Funding for Saskatoon Restorative Action Program to Support Mental Health, Bullying Prevention and Healthy Relationships

CANADA, August 19 - Released on August 19, 2026

The Government of Saskatchewan is reaffirming its commitment to safe and supportive learning environments by continuing its partnership with the Saskatoon Restorative Action Program (RAP). This investment supports Saskatchewan's Action Plan to Address Bullying and Cyberbullying and protects students by helping them build the skills they need to navigate conflict and stay connected to their school communities.

From April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029, the Ministry of Education will provide up to $131,000 annually to support RAP's delivery of school based restorative programming. This brings the ministry's total investment in RAP to more than $1.2 million since the 2013-14 fiscal year.  

"Every student deserves to feel safe, supported and respected at school," Education Minister Everett Hindley said. "RAP plays a vital role in helping young people build the confidence and skills they need to manage conflict in healthy ways. This partnership continues to strengthen our schools and supports the wellbeing of students across Saskatoon and beyond."

RAP will also receive up to $142,506 annually from the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General over the next four years, beginning April 1, 2026. The ministry will have invested approximately $1.48 million in the program since 2018-19.  

"We are proud to partner with schools and communities to fund programming that helps people resolve conflicts, develop leadership abilities, build positive relationships, and enhance their academic skills," Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C., said. "The funding we provide to these programs is part of our ongoing commitment under the Saskatchewan Growth Plan to support mental health and wellness in schools and set our students up for success as they move into adulthood."

RAP works directly with youth to develop and practice conflict management, relationship-building and leadership skills through an approach focused on prevention, intervention and reconnection. They also provide students, families and schools with the knowledge, skills, resources and supports needed to feel safe and accepted at school, in the community, and online. By supporting students in addressing challenges early and constructively, the program helps create safer, more connected school environments.  

The program partners with Saskatoon Public and Catholic School Divisions to deliver services in 14 high schools and provides programming at North Battleford Comprehensive High School through a project with Living Sky School Division.

"The Restorative Action Program provides young people with an opportunity to take accountability, repair harm and learn from their actions," RAP Saskatoon Interim President Darren Bohmann said. "It focuses on meaningful conversations, strengthening relationships and discovering positive pathways forward."

Through prevention activities, one on one interventions and reconnection supports, RAP helps students address issues such as bullying, interpersonal conflict, mental health challenges, substance use and other barriers to learning. These school based restorative practices contribute to safer school environments and help students develop the skills they need to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

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