The Portage la Prairie School Division knows they have a busy year ahead of them.

The first major change is the departure of Assistant Superintendent Mike Mauws. "We're very happy for Mr. Mauws, but sadly his first meeting of the new year will be his last," says Portage la Prairie School Division board chair Murray McLenehan. "For a man of small stature, you will be hard-pressed to find someone who does not look up to this gentleman. He's been instrumental to the students and the division, and we wish him the very best."

"When one door closes another door opens, and the board will now welcome Pam Garnham to the assistant superintendent position."

McLenehan adds, there will be a lot of projects happening in 2017. "Once the frost is out of the ground major projects are going to happen," he says. "... The Public School Finance Board (will be) financing and supporting, and actually this year in a unique situation... the division is putting money in as well. It's going to be an exciting year with major projects at PCI, Crescentview School and North Memorial. We couldn't be more excited for what's going to be happening."

One major priority every year is working through the annual budget, McLenehan notes.

"We recognize that the social demands, as well as the educational demands, are increasing. We need to continue to look at that through our budget and we strongly encourage those interested in the budget to come out in February. Every year we do an open, transparent, presentation. It clarifies a lot of questions that anyone may have."