<h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Download the PDF version of FROM THE BOARD, which includes the clickable links, </span><a href="/documents/b8fc3391-57cc-4dfb-9311-2c125686508f/2026-06-23-From-The-Board.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260630161324" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">HERE</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> .</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/14510e24-c31b-475c-b2b3-092926bbd8ad?fingerprint=ppb20260629180056" alt="From the Board-June" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><img src="/images/63aee6c0-f563-42aa-965b-34382b80cd5a?fingerprint=ppb20260624191252" alt="Service Recognition Awards" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><figcaption>Those in attendance were, from left to right: Susan Housden (30 years), Loree Boyd (30 years), Gloria Cox (20 years), Tracey Ward (20 years), Kyla Hadden (20 years), Ava Franklin (20 years), Shannon Seed (30 years), David Hollatz (20 years), Allison Tyssen (20 years), Megan Weir (20 years)</figcaption></figure></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Employees reaching significant career milestones were recognized prior to the Regular Board Meeting on June 23, 2026. Ten of 31 staff members celebrating 20 and 30 years of service attended and were honoured for their dedication and long-standing contributions.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each honouree received a commemorative glass plaque along with a personalized pen as a token of appreciation for their years of commitment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Through their dedication, these staff members contribute directly to the District’s mission of</span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> empowering students to become confident, curious, and caring individuals who thrive in their learning, relationships, and community</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to all honourees on their well-deserved recognition!</strong></b></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MEETING OPENING</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education of School District No. 83 (K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw) held its Regular Board Meeting on&nbsp;June 23, 2026, with all five trustees in attendance, confirming quorum.&nbsp;Board Chair Corryn Grayston&nbsp;opened&nbsp;with&nbsp;a welcome and acknowledged that the Board holds its meetings on the traditional and unceded&nbsp;lands&nbsp;of the Secwépemc people.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">DELEGATION</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming Japanese Exchange</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Eight students from Inashiki, Japan will be in Salmon Arm on an exchange program through the City of Salmon Arm from August 17-24, 2026. While the students are in our area, they will participate in activities such as art, baking, sports, camping, and shared meals.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Members from the Salmon Arm Inashiki Twinning Committee attended the Board meeting to request that the Board consider waiving the rental fees for the activities that are being held at J.L. Jackson Secondary. Trustees will hold a Special Board Meeting to discuss the request.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/160af1c3-80a6-41e7-84a6-2bdc77eeebea/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf#page=17?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Inashiki Exchange Student Itinerary</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Agenda - page 17)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Donna Kriger provided an update aligned with the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2a8a7cb4-f047-5441-9003-bbf9148bd9cb/2023-2028-Strategic-Plan-Revised-Sept-2424.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217060445" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District’s Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, highlighting ongoing work connected to the priority areas set by the Board.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE &amp; LEADERSHIP</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Focus Report</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger reminded the Board of the Strategic Priorities and that each month, celebrations from across the District are highlighted in the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/strategic-focus" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Focus Report</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (www.sd83.bc.ca &gt; Our District &gt; Strategic Focus Publications).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Celebrating the Work of Trustees (2022-2026)</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger reflected on the work of the current Board of Trustees, recognizing their leadership, courage, and commitment to student success as the District approaches the 2026 election. She noted that trustees “have been thoughtful, brave, and steadfast in their decision making and actions,” and expressed pride in serving alongside them.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b8a26a82-a172-4b14-b7fc-12cdda36f5dc?fingerprint=ppb20260629181655" alt="Trustees2024" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/2fa77896-b019-4f57-81ad-cdce1f535be2?fingerprint=ppb20260630152209" alt="Cropped Logo 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger highlighted a number of significant accomplishments during the Board’s term, including:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The development of a new Strategic Plan, informed by extensive engagement with students, stakeholders, and Rightsholders, including over 1,100 ThoughtExchange responses, 22,000 idea ratings, and more than 20 community consultations.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strengthened accountability reporting aligned with the Strategic Plan, which continues to guide District decision-making and priorities.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Renewal of Local Education Agreements, reflecting a strong commitment to reconciliation and relationships with Indigenous Rightsholders.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A coordinated and compassionate response to the 2023 wildfires, with the District’s work recognized provincially.</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Receiving the gift of a new name, K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw, by Rightsholders, demonstrating commitment to reconciliation.</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption of a new District logo.</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Approval of a K–7 and 8–12 school reconfiguration model in Salmon Arm urban and rural schools, grounded in improving belonging, transitions, and student success.</span></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Advocacy resulting in new infrastructure in Armstrong, including a gymnasium to support students for years to come.</span></li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption of an Environmental Stewardship Action Plan to promote sustainable practices and leadership.</span></li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A Transportation review and the introduction of improvements to enhance safety, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility.</span></li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District rebranding and website redesign to improve communication, accessibility, and engagement.</span></li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Comprehensive governance policy review, with 22 policies updated in preparation for the 2026 election.</span></li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Approval of annual and amended budgets, demonstrating strong fiscal responsibility while prioritizing supports for students.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger concluded by expressing deep appreciation for the Board’s service, acknowledging their commitment to stewardship, student success, and community voice, noting it has been a privilege to work alongside a Board that consistently prioritizes students and demonstrates transparency, compassion, and responsibility.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees expressed appreciation in response to the acknowledgment, noting that the Board’s accomplishments were made possible through the collective efforts of District staff and leadership.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">They highlighted transparency, collaboration, and strong support from the Superintendent and District team, and recognized the contributions of staff, students, families, and Rightsholders.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Graduation 2026</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8200d8e3-1719-4e0e-a051-29720b6369a5?fingerprint=ppb20260629180831" alt="Grad 2026 SD83" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger acknowledged the SD83 graduates and expressed how incredibly proud the District is of their achievements.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">She shared, “Whether your path leads to further education, the workforce, travel, service, or opportunities yet to be imagined, carry forward the lessons you have learned here—the importance of hard work, perseverance, empathy, and community. And wherever life takes you, remember this: your school and your community will always be your home. You will always have a place here. Congratulations, Class of 2026. Thank you for the legacy you leave behind. Go out and do great things. The world is waiting for your light, and we cannot wait to see how brightly you shine.”</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indigenous Graduation 2026</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On May 27, 2026, 113 graduates crossed the stage at Splatsin Center during Indigenous Grad.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d12e2259-abc7-4774-ad4e-c519b5c9a405?fingerprint=ppb20260629181058" alt="Grad Procession" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/fc66d1d0-92a2-4426-b7b2-aba0e11445dc?fingerprint=ppb20260629181200" alt="Grad Procession 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6126aa35-ea2a-497d-916a-a80dba126682?fingerprint=ppb20260605200009" alt="Welcome Song 4" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1c80883d-e3f2-4a11-b1db-56f683921295?fingerprint=ppb20260629181508" alt="Chair QEC" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/63c0c8d1-f65d-4bb7-95d8-9806fd0a03dc?fingerprint=ppb20260605200009" alt="Vice chair Krebs" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/bb876f07-9b3c-4fcf-b011-e90b9a868366?fingerprint=ppb20260605200011" alt="Smudging" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 Talks Showcase</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 3fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 Talks is a version of the District’s long-standing public speaking competition, originally introduced in the 1990s. In this program, students in Grades 5–8 deliver speeches to inform or persuade on a topic of their choice, supported by up to five visual slides. Participants begin at the school level, with top speakers advancing to the District Showcase.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The event encourages students to explore personal interests while refining their skills in writing, critical and creative thinking, and public speaking. It also supports the development of core competencies in communications.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger thanked Shelly Cull, Duncan Hazlewood, and Morgen MacDonald for organizing this event.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3ed99d8c-a6ab-451e-a6b2-366f549091f2?fingerprint=ppb20260629182121" alt="Sd83 Talks 2026 FB" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CAREER DEVELOPMENT</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Skills Canada</strong></b><br></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1347f9f3-de25-4c94-8ebe-176842245e6a?fingerprint=ppb20260629182432" alt="Skills Ty Sorf 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger congratulated Sy Korf, A.L. Fortune student for earning gold in Autobody Collision Repair at Skills Canada, held in Toronto, for the second year in a row.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you to teacher Jason Inkster who has invested many hours into Sy’s success.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">HUMAN &amp; SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT</strong></b><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elementary Track &amp; Field</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On Tuesday, June 2, 2026, hundreds of students participated in the District Track &amp; Field Meet at SASCU Little Mountain Field, where students in Grades 4–7 competed in ball throw, long jump, high jump, sprints, long-distance running, and relays.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger shared that Paul Rosman, Principal of Sorrento Elementary, was the organizer of the event and extended thanks to the many coaches and assistants who helped make the event a success by running stations and ensuring athletes were organized and prepared. Special thanks to the Sorrento Parent Advisory Council for operating the concession.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5ff65c1f-2aca-4de4-9af1-93ee3a4dfcde?fingerprint=ppb20260611232356" alt="District Relays 2026 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3a19d1aa-e55d-4bb6-a054-63bcb45f32ca?fingerprint=ppb20260611232423" alt="District Relays 2026 4" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/77a6c626-6ccd-4e92-98b1-da4667ea983c?fingerprint=ppb20260611232352" alt="District HJ 2026 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Secondary Track &amp; Field</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8fc5760f-4f10-4300-b587-48a4123014d9?fingerprint=ppb20260612182448" alt="ALF Provincials Team" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger extended congratulations to the high school athletes in the District who attended the BC Provincial Championships held in Langley from June 4–6, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you to the coaches who have dedicated their time to supporting the athletes in following their passion.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indigenous Peoples Day</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 2fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f527a3d6-e2ce-49ec-bdb8-9f5d557df664?fingerprint=ppb20260605200013" alt="Tavelling Song" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a85fb638-a8e7-4279-b318-fffb8a050e6d?fingerprint=ppb20260630154152" alt="Crowd" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 21</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>st</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> is a special day to recognize and celebrate the rich heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. The date coincides with the summer solstice, a time of deep spiritual and cultural significance.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5fb631c9-80c9-467f-927e-e722f83ea240?fingerprint=ppb20260605200009" alt="KK Virginia Woolridge Skwlax 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5362dea6-8a86-4a8f-a39a-ab9f32e70557?fingerprint=ppb20260630154014" alt="Elder" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Celebrating National Indigenous History Month</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A number of activities were organized by schools across the District in recognition of Indigenous History Month. These school-based events highlight the strong relationships between schools and Rightsholders and reflect a shared commitment to honouring and valuing Indigenous culture, knowledge, and community.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4bb02cd9-bd2c-4661-a95c-e49ba41ddd39?fingerprint=ppb20260630154445" alt="MVB" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/07e05317-8210-4b0d-8d7f-024c8083b1fb?fingerprint=ppb20260610170006" alt="MVB Traditional Games June 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5c67e29a-c08a-40ad-bd0a-50abc7d52d6d?fingerprint=ppb20260625185449" alt="MVB Assembly June 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Celebrating Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our District is deeply committed to removing barriers and building on diversity, equity and inclusion, in all its forms. Every student should feel fully supported to be whoever they are. Every family should feel equally welcome to walk into our schools. And every staff member should feel that same level of support.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger reminded the Board that the Pride Flag in our District is a symbol of dignity, acceptance, and safety for those who have often been excluded. This is one of the ways that our District affirms that “all” students and their families are welcome in our schools.