PRSD Set to Develop a Business Plan for Collegiate Class 1 Driver Program
The Peace River School Division (PRSD) is excited to announce that they have gained approval to develop a business plan for a Collegiate Class 1 Driver Education Program. With this approval, the Division will be able to apply for funding to assist in completing the next phase of business planning.
This project started in November of 2022, when the idea was presented to the Board of Trustees by Superintendent Adam Murray, and Transportation Manager, Merlin Lee. They discussed the viability of offering a Class 1 Driving School within the Division and Mr. Lee provided information on how this program could be implemented, the costs to facilitate it, and the benefits it would have for the Division. Saxon Butte, Principal of Alternative Education, also explained that this opportunity could positively impact high school completion rates and enrollment within the school division. At that time, the Board gave approval to further research this endeavor.
Continuing to solidify this initiative, a Collegiate School Status - Initial Proof of Concept Application was submitted to Alberta Education at the beginning of February. Superintendent Adam Murray, Secretary Treasurer, Rhonda Freeman, and Director of Business Services, Carolynn Fraser, then presented the details of the Class 1 Driver Training Program Initial Proof of Concept at the February regular Board meeting. Together they discussed the educational rationale, program requirements and concept, estimated capital requirements, estimated revenue assumptions, the estimated operating expense assumptions, and how they planned to move forward. The Board expressed their support and were eager to see the process unfold.
Now, with approval from Alberta Education, the Division is excited to enter the next phase of planning. They are looking forward to creating and submitting a well developed business plan that highlights the importance of this initiative.
Within the local area, the north relies heavily on the transportation of goods, and having Class 1 Drivers is essential to the current market. This program could create a direct path to employment and fill the need of drivers in the area.
"By tying programming with current economic sectors, future students will be able to see a career within reach and create a pathway for themselves to achieve it. Students who complete this potential program will be able to transition seamlessly into employment and work efficiently and confidently with employers in the area," said Delainah Walker, PRSD Board Chair.
More updates will become available as the Division moves through each phase of approvals.