Yuill School of Agriculture to Strengthen Education, Innovation, and Alberta’s Agri-Food Future
Cypress County, AB - A new era of agricultural learning is taking root in Southern Alberta as Prairie Rose Public Schools announces the creation of the Yuill School of Agriculture, an innovative partnership designed to cultivate hands-on learning and community growth.
Set to open in the fall of 2027, the new school will serve students in Grades 10 through 12, offering a comprehensive program that blends classroom instruction with real-world agricultural experience. Operating under Prairie Rose Public Schools in partnership with Neubauer Farms, the initiative builds on a shared commitment to developing the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026, supported by a collaborative investment from the Yuill Family Foundation, the Government of Alberta, and Prairie Rose Public Schools.
Reflecting the Foundation’s strong values of education, youth development, and community growth, the Yuill Family Foundation has donated land valued at approximately $1.03 million, along with an additional $600,000 toward construction of the facility. This significant contribution demonstrates a continued commitment to strengthening opportunities for young people and communities across Southern Alberta.
“The Yuill Family Foundation is incredibly proud of our partnership with Prairie Rose Public Schools and the creation of the Yuill School of Agriculture,” says Cori Cuthbertson, Administrator for the Yuill Family Foundation. “Together, we are fostering hands-on-learning opportunities that connect students to the land, their community, and the vital role of agriculture in our future.”
Support from the Government of Alberta includes $725,000 in collegiate funding to assist with start-up expenses. This investment will provide students with access to high quality learning environments and pathways into Alberta’s expanding agri-food industries.
“This investment reflects our commitment to hands-on, career-connected learning that prepares students for the future,” says Cypress Medicine Hat MLA Justin Wright. “Programs like the Yuill School of Agriculture strengthen local communities and help ensure the next generation of Albertans are ready to lead in one of our province’s most important industries.”
Students enrolled in the program will have opportunities to earn certifications, complete dual credit courses, and gain practical experience in areas such as crop and livestock management, agri-business, greenhouse operations, and agricultural technology. The school’s design and curriculum are being developed collaboratively by Prairie Rose Public Schools and Neubauer Farms to balance academic learning with industry-relevant experience.
“This project is about creating meaningful connections between learning and real-world application,” says Prairie Rose Superintendent of Schools Reagan Weeks. “The Yuill School of Agriculture will provide students with the chance to explore the science, business, and technology behind modern agriculture while helping sustain the values that have long defined rural Alberta.”
The Yuill School of Agriculture marks an important step forward in advancing agricultural education and workforce development in Alberta, combining industry partnerships, community collaboration, and innovative learning opportunities for students.
-------
Background Information About the Partners
About the Yuill Family Foundation (yuillfamilyfoundation.ca)
The Yuill Family Foundation supports initiatives in health, education, youth sports, and community development throughout Medicine Hat, Southern Alberta, Western Canada, and across Canada. Guided by the belief that change is achieved through vision, leadership, and hard work, the Foundation is committed to supporting organizations that create positive, lasting impact.
About Alberta Education (alberta.ca/collegiate-schools)
Alberta Education is committed to providing students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. Through the Collegiate Programming Initiative, the Government of Alberta is helping school divisions expand opportunities for students in Grades 7–12 to explore career pathways that connect directly to post-secondary programs and in-demand industries.
About Prairie Rose Public Schools (myprps.com)
Prairie Rose Public Schools serves approximately 6,600 students across southern Alberta. The division is deeply rooted in community and dedicated to providing high quality education that reflects rural values. The school division fosters a culture of connection and opportunity where students are encouraged to explore their passions, pursue their goals, and engage in meaningful, real-world learning.
About Neubauer Farms (neubauerfarms.ca)
Neubauer Farms, owned and operated by Mark and Nichole Neubauer, is a mixed farming operation near Medicine Hat. Neubauer Farms also operates the Agriculture Discovery Centre at Irvine School, a student-led agricultural education initiative for kindergarten to Grade 9 students within Prairie Rose Public Schools. In addition, the farm hosts the Growing Minds program, which has welcomed nearly 20,000 students to learn where their food comes from.