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4ff938b5-eed3-433d-8456-bfc2df0dfa32?fingerprint=ppb20260630154718" alt="SD83 Values Flag" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ea028ca5-b0fb-49f2-bf04-cf02eaae6ae9?fingerprint=ppb20260630154642" alt="Canadian Flag" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a7db7121-f0ce-48d3-ad82-0ea1f4722809?fingerprint=ppb20260630154627" alt="Neurodiversity Sign" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/fb5b5c41-2a87-470c-afd8-9028e6a4e985?fingerprint=ppb20260630154653" alt="Secwepemculecw" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 Retirees</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger recognized retiring staff and shared, “Thank you for the countless ways you have enriched the lives of students throughout your careers. Your dedication, compassion, wisdom, and unwavering commitment have helped shape not only learning experiences but also futures. The positive impact you have made will be felt for years to come through the students, families, and colleagues whose lives you have touched. We are deeply grateful for your service and wish you happiness, health, and fulfillment in this exciting new chapter.”</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Honouring a Career Well-Served</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ae157f84-e764-45ac-b358-12905e1dd7b1?fingerprint=ppb20260630155026" alt="Reid Honourary Award" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger recognized the upcoming retirement of Director of Instruction Reid Findlay, highlighting his significant contributions to career education and the positive impact of his leadership on student success across the District. She noted that his work has “changed many life trajectories for students” and is consistently carried out with “heart, passion, and intentionality to improve life outcomes.” Kriger also acknowledged that Findlay has been honoured provincially, including a Lifetime Honourary Award from the Career Education Society of BC for his contributions to career education.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger further described Findlay as “an excellent teammate,” recognizing his dedication, work ethic, and collaborative approach. She expressed appreciation for his many years of service and extended best wishes as he approaches a well‑earned retirement in September.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT</strong></b><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Early Learning and Child Care</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/28e08960-a7e0-49f4-83dd-3d2e14fcce77?fingerprint=ppb20260615183029" alt="ELCC We are all Connected" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Early Learning and Child Care leads from across the province participated in a provincial Early Learning and Child Care gathering in Kelowna on June 5, 2026, focused on the theme </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Roots, Ripples, and Renewal</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. The session offered a framework for reflection, connection, and shared learning, while highlighting the importance of ongoing growth and system change.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Participants shared innovative practices across areas such as community connections and outreach, high-quality child care, early learning environments, pedagogies of play, and strengthening transitions to kindergarten.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83’s journey was highlighted through a story, </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/08bf6778-012b-4e0f-8569-990656b95d5d/We-are-all-Connected.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260615182913" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We Are All Connected</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, authored and presented by District Vice Principal Allison de Boer. Kriger expressed appreciation to the Early Learning Team, led by Director of Instruction Jennifer Findlay, for their ongoing commitment to supporting young learners.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Knowledge Keeper Luncheon</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On June 9, 2026, a year-end Knowledge Keeper Luncheon was held to recognize and honour the Knowledge Keepers within the District.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Knowledge Keepers were gifted their original black-and-white photos, previously displayed in the foyer, which have now been replaced with new colour portraits of current Knowledge Keepers. Walking through the foyer of the District office creates a profound impact and highlights the importance of the Rightsholders.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger shared that a highlight of the luncheon was hearing the Knowledge Keepers’ stories, which demonstrated confidence and courage.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e1e51b22-7efa-4069-886c-a19189227e54?fingerprint=ppb20260630155354" alt="Knowledge Keeper Luncheon" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8f8697ca-0f54-481c-a2e9-1042b1686b61?fingerprint=ppb20260630155354" alt="Knowledge Keeper Luncheon 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a18f10ad-baa5-417a-ace1-79c2afc58cc8?fingerprint=ppb20260630155350" alt="Knowledge Keeper Luncheon 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c1e458b0-1ecd-4a72-a6bb-ec8de2f99bd0?fingerprint=ppb20260630155350" alt="The Story of Our Name" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/20e8e5cd-841a-437e-a590-3269650831a0?fingerprint=ppb20260630155349" alt="Knowledge Keeper Foyer" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/Superintendent-Report-June-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260626204518" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026 06 23 Superintendent Report</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;(PowerPoint), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2a8a7cb4-f047-5441-9003-bbf9148bd9cb/2023-2028-Strategic-Plan-Revised-Sept-2424.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217060445" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District’s Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PDF), </span><a href="https://sd83bcca.sharepoint.com/_layouts/15/stream.aspx?id=%2FShared%20on%20Website%2FVideos%20on%20website%2FK%CC%93wsaltktn%C3%A9ws%20ne%20Secwepemc%C3%BAl%E2%80%99ecw%20School%20District%20No%2E%2083%2Emp4&amp;ga=1&amp;referrer=StreamWebApp%2EWeb&amp;referrerScenario=AddressBarCopied%2Eview%2Ec92632d6%2D3026%2D43bd%2Daf9b%2Dcc231881f085" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Meaning Behind Our Name</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (video), </span><a href="https://sd83bcca.sharepoint.com/_layouts/15/stream.aspx?id=%2FShared%20on%20Website%2FVideos%20on%20website%2FHow%20to%20Say%20%20K%CC%93wsaltktn%C3%A9ws%20ne%20Secwepemc%C3%BAl%E2%80%99ecw%20by%20Donna%20Antoine%2Emp4&amp;ga=1&amp;referrer=StreamWebApp%2EWeb&amp;referrerScenario=AddressBarCopied%2Eview%2E197c6dcf%2Df54b%2D4fd1%2D8671%2D8026cc389a7d" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Pronunciation of K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (video) </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Indigenous-Graduation-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indigenous Graduation 2026</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/SD83-Talks-Showcase-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 Talks Showcase 2026</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/District-Track-Field-Meet-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Track &amp; Field Meet 2026 2026 </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/AL-Fortune-Track-Field-at-BC-Provincials" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A.L. Fortune Track &amp; Field at BC</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/National-Indigenous-History-Month-Celebration-at-MVBeattie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Indigenous History Month Celebration at M.V. Beattie</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/EarlyLearningandChild-Care-Celebration-Gathering" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Early Learning and Child Care Celebration &amp; Gathering</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/2026-School-Trustee-Elections" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026 School Trustee Elections</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (District webpage)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Inclusion Resource Teacher Positions</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Assistant Superintendent of Indigenous Education and Student Supports Chelsea Prince presented a proposal for Inclusion Resource Teacher positions to enhance behaviour intervention support in elementary schools. The initiative represents an investment of approximately $500,000 in the 2026–2027 budget, equating to 4.0 FTE teacher positions, and is intended to provide direct, professional support for students through in-class assistance, small group work, and targeted behaviour interventions.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f749a064-512b-4c78-8ff4-f75521a6a4cb?fingerprint=ppb20260630155857" alt="PBS" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The program is being considered as a pilot initiative, with a focus on addressing increasing student behavioural complexity through proactive, evidence-based approaches, including functional behaviour assessments and the development of Positive Behaviour Support Plans. Staff in these roles will receive specialized training and ongoing professional development to build capacity across schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Positions will be allocated based on identified need, including factors such as student vulnerability, school size, and behavioural data, with additional consideration for rural schools. The District has consulted with NOSTA and school teams in developing the program, including staffing models and implementation planning. A training plan has been developed and will continue throughout the school year, including collaboration with external experts.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The effectiveness of the pilot will be evaluated through data collection and feedback, including referrals for behavioural support and input from school leadership, with a planned review during the school year to inform future decisions. Trustees emphasized the importance of this evaluation in determining the program’s long-term sustainability.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger highlighted that the initiative is not intended as an attendance management strategy, but rather as an investment in staff wellness and support. She emphasized that increasingly complex classroom environments require additional tools and capacity-building, noting that “when staff thrive, students thrive.” While the anticipated outcome includes improved staff well-being and a potential reduction in absences through increased support, the primary focus is addressing underlying needs and strengthening classroom practices.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees expressed strong support for the proposal and its direction, while acknowledging the financial commitment and risk to the Board in funding the pilot. They noted that, if successful, the results could support future advocacy for provincial funding and broader implementation.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/Education-Component-Inclusion-Resource-Teacher-Positions.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260626203954" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Inclusion Resource Teacher Positions – Behaviour Intervention Support for Elementary Schools</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PowerPoint)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NEW BUSINESS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-2027 Board Annual Work Plan</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston referenced the Board Annual Workplan included in the agenda, noting there will not be an October Regular Board meeting due to the 2026 General Local Government and School Trustee Election on October 17, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board made a motion to approve the 2026-27 Board Annual Work Plan, as presented.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/29eba3c8-e547-4842-bf79-c148f4a6c6ba/2026-27-Board-Workplan.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260626205120" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-2027 Board Workplan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (document)</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-2027 Trustee Stipends – Proposed Budgetary Adjustments</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston presented the briefing note regarding trustee stipends for 2026–2027, outlining current practices and considerations related to compensation across the District. Trustees discussed the implications of operating with a five‑member board, including workload and travel demands, and explored potential updates such as shifting from a fuel stipend to a broader vehicle allowance and introducing per diem rates for meetings and travel.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees indicated general agreement on several elements, including maintaining a transportation-related allowance and refining how it is described, while there was less interest in implementing a technology allowance. They also discussed possible per diem structures for meetings and travel to better reflect time commitments.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board agreed to refine the proposal based on feedback and defer a formal decision until September, allowing time for further review before implementation.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/160af1c3-80a6-41e7-84a6-2bdc77eeebea/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf#page=27?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026/27 Trustee Stipends–Proposed Budgetary Adjustments</span></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(Agenda – pages 27-29)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2024-2025 Trustee Attendance Register</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston referenced the Trustee Attendance Register included in the Agenda, which provides a record of trustee attendance for the 2024–2025 and 2025–2026 school years to date. The information was presented for transparency and to meet policy requirements for annual public reporting on trustee attendance.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404#page=31" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2024-25 Trustee Attendance Register</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Agenda – pages 31-32), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404#page=33" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025-26 Trustee Attendance Register</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Agenda – pages 33-34)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-2027 Facility Rental Fees</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the 2026-2027 Facility Rental Fees briefing note, highlighting the recent update implemented earlier in 2026 after many years without change.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees discussed elements of the structure, including custodial costs and comparisons with other districts, and noted increased demand for facility use.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board approved the facility rental fees for 2026–2027, as presented.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/160af1c3-80a6-41e7-84a6-2bdc77eeebea/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf#page=35?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026/27 Facility Rental Fees</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Agenda – pages 35-38), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/district-facility-rentals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Facility Rentals</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (District webpage) </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/AP-510-Appendix-Rental-Fee-Structure.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260624212557" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative Procedure 510 Appendix A (Rental Fee Structure effective July 1, 2026) </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">COMMITTEE REPORTS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Education Direction Committee</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Marianne VanBuskirk reported that the final Education Direction Committee meeting was held on May 6, 2026. She extended appreciation to students, staff, and Rightsholders for their ongoing commitment over the years, including their time spent reviewing materials, attending meetings, and contributing through presentations and sharing initiatives.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Finance &amp; Facilities / Audit Committee</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vice Chair Amanda Krebs reported that the Committee met on June 4, 2026, and discussed items included in the Regular Board Meeting Agenda.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026/27 Annual Budget</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the 2026–2027 Annual Budget for final readings, noting that the information reflects the same projections, risks, and priorities previously introduced in May. He reiterated key budget pressures and reviewed operational adjustments and proposed initiatives, including staffing changes, ongoing reconfiguration planning, and the Inclusion Resource Teacher program funded through anticipated substitute cost savings.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">New information since the May 19, 2026, Regular Board Meeting included updates confirming staffing allocations; clarification that transportation staffing changes with not reduce bus drivers beyond route realignments; and, confirming Ministry labour settlement funding to offset teacher wage increases, with some details still forthcoming.