<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">WELCOME TO THE FEBRUARY STRATEGIC FOCUS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome to the February edition of </span><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/February-2026.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Focus – Connecting Our Priorities</em></i></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This month highlights the rich learning, collaboration, and community engagement taking place across our District as we continue advancing the goals of 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;">Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Inside this edition, you will find stories and updates aligned with our District’s priority areas:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Intellectual Development</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> – Recycling at M.V. Beattie Elementary, District Art Fair, and the Shuswap Middle School Yellow Team Celebration of Learning.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human & Social Development</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> – Pink Shirt Day activities across the District and the North Canoe Elementary Olympic‑themed Mini Stick Hockey experience.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Career Development</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> – Student-led culinary learning at Pleasant Valley Secondary and details about the upcoming SD83 Job & Career Fair.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Community Partnership Development</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> – February’s Ready, Set, Learn events supporting early learners and their families.</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Organizational Development</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> – 2026–2027 school registration information, French Immersion Program of Choice, facility rentals, administrative procedure updates, and more.</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Effective Governance & Leadership</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> – February Regular Board Meeting highlights, new/updated Board policies, and an overview of trustee responsibilities.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Stay connected by visiting our </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (www.sd83.bc.ca) 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;">March 10 Regular Board Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 11 Job & Career Fair</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 16 Last Day of School Prior to Break</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 16-27 Spring Break (no school)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 30 First Day Back After Spring Break</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 3 Good Friday (no school)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 6 Easter Monday (no school)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 20 Pro-D Day (no school for students)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 21 Regular Board Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 30 K-12 Environmental Expo, SAS</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 8 Indigenous Day of Learning (no school for students)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 18 Victoria Day (no school)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 16 Regular Board Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 25 Last Day of School Before Summer Break</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 26 Administration Day (no school for students)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Stay up to date with important dates including holidays, professional development days, and school events (</span><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/a8a92ed3-ae23-5893-9dac-eb5db5f6ca62/2025-2026-School-District-Calendar-for-website-Oct-2025.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025-2026 School District Calendar</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> / </span><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/a2bb1ca8-9534-5841-8708-748fa43e6ca5/Final-SD83-2025-2026-Calendar.pdf" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025-2026 School Year Calendar</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">).</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f3d0fb3e-7672-472f-82d7-95bc15721151" alt="Intellectual Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">M.V. BEATTIE RECYCLING PROGRAM</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">M.V. Beattie Elementary’s</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> custodial team, Sarah Maier and Sue Stills, are thrilled with the positive impact of the school’s recycling program, an initiative that has recently reached an impressive milestone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At the heart of the two‑week Garbage Challenge’s 100% success rate is school secretary Dani Hickman, whose leadership has made her the school’s recycling champion. Her enthusiasm has motivated staff and students to step up their waste‑reduction efforts, contributing to this school‑wide achievement.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/cf761990-2229-4575-ab56-27a38d5ce4d8" alt="Custodians - MVB Garbage Challenge" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The photo shows the custodians standing beside the “M.V. Beattie Garbage Challenge” display board, which highlights the total garbage produced by various divisions. Clear bags representing each classroom show just how little waste is now being generated, giving a visual snapshot of the program’s early success. The board also features classroom reporting sheets lined along the bottom, reinforcing how engaged the entire school community has become.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sarah and Sue have seen first‑hand the difference this initiative is making. With classrooms producing noticeably less garbage, their work is lighter, and the school’s environmental footprint is shrinking. The custodians credit this improvement to Dani’s enthusiasm and the collective commitment of students and staff.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Garbage Challenge directly supports the</span><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/0f3c654d-a11b-4e6b-8973-00683e0d6f69/Environmental-Stewardship-Action-Plan.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> SD83 Environmental Stewardship Action Plan 2025</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> by reducing landfill waste and fostering daily habits that promote responsible resource use and sustainability across the school community. It also aligns with the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2a8a7cb4-f047-5441-9003-bbf9148bd9cb/2023-2028-Strategic-Plan-Revised-Sept-2424.pdf#page=9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 2023–2028 Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> by empowering students and staff to take meaningful action toward environmental responsibility and by strengthening the District’s commitment to supporting and expanding teaching and learning practices that address climate change and environmental sustainability.