Case Study: Regina Public School Division achieves more equitable opportunities for students with ThoughtExchange

Regina Public School Division Used Online Engagement To Inform A Crucial Realignment Plan

Regina Public School Division, which serves more than 20,000 students in Saskatchewan, faced growing inequity as its two largest high schools reached capacity while smaller schools lost enrolment, threatening staff allocation and the Division’s ability to serve an expected 1,700 new students over six years. Seeking a research‑based fix, the Division commissioned the University of Regina and set out to realign catchments to restore equal access to programs and opportunities across schools.

The Division tested the Family of Neighbourhood Schools model and used online engagement through Thoughtexchange to gather broad community input—4,586 participants, 9,194 thoughts, and 141,805 stars across 54 school engagements—informing adjustments to program locations and school boundaries. The changes centralized key programs, increased staff allocation at smaller schools, improved transitions and access without relying on vehicle access for many families, and gave the Division a strong, community‑backed foundation for restoring equitable opportunities and student pride.

Regina Public School Division

Mike Walter

Deputy Director