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees emphasized the importance of continued advocacy for increased provincial funding, noting that current budget pressures are driven by declining enrolment and funding shortfalls rather than discretionary reductions. They highlighted the need to communicate this clearly to the public and to work collaboratively with partner groups to strengthen advocacy efforts on behalf of all SD83 communities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404#page=39" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-27 Annual Budget</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Agenda - pages 39–43), </span><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/2026-27-Annual-Budget-Presentation-June-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260626221723" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Annual Budget 2026-2027</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PowerPoint)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2027-2028 Five-Year Capital Plan Submission - Major</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the 2027–2028 Major Capital Plan submission, noting that the requests remain consistent with the previous year due to a lack of new capital approvals from the Ministry. The submission continues to prioritize the addition at Salmon Arm Secondary and a gymnasium for Len Wood Middle School, which is currently undersized.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hunt advised that, although there has been ongoing dialogue with the Ministry, no new approvals were received this year, and bringing the projects forward again is an important part of ongoing advocacy. He emphasized the need to keep these priorities visible to support future funding consideration.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">With no further questions, the Board approved the 2027–2028 Major Capital Plan submission to the Ministry of Infrastructure.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404#page=75" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2027/28 Five-Year Capital Plan Submission - Major</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Agenda – pages 75-77)</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Labour Relations</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that the Labour Relations Committee met on June 11, 2026, and discussed two items. Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Michelle Guillou will present the Guarding Minds survey results in the fall.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Partner Group</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that Partner Group Liaison met on May 21, 2026, where they discussed budget, student supports, and continued advocacy.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy Committee</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Brent Gennings reported that the Policy Committee met on June 3, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 120</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Brent Gennings reported that the Committee discussed revisions to Policy 120, clarifying that the Code of Conduct applies both on District premises and off-site during District-sponsored activities, and extends beyond the regular school or workday. The revised language also confirms that the Code applies to behaviour in-person and online, including social media, when it impacts the safety, respect, and inclusivity of the learning or working environment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Kriger commented that discussions also highlighted the importance of ensuring the well-being of both students and staff, recognizing that online and social media interactions can impact the overall sense of safety and respect within school communities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board made a motion to accept the first reading of the Policy, as amended. The draft Policy will be posted for </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/board-policy-feedback" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">feedback</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> until Friday, July 24, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/160af1c3-80a6-41e7-84a6-2bdc77eeebea/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf#page=78?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 120 District Code of Conduct</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Agenda – pages 78-80), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Policy-120-District-Code-of-Conduct-for-feedback.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260624151538" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 120 District Code of Conduct (Draft)</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/board-policy-feedback" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Policy Feedback</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (District webpage)</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Committee of the Whole</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that the Committee of the Whole met on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, to discuss the 2026-27 Annual Budget.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION (BCSTA)</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported attending the June 11, 2026, Board Chair Call, highlighting ongoing provincial work related to trustee elections, professional learning, and policy development, including expanded training opportunities and upcoming sector events. She also noted a new potential benefits program for Trustees through Pacific Blue Cross that may be considered by the incoming Board.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BRITISH COLUMBIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS EMPLOYERS’ ASSOCIATION (BCPSEA)</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that she participated in the BCPSEA Annual General Meeting on June 15, 2026, which focused on required business and financial matters. She noted that the organization plans to move to two meetings per year moving forward, consisting of an Annual General Meeting and a more in-depth symposium.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">QUELMÚCW EDUCATION COUNCIL</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Tennile Lachmuth reported on the June 10, 2026, Quelmúcw Education Council (QEC) meeting, noting the collaborative nature of the Council, which includes representatives from local First Nations, Métis, and District staff. She highlighted the Board’s commitment to co-governance and the value of her role in strengthening connections between the Board and the Council.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The meeting included discussion on the upcoming trustee elections and featured year-end presentations, including an overview from Indigenous Helping Teachers, Tina Lepine and Katie Taber, on supporting classroom learning through Indigenous ways of knowing and learning, as well as a report on a successful pilot counselling program for Indigenous students. Trustee Lachmuth noted the positive impact of these initiatives in supporting student learning and well-being.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BOARD CORRESPONDENCE</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston referenced the correspondence included in the Agenda:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404#page=81" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 Board Chair letter to MLA Williams re: April 12, 2026, Facebook Posting</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-June-23-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260619191404#page=82" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Year-end Letter from ECC Minister Beare</span></a></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">TRUSTEE REPORTS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vice Chair Amanda Krebs suggested that trustees compile a list of advocacy priorities for presentation at the September meeting to inform future communication with the Ministry.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Marianne VanBuskirk reported that she attended and volunteered at Bastion and Hillcrest Spring carnivals, Capstone Presentations at Salmon Arm Secondary, Indigenous Graduation at Splatsin, the Knowledge Keeper luncheon, and Storefront Graduation, and noted she will attend the Salmon Arm Secondary graduation. She also acknowledged SOGI school leads for supporting staff and providing resources. In addition, she shared that at the J.L. Jackson PAC meeting, Principal Gord Ritchie reported increased student sense of belonging, a positive shift in school culture, and stronger connections between students and staff.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that she participated in the Salmon Arm Secondary Capstone Presentations and attended SD83 Talks. She also acknowledged the success of the Carlin Country Market fundraiser and noted that she will be attending the upcoming CSBA National Gathering in Whistler this summer.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">UPCOMING DATES / EVENTS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last Day of School (students) – June 25, 2026</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Summer Break – June 20 to September 4, 2026</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Labour Day – September 7, 2026</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Non-Instructional Day – September 8, 2026</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Day of School (students) – September 9, 2026</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular Board Meeting – September 29, 2026 – 6:00 p.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The June 23, 2026, Regular Board Meeting agenda and recording is available on the District website: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/board-meetings" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meetings</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Download the PDF version of the Strategic Focus: Connecting our Priorities, </strong></b><a href="/documents/72241cc7-9219-46a3-ac0b-20cf499cc649/Strategic-Focus-Connecting-Our-Priorities-May-2026-Publication.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260605210545" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">here</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</strong></b></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/33394f86-277d-488d-b028-616901910e59?fingerprint=ppb20260605210009" alt="May STRATEGIC FOCUS" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">WELCOME TO THE MAY STRATEGIC FOCUS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome to the May edition of </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Focus – Connecting Our Priorities</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This publication showcases the collective efforts of our schools, staff, students, and community partners as we continue to bring our </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/district-strategic-plan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to life. Across our District, meaningful learning experiences, strong relationships, and innovative practices are supporting student success and well-being.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Inside this edition, you will find highlights connected to the priority areas:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Intellectual Development – Highland Park Elementary School Glow Gallery; A.L. Fortune drumline; A.L. Fortune and Pleasant Valley bands; and Indigenous Graduation</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human &amp; Social Development – celebration of Principals and Teachers; Red Dress Day; and the Indigenous Day of Learning</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Career Development – Food Safety Course and Career programs</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Community Partnership Development – Doughnuts with a Grown-up; new playground at Parkview Elementary; international student activities; and Safer Schools Together</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Organizational Development – Hosting an international student and 2026-27 school registration</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Effective Governance and Leadership – May Regular Board meeting and B.C. School Trustee elections resources</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Stay connected and informed by visiting our District website (</span><a href="http://www.sd83.bc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.sd83.bc.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">) for important dates, news, and resources.</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">REMINDERS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Regular Board Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 25&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Last Day of School Before Summer Break</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 26&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Administration Day (no school for students)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 8 Inservice Day for All Staff</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 9 First Day of School for Students (3-hr early dismissal)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 21 School-based Pro-D (no school for students)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 30 National Day for Truth &amp; Reconciliation (no school)</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out the 2026-27 School Year Calendar on the District’s website: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/2026-27-district-calendar" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-27 School Year Calendar</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0f524121-b88a-4c64-96d7-77876e69850e?fingerprint=ppb20260317165742" alt="SD83 2026 2027 School Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f3d0fb3e-7672-472f-82d7-95bc15721151?fingerprint=ppb20260205213252" alt="Intellectual Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">HIGHLAND PARK ELEMENTARY’S GLOW GALLERY RETURNS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">During the week of May 4, 2026, for the second year in a row, Highland Park Elementary transformed learning into something truly magical with its annual Glow Gallery. What began last year as an inspired idea by Jenny Daughtry grew into a school‑wide celebration of creativity, community, and the fine arts.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last year’s “Under the Sea” theme was a huge success, and this year they were thrilled to bring the event back with a brand‑new theme: “Enchanted Forest.” Led by Jenny Daughtry, with invaluable support from Peter Byrnes, the vision came to life as every classroom from Kindergarten to Grade 5 contributed glowing artwork.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Using neon and fluorescent materials—including paint, oil pastels, paper, and highlighters—students created vibrant pieces that shone under black lights. An empty classroom was transformed into a magical gallery space by Jenny, Peter, and Nadine, complete with glowing art and music that immersed visitors in the enchanted experience.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ab80a7cf-ef5a-4fca-83f4-3d415f930dc8?fingerprint=ppb20260507161256" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE-4" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6d857b28-5df0-4c1b-9b71-f4e198c9a20e?fingerprint=ppb20260507161546" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE-6" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Glow Gallery was a highlight of their recent Student‑Led Conferences, giving students the opportunity to proudly share their artwork with their families. Each individual piece mattered, and together they formed a stunning collective display that celebrated both creativity and collaboration.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This event represents many hours of dedication and teamwork, and most importantly, it reflects the strong sense of community at Highland Park Elementary. We are so proud of the students, staff, and families for supporting the arts and making the Glow Gallery such a memorable experience for everyone involved.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A heartfelt thank you to </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shepherd’s Hardware in Armstrong</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> for generously providing supplies that helped make this glowing experience possible!</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/458b238e-ec79-43e0-8e4a-0b4a86e8b94f?fingerprint=ppb20260507161254" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a931e8d8-588c-463f-8035-1f4cb8b3db8d?fingerprint=ppb20260507161256" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE-3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f2e33123-b820-4e2d-a1c6-ee003c0f052b?fingerprint=ppb20260507161256" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE-2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/30660951-9185-4b84-8e22-895b807f6327?fingerprint=ppb20260507161259" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE-5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A.L. FORTUNE DRUMLINE, A.L. FORTUNE BAND, PLEASANT VALLEY SECONDARY BAND</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A.L. Fortune Drumline</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> competed at the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BC Provincial Drumline Championships in Vancouver</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, on May 2, 2026. This was a massive provincial event with 20 ensembles and approximately 400 student musicians in Grades 9–12, competing across four categories.