Robert Thirsk High School is located in the NW community of Arbour Lake. The school opened its doors in 2013 and is named after the acclaimed Canadian astronaut, and member of the Order of Canada, Dr. Robert Thirsk, who is a graduate of the CBE. Our school moto of Personalizing, Connecting and Thriving, is the core to everything that we do at Robert Thirsk High School. I began my journey at Robert Thirsk High School in 2014 as a Science and Grade 10 Learning Leader, I then spent some time as an Assistant Principal at a large middle school before returning to RTHS as an Assistant Principal in the winter of 2018. I am honoured to now have the opportunity to continue to grow and support the amazing RTHS learning community as Principal.
The school enrolment at RTHS is approximately 1200 students from 10-12, with 15% of the student population identifying as English Language Learners (ELL) and 28% as Special Education learners. We have an extensive Advanced Placement (AP) program that offers AP courses in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Mathematics, English Language Arts, Social Studies and Art. Additionally, we have a Culinary Arts program, Work Experience program and Dual Credit offerings that allow students to pursue work related experiences throughout their high school programming. Our International student program has grown tremendously, with students choosing to study for a single semester, a full year or the entirety of their high school program at Robert Thirsk. Currently, we have International students from over 15 different countries.
We provide a flexible learning environment for all students with a daily Focus period integrated into the schedule to provide students with the opportunity for additional support, credit recovery and enrichment. Our assessment and reporting is aligned with the High School Proficiency Scale, with students receiving assessment feedback based on outcome achievement specific to each Program of Study. This has allowed students and teachers to clearly identify areas of need, areas of growth and create personalized opportunities for reassessment and alternative demonstrations of learning.
Please feel free to email the main RTHS inbox at robertthirskhigh@cbe.ab.ca with general inquiries or my personal email klderbyshire@cbe.ab.ca at any time.
Kristal Derbyshire, Principal
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