Prince Albert school divisions report strong graduation results for Class of 2026

The division’s five-year graduation rate for First Nations and Métis students reached 73 per cent, eight percentage points above the provincial average of 65 per cent.

SRPSD Director of Education Neil Finch said the results reflect the importance of relationships, belonging and responsive instruction in supporting student success.

“Graduation rates are about much more than earning credits,” Finch said. “They represent students finding connection, discovering their strengths, overcoming barriers, and preparing for life beyond high school.”

He said the division was particularly encouraged by the results for First Nations and Métis students, crediting Indigenous-informed practices, community partnerships and efforts to ensure students feel valued and supported.

The division said it will continue working to improve graduation outcomes through mentorship, graduation coaching, culturally responsive learning opportunities and its High School Learning Model.

Meanwhile, Prince Albert Catholic School Division reported that it met or exceeded provincial graduation rates in all six categories included in the ministry report.

Overall, 82 per cent of students graduated within three years, compared with 81 per cent provincially. Within five years, the division’s graduation rate reached 90 per cent, above the provincial rate of 86 per cent.

Among non-First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, 95 per cent graduated within three years, compared with 90 per cent provincially. The division’s five-year rate for that group was 98 per cent, eight percentage points above the provincial rate of 90 per cent.

First Nations, Métis and Inuit students also recorded higher graduation rates than their provincial counterparts. The three-year rate was 63 per cent, compared with 51 per cent provincially, while the five-year rate reached 80 per cent, compared with 65 per cent.

The Catholic division said it has consistently recorded strong graduation results compared with provincial performance over the past 12 years, attributing its progress to student perseverance and the support of school staff, families and community partners.

Board Chair Suzanne Stubbs said the division offers a range of educational pathways to help students pursue their interests and prepare for life after graduation.

“Our students are involved in the arts, sports, practical and applied arts, trades and skills, sciences and academics. There is a pathway for every student at École St. Mary High School and within our schools,” Stubbs said.

“We are extremely proud of our graduates and grateful to the staff and families of Prince Albert Catholic Schools who support them along the way.”

The division offers programming in academics, sciences, arts, athletics, practical and applied arts, trades and skills, providing students with different options to work toward graduation and future goals.

Both school divisions credited the efforts of educators, support staff, families, Elders, School Community Councils and community partners for helping students reach the milestone.

Saskatchewan Rivers Public School Division serves approximately 8,900 students in 32 schools in Prince Albert and surrounding communities. Prince Albert Catholic School Division serves more than 3,000 students across seven schools.

The divisions congratulated the Class of 2026, saying the results reflect the commitment and collective effort involved in helping students succeed.

—

susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com

by Susan McNeil

Prince Albert school divisions report strong graduation results for Class of 2026

What's Trending