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/289db5f9-4131-4d47-9220-95f48e63ada1?fingerprint=ppb20260512223036" alt="Drumline" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/95b8dac5-9374-412c-bff7-bd8d0cb558ea?fingerprint=ppb20260512223034" alt="Drumline 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A.L. Fortune Junior Drumline </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">earned an impressive 3rd place out of 10 ensembles in the Concert Class with their show </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Capes, Webs and Wonders.”</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Senior Drumline</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> also achieved exceptional results, placing 3rd out of 5 ensembles in the Intermediate Class with their show </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“90’s Hour.”</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> These podium finishes reflect the students’ dedication, teamwork, and growing excellence in marching percussion performance.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Pleasant Valley Secondary School Band</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, involving 28 student musicians, enjoyed an incredible </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">three‑day music trip to Victoria</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, from April 30 - May 3, 2026. The journey included a performance in Falkland, travel through Westwold and Kamloops, and a scenic ferry ride to Vancouver Island. While in Victoria, students performed for an enthusiastic audience at Wishart Elementary School, toured Royal Roads University—including a special private castle tour led by a PVSS graduate—and enjoyed a harbour tour, a visit to Long &amp; McQuade, and a group dinner. On the final day, students explored Beacon Hill Park before delivering an impressive performance at the Legislative Building, earning a private behind‑the‑scenes tour of the parliament buildings with Keith Baldry of Global TV. This unforgettable trip combined music, travel, and unique learning opportunities, leaving students with lasting memories and a strong sense of accomplishment.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 2fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/de30258e-5108-47fb-9de0-4020fa424b50?fingerprint=ppb20260512223033" alt="Ferry" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/06b73ede-2c7d-46dc-9868-07974a1d91cd?fingerprint=ppb20260512223033" alt="Legislative Building" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a7745651-4e12-40fd-b4c6-a35903b03fda?fingerprint=ppb20260512223032" alt="Parliament" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A.L. Fortune Secondary Band</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> also participated in an enriching </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">music and cultural experience trip to Squamish</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, from May 10-13, 2026, with 45 students taking part. The trip featured performances at elementary schools in and around Squamish, offering students the opportunity to share their music with younger audiences. Beyond performance, students experienced the stunning Sea to Sky Gondola, visited Shannon Falls, Brandywine Falls, Nexen Beach, and took part in the popular Train Wreck hike. Time spent exploring Whistler Village and North Vancouver allowed students to connect socially, explore local landmarks, and enjoy shared meals. This trip blended music, travel, outdoor adventure, and community building.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1511e51c-09e0-4f46-b340-9d1d298c6f4c?fingerprint=ppb20260512223029" alt="Squamish" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/965196ff-822b-45b0-8f21-4d6846ee0938?fingerprint=ppb20260512223029" alt="Squamish 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9b300edb-0230-4c4c-b4e0-d9d3de8df894?fingerprint=ppb20260512223028" alt="Squamish 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">INDIGENOUS GRADUATION 2026</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a88ef455-3bf5-480f-94a1-47040f57af79?fingerprint=ppb20260605200010" alt="Outside of Community Centre" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On May 27, 2026, the Splatsin Community Centre in Enderby was filled with celebration, culture, and community as K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw School District No. 83 hosted its annual Indigenous Graduation Ceremony. Families, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, staff, and community members gathered to honour the achievements of this year’s graduates in a meaningful and culturally grounded event.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c21e8583-8d81-4415-9be3-a8467b19a372?fingerprint=ppb20260605200011" alt="Outside Community Centre 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/005c6ea6-7c0b-4882-850e-45a4cf570a1e?fingerprint=ppb20260605200008" alt="Smudging 5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d22280bd-1730-4fc0-886f-79e744eb125b?fingerprint=ppb20260605200011" alt="Smudging 4" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6d6fc95f-dc6f-46ac-a5e5-c43bb942fbad?fingerprint=ppb20260605200009" alt="Smudging 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/bb876f07-9b3c-4fcf-b011-e90b9a868366?fingerprint=ppb20260605200011" alt="Smudging" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d36a0a61-4a41-48e7-8fba-cfe01d7007b5?fingerprint=ppb20260605200012" alt="Welcome Song 5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">One hundred and thirteen graduates were recognized from five schools, including A.L. Fortune Secondary, Eagle River Secondary, Pleasant Valley Secondary, Salmon Arm Secondary, and Salmon Arm Storefront. The evening began with the graduates’ procession, accompanied by the Welcome Song performed by 18 future graduate drummers along with Knowledge Keeper Laureen Felix and the Indigenous Education Department Drum Team.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/eeeed34b-a8e7-407c-8148-b1890b9d65e5?fingerprint=ppb20260605200013" alt="Welcome Song 8" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b56e860c-0d95-4c04-b3c2-934cfbda8f11?fingerprint=ppb20260605200011" alt="Chelsey &amp; Tori" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Masters of Ceremony Tori Jewell and Chelsey Hill, SD83 Indigenous Education Workers, led a program that brought together cultural protocol, community voices, and student celebration. </span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/35afbee7-9956-41aa-bbfe-147213558af1?fingerprint=ppb20260605200008" alt="QEC Chair Nerissa Joseph 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Opening words of gratitude and welcome were shared by Quelmúcw Education Council Chair Nerissa Joseph and Knowledge Keeper Virginia Woolridge from Skwlāx, alongside remarks on behalf of Chief and Council and the Board of Education.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5fb631c9-80c9-467f-927e-e722f83ea240?fingerprint=ppb20260605200009" alt="KK Virginia Woolridge Skwlax 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/63c0c8d1-f65d-4bb7-95d8-9806fd0a03dc?fingerprint=ppb20260605200009" alt="Vice chair Krebs" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Amanda Krebs, Board of Education Vice Chair, congratulated the graduates and shared that they are the first graduating class to do so under the newly gifted name, K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw.</span></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Valedictorian speeches from each of the five schools highlighted personal stories of perseverance and growth, while also expressing heartfelt thanks to staff and family members.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><img src="/images/d2243e91-2b7c-42cb-aa8f-c53a5aca638c?fingerprint=ppb20260605200012" alt="Valedictorian ALF Mya Cunningham Faith Florell 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><figcaption>A.L. Fortune</figcaption></figure></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><img src="/images/fd4e849e-042a-4baa-98a2-b589db0ee5c5?fingerprint=ppb20260605200013" alt="Valedictorian ERS Madelynn Kent Treven Jeffery" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><figcaption>Eagle River</figcaption></figure></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><img src="/images/ee605d09-d826-46cd-ba39-8bca532992bb?fingerprint=ppb20260605200013" alt="Valedictorian PVSS Zachary Boudreau Eryn Lachmuth" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><figcaption>Pleasant Valley</figcaption></figure></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><img src="/images/e0c91db9-463f-4999-a14b-e6ed390dcb9e?fingerprint=ppb20260605200012" alt="Valedictorian SAS Danielle Monteith" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><figcaption>Salmon Arm Secondary</figcaption></figure></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><img src="/images/da7a7bbc-61fe-4dd3-979d-2bc1341a67d2?fingerprint=ppb20260605200012" alt="Valedictorian SAST JT Mc Ivor" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><figcaption>Salmon Arm Storefront</figcaption></figure></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cultural elements were woven throughout the evening, including an Honour Song led by the Knowledge Keeper Laureen Felix and the Indigenous Education Department Drum Team as well as the Passing of the Eagle Staff, symbolizing leadership and the responsibility of hosting the event in the following year.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e47c1afb-e733-417f-b391-7e4c1fdddf8e?fingerprint=ppb20260605200012" alt="Passing the Staff" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/79aedaf9-3cd3-458d-90a0-5dca3f18f93f?fingerprint=ppb20260605200009" alt="Passing the Staff 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The ceremony concluded with congratulatory closing remarks delivered by Assistant Superintendent of Indigenous Education and Student Supports Chelsea Prince and District Principal of Indigenous Education Kristen Crawford, followed by the Travelling Song, sending graduates forward in a good way.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ac665afb-231e-4f37-a3fe-90bebbed2f2b?fingerprint=ppb20260605200010" alt="Chelsea Kristen" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f527a3d6-e2ce-49ec-bdb8-9f5d557df664?fingerprint=ppb20260605200013" alt="Tavelling Song" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b3a3a5ba-9c6d-4302-95d1-0b2be8553e34?fingerprint=ppb20260605200011" alt="Travelling Song 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Special thanks are extended to Abundant Specialty, Amy Sampson &amp; Andrea Martin, Cahoots Kitchen, Diane Jewell, H2O4U, Ihana Images, Joanne Buffalo, Laureen Felix, Nico’s Nurseryland, Splatsin Community Centre, S’Wichcraft, and Tori Jewell &amp; Chelsey Hill, along with the Indigenous Education Department and Drum Team, whose generosity and dedication helped make the celebration possible.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d8a9756d-6205-40ec-b017-926b7a26b7ef?fingerprint=ppb20260605200012" alt="Registration Table 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a2b6d489-9854-4caa-a1c2-7e8d037a668a?fingerprint=ppb20260605200010" alt="brochures" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/7aa252a9-e552-4587-9a1c-fd6011cd6147?fingerprint=ppb20260605200009" alt="Dinner 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ed1f9c50-7845-4281-96ab-77057c691b27?fingerprint=ppb20260605200012" alt="Cultural design" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The 2026 Indigenous Graduation Ceremony was a powerful reflection of pride, connection, and achievement. Congratulations to all graduates—your hard work, resilience, and perseverance are celebrated, and your communities stand proudly behind you as you move forward on your journeys.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f38bf9a9-d3e7-4a13-a1ac-ab0552595358?fingerprint=ppb20260605200013" alt="Grad Class ALF" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/530ca4b1-3a32-4f83-912f-025940660ff6?fingerprint=ppb20260605200008" alt="Grad Class ERS" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/af4c9b92-e811-4221-b0d2-0c1b7c948c29?fingerprint=ppb20260605200010" alt="Grad Class PVSS" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9eb2e053-fc75-43b5-8177-e188c4c1d8fa?fingerprint=ppb20260605200010" alt="Grad Class SAS" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Top left - A.L. Fortune grads</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Top middle - Eagle River grads</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Top right - Pleasant Valley grads</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Left - Salmon Arm Secondary grads</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Right - Salmon Arm Storefront grads</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/338524fb-1a9c-494d-b6ed-069111174ea3?fingerprint=ppb20260605200008" alt="Grad Class SA ST" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c62530ee-f2bd-44c0-a873-435ef523e95c?fingerprint=ppb20260205213430" alt="Human and Social Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NATIONAL PRINCIPALS’ DAY</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ff11c9f6-c816-446d-b409-ee6f2ba9fcc2?fingerprint=ppb20260605200013" alt="Principal Day" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 1, 2026, marked National Principals’ Day, recognizing the dedication and leadership of principals across the District. Principals play a vital role in supporting student and staff growth, fostering caring and inclusive school environments, and shaping positive school culture. Their work includes mentoring and guiding school communities while maintaining a high level of accountability. Appreciation is extended to all principals for their ongoing leadership and service to students, families, and the broader community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 3fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 5, 2026, was recognized as Teacher Appreciation Day, highlighting the vital role teachers play in the growth and success of students across the District. Teachers inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning, and continue to shape the lives of young people through their commitment, care, and passion for education.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e28d2622-decb-4718-a49a-e2adcae2f8dd?fingerprint=ppb20260605200012" alt="Teacher Appreciation" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">RED DRESS DAY</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/812cd5dd-e96e-4d33-a769-5503cf8a5845?fingerprint=ppb20260525223907" alt="Red Dress Day 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Red Dress Day was acknowledged across the District on May 6, 2026, in recognition of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two‑Spirit people. Kriger reflected that while Indigenous women represent approximately 4% of the population, they account for 16% of homicide victims, 11% of missing women and girls, and are 12 times more likely to go missing, reinforcing the importance of awareness and action.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">J.L. Jackson Secondary hosted its annual Red Dress ceremony, which included student participation, traditional drumming, the Secwépemc welcome song, and reflections on the significance of the day, honouring those lost and reinforcing the District’s commitment to remembrance, awareness, and reconciliation.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">INDIGENOUS DAY OF LEARNING</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Indigenous Day of Learning brought together educators and local First Nations communities for a day of shared learning, cultural connection, and land-based experiences. The event was made possible through the leadership and collaboration of the Quelmúcw Education Council and local Nations, who organized workshops and welcomed staff into their communities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A few highlights from the Indigenous Day of Learning include:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Splatsin</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> welcomed staff from M.V. Beattie and A.L. Fortune for canoe trips to pictographs and land-based grounding and meditation at Mara Lake Provincial Park. Learning focused on cultural landmarks, connection to the land, and practices that can be incorporated into classroom settings.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4f3d95cc-9f47-4b5e-9ab2-dd7d9c9faab4?fingerprint=ppb20260525231936" alt="Indigenous Day of Learning-6" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f38642b5-5c5f-4647-852c-4e3492c9b7da?fingerprint=ppb20260525232148" alt="Shihiya" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shihiya School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> hosted staff from South Canoe, Ranchero, and North Canoe, offering story-based language and culture lessons combined with physical activity. Sessions demonstrated how storytelling and movement can support the teaching of Indigenous language and culture in schools.