</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">DISTRICT ART FAIR</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students from across the District once again had their artwork on display at Piccadilly Mall in Salmon Arm from February 6–13, 2026, for the annual Elementary District Art Fair. Both 2‑D and 3‑D artworks were showcased throughout the mall, transforming the space into a lively community gallery filled with colour, texture, and imagination.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A special feature of the week that took place was on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, when students took part in immersive workshops led by local artists, Knowledge Keepers, an Indigenous helping teacher, a career teacher, and retired educators. These hands‑on sessions gave students the opportunity to explore career paths in the arts while learning about diverse cultural traditions, artistic styles, and creative techniques. High school student volunteers supported the day, gaining meaningful experience working with younger learners.</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/9de2c9a8-5c97-46c7-b4fe-7ccd1b05f982" alt="Art Fair 2026-7" 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/9bac2a1a-a0aa-4301-8213-60893c7c0a24" alt="Art Fair 2026-8" 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/dd02edcf-260e-4cb5-a57c-b8fe63510eac" alt="Art Fair 2026-28" 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/373537eb-9008-417a-8b21-bf4833205468" alt="Art Fair 2026-15" 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/814ca489-5d05-48e4-97ee-0d1025c28e52" alt="Art Fair 2026-16" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></div></div><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit the District website to view more details and pictures: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/District-Art-Fair-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Art Fair 2026</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/reel/1225807855751225" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Facebook Reel </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">dated February 12, 2026.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">YELLOW TEAM CELEBRATION OF LEARNING SHOWCASES STUDENT GROWTH</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On Friday, February 20, 2026, the Yellow Team at </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Shuswap Middle School</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> hosted a Celebration of Learning in the school library, welcoming families to explore and celebrate months of student work.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Approximately 70 students participated in the event, with more than half of families attending throughout the morning drop-in window. The strong turnout included parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles, creating a lively and supportive atmosphere as families circulated through the displays.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/34834318-e56a-4ccc-b289-7f719f31f4ba" alt="Celebration of Learning-SMS3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students proudly showcased a wide range of projects, including detailed 3D Medieval Seigneurie models, English Language Arts projects, and a large foldable featuring multiple French mini-assignments completed during a </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tom Gates</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> novel study. Displays also included photographs of creative cell “cake” projects and other interdisciplinary work completed this term.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A highlight of the event was the way students confidently explained their learning. Families interacted directly with students, asking questions about their research, creative process, and challenges. Many shared how much they enjoyed seeing the depth and variety of work students had completed over the term.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Yellow Team teachers expressed how proud they are of the dedication, perseverance, and growth demonstrated by their students. In addition to mastering complex content, many students presented and reflected on their learning in French, demonstrating both academic understanding and second-language proficiency. The added challenge of learning and communicating in a second language makes these accomplishments especially meaningful.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/92a6c34f-8786-4f9d-b01d-23ff00fb902e" alt="Celebration of Learning-SMS2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The team would also like to recognize Honey Williams, Teacher Librarian, as a valuable contributor to students’ learning. During Library block, Ms. Williams supported students in developing essential research skills, including citing sources, and enriched their understanding of storytelling through oral medieval narratives and Indigenous stories. Her collaboration and her willingness to host the celebration in the library were instrumental in the success of the event.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Celebration of Learning reflected the collaborative efforts of all three Yellow Team teachers and the broader school community, highlighting the strength of project-based, cross-curricular learning within the French Immersion program. The event provided an authentic audience for students and strengthened the connection between home and school.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/bdf23981-b685-4bb4-ab21-b61729c3e491" alt="Celebration of Learning-SMS6" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c62530ee-f2bd-44c0-a873-435ef523e95c" alt="Human and Social Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PINK SHIRT DAY – FEBRUARY 25, 2026</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On February 25, 2026, schools across the District participated in Pink Shirt Day activities that celebrated kindness and inclusion. Here are just a few snapshots of how kindness was sprinkled throughout our schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bastion Elementary </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">students and staff gathered in the gym for an assembly and also created the “Sea of Pink” quilt during a buddy activity. Read more: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/bastion-students-create-a-sea-of-pink" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bastion Students Create a "Sea of Pink.”</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8f0b94a1-7f67-4211-a874-75205587ca36" alt="Pink Shirt Day-BAS" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/64647f1f-5f7e-4a45-a597-247dbda0e17a" alt="Pink Shirt Day BAS6" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Eagle River Secondary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> began their day with a school-wide pancake and sausage breakfast, bringing the school community together in the cafeteria. Celebrations continued with a jamboree in the gym. Thank you to the Leadership students, Ms. Mellin, and Wellness Centre staff for organizing meaningful opportunities to connect and celebrate kindness.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/32801f2b-4577-46ab-85e8-2a73c518b831" alt="ERS Pink Shirt 2026 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/719d97ee-fbf6-4fbd-b248-1125fa72ea7c" alt="ERS Pink Shirt 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grindrod Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Leadership students initiated a Kindness Challenge where students would complete a daily challenge such as “make someone smile”, “offer to help a classmate”, or “tell someone they are awesome.”