2023
2FA will be mandatory for all staff accounts in BTPS on September 11. 2023.
2FA Verification Methods
1. Google Prompts
2. Physical security keys
3. Google Authenticator or other verification Apps
4. Verification code from a text or phone call
5. List of backup codes
Please turn on 2FA for your account as soon as possible.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts your files and demands a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. Once infected, you may lose access to critical data, affecting our ability to operate efficiently.
Ransomware attacks continue to target various sectors, including education, with potentially devastating consequences. As valued members of our BTPS community, your awareness and proactive measures are crucial in maintaining the security of our data and systems.
Preventive Measures:
Use Strong Passwords: Use complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This provides an additional layer of security for your accounts.
Beware of Suspicious Links and Emails: Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown or unsolicited emails. Cybercriminals often use phishing emails to spread ransomware.
Email Hygiene: Be cautious with email attachments and links, even if they appear to be from a trusted source. Verify the sender's email address if you have any doubts.
Phishing Awareness: Be on the lookout for phishing attempts, where cybercriminals attempt to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Report suspicious emails to IT immediately.
Update Software: Keep operating systems, applications, and security software up to date. Patches often include fixes for vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit.
Immediate Actions in Case of Infection:
Isolate Infected Systems: Disconnect infected devices from the network to prevent the ransomware from spreading.
Notify IT Support: Immediately report the incident to our IT support team by starting a techhelp@btps.ca ticket or calling Curt Orbeck at 780-806-9223.
Do Not Pay Ransom: Paying the ransom does not guarantee the safe return of your data. It also funds criminal activities and encourages further attacks.
Stay Informed and Stay Secure: Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and our commitment to cybersecurity must evolve as well. By following these best practices and remaining vigilant, you play a vital role in safeguarding Buffalo Trails’ data and systems.
Thank you for your commitment to BTPS’ security, and please don't hesitate to reach out to our TechSIS department if you have any questions or concerns.
Transportation Department
Bus Status 4 Available for Download
Bus Status has a new App, just in time for the new school year! Ensure you download the new App from the App Store or Google Play Store and select your preferences before September 29 to continue to receive notifications.
The new App has improved speed and reliability. It will look and function the same as the current Bus Status app.
The Bus Status app currently installed on your phone will not update automatically to the new version of the app. You must go to the App Store or Google Play to download the new app to receive notifications after September 29.
Inclusive Learning Department
AMH Caregiver Education September 2023 Newsletter
What is The MAN VAN?
The MAN VAN is Canada's sole mobile men's health clinic, embarking on a mission to raise awareness about the critical importance of early prostate cancer detection and overall men's health. This initiative plays a vital role in our region, offering free baseline PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) blood tests to men aged 40 and above.
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, September 10th
Time: 10AM-1PM
Location: Peace Memorial Complex
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is on September 30, 2023. With this being a Saturday, schools will gather to honour the day on Thursday, September 28.
School will be able to connect online and have Kevin John and his organization, They Build Bridges, lead a few activities. These activities will run in the morning and include an opening presentation to all students and then separate sessions for Elementary and Jr/Sr High. In the afternoon, teachers will be provided with lesson plans and a number of activities to choose from to lead at a school level.
BTPS Start Up
Buffalo Trail Public Schools
Email: central_office@btps.ca
Website: www.BTPS.ca
Location: 1041 10A Street, Wainwright, AB, Canada
Phone: 780-842-6144
Twitter: @BTPS28