</span></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 3fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Skwlāx</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> community welcomed staff from Carlin Elementary Middle, Sorrento, Silver Creek, Salmon Arm West, and the District Education Support Centre. Participants engaged in activities including language learning, storytelling, traditional medicines, crafts, sweat lodge teachings, and games, along with a community meal and closing song.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8372663a-b81f-45dd-b919-98081b0de6ba?fingerprint=ppb20260525232333" alt="Skwlax" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/21e7dd2f-04d5-482d-a810-2fd2453b86dc?fingerprint=ppb20260525232636" alt="Neskonlith" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Neskonlith Indian Band</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> hosted North Shuswap Elementary staff for learning focused on traditional plant use, including harvesting and mat-making, along with storytelling around the fire.</span></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 3fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Adams Lake Band</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> hosted staff from Hillcrest Elementary, Bastion Elementary, and South Broadview Elementary at Switzmalph (Pierre’s Point). Activities included canoeing, storytelling, medicine pouch making, plant walks, language learning, and berry harvesting.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/df675f85-9890-438b-8f05-073a1f3f0e38?fingerprint=ppb20260525232819" alt="IMG 2002" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The day highlighted the strength, knowledge, and generosity of local First Nations communities. It also reinforced the importance of approaching this learning with openness, respect, and a willingness to deepen understanding of the lands, cultures, and perspectives that shape our region.</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CHILD CARE PROVDER MONTH IN B.C</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/20207c14-b418-44b4-9ead-f9385c0be3e3?fingerprint=ppb20260506153236" alt="Child Care Mth Day2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 2026 is </span><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/proclamations/proclamations/ChildCareMthDay2026" target="_blank" title="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/proclamations/proclamations/childcaremthday2026" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Child Care Month in B.C. </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">and Friday, May 8, 2026, was Child Care Provider Appreciation Day. Child Care Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the essential work that child care providers do to support children, families and communities. Their dedication, expertise and compassion create safe, nurturing environments where children can learn, grow and thrive. This month highlights the profound impact their work has on early learning and on the long-term well-being of families throughout the province. We are deeply grateful for their ongoing commitment, resilience, and professionalism in a field that is both challenging and incredibly meaningful.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for everything you do. Your contributions strengthen the foundation of our communities every single day. You can read </span><a href="https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026ECC0016-000481" target="_blank" title="https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026ecc0016-000481" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Minister Beare’s statement for Child Care Month</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><img src="/images/5373ebea-e7fb-4994-9d83-0e82992971db?fingerprint=ppb20260205213551" alt="Career Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">FOOD SAFETY COURSE</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Salmon Arm Secondary hosted a successful Food Safe Level 1 course for students on Saturday, May 2, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Foods teacher, Elizabeth Woolnough, led the one-day training that equipped participants with essential food safety knowledge and certification, supporting both employability and workplace readiness. A total of 22 participants completed the course, with a 100% pass rate.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This course was funded by the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia through the Agriculture Workforce Development Initiative and delivered by Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f39a5003-bf73-4eb6-a847-506952863b7d?fingerprint=ppb20260602160007" alt="Food Safety Course" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CAREER PROGRAMS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Career Programs Department's annual work plan is always aligned with our </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2a8a7cb4-f047-5441-9003-bbf9148bd9cb/2023-2028-Strategic-Plan-Revised-Sept-2424.pdf#page=13?fingerprint=ppb20251217060445" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. While the mission, vision, and values contained in the plan are equally important to us, preparing students to become educated citizens who contribute to a dynamic sustainable, and diverse world - our vision - is central to our work.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we enter the time of year where students in our high schools are engaging in the course planning and course selection process for next year, it is a very appropriate time for us to highlight the pathways available for students to successfully transition to post-secondary programs, employment opportunities, or community living. To that end, we have refreshed our </span><a href="https://career.sd83.bc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Career Programs website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to provide parents with a clear view of the many pathways available to students.&nbsp;</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/41a50b64-754a-467a-b5a0-00ada49638ba?fingerprint=ppb20260205213830" alt="Community Partnership Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">DOUGHNUTS WITH A GROWN-UP</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/cdd9b95f-56e3-4f55-8671-0ac3d67a8420?fingerprint=ppb20260506152703" alt="NCA Doughnuts for Grown-ups 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On May 5, 2026, families gathered at North Canoe Elementary School for a special morning event organized by school staff and the PAC. The event was designed to give families an opportunity to begin the school day together in a warm and welcoming environment, while celebrating student learning and community connection.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families were invited to arrive before the morning bell to enjoy doughnuts from Askews Foods, along with coffee and tea, while spending time with their children.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student learning and projects were displayed throughout the gym, allowing students to proudly showcase their work and giving families the opportunity to explore classroom learning together. &nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The morning also featured tables and seating areas for families to gather, PAC raffle baskets, student art displays, and a lost and found display. Soft lighting and music helped to create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere as staff connected with families and community members.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The event supports North Canoe's School Learning Plan goal of fostering a strong sense of belonging within the school community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Staff shared that they were pleased with the turnout and appreciated the positive feedback received from families who attended.</span></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/238a2f65-8138-47c5-a089-8a9295e05d79?fingerprint=ppb20260506152701" alt="NCA Doughnuts for Grown-ups 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9cae8ccf-c1fe-471b-9583-8c856a570f5d?fingerprint=ppb20260506152700" alt="NCA Doughnuts for Grown-ups" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The school hopes events like this will continue to strengthen relationships between home and school while creating meaningful opportunities for families to connect, celebrate learning and spend time together!</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NEW PLAYGROUND AT PARKVIEW ELEMENTARY</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On May 6, 2026, students at Parkview Elementary School were welcomed to an exciting new addition to their school grounds with the official opening of a new playground. The playground, which features modern play structures, slides, and nature‑inspired designs, was opened for use and is already generating excitement among students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The playground was made possible through generous community support, with the District of Sicamous donating the play structure and the Parkview Parent Advisory Council (PAC) raising funds to cover installation costs. The school community also extends sincere thanks to the SD83 Operations Department for their work in preparing the ground for the play structure. Additional funding was provided through the generosity of the Shuswap Community Foundation, the Sicamous Legion, and a Parkview family.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The project reflects the strong partnership between families, staff, and the broader school community in enhancing outdoor learning and play spaces for students. School staff expressed appreciation for the dedication and fundraising efforts of the PAC, noting that projects like this would not be possible without community involvement.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0e9dacfe-bf2d-44d4-9804-79fff153630b?fingerprint=ppb20260511151944" alt="PAR Playground3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3964c586-7e1b-49c7-841d-5c925600c544?fingerprint=ppb20260511151944" alt="PAR Playground2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8f59d13e-59a9-4a95-b78a-2a62255937a1?fingerprint=ppb20260511151941" alt="PAR Playground" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ACTIVITIES</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">International Students from Armstrong and Salmon Arm gathered at Club Shuswap in Canoe for a fun and memorable day of par 3 golf. A total of 21 students, along with three chaperones, took part in the outing. With sunshine and warm weather setting the tone, the group enjoyed a fantastic day filled with laughter, learning, and friendly competition.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/21c718cb-958d-4add-b302-6263a06f1656?fingerprint=ppb20260521153934" alt="Golf 2026 1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/2c36adcd-34cc-4438-9c4d-49d1101dac7d?fingerprint=ppb20260521153934" alt="Golf 2026 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1216fbd9-49a2-49d3-b626-588be4d2270d?fingerprint=ppb20260521153936" alt="Golf 2026 5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/09f8936a-eb62-40c6-a198-579447ec9140?fingerprint=ppb20260521153940" alt="Golf 2026 7" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For many students, the event was their first introduction to golf, which made it a lasting impression. Several participants discovered a new interest in the sport and have since begun golfing in their free time.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The day wrapped up with pizza and refreshing drinks on the patio, followed by prizes for participants. It was a great opportunity for students to relax, celebrate, and connect with one another.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Overall, it was an excellent day for everyone, combining outdoor activity, community-building, and plenty of fun.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a7583e4c-13c7-4cd0-8eeb-49d13231c86e?fingerprint=ppb20260521153934" alt="Golf 2026 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1197e86c-1f81-426a-8c58-c48964f8d3cc?fingerprint=ppb20260521153936" alt="Golf 2026 4" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On May 7, 2026, they joined their peers in the Rocky Mountain International Student Program (RMISP) for an unforgettable day at Skybridge Park in Golden, B.C.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The group spent the day connecting with fellow International Students while exploring everything the park has to offer. Highlights included the Skybridge, valley zip line, and the tree top climb and zip line. Students also embraced the adrenaline rush of the canyon drop swing and raced down the mountain on the mountain coaster, where riders control their own speed.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/752b4ce9-7256-4eba-baa8-35f0884d89d7?fingerprint=ppb20260521193939" alt="Golden 2026 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4c0328e3-0001-4108-820d-3067c81c080b?fingerprint=ppb20260521193941" alt="Golden 2026 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e22010dc-d2de-42de-9479-8c5976f49c1f?fingerprint=ppb20260521193943" alt="Golden 2026 5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/19b3f9af-0747-4d57-8ab9-dea1aec4f777?fingerprint=ppb20260521193943" alt="Golden 2026 7" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Some students tested their aim at the axe throwing centre, while others challenged themselves on the rock-climbing wall, all set against stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a fun, safe, and action-packed day, providing International Student Program participants with an opportunity to build friendships, create lasting memories, and experience one of B.C.’s most exciting outdoor adventure destinations.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b1b94c53-7548-44b8-b4ca-92a59691946c?fingerprint=ppb20260521193942" alt="Golden 2026 4" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/7a51e291-db3f-4181-bfbf-22120c5f4013?fingerprint=ppb20260521193939" alt="Golden 2026 1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SAFER SCHOOLS TOGETHER</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A recent Safer Schools Together online session and Q&amp;A for parents focused on the supports and processes in place when concerns or worrisome behaviours arise at both the school and district levels. The </span><a href="https://saferschoolstogether.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Safer Schools Together</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> website offers a dedicated resource section with guidance and tools for educators and parents. Families are encouraged to follow the “Report, Don’t Repost” approach by sharing concerns directly with schools rather than circulating unverified information. Student safety remains the District’s highest priority.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d8c275ea-b43f-4f6d-bcfc-acb2263bccc4?fingerprint=ppb20260525225833" alt="SST Logo2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://saferschoolstogether.com/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Safer Schools Together</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> website</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e3275d05-f952-4bef-8f36-17911652ac2b?fingerprint=ppb20260525225712" alt="Safer Schools Together Webpage" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/83c66b70-7e82-4a08-a1d4-5e9609c52d6d?fingerprint=ppb20260525225623" alt="Report, Don't Repost Poster" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/7ac4ea5d-e3a0-43e5-9073-a118ba2d0568?fingerprint=ppb20260401165238" alt="Strategic Priority Publication Headers (22)" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">HOW TO BECOME A HOST FAMILY</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3ceb8d33-b458-4845-b9e6-fbc4ad8e98a7?fingerprint=ppb20260605210009" alt="Become a Host Family Cropped" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Rocky Mountain International Student Program is seeking host families for September 2026. Hosting an international student is a unique opportunity to experience a new culture, share different perspectives and build lifelong global friendships - without leaving home!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our families often say the experience also enriches their family life and allows them to show off the beauty and great lifestyle in their communities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families receive a monthly stipend to help cover hosting expenses, and 24/7 support from our team of Homestay Coordinators. All that’s needed is a private bedroom, and a warm, welcoming home where a student can feel included in everyday life. Please contact our homestay team at&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:info@rminternational.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" title="mailto:info@rminternational.ca" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">info@rminternational.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;/ 250-427-2245 /&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.rmisp.ca/homestay" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.rmisp.ca/homestay&nbsp;</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">or join one of our upcoming virtual information sessions to learn more!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To learn more about our International Student Program and hosting opportunities, families are encouraged to visit the SD83 webpage: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/international-student-program-RMISP" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">International Student Program - SD6 - K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl'ecw</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-2027 SCHOOL REGISTRATION</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Registration for the 2026-2027 school year is open for students entering Kindergarten and for new students joining SD83 in Grades 1-12.