Not many people can say they've shaped the story of a school division for more than two decades but Trudy Bratland can.
Wolf Creek Public Schools is proud to share that longtime trustee Trudy Bratland has received the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) Distinguished Service Award, a province-wide honour recognizing her remarkable 21 years of service to public education. The award was presented at the ASBA Fall Awards Ceremony Nov. 16 in Edmonton.
ASBA President Marilyn Dennis (left) and ASBA Executive Director & CEO Vivian Abboud (right) present former Wolf Creek Public Schools trustee Trudy Bratland (centre) with the Alberta School Boards Association Distinguished Service Award.
"It came as a complete surprise to me, as I sat there and watched all of the pictures of me, I was waiting for them to show pictures of the other nominees," Bratland laughed. "I am so appreciative of my colleagues and the WCPS Division office staff for the well-written nomination. I also appreciate that the ASBA Board of Directors selected me as the successful candidate and for all the kind words, hugs and congratulations that I received that evening."
Bratland represented Ward C in Wolf Creek, which includes Bentley School, Bluffton School, Eckville Elementary School, Eckville Junior Senior High School, Leedale Colony School, Rimbey Elementary School, Rimbey Junior Senior High School and West Country Outreach School. But, her path into education leadership didn't start at a board table. It began in small and steady acts of community involvement: as a parent volunteer, a coordinator for Rimbey ECS, an assistant librarian, and a supporter of local programs, all long before she ever considered running for office. Those early contributions grew into a commitment that would define the next two decades.
First elected in 2004, Bratland has now completed six consecutive terms with Wolf Creek. In that time, she served six years as Board Chair and twice as Vice-Chair, guiding the Board through major decisions with her signature thoughtful, balanced approach. She has been a steady voice when the work was difficult, an advocate when students needed one, and a champion for rural public education at every turn.
"Trudy has this rare ability to lead with both backbone and heart," said Board Chair Luci Henry. "Her impact on Wolf Creek, and on rural public education across Alberta, will be felt for a long time. This award is an honour she has truly earned."
At the Board table, Bratland is known for listening first, weighing perspectives, and keeping students at the center of every conversation. Her belief that "equity does not always mean equal" has shaped countless decisions, ensuring resources support the students who need them most.
And, her advocacy extends far beyond Wolf Creek, serving as a Director with the Alberta School Boards Association, bringing rural voices to provincial discussions and helping shape the broader landscape of education in Alberta.
"What stands out about Trudy is her steady, principled leadership," said Superintendent Tim De Ruyck. "She never loses sight of why we do this work. Students have always come first for her and it shows in everything she touches."
Over 21 years, Trudy has built strong relationships across her community, supported generations of families, and mentored countless colleagues. As she completed her final term, Trudy left behind a legacy defined not only by the policies she helped shape but by the people she supported along the way.
"It truly is a highlight in my career as a Trustee. I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with many professional and dedicated people in the world of education," she said.
Wolf Creek Public Schools congratulates Trudy Bratland, recipient of the ASBA Distinguished Service Award, and thanks her for 21 years of unwavering service, leadership, and heart.
