Message From Your Local Branch President

As we relish the waning days of summer heat, we may have memories of the frantic get-ready of late August when we were in the throes of setting up classrooms, planning units of study, sitting through countless meetings…do we miss that? At the Hell With the Bell Breakfast on September 3, a large group of former PSSD and HTCSD colleagues gathered together to socialize, renew friendships, and enjoy a lovely morning with no bells and no responsibilities. Thank you to everyone who came to join us and congratulations to all the 2024-5 superannuates who have now joined the retirement club!

In the PSSD booklet of 2025-6 superannuates, Shane Onraet, principal from Kincaid, left us with some very touching reflections:

“Throughout my career, I have held a deep belief that schools are more than just places of learning—they are the heart of the community. They are where children begin to understand who they are, where families find true partnership, and where educators invest their passion and purpose into shaping the future. While education has evolved in many ways over the years, one constant remains: the incredible potential of young people to grow, persevere, and thrive when supported with care and encouragement. It has always been my responsibility—and my privilege—to help build a school culture that is safe, welcoming, and grounded in respect. I have tried each day to lead with integrity, empathy, and an unwavering belief in the goodness of our students and staff. And I have never done it alone— every success has been the result of a dedicated team of educators and a community that has stood strong together.”

I believe we can all agree that our contribution to education did not end in the classroom. Thank you, everyone, for the work YOU did to shape a generation of youth and thank you to Shane, for reminding us.

On another note, as the chapter’s financial surplus (accumulated during COVID) is depleted, the cost of our luncheon meals will now be $20.00 each for members and spouses/partners and $25.00 for non-members. Take time to join us for a wonderful social outing and equally wonderful meal.

Enjoy the beginning of autumn as we watch the changing colours of what some people call their favourite time of the year—and get out there and walk!

❤️ Reflections from the Heart: Memories and Moments That Shape a Career

The recent Sept. 3rd Hell with the Bell Breakfast was more than a welcome for new Superannuates—it was a reunion. The room was alive with laughter, conversation, and familiar faces, reminding us that the true heart of our careers lies in the relationships we’ve built along the way.

But more than the food or the celebration itself, what struck me most was the profound sense of connection shared by all who attended—those moments that, over time, have shaped not only our professional lives but also our personal journeys.

Let’s Celebrate Our Journeys Together

We all have countless reasons to be grateful. We have people who have guided us, moments that have shaped us, and dreams that still call us forward. When we take the time to reflect on these experiences—and share them with others—we inspire those around us.

Just as I’ve been inspired by so many along my journey, I encourage you to share your stories. What moments or people have shaped your career? Send them to me at: stsmoosejaw@gmail.com

🧠 DID YOU KNOW? Great Information from Sunil Pandila

Blue Cross has identified 9 Domains of Health Literacy.

🩺 How Health Literate Are You?

Health literacy means how well you can find, understand, and use health information to care for yourself or others.

Take this quick self-check! For each statement, circle a number from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree).

Self-Check Quiz

1. 🩺 I feel understood and supported by my healthcare providers.
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

2. 📘 I have enough information to manage my health.
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

3. 💪 I take an active role in managing my health.
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

4. 👥 I have family, friends, or community to support my health.
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

5. 🔍 I can tell if health information is trustworthy.
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

6. 💬 I feel confident asking questions and engaging with my healthcare providers.
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

7. 🧭 I know how to navigate the healthcare system (appointments, referrals, insurance, etc.).
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

8. 🌐 I know how to find good healthcare information when I need it.
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

9. ✅ I can understand health information well enough to know what to do.
☐1 ☐2 ☐3 ☐4 ☐5

📝 Tally Your Score
Add up your points and see where you land:
• 36–45 points → 🌟 Strong health literacy!
• 20–35 points → ⚖️ Some areas to improve.
• 9–19 points → 🛠️ You may benefit from extra support.

🍽️ The First Luncheon of the Season!

Hello and welcome to our first Luncheon of our 2025-26 season.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

We are happy to have Murray Wall, our STS Executive Director, and Anna Shewchuk from Blue Cross as our guest speakers. This will be an informative discussion on our health/dental plan, as well as information on how to navigate the online system.

10:30 – Coffee
11:00 – Speakers: Murray and Anna
12:00 – Luncheon: Roast Beef Dinner, Caterer: Charlotte’s

Cost: $20.00 per STS member and spouse/partner. $25.00 for non-members

12:45 – Meeting

Register by Sunday, September 14, 2025, by clicking on the button below or by email to stsmoosejaw@gmail.com

Location:
Masonic Temple Hall, 1755 Main St. N.
S6J 1L6
Moose Jaw

🕙 Getting with the Times (of MJ STS Luncheon Meetings)

All Luncheon Meetings are at Masonic Hall @ 10:30

Wed. Sept 17, 2025
Wed. Nov. 19, 2025
Wed. Jan. 21, 2026
Wed. March 18, 2026
Wed. May 20, 2026
10:30 Coffee & visiting
11:00 Speaker
11:50 Lunch
12:40 Meeting

📢 ANNOUNCEMENTS 📢

🍝 Eatons Centre Presents PASTA NIGHT & Magic Show

All Ages Welcome
$25.00/ticket
October 4, 2025
Happy Hour 4 pm
Dinner 5 pm

🍴 Moose Jaw & District Senior Citizens Association Inc. Annual Fund Raiser

All Ages Welcome
Come & Go Fowl Supper
Nov. 2, 2025, 4:30 - 6:30
$25/plate