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/registration" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Registration </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">must be completed at your child’s catchment school, which is determined by your physical address, or at a Program of Choice school such as South Canoe for Outdoor Learning.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To access our catchment School Locator tool or learn more about our Program of Choice schools, visit the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/registration" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Registration webpage</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you have a child starting Kindergarten in September 2026, watch our </span><a href="https://sd83bcca.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/IQDTf-RDHf8sTp8k8_yymuNUAV9xZPc-gthl59evvTlnEEQ?nav=eyJyZWZlcnJhbEluZm8iOnsicmVmZXJyYWxBcHAiOiJTdHJlYW1XZWJBcHAiLCJyZWZlcnJhbFZpZXciOiJTaGFyZURpYWxvZy1MaW5rIiwicmVmZXJyYWxBcHBQbGF0Zm9ybSI6IldlYiIsInJlZmVycmFsTW9kZSI6InZpZXcifX0%3D&amp;e=e6OccW" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten Information Session video</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to learn more.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0184a0b3-4bd4-4975-82ac-cc35a8a04d3b?fingerprint=ppb20260205214309" alt="Effective Governance and Leadership Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MAY REGULAR BOARD MEETING</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education of School District No. 83 (K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw) held their Regular Board Meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At the meeting, the Board approved the A.L. Fortune Secondary and J.L. Jackson Secondary field trip requests. The J.L. Jackson Secondary French Immersion and Core French teacher is preparing for an international field trip to France for senior French Immersion students in March 2027. The A.L. Fortune Secondary School is preparing for a Grade 10-12 international field trip to Berlin, Prague, Krakow, Auschwitz, Budapest, and Vienna during Spring Break in March 2028.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Read more about the field trips and a summary of the Board meeting in the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/from-the-board-report-May-19-2026" target="_blank" title="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/from-the-board-report-may-19-2026" class="editor-link"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From the Board Report</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> - May 19, 2026</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (</span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2026-05-19-From-The-Board" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2026-05-19-From-The-Board</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">).</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/bd7b69a9-2b0c-4467-aa4b-3fd091bf793c?fingerprint=ppb20260504145309" alt="CLR sd83 logo no border trnsprt" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">B.C. SCHOOL TRUSTEE ELECTIONS RESOURCES</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School trustee elections will be occurring in October 2026. Whether you are considering running for school trustee or know someone who might be, BCSTA has developed a comprehensive suite of candidate resources, covering everything from the nomination process and legal obligations to the day-to-day responsibilities of a school trustee. Visit </span><a href="https://app.cyberimpact.com/redirect?ct=z6vay1VrDykZaTrQBZC8zYGMPRiuMotJ5ernRMtNjEKbPXJYiN4pTGPYoJDXXCxpP99L1qf2kFhsgjHzya6m0U2cDZqyiYzIA0T2G_gXi5YWaBsYh2Wise656ls8AugcG9yrjGygShYjg0bAdnjDjw~~" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" title="https://app.cyberimpact.com/redirect?ct=z6vay1VrDykZaTrQBZC8zYGMPRiuMotJ5ernRMtNjEKbPXJYiN4pTGPYoJDXXCxpP99L1qf2kFhsgjHzya6m0U2cDZqyiYzIA0T2G_gXi5YWaBsYh2Wise656ls8AugcG9yrjGygShYjg0bAdnjDjw~~" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">bcsta.org/elections</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to explore the full set of resources and share them widely. Every prospective candidate who steps forward is investing in their community and in B.C.’s students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/09207b8d-5a97-439d-b62f-c4d41c89c083?fingerprint=ppb20260605210009" alt="BCSTA Elections" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Download the PDF version of FROM THE BOARD, which includes the clickable link, </span><a href="/documents/393a8beb-3fea-44f5-956a-7ea6b536f1d7/2026-05-19-From-The-Board.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260526204911" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">HERE</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e1066634-a3a5-4b08-852c-e7445852eff2?fingerprint=ppb20260526165522" alt="From The Board Banner" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">MEETING OPENING</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education of School District No. 83 (K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw) held its Regular Board meeting on&nbsp;May 19, 2026, with all five trustees in attendance, confirming quorum.&nbsp;Board Chair Corryn Grayston&nbsp;opened&nbsp;with&nbsp;a welcome and acknowledged that the Board holds its meetings on the traditional and unceded&nbsp;lands&nbsp;of the Secwépemc people.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BUSINESS ARISING</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Amended Ministry Response to the 2026/27 Capital Plan &amp; Capital Plan Bylaw</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board received the Amended Ministry Response to the School District No. 83 (K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw) 2026/27 Capital Plan and Capital Plan Bylaw. This amendment reflects a revision requested by the District to the Minor Capital – School Enhancement Program (SEP) project.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The revision reallocates $975,000 from one SEP project (HVAC upgrades) to three projects, expanding work beyond Sorrento Elementary to include South Canoe Elementary and Salmon Arm West Elementary. This approach enables the District to maximize the impact of available funding by addressing needs across multiple schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The revised project delivery model makes use of the District’s internal operations and facilities staff, recognizing their capacity, expertise, and efficiency in completing the work locally. The Ministry reviewed the revised submission and issued an amended approval letter reflecting this change.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education approved and adopted the School District Capital Plan Bylaw No. 2026/27‑CPSD83‑02 following three readings.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=17?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry Response re: 2026-27 Capital Plan &amp; Capital Plan Bylaw</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=19?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Amended Letter from the Ministry</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Supporting Document), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=21?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Appendix A (Amended): Direction for advancing supported capital projects</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Supporting Document)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Donna Kriger provided an update aligned with the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2a8a7cb4-f047-5441-9003-bbf9148bd9cb/2023-2028-Strategic-Plan-Revised-Sept-2424.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217060445" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District’s Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, highlighting ongoing work connected to the priority areas set by the Board.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE &amp; LEADERSHIP</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Focus Report</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger reminded the Board that each month, celebrations from across the District are highlighted in the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/strategic-focus" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Focus Report</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (www.sd83.bc.ca &gt; Our District &gt; Strategic Focus Publications).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Environmental Expo</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger provided the Board with an update on the second annual Environmental Expo, held at Salmon Arm Secondary on April 30, 2026, which brought together approximately 350 students to engage in learning focused on watersheds, climate responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The event featured student workshops, music, Indigenous perspectives, and strong community partnerships, reflecting the District’s commitment to sustainability and environmental education embedded across its strategic priorities.</span><br></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/88ac869e-c1f9-4bb7-bf7f-7af2ceaccd0d?fingerprint=ppb20260505221128" alt="Expo 2026-2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8abb48ea-a462-4a6c-be6f-997f9a8b53c6?fingerprint=ppb20260505221128" alt="Expo 2026-3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f69c9a4f-6074-4621-8107-9c6126fa3b82?fingerprint=ppb20260505221130" alt="Expo 2026-5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The event was made possible through financial support from community sponsors, including the Shuswap Community Foundation, Rotary, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and the North Okanagan Teachers’ Association. A special thank you to Wayne Spencer and Kim Fulton for their hard work in organizing the Environmental Expo.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Glow Gallery at Highland Park</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board received an update on the second annual Glow Gallery at Highland Park in Armstrong, where staff transformed a classroom into an immersive gallery using glowing art, music, and lighting to create a calm and engaging experience for students and visitors. The event highlighted staff creativity and the positive impact of arts‑based learning within the school community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger thanked Teacher Jenny Daughtry and her colleagues for transforming an empty classroom into a magical gallery.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a931e8d8-588c-463f-8035-1f4cb8b3db8d?fingerprint=ppb20260507161256" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE-3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6d857b28-5df0-4c1b-9b71-f4e198c9a20e?fingerprint=ppb20260507161546" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE-6" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/30660951-9185-4b84-8e22-895b807f6327?fingerprint=ppb20260507161259" alt="Glow Gallery - HPE-5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">HUMAN &amp; SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT</strong></b><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Red Dress Day</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/812cd5dd-e96e-4d33-a769-5503cf8a5845?fingerprint=ppb20260525223907" alt="Red Dress Day 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Red Dress Day was acknowledged across the District on May 6, 2026, in recognition of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two‑Spirit people. Kriger reflected that while Indigenous women represent approximately 4% of the population, they account for 16% of homicide victims, 11% of missing women and girls, and are 12 times more likely to go missing, reinforcing the importance of awareness and action.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">J.L. Jackson Secondary hosted its annual Red Dress ceremony, which included student participation, traditional drumming, the Secwépemc welcome song, and reflections on the significance of the day, honouring those lost and reinforcing the District’s commitment to remembrance, awareness, and reconciliation.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indigenous Day of Learning</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9e280cd6-a791-4e0b-8de9-0f731ff2c94b?fingerprint=ppb20260525224303" alt="Indigenous Day of Learning 2026-4" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger reflected on the Indigenous Day of Learning as a deeply meaningful and enriching experience for staff across the District. She expressed sincere gratitude to the Skwlāx, Splatsin, Adams Lake, and Neskonlith First Nations for welcoming staff onto their traditional lands and into their communities, providing opportunities to learn about rich history, cultural significance, and storytelling connected to the land. The day offered valuable opportunities to deepen relationships with Rightsholders. Kriger shared her gratitude to the Indigenous Education Department and the Quelmúcw Education Council for organizing the day, and thanked all staff for their participation and engagement. She described the day as an opportunity to deepen her own understanding of Indigenous perspectives and ways of knowing, while continuing to build meaningful relationships and friendships through shared learning.</span></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/2ea49e1b-4453-41ff-ab6a-14dbed4a04ca?fingerprint=ppb20260525224302" alt="Indigenous Day of Learning 2026-2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3fd2ecd0-d16a-4009-ab82-476f30c55571?fingerprint=ppb20260525224302" alt="Indigenous Day of Learning 2026-3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5666665d-7820-450e-878c-8547c472b840?fingerprint=ppb20260525224347" alt="Indigenous Day of Learning 2026 5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9fb876f2-fa4b-4a0d-9cce-339e5fea5b36?fingerprint=ppb20260525224301" alt="Indigenous Day of Learning 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Music Department Highlights</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger shared an update on recent Music Department activities and achievements across the District, reminding the Board that music plays an important role in enhancing cognitive function, improving memory, strengthening problem‑solving skills, and supporting academic success.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student musicians participated in travel experiences that combined performance opportunities with cultural enrichment, including festival and provincial competitions.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Salmon Arm Secondary concert and jazz bands earned gold at a Kelowna music festival; A.L. Fortune junior and senior drumlines placed third at provincials in Vancouver; Pleasant Valley Secondary School bands travelled to Victoria, performing along the way; and the A.L. Fortune Secondary Band travelled to Squamish and performed in several elementary schools. Kriger expressed appreciation for the dedication of music teachers and staff, extended special thanks to Michelle Honcoop for her commitment to music education, and recognized the achievements of the District’s young musicians.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/22be800d-53c7-4142-acc5-b1fe81414632?fingerprint=ppb20260505172425" alt="SAS Band April 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/95b8dac5-9374-412c-bff7-bd8d0cb558ea?fingerprint=ppb20260512223034" alt="Drumline 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a7745651-4e12-40fd-b4c6-a35903b03fda?fingerprint=ppb20260512223032" alt="Parliament" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1511e51c-09e0-4f46-b340-9d1d298c6f4c?fingerprint=ppb20260512223029" alt="Squamish" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Little Mountain Stomp</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ba0827ff-c883-4c2f-a80f-78251310e563?fingerprint=ppb20260501145454" alt="Little Mountain Stomp3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger highlighted the Little Mountain Stomp, a large‑scale event that brought together approximately 1,400 students for a highly organized and engaging cross-country run day. She acknowledged the leadership of Joel Menzies, Principal of South Broadview, and expressed appreciation to the many event organizers, coaches, volunteers, bus drivers, and student athletes whose collective efforts ensured a safe, inclusive, and positive experience for all students.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Principals’ Day &amp; Teacher Appreciation Day</strong></b></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 1 was recognized as National Principals’ Day, providing an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and leadership of principals across the District. Kriger expressed appreciation for the tireless commitment principals demonstrate in supporting student and staff growth, fostering caring and inclusive school environments, and setting positive school culture. She recognized their role in mentoring, guiding, and representing their schools with a high level of accountability, and thanked all principals for their leadership and service to students, families, and the broader community.