La Verendrye School (LVS) is off to an exciting and vibrant start this school year, with new programs, leadership changes, and a renewed focus on cultural inclusivity and student wellness. Principal Al Patterson, who is entering his third year at the school but his first in the principal's role, says the beginning of the year has been "hectic but exciting." "We've got a number of things that families are excited about and some changes at the school," Patterson shared. "Mr. Taylor and I are new in the office area, and we've got some admin assistants and clerical staff here as well that are new. So, there's been some challenges, but at the same time, it's been a lot of fun." Smiling students and enthusiastic families are a welcome sight every morning, Patterson said. One of the most anticipated changes this fall is the expansion of the school's nutrition programming. "Our kids are super happy about the new programs we're offering," he said. "The breakfast program is going strong, and starting September 15th, we're launching a lunch program for our K to 3 students. As we get into it, we'll expand it for the older kids." Another visible addition to the school grounds is the newly completed outdoor gazebo and picnic area, built on a cement pad that had been poured years earlier but left unused. The space, developed in collaboration with the school division and Superintendent Pam Garnham, will now serve as an outdoor learning area. "It's really nice because it provides shelter from the sun or rain, so our kids can enjoy some outdoor learning in comfort," Patterson explained. The school has also been busy preparing for a number of important events in September, including the Terry Fox Walk, Truth and Reconciliation Day, and Strong Beginnings assessments. "For the Terry Fox Walk, we're planning a bigger event than we've done in past years," Patterson said. "We're hoping to make it a more community-focused activity. It helps our students learn about being good neighbors and gives them a sense of belonging." Strong Beginnings, a program that assesses where students are academically at the start of the year, is also top of mind. Patterson said it gives teachers an opportunity to build relationships with students while tailoring instruction to their needs. In line with Truth and Reconciliation efforts, the school had a visit from Manitoba's Circle of Educators, a group from the Department of Education focused on Indigenous academic achievement on Friday. "Our population is approximately 70% self-identified as Indigenous," Patterson noted. "We want to create a cultural space, potentially with a teepee in the courtyard and murals both inside and out. We're also exploring the possibility of a fire pit. The goal is to give students a space to connect with their culture safely." In the gymnasium, Physical Education teacher Mitch Nelissen said the year is off to an active start. "Our main goal right now is just to get them moving again," said Nelissen. "We're in cross-country season right now, with our first race next week behind the trails in KoKo Platz." With nearly 30 students signed up, the team is larger than usual. Volleyball and basketball seasons are also on the horizon. "Our goal for volleyball is to prepare students to compete at the high school level," Nelissen said. "We're also planning to incorporate more outdoor education this year. The kids are really into it, which is great." With energized staff, supportive families, and ambitious plans in place, LVS is setting the tone for a positive and inclusive school year. Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon. Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@portageonline.com. PortageOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the PortageOnline app.