SASKATOON — Saskatoon Public Schools announced that Inclusion Saskatchewan, whose mission is to build and inspire an inclusive Saskatchewan by empowering and valuing people with intellectual disabilities, has named Buena Vista School as the 2025 Inclusive School of the Year.
“We were nominated by a family here, and their child was here for three years. This was an overall response to welcoming their child over the last few years and our school had an impactful experience for their family,” Buena Vista School principal Justin Giesbrecht told SaskToday.
Giesbrecht said the student had not been in a physical school setting for a variety of reasons when they came to Buena Vista School.
“Their positive experience with teachers and school as a whole, working with them as a family, was what their nomination was about,” he added.
The principal said that when the committee reviewed the nomination, they contacted the school to hear more stories about their work with nature-based learning, a unique program offered at only two Saskatoon schools: Buena Vista and Lawson Heights. The program provides alternative ways to meet curriculum outcomes for learners.
“This program offered a walk through outdoors, or a park visit, or ski trip or bike trip, and involved a creative team approach with families to facilitate inclusion,” said the school’s principal.
Giesbrecht said their team attended the conference and awards ceremony at the University of Regina on June 7. Three awards were presented: Inclusive Teacher of the Year, Inclusive Division of the Year and Inclusive School of the Year.
“It was an inspiring and meaningful event to be part of,” said the principal.
A Saskatoon Public Schools media release stated, “Inclusion Saskatchewan called Buena Vista School ‘a shining example of what it means to create an environment where every student can thrive, no matter their background or abilities.’”
Buena Vista School has developed an innovative nature-based learning program that integrates sensory and experiential learning. This approach makes the core curriculum more accessible and engaging. By embracing the outdoors, the school creates a learning environment that is both inclusive and dynamic. But what Inclusion Saskatchewan said truly sets Buena Vista apart is the staff's commitment.
Shane Skjerven, director of education, said: “It is so heartwarming for me as director to be part of a school division where we truly value inclusivity. We know that our school teams and communities are doing a tremendous job to make all our students feel known, valued and believed in.”
Marnie Ross, superintendent of Buena Vista School, said: “Thank you so much to the staff for all of their amazing work, and to Inclusion Saskatchewan for recognizing the important work that Buena Vista does every day.”
Andrea Woods-Fehr, coordinator of special education learning supports, said: “Buena Vista has been a great example of inclusion in action, and we are so proud of their work in welcoming all learners at their school.”
