The Saskatoon Public Schools Board of Education held its regular monthly meeting on Nov. 25, 2025. 

The meeting opened with a presentation on the exceptional experience delivered by Tommy Douglas Collegiate’s Softball Academy.

Open to Grades 9-12, the program welcomes all skill levels — no one is turned away. The tuition is low so that the program remains accessible to all. Students develop softball skills, earn high school credit, gain National Coaching Certification, volunteer in the community, and create friendships that last long after graduation.

Led by Softball Canada Hall of Fame inductees Trevor Ethier and Don Bates — both former National Team coaches — students receive world-class, nationally recognized instruction. With access to the Gordie Howe Sports Complex, classroom learning, skill testing, coaching certification, and an exciting travel study tour, students gain life skills, leadership, confidence, and identity.

The Academy has welcomed players from across Saskatchewan and produced multiple athletes for Team Canada — and future coaches too!

Trevor says: "Don and I feel like we have the best job in the world. We get to watch these students achieve their softball goals and also their life goals."

Ashlyn, a Grade 12 Softball Academy student, says: "I didn’t know if I’d stick with it for the full four years when I signed up in Grade 9. And it has been the best experience of my life. I would never have the opportunities I’ve had without this."

Learn more about Softball Academy.

Other Board Business

The November meeting also included updates on:

• Board Annual Work Plan 2025-26
• Ministry’s Teacher Innovation and Support Plan
• Strategic Plan Accountability Report: Student Transportation
• Student Plan Accountability Report: Learning Results Grades 9-12

Next Meeting

The next Regular Meeting of the board will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 6:30 p.m. Board meetings are open to the public; there are two options to join the meeting:

• In person at the Saskatoon Public Schools central administrative office (310 21st St E). Please use the entrance off 3rd Avenue to enter the building. 
• Virtually using the Microsoft Teams Livestream Link posted here.

Please note that all questions and/or concerns must be submitted in writing by noon the day prior to the meeting. Submissions can be made here.

PHOTO: (from left) Ashlyn and Emma, two Grade 12 Softball Academy student athletes