Good Evening CMHS Parents, Caregivers, Students and Guardians,

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Calgary Board of Trustees Public Board Meeting, and I left feeling both encouraged and reaffirmed in the work we are doing together as a school community. It was clear that our trustees and superintendents remain deeply committed to the belief that each student, according to their individual abilities and gifts, will complete high school with the foundation of learning necessary to thrive in life, work, and continued education.

Many of the discussions at the meeting closely align with the priorities we continue to focus on at Central Memorial High School. We know that unmanaged technology can detract from learning, and ensuring that students are present, engaged, and actively participating in class remains essential. As shared by Chief Superintendent Joanne Pitman, strong attendance is rooted in three key elements: connection, purpose, and community. These pillars guide our efforts each day at CMHS as we work to support every student.

There was also positive news shared from recent CBE student survey results. Emotional health continues to improve year over year, with both physical and emotional health measures showing significant gains, marking the strongest results in the past five years. Notably, the emotional health measure has now exceeded 70%, with high school students demonstrating the greatest improvement. This growth may reflect increased maturity, stronger self-advocacy, and improved stress management skills among our students.

At the same time, the data reminds us that cell phone use and digital balance remain ongoing challenges. While some students report feeling capable of managing their device use, this continues to be an area for growth. The reality is that self-regulation, especially in the face of constant notifications, peer influence, and highly engaging digital platforms, is complex and continues to develop well into adulthood. Additionally, the dual role of devices for both academic and personal use can make it difficult for students to draw clear boundaries around screen time.

Alberta’s Personal Mobile Device policy is helping to support this work by limiting access to social media and external communication during the school day, while also increasing awareness of digital habits. However, meaningful and lasting behavior change takes time. As a system, we remain committed to supporting students through digital citizenship education and social-emotional learning, helping them better understand how technology and algorithms influence behavior and decision-making.

At Central Memorial High School, our staff continue to actively monitor and support students in making positive choices regarding their device use. We are also grateful for the partnership of parents and guardians who are reinforcing these expectations at home by setting boundaries and monitoring their children’s use of technology.

Together, through strong relationships and shared commitment, we will continue to support our students in developing the skills they need to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.

Have a wonderful week.

Anne Kromm
Principal

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