Val Jenson joins the LTCHS Hall of Fame

Local community builder inducted into LTCHS Hall of Fame

A dynamic Red Deerian who has touched the lives of many across the community over the years has been inducted into the Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School Hall of Fame.

As part of the Class of 1976, Val Jensen made her mark at the school as an influential student leader, serving on the Student Council and also as the Graduation President during her graduating year.

An induction ceremony and luncheon was held on Oct. 15 to celebrate Val’s significant contributions not only to the school, but to the community as well. The Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School Hall of Fame recognizes alumni who have made a difference in their community, while being role models for future graduates.

“Being inducted into the Lindsay Thurber Hall of Fame is truly an honour,” said Val. “This community has always been close to my heart, and to be recognized among such inspiring individuals is incredibly humbling. It reminds me of the amazing people who have shaped this school and our community over the years.”

Val’s dedication to physical activity and wellness is evident in her impressive athletic achievements, including competing in Alpine Skiing at the Alberta Winter Games and representing Canada as a member of the duathlon and triathlon teams. Val has also completed numerous marathons and Ironman races worldwide, including the prestigious Ironman Hawaii.

In 1987 Val founded Dance Magic Studio, offering children of all ages and abilities, a chance to explore the joy of dance. Val has served as the Race Director for Woody’s Triathlon many times and was the chairperson for the Alberta Winter Games opening ceremonies in 2006. She also played a vital role during the Canada Winter Games 2019 bid as co-chair of the community engagement and was the founder of the PCN Fun Run, serving as its Race Director for a decade. Additionally, she coordinates the Aloha School Run, which sees participation from 10,000 students across Central Alberta each year. Her extensive volunteer work has empowered countless Red Deerians to train and compete in a way that connects people through activity.

“Physical activity and healthy living have always been a cornerstone of my life and my work in the community,” said Val. “I believe that staying active not only strengthens the body, but also builds resilience, confidence, and connection with others. It’s about creating habits that empower people to live their best lives.”

Val’s unwavering commitment to community service and her tireless work ethic have garnered well-deserved recognition. In 2012, the Red Deer & District Community Foundation honoured her as a Woman of Excellence, and in 2014 she received the Volunteer of the Year Award from the City of Red Deer Sport Council. Val’s contributions have also been recognized with the Golden Dove Award from the Mustard Seed in 2012, the Mayor’s Special Award in 2022, and the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II – Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022.

Principal of Lindsay Thurber, Chris Good, said it’s always exciting to see where the future takes the school’s students after they graduate.

“At Lindsay Thurber, our school staff works hard to foster a love of learning and a desire to reach and attain your goals,” he said. “Val has remained an integral part of our community, and has gotten behind many different causes and organizations – all for the better of Red Deer. Val’s passion for wellness and her dedication to fostering community spirit continue to inspire us all, and we were thrilled to honour her.”

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Education

Our sweetest success yet: Smile Cookie Campaign breaks record

Published on June 11, 2025

Red Deer Public Schools

Just when we thought our smiles couldn’t get any bigger – they did! And we have the Red Deer community to thank for their overwhelming support.

We are so excited to share the total from the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign this past spring…and it’s very impressive. In fact, it’s an all-time record, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

Over the long-week campaign held April 28-May 4, Red Deerians indulged in a lot of cookies – $80,773 worth! These funds will go directly to helping struggling readers become readers of potential through Reading College, a project of The Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools.

Reading College, held each July, provides students with identified reading gaps an incredible summer experience that builds their skills, confidence, and love for reading. Students leave the program with stronger reading and writing abilities, and a solid foundation for success in school and life. Now in its 14th year, 1,000 students have graduated from Reading College.

“We continue to be amazed by the generosity of our community and the partnership with Tim Hortons,” said Kristine Plastow, Board Chair for The Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools. “These dollars directly impact kids who need extra support to become confident readers. The difference this program makes is life-changing.”

Tanya Doucette, Tim Hortons Restaurant Owner in Red Deer, said it’s incredible to see what can happen when a community comes together. The simple act of purchasing a cookie by so many amazing guests, makes a huge difference for young students right here in Red Deer.

“This record-breaking year shows how much our guests care. We are so pleased to support Reading College and help give students the tools they need to thrive,” she said.

Red Deer

Red Deer Student honoured with Chief Youth Courage Award

Published on June 10, 2025

Red Deer Public Schools

When you meet Brayden Chenier, a Grade 8 student at GH Dawe School, it’s clear why he’s been chosen to represent youth across Alberta. Brayden is the proud recipient of the Integrated School Support Program Provincial (ISSP) Chief Youth Courage Award, presented by the Calgary Police Youth Foundation, in recognition of his resilience, leadership and commitment to his community.

The award celebrates students who demonstrate courage and dedication to becoming a responsible and caring citizen, especially within a diverse school and community, and was presented earlier this spring at the Calgary Police Awards Gala. As part of the honour, Brayden will now serve as a youth ambassador, helping to raise awareness about child and youth crime prevention, education, and intervention programs across the province.

“It’s pretty surreal that I will be all over the province for a year,” said Brayden. “I am looking forward to helping out in the community.”

Brayden has been part of the ISSP program through GH Dawe School since 2023 and has benefited greatly from the support offered.

With the support of the mental health professional, Brayden has been able to successfully navigate a variety of challenges in his life including coming to terms with his disability and navigating a tragic loss in his life.

Born with clubfoot, Brayden has never let his physical disability stand in his way. He is an avid athlete in a number of sports including hockey, basketball, golf, track, volleyball and soccer. His goal is working towards becoming an athlete in the Paralympics.

Brayden was nominated by GH Dawe School Counsellor Amy Johansson, who described him as a compassionate, kind, hardworking, and honest person who is driven and motivated to be his very best at all that he attempts.

She added that within the GH Dawe School community, Brayden is a highly respected citizen by all students and staff. “He is highly committed to sports connected to our school, as well as sports outside of our school community. Brayden works diligently at his academics. And is so very helpful and caring, always. Brayden works to overcome a list of things that he will not allow to hold him back.”

GH Dawe School is part of Alberta’s Integrated School Support Program – a child wellness initiative aimed at improving academic performance and the overall well-being of students. The program supports schools like GH Dawe with services to meet the diverse needs of students and families.

As he takes on his role as a provincial ambassador, Brayden continues to be a role model for his peers and a reminder of the power of perseverance and community support.