Wolf Creek Education Centre shares inspiring recovery-based learning model with PSBAA trustees, trustees also tour ÉSLCHS Ecovision and Robotics program
A unique blend of education and rehabilitation was at the heart of a recent presentation to Public School Boards’ Association of Alberta (PSBAA) trustees, hosted by the Wolf Creek Public Schools Board of Trustees Aug. 7.
Led by Wolf Creek Education Centre (WCEC) principal Evie Van Scheik, the presentation offered a deep look at the only long-term institutional rehabilitation program of its kind in Alberta. It serves students aged 16 to 65, most of whom are navigating complex acquired brain injuries, mental health diagnoses, addictions, or concurrent disorders.
“These are some of the most challenging and meaningful learning environments we’re part of,” said Wolf Creek Public Schools Superintendent Tim De Ruyck. “The work being done here demonstrates the critical role education plays in helping people reclaim their future, even after life-altering injuries or diagnoses.”
Van Scheik shared a wide-ranging overview of how the WCEC functions as part of the Centennial Centre for Mental Health and Brain Injury setting, fully integrated with Wolf Creek’s learning systems. The centre focuses on executive functioning, literacy, numeracy, the use of assistive technology, and preparing students for the next phase of their lives — whether that’s a return to work, community life, or further education.
Instruction is delivered both one-on-one and in small groups, guided by Individual Program Plans. Teachers and educational rehab therapists—many with dual degrees and advanced training—work closely with an interdisciplinary team that includes physicians, speech-language pathologists, mental health therapists, and occupational therapists.
Van Scheik also highlighted the program’s culture of care and community, from team trivia nights and awareness events to the “Words of Wisdom” bulletin boards, where students share their experiences and reflections. She shared the emotional and heartwarming journey of one student who had to relearn how to walk and speak following a brain injury. That student was on hand to speak to the trustees gathered and provide her insight into the benefits and truly life-changing work at the school.
“These stories aren’t just inspiring — they’re reminders of how essential it is that education remains a part of the recovery process,” said Van Scheik.
More than 180 students access the program annually, with about 169 typically engaged at any one time. Some may stay for six months, others for over a year, depending on their individual progress.
During their visit, trustees were also toured through École Lacombe Composite High School’s award-winning United Robotics of Lacombe (URL) and EcoVision programs. URL is one of Alberta’s most successful high school robotics programs, with teams regularly excelling at FIRST Tech Challenge competitions and developing innovative projects such as a bee-hive monitoring prototype. EcoVision, meanwhile, is a nationally recognized environmental initiative where students lead sustainability projects ranging from solar-powered greenhouses to food security programs. Through the student-led tours, along with teacher and program lead Steve Schultz, Trustees saw firsthand how both programs foster creativity, problem-solving, and leadership, complementing Wolf Creek’s broader commitment to innovative, student-driven learning.
WCPS Tour for PSBAA