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 5 was recognized as Teacher Appreciation Day, providing an opportunity to acknowledge the vital role teachers play in the growth and success of students across the District. Kriger expressed gratitude for the dedication of teachers who activate curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning, and who continue to shape the lives of young people through their commitment, care, and passion for education.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Child Care Provider Month</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/20207c14-b418-44b4-9ead-f9385c0be3e3?fingerprint=ppb20260506153236" alt="Child Care Mth Day2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May was recognized as Child Care Provider Month across the province, providing an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the essential work of child care providers. Kriger expressed gratitude for their commitment, resilience, and professionalism, and acknowledged the vital role they play in supporting children and families, including helping young learners transition into and succeed within the school system.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT</strong></b><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bike Rodeo at M.V. Beattie</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger shared highlights from a bike rodeo at M.V. Beattie (MVB), where MVB hosted students from Shihiya on the Splatsin Reserve. The event, supported by the RCMP and school staff, provided students with opportunities to build confidence and skills for safe cycling. Kriger expressed appreciation to the RCMP as valued community partners, and to staff at both schools for their collaboration and support in creating a positive and engaging experience for students.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8b098157-8e32-47a2-b992-d1aff6a643c8?fingerprint=ppb20260428230154" alt="Bike Rodeo MVB_Shihiya3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ff0e4a99-50f0-4ffd-846b-8261e9e3e899?fingerprint=ppb20260428230149" alt="Bike Rodeo MVB_Shihiya2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/cbaf6f3e-9d21-4b42-833e-fd1f41b4fc1b?fingerprint=ppb20260428230148" alt="Bike Rodeo MVB_Shihiya" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Doughnuts With A Grown-up</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger highlighted a family engagement event at North Canoe School on May 5, 2026, where families gathered for a welcoming morning organized by school staff and the PAC. The event provided an opportunity for connection over refreshments, while students proudly shared their learning and projects with their families. Kriger thanked the North Canoe school community for creating a meaningful opportunity for engagement.</span><br></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/238a2f65-8138-47c5-a089-8a9295e05d79?fingerprint=ppb20260506152701" alt="NCA Doughnuts for Grown-ups 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/cdd9b95f-56e3-4f55-8671-0ac3d67a8420?fingerprint=ppb20260506152703" alt="NCA Doughnuts for Grown-ups 3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9cae8ccf-c1fe-471b-9583-8c856a570f5d?fingerprint=ppb20260506152700" alt="NCA Doughnuts for Grown-ups" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Playground At Parkview</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0e9dacfe-bf2d-44d4-9804-79fff153630b?fingerprint=ppb20260511151944" alt="PAR Playground3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger recognized the Parkview Elementary PAC for their successful fundraising and grant applications that supported site preparation and installation, and acknowledged the District of Sicamous for donating the playground structure at Parkview Elementary. She also expressed appreciation for the Operations Department, recognizing Director of Operations Travis Elwood and the team for their collaborative approach and commitment to finding solutions that helped bring the project to completion.</span></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Safer Schools Together</strong></b><br></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d8c275ea-b43f-4f6d-bcfc-acb2263bccc4?fingerprint=ppb20260525225833" alt="SST Logo2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://saferschoolstogether.com/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Safer Schools Together</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e3275d05-f952-4bef-8f36-17911652ac2b?fingerprint=ppb20260525225712" alt="Safer Schools Together Webpage" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger shared an update on a recent Safer Schools Together online session and Q&amp;A for parents, which focused on the supports and processes in place when concerns or worrisome behaviours arise at both the school and district levels. She highlighted the </span><a href="https://saferschoolstogether.com/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Safer Schools Together</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> website, which includes a dedicated resource tab offering guidance and tools for both educators and parents. </span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/83c66b70-7e82-4a08-a1d4-5e9609c52d6d?fingerprint=ppb20260525225623" alt="Report, Don't Repost Poster" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kriger also reminded the Board of the importance of the “Report, Don’t Repost” approach, encouraging families to share concerns directly with schools rather than circulating unverified information, and reaffirmed that student safety remains the District’s highest priority.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/24194cc0-78e7-496c-b605-2b87ad44ff65/Superintendent-Report-May-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260525220332" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026 05 19 Superintendent Report</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;(PowerPoint), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2a8a7cb4-f047-5441-9003-bbf9148bd9cb/2023-2028-Strategic-Plan-Revised-Sept-2424.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217060445" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District’s Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PDF), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/environmental-expo-brings-community-music-and-learning-together" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Environmental Expo Brings Community, Music, and Learning Together</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/highland-park-elementary-glow-gallery-returns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Highland Park Elementary’s Glow Gallery Returns</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/sd83-music-department" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Music Department Highlights</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/little-mountain-stomp-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Little Mountain Stomp</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/child-care-month" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May is Child Care Month in BC</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news) </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/bike-rodeo-brings-safety-skills-and-smiles-at-m-v-beattie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bike Rodeo Brings Safety, Skills, and Smiles at M.V. Beattie</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/doughnuts-with-a-grown-up" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Doughnuts With A Grown-up</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/playground" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Playground at Parkview</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (webpage news)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NEW BUSINESS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Field Trip Request – J.L. Jackson Secondary – France 2027</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education received a presentation from Mme Martine Dollack, French Immersion and Core French teacher at J.L. Jackson Secondary School, proposing an international field trip to France for senior French Immersion students in March 2027. This would be the third international trip to France organized by Mme Dollack, following two previously successful trips.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mme Dollack outlined a proposed change in tour provider from EF Tours to Explorica to improve affordability, itinerary flexibility, and overall student experience. The proposal also includes an early departure option, allowing students to stay in central Paris and participate in cultural and historical activities, led by Mme Dollack.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The proposed itinerary includes time in Paris, the Loire Valley, and the Normandy Beaches, with visits to significant cultural and historical sites such as the Louvre, Château de Chambord, Loire Valley Château, and World War II memorial locations. The trip is designed to deepen language immersion, cultural understanding, and student engagement in the French Immersion program, particularly at the senior secondary level.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The total cost of the 11‑day trip is estimated at $4,700 per student and includes insurance coverage and safety measures through the Explorica package.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees acknowledged the extensive planning, attention to student safety, and the educational value of the experience, noting its potential to support student retention in French Immersion through Grades 11 and 12.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Following discussion, the Board approved the J.L. Jackson Secondary School International Field Trip to France in March 2027.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=27?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">J.L. Jackson Secondary School International Trip – France 2027</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=29?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Paris &amp; the Loire Valley Trip Itinerary and Information</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Field Trip Request – A.L. Fortune Secondary – Eastern Europe 2028</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A.L. Fortune Secondary School Principal Mark Marino presented a proposal for a Grade 10–12 international field trip to Berlin, Prague, Krakow, Auschwitz, Budapest, and Vienna during Spring Break in March 2028. The itinerary includes travel through five countries over 12 days, using a combination of plane, train, and bus transportation, with a two‑day add‑on to enhance cultural exposure.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The trip is being planned in partnership with EF Tours, with an emphasis on student safety, travel support, and pre‑travel preparation. A global travel protection plan is included, allowing for flexible cancellation if required.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To improve affordability and accessibility, the trip is planned over a two‑year timeline, allowing families to spread costs through monthly payments of approximately $294. Community fundraising will also occur to assist students with required costs.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees appreciated the advance planning, safety measures, and the positive impact of international travel on school culture, student engagement, and life‑skills development.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education approved, in principle, the A.L. Fortune Secondary School International Field Trip to Eastern Europe in March 2028.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=38?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A.L. Fortune Secondary School International Trip - Eastern Europe 2028</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=29?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Eastern Europe Tour Itinerary and Information</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026/27 Internal Administrative Calendar &amp; Board Meeting Schedule</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the briefing note included in the Agenda noting that all Regular Board Meetings are proposed to be held on the third Tuesday of each month, with the following exceptions:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September - Board Meetings will be held on the last Tuesday of the month (September 29, 2026) to allow sufficient time for the Framework for Enhancing Student Learning Report and 2026 Audited Financial Statements to be completed.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">October - No regularly scheduled Board Meetings will be held due to the 2026 School Trustee Election.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March - Board Meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of the month (March 9, 2027) due to Spring Break.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education adopted the 2026/27 Internal Administrative Calendar and Board Meeting Schedule, as amended as follows: reschedule the Education Directions meetings to November 4, 2026, February 3, 2027, and May 5, 2027.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147 54" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026/27 Internal Administrative Calendar &amp; Board Meeting Schedule</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Election Bylaw No. 1-2026</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A board is required to adopt an election bylaw when the board of education is to conduct a trustee election.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the briefing note included in the agenda, highlighting that agreements with municipalities in Trustee Electoral Areas 1, 2, and 3 are currently being developed. Beginning with the 2026 general school election, there will be a new requirement for boards of education to pass a bylaw identifying the locations designated for public notice posting in accordance with section 50 of the </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Local Government Act</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. The information outlined in the bylaw will be made publicly available on the District’s website, at the Board Office, and on the District’s Facebook page.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026#page=57?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Elections Bylaw No. 1-2026</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026#page=59?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Draft Trustee Elections Bylaw No. 1-2026</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shuswap Middle School Playground</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The 2026-27 Minor Capital Plan submitted to the Ministry in September 2025 included a request for a playground at Shuswap Middle School through the Playground Equipment Program (PEP). This was identified as a need as the school will be transitioning to a K-7 French Immersion school starting in September of 2027 and currently does not have a playground. Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt reported that the District was notified that the application for playground funding for the 2026-27 school year was unsuccessful.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To ensure that a playground is in place for the start of the 2027 school year, the District will work collaboratively with school administration and the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) to develop an implementable plan. This will include confirming the site, establishing design priorities appropriate for a K–7 French Immersion program, developing detailed costing, and a phased implementation approach.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District staff will also support the pursuit of supplementary funding through fundraising, grants, and potential local capital contributions.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In parallel, planning and design work will be completed to ensure the project is shovel-ready, allowing the District to respond quickly to any future PEP funding opportunities while meeting program timelines.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026#page=63?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shuswap Middle School Playground</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">COMMITTEE REPORTS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Education Direction Committee</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Marianne VanBuskirk reported that the Committee met on May 6, 2026, beginning with Student First stories that highlighted the impact of student voice and learning across the District. The Committee discussed the Ministry-mandated K–3 Early Literacy Screening timeline and the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework, which helps identify and address student needs across academic, behavioural, and attendance areas. Updates were also provided on the District’s writing focus, including Adrianne Gear’s September ProD session on Powerful Writing and the School-wide Write initiative, which will become a mandatory District assessment in fall 2026. In addition, the Committee reviewed MyBlueprint+, a K to 12 platform supporting student learning and post-secondary planning, and received an update on SD83’s AI strategy focused on building knowledge and capacity among educators.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Finance &amp; Facilities / Audit Committee</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vice Chair Amanda Krebs reported that the Committee met on May 4, 2026, and discussed the Annual Facility Grant and other items included in the Regular Board Meeting Agenda.