The Anglophone South School District is welcoming about 300 new students this fall, according to Superintendent Derek O’Brien.
He says the start of school is one of the most energizing times for staff and students.
“We’ve spent the summer getting ready to welcome students back into our buildings,” O’Brien said.
The district now expects approximately 24,500 students this year. O’Brien said the increase continues a trend of steady growth since 2020, reversing a previous period of declining enrollment.
“We used to have empty classrooms in some schools,” he said.
“Now we’re maximizing space and making use of almost every classroom in every building.”
To help manage the growth, portable classrooms are being added at select sites.
O’Brien said requests were submitted to the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development last winter, and installations are now underway.
Alongside logistical changes, the district is rolling out a new math curriculum.
Teachers have already begun working with academic leads and support staff to implement the updated program.
“We’re focusing on deeper understanding and helping students build stronger foundational skills,” O’Brien said.
Ten schools are also participating in a calendar pilot that introduces additional P.D. days for educators. O’Brien explained that the student instructional time remains protected.
“We looked at other jurisdictions and found this doesn’t change us dramatically from what other school systems are doing,” he said.
“Teachers need time to collaborate and continue learning so they can enhance instructional and assessment practices.”
The pilot is being monitored in partnership with a researcher from the University of New Brunswick, according to O’Brien.
Data collection will focus on instructional hours, academic performance, attendance, and feedback from educators and families.
“We want to make sure we’re collecting meaningful data that will inform our practice going forward,” O’Brien said.
“If the results are favourable, we may consider expanding the initiative next year.”
Student well-being is also a key focus. O’Brien said staff have been working to foster relationships and a sense of belonging in schools.
“All of our buildings have certified guidance counsellors who support students and families,” he said.
“We also work closely with partners in social development, mental health and public health to ensure students have access to the resources they need.”
Schools are using internal communications and social media to promote available supports. Families are encouraged to stay connected with teachers and administrators.
“Families play a key role in helping students access services,” O’Brien said. “We always encourage them to build strong relationships with their school.”
With the school year now underway, O’Brien is asking the broader community to be mindful of increased traffic around school zones.
The district’s 235 school buses are back on the roads, and sidewalks and crosswalks are busier than usual.
“I’d really encourage everyone to pay close attention to speed limits and school zone signage,” he said.
“It’s a very busy time, and we want to make sure students have safe opportunities to get into their buildings.”
Local schools have also coordinated with police agencies to increase visibility around campuses during the first week.
Safety infrastructure, such as flashing lights, has been checked to ensure it is operational.
“Even if you don’t have children in the system, it’s important to be aware that school is back in session,” O’Brien said.
