On the far-eastern side of the province in Prairie Land Public School Division, the communities of Kirriemuir, Altario, and Compeer share a collective aspiration for a future rich with opportunities. This vision thrives on community collaboration and growth. At the heart of this vision lies Altario School, where agriculture and sustainable food development are integral parts of everyday learning. Here, students actively engage in innovative practices, fostering their passion for industry advancement beyond the school's walls.
In 2021, the three communities (KAC) gathered to talk about their visions for what the future might hold. An idea that took root during that meeting was the hope that adults could engage in learning at the school alongside students. There was also much-excited talk about the possibilities of growing food at the school that evening.
Now, three short years later. Principal Kevin Van Lagen is proud to share that the community is making brilliant headway toward making their visions a reality. Alongside a thriving farm operation, the school also houses two Growcer units, hydroponic growing facilities that keep the community fed with high-quality greens throughout the year. Students are engaged in the business aspects of the operation, selling the fruits of their labour in “The Hive”, a buzzing little store that was once a math classroom.
Terri Forrester, a long-time Altario resident, was eager to join in when she heard that adults would also have the opportunity to learn about the Growcer operations. "I had seen it and thought that would be interesting," she reminisces, "and then found out that the school was looking for community volunteers to take the course. Perfect!" Her eagerness to participate wasn't just fueled by curiosity but by a genuine desire to contribute to something greater than herself.
When asked about her aspirations following the training, Terri reflects with humility, "Where do I see my training going, good question. I was just hoping to help out." Her sentiment encapsulates the essence of community spirit—selflessly lending a hand without expecting anything in return. Yet, beneath her modest words lies a sense of excitement and anticipation for what the future holds.
For Terri and many others like her, the impact of their involvement with the school transcends mere volunteerism—it's about nurturing a sense of pride within the community. "The impact I see with the KAC community is pride!" Terri exclaims. "We were always a close community, but [the opportunity to learn together] has brought all three communities together to support and grow our great school." Indeed, the hydroponic growing system serves as a tangible symbol of flourishing, a testament to what can be achieved when communities unite with a shared purpose.
Terri envisions a future where the school serves as a catalyst for community revitalization, attracting new families to settle in the KAC communities. "I hope to see more families move into our KAC communities and help lead the growth of our school," she shares with optimism. It's a vision fueled by hope, anchored in the belief that education isn't just confined to the classroom but has impacts far beyond into the fabric of community life.
What sets this initiative apart isn't just its focus on skill-building or agricultural innovation; it's the unwavering commitment of the entire community to embrace change and forge a path toward a brighter future. From educators to parents, students to volunteers, each individual plays a vital role in nurturing a culture of learning and collaboration.
As the hydroponic system continues to thrive and bear fruit—both literally and metaphorically—it serves as a beacon of inspiration for other rural communities grappling with similar challenges. What began as a dream shared among a few has now blossomed into a reality that holds the promise of endless possibilities.
In the end, it's not just about growing crops or acquiring new skills; it's about sowing the seeds of community resilience, fostering a spirit of unity, and cultivating a future where every individual has the opportunity to flourish. In the rural communities of Kirriemuir, Altario, and Compeer, that future is already taking root, one collaborative effort at a time.
Story Submitted By: Bailey Almberg, Prairie Land Public School Division
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