Northern Gateway Public Schools (NGPS) is advancing its system-wide commitment to student success by deepening the implementation of the Quality Learning Environment (QLE) framework and expanding its use of Collaborative Response strategies. Partnering with Kurtis and Lorna Hewson of Jigsaw Learning, NGPS will continue to refine and strengthen supports for schools and leaders throughout the 2025–2026 school year.
This year’s plan emphasizes leadership development, school-based feedback, and system-wide collaboration, with a focus on embedding sustainable practices that directly impact teaching and learning.
Key elements of the partnership include:
- Director Planning Sessions: Six full and half-day sessions (in-person and virtual) to guide Directors in leading QLE planning and coordination.
- Collaborative Response Formative Feedback: Individualized, in-person school visits to provide comprehensive feedback on the implementation of Collaborative Response, ensuring every school has the structures and strategies needed to support students effectively.
- Membership and Technology Support: Ongoing access to the Collaborative Response Membership for leadership teams and renewal of the WeCollab software subscription, enabling schools to coordinate and monitor student supports in real time.
The initiative represents a support plan led by Kurtis Hewson and the Jigsaw Learning team, including school visits, leadership sessions, and system-level planning.
“NGPS has been a leader in building structures of collaboration and support,” noted Kurtis Hewson, co-creator of Collaborative Response. “Their commitment to refining QLE through intentional planning, feedback, and professional learning demonstrates their dedication to ensuring success for every learner.”
Through this partnership, NGPS continues to position itself at the forefront of system-wide collaborative practice, ensuring that both staff and students benefit from a culture of shared responsibility, clarity, and support.
For the past thirteen years, our team has worked with Northern Gateway Public Schools to refine and support Collaborative Response across the system. This support has engaged divisional staff at all levels.
To learn more about how Jigsaw Learning could help your organization introduce, implement and deepen Collaborative Response efforts to have a substantial impact on student success and staff collective efficacy, access Collaborative Response Across a System section of our website. If you have any questions, please contact us at .
Northern Gateway Public Schools operates 16 schools, four colony schools and four off-campus outreach programs, serving just under 5,000 learners in the communities of Alberta Beach, Onoway, Rich Valley, Darwell, Sangudo, Mayerthorpe, Whitecourt, Fox Creek and Valleyview.