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Quarterly Financial as at March 31, 2026</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board received the quarterly financial update for the period ending March 31, 2026. Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt reported that the District remains in a strong overall financial position, with revenues largely in-line with expectations and modest increases seen in rental and lease income. Salary expenditures are tracking close to projections, though some variances are noted in educational assistants, due to staffing challenges, and substitute costs, both of which will continue to be monitored. Upcoming teacher salary increases and related Ministry funding, which was recently confirmed, will impact the year-end financials.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As of March 31, the District currently reports an accumulated surplus of approximately $4.1 million; however, a significant portion of this is restricted, with pending payroll expenses and year-end adjustments affecting the final amount. While most expense categories are stable, pressures such as fuel costs for transportation and earlier heating requirements are being closely watched. Upcoming teacher salary increases and recently confirmed additional Ministry funding will also impact final year-end results. Overall, the District continues to project a stable financial outlook, with some variability expected as year-end adjustments are finalized.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=65?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Quarterly Financial as at March 31, 2026</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026/27 Annual Budget</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board considered the 2026–2027 Annual Budget and provided first reading of the budget bylaw. Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the draft budget, noting it follows a format consistent with previous years and reflects current funding and expenditure projections.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hunt highlighted several broader budget risks, including uncertainties related to collective agreements, fluctuations in student enrolment, change in government funding, and budgeting assumptions such as average wage costs. He also noted additional cost pressures related to rising benefit costs, CPP and EI rate increases, and inflationary impacts on technology, software, fuel, and general supplies. Further pressures related to sick leave and staff absences were identified as factors that could impact the District’s financial position. &nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hunt proposed several allocations within the Local Capital Reserve, including applying the remaining bleachers allocation to replacing the bleachers at A.L. Fortune Secondary. He also recommended that interest revenue earned within the reserve be distributed to support reconfiguration-related equipment and resource costs, including the Shuswap Middle School playground, J.L. Jackson and Salmon Arm Secondary reconfiguration equipment, and general equipment needs associated with K–7 school reconfiguration.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The District is projecting a decline of approximately 154 FTE in student enrolment for the upcoming year. This decrease is expected to reduce overall funding and place additional pressure on the District’s financial position.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The proposed budget also includes staffing initiatives, such as a reduction in principal teaching time to increase overall teacher FTE, and the addition of a Vice Principal at Hillcrest Elementary in response to increased enrolment. In an effort to reduce teacher absenteeism, a $500,000 initiative was also proposed to provide additional professional staffing support to address complex student needs while helping to reduce teacher absences. While Trustees expressed support for the potential benefits of this initiative, they also acknowledged the financial risk, as it is expected to be funded through anticipated savings in substitute costs rather than new funding. The Board recognized that this approach may not be sustainable long-term without additional initiatives or funding from the Ministry.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Overall, Trustees expressed support for the budget, balancing the need to invest in student supports with the importance of maintaining financial stability.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147#page=70" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-27 Annual Budget</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147#page=75" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Annual Budget 2026-2027</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (PowerPoint)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Labour Relations</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that there was no Labour Relations meeting in May.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Partner Group</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that the next meeting is May 21, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy Committee</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Brent Gennings reported that at the Policy Committee Meeting held on May 6, 2026, Policy 121 and Policy 310 were reviewed.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 121 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity – Minor Revision</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Donna Kriger reported on the briefing note outlining proposed minor revisions to Policy 121 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. The Board made a motion to accept the amendments to the policy.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147#9age=105" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 121 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Policy-121-Sexual-Orientation-and-Gender-Identification.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260522220302" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 121 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identification</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 310 Student Code of Conduct – Minor Revision</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent Donna Kriger reported on the briefing note outlining proposed minor revisions to Policy 310 Student Code of Conduct. The Board made a motion to accept the amendments to the policy.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=110?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 310 Student Code of Conduct</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Briefing Note),</span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/310-Student-Code-of-Conduct.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260522222940" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Policy 310 Student Code of Conduct</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Committee of the Whole</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that at the Committee of the Whole meeting held on April 27, 2026, Trustees reviewed a range of Board policies as part of an effort to update governance policies in advance of the upcoming election. This review was intended to ensure policies are current and to support a smooth transition for any newly elected Trustees. As a result, a number of recommendations were developed for Board consideration. Trustees also discussed changes to policy development, including consolidating and reducing the number of policies and linking broader overarching policies to multiple administrative procedures.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Governance Policies</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board passed motions approving the amendments to the following policies:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 137 Roles and Responsibilities of the Board Vice Chairperson (renumbered to Policy 132)</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 138 Electronic Meetings of the Board</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 140 Delegation of Authority</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 141 Role of the Superintendent</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 160 Policy Development</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 170 Monitoring Board Performance</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Governance Policies (Briefing Note), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/aec22ddc-f433-42ec-bccf-2dba69ce8293/Policy-132-Roles-and-Responsibilities-of-the-Board-Vice-Chairperson.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260525151621"&fingerprint=ppb20260525151621 target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 132 Roles and Responsibilities of the Board Vice Chairperson</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/889f39c6-555e-5f1c-94ea-4bbb1a0307c7/Policy-138-Electronic-Board-Meetings.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260525152717" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 138 Electronic Meetings of the Board</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/3975d684-3044-413c-b2d6-e442105b0795/Policy-140-Delegation-of-Authority.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260525152142"&fingerprint=ppb20260525152142 target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 140 Delegation of Authority</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Policy-141-Role-of-the-Superintendent.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260522230551" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 141 Role of the Superintendent</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/74a023ef-9b90-4633-9b75-5c7f22dfd6e8/Policy-160-Policy-Development.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260525152446"&fingerprint=ppb20260525152446 target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 160 Policy Development</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy), </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/feedb488-990d-4971-9f49-44a80bf9deb0/Policy-170-Monitoring-Board-Performance.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260525153110"&fingerprint=ppb20260525153110 target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 170 Monitoring Board Performance</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Board Policy)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indigenous Day of Learning</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Assistant Superintendent Chelsea Prince expressed gratitude to the Quelmúcw Education Council and local First Nations for their work in planning the Indigenous Day of Learning, leading and teaching workshops, and hosting staff in their communities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Highlights from the Indigenous Day of Learning include:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Splatsin welcomed staff from M.V. Beattie and A.L. Fortune to participate in canoe trips to pictographs and land-based grounding and meditation activities at Mara Lake Provincial Park. Learning centered on cultural landmarks, connection to the land, and practices that can be adapted for classroom use.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4f3d95cc-9f47-4b5e-9ab2-dd7d9c9faab4?fingerprint=ppb20260525231936" alt="Indigenous Day of Learning-6" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f38642b5-5c5f-4647-852c-4e3492c9b7da?fingerprint=ppb20260525232148" alt="Shihiya" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shihiya School staff hosted staff from South Canoe, Ranchero, and North Canoe, who rotated through story-based language and culture lessons integrated with physical activity. Learning highlighted how Indigenous language and culture can be taught through storytelling and movement in school settings.</span></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 3fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The community of Skwlāx welcomed staff from Carlin Elementary Middle, Sorrento, Silver Creek, Salmon Arm West, and the District Education Support Centre to experience a wide range of cultural activities, including language learning, storytelling, traditional medicines, crafts, sweat lodge teachings, and games. The day included a community meal and a closing song.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8372663a-b81f-45dd-b919-98081b0de6ba?fingerprint=ppb20260525232333" alt="Skwlax" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 3fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/21e7dd2f-04d5-482d-a810-2fd2453b86dc?fingerprint=ppb20260525232636" alt="Neskonlith" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Neskonlith Indian Band hosted North Shuswap Elementary, where staff engaged in learning about traditional plant use, including harvesting and mat-making, and listened to stories around the fire.</span></p></div></div><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 3fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Adams Lake Band hosted staff from Hillcrest Elementary, Bastion Elementary, and South Broadview Elementary at Switzmalph (Pierre’s Point). Staff chose from activities such as canoeing, storytelling, medicine pouch making, plant walks, language learning, and berry harvesting.</span></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/df675f85-9890-438b-8f05-073a1f3f0e38?fingerprint=ppb20260525232819" alt="IMG 2002" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In closing, Prince shared that she was honoured to highlight the strength and resilience of local Nations and included the following reflection from an Indigenous Education team member in anticipation of the day:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“The more I think about going to Skwlax tomorrow, the more excited I get. It feels like such an honour to be invited (as a large group) to learn about a culture and a territory I know so little about. My heart is honestly bursting. It is not Skwlax’s responsibility to take on such a significant role in ‘teaching’ me (or district staff), nor is it the responsibility of Splatsin, Adams Lake, or Neskonlith, who are hosting other district staff around the territory. It is my responsibility to open my heart and mind to a way of life, thought, and experience that may be different from mine. To have the local Nations themselves jointly organize and host, take on expenses and time, and share their culture to provide a learning experience like this is truly extraordinary, and I am so grateful.”</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Supporting information:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/b0b12617-9068-4de0-8a32-ccb2dd0f5cd9/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-May-19-2026.pdf#page=142?fingerprint=ppb20260515215147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indigenous Day of Learning</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (Report)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION (BCSTA)</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that there was a Joint Sector Call held on April 22, 2026, hosted for Elections Technical Advisory Group Committee members to share information on the upcoming election, legislative changes, and a review of the process. The Thompson-Okanagan BCSTA Branch has created a handbook for new trustees, which has been distributed in draft form for feedback and is currently being finalized. BCSTA also has a library of resources available for trustees’ review.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BRITISH COLUMBIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS EMPLOYERS’ ASSOCIATION (BCPSEA)</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that she will participate in the BCPSEA Annual General Meeting scheduled for June 15, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">QUELMÚCW EDUCATION COUNCIL</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Tennile Lachmuth reported that there was no Quelmúcw Education Council meeting held in May and noted that the Indigenous Graduation is scheduled for Wednesday, May 27, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">TRUSTEE REPORTS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Brent Gennings reported that he attended the District of Sicamous Committee of the Whole meeting where they shared updates on new housing projects, Parkview Elementary playground, and dance competition.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Marianne VanBuskirk reported that she attended the Hillcrest Hustle cross-country run, Intergenerational Choir Concert, Room Renaming meeting at Salmon Arm Secondary, and acknowledged Salmon Arm’s Youth Week from May 1-7, 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that she participated in the Vice Principal interviews on April 28, 2026, and is looking forward to participating in the Capstone Presentations, SD83 Speaks, and the Carlin Country Market.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">UPCOMING DATES / EVENTS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Committee of the Whole re: 2026/27 Budget – June 2, 2026 – 5:00 p.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular Board Meeting – June 23, 2026 – 6:00 p.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The May 19, 2026, Regular Board Meeting agenda and recording is available on the District website: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/board-meetings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meetings</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>