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September, 2021I would like to take this opportunity to welcome folks to the 2021 – 2022 school year. It goes without saying that the last number of months have dramatically impacted families and communities. Circumstances in regard to Covid measures and community health have changed the way students have experienced school. I want to reassure our students, families and community that Alternative High School and the Calgary Board of Education have kept the safety, health and development of our students at the forefront of programming throughout these past months. This focus is reflective of the commitment the Calgary Board of Education, Each Student, Every Day, No Exceptions.  It is a privilege as educators to have the faith, trust and relationships with students and their families that facilitate the growth and learning that occurs for our youth on their path of self-sufficiency, family health and community contribution. At Alternative High School, our collective efforts will result in supporting individuals in our learning community to be active citizens of great character.  Alternative High School is committed to offering an environment and a program of studies that is intellectual, rigorous and engages students in ways that promote success. Alternative High School uses the Circle of Courage and the concepts of Generosity, Independence, Mastery and Belonging supporting the creation of an environment of inclusion where all have a role in their own growth, the growth of others and their contributions to their families and the community. This education program is based on the individual strengths and goals of the student. Through this personalization students will receive a program that recognizes who they are in the context of the world in which they live. Staff at Alternative High School bring a wealth of professional knowledge and are committed to working very hard to create a school environment that supports and celebrates each student.  As we know, school staff alone cannot guarantee the success of students. We require students to attend daily, on time, to follow through on their agreements with teachers and try their best every day. Parents/Guardians that make time for their student to discuss their student’s experience in critical ways while maintaining respectful, ongoing, and open communication with school staff can be of tremendous support when planning and nurturing student success. Parent/Guardian involvement on School Council/Parent Association is very much appreciated. School Council/Parent Association meetings are scheduled quarterly throughout the year. Please check the website for these dates. Your attendance, energy and enthusiasm are all that we need, however the contributions of this group have a significant impact on the programming that is offered at Alternative High School. Due to the current health measures our first School Council/Parent Association meeting is to be held on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at 7:00 pm. This will be held electronically through the TEAMS MEET platform. The link for the meeting will be posted on the school website. I look forward to the year ahead and encourage your participation and communication as we endeavour to support our students in their success at Alternative High School. As my leadership portfolio in the Calgary Board of Education contains many educational sites beyond Alternative High School, future monthly messages on the website will be delivered by the Alternative High School Assistant Principal, Rhonda Williams.  Dr. Don Barbor  Principal Alternative High School