</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Read more about the Kindness Challenge on the District website: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Grindrod-Elementary-Students-Sprinkle-Kindless-Throughout-February" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grindrod Elementary Students Sprinkle Kindness Throughout February</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/482468ac-fe09-4135-a5e7-1337c7e6c264" alt="Kindness Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hillcrest Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> students and staff gathered in the gym to honour Pink Shirt Day with messages of belonging and the reminder that kindness matters every day.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/fd82d283-e683-4013-bd5c-f2a48fc3b9f5" alt="Hillcrest Pink Shirt Day" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students and staff at </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Salmon Arm West Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> embraced the day through music, activities, and shared acts of kindness. Classes also enjoyed “</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pK-0KAHqAk0&list=RDpK-0KAHqAk0&start_radio=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Kindness Song”.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/7b2f69e1-f83f-4de7-baa3-c5728b76776e" alt="SAW Pink Shirt Day" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Across all schools, hallways and classrooms were filled with pink shirts, creative artwork, collaborative displays, and messages encouraging everyone to “be kind always.”</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NORTH CANOE STUDENTS CELEBRATE OLYMPICS WITH MINI STICK HOCKEY</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">During the week of February 17, 2026, the 2026 Winter Olympics arrived at </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">North Canoe Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, thanks to an active learning experience led by Teacher Librarian Suzy Beckner.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In celebration of the upcoming Games in Italy, Beckner transformed the school library into a Mini Stick Hockey arena, complete with taped boundaries, small nets, and brightly coloured pinnies to distinguish teams. Classes visited the library to learn about the Olympics and participate in a hands‑on, movement‑filled activity that blended physical play with global learning.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students took part in friendly match‑ups, cheering on their classmates while practicing teamwork, spatial awareness, and sportsmanship. The library’s bookshelves and reading spaces became the backdrop for a creative cross‑curricular experience—connecting literacy, physical activity, and cultural exploration.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The temporary mini rink sparked plenty of excitement among students, giving them a chance to channel the energy of Olympic athletes while learning about the international event and its host country. The activity also highlighted how school libraries can serve as dynamic, flexible learning environments that support more than just reading—they support curiosity, collaboration, and community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">North Canoe Elementary extends appreciation to Suzy Beckner for bringing the Olympics to life in such an engaging and memorable way.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/12a964b7-76d1-4a3f-9581-879ab755c58e" alt="Olympics-NCA2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br><br><img src="/images/5373ebea-e7fb-4994-9d83-0e82992971db" alt="Career Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">cooking up career skills at pleasant valley secondary school</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Henry Flores, a grade 12 student at</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Pleasant Valley Secondary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, interested in pursuing a career in the culinary arts, asked to share his skills and passion with his peers last June. This school year, with the support of the Food's teacher, Elizabeth Woolnough, he selects and portions recipes, creates shopping lists, and essentially runs his own mini kitchen. Each week he prepares a schoolwide meal, alternating between grab and go dishes and more intricate fresh dishes that are sold at the school Snack Shack. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/00a527f7-1c13-4abf-a011-7c1b794b0155" alt="Henry Flores PVSS" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Henry is a gifted young chef who is always looking for new ways to create flavours and wanted to share his art with his peers. This experience has been a good challenge for him to hone his organization and kitchen management skills which will help him as he continues his career in the culinary world," shared Teacher Elizabeth Woolnough. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Henry's culinary initiative is a strong example of the Career Development priority outlined in the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2a8a7cb4-f047-5441-9003-bbf9148bd9cb/2023-2028-Strategic-Plan-Revised-Sept-2424.pdf#page=13" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 Strategic Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This priority emphasizes providing students with meaningful opportunities to explore interests, build real-world skills, and prepare for life beyond graduation. Through experiential learning, skill-building, mentorship, and leadership, he is gaining the foundational experiences that will support his transition into the culinary world.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 Job & Career Fair</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 Careers and WorkBC are hosting a five-hour event on March 11, 2026, between 12:45-6:00 p.m. at J.L. Jackson Secondary. The student portion of the event will take place between 12:45 pm-3:30pm while the general public are welcome to attend from 4-6 pm.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The event is geared towards any Grade 10-12 student or the general public that are looking for a job for the summer or investigating career or educational pathways.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are expecting over 50 businesses, non-for-profit agencies, and post-secondary institutions to partake in the fair. At least one vendor will be from each District community (Salmon Arm, Sicamous, Enderby, Armstrong, Sorrento, North Shuswap). Students are encouraged to prepare a resume for vendors as many vendors are looking to hire students for the summer.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are encouraging as many SD83 students as possible to come to the event.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/239356ea-6c62-4b0c-91bb-eaa6921dbe5e" alt="Work BC SD83 job & career fair poster (1)" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/41a50b64-754a-467a-b5a0-00ada49638ba" alt="Community Partnership Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">READY, SET, LEARN</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ready, Set, Learn is a provincial early learning initiative designed to:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Foster positive connections between families, schools, and community agencies;</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Support smooth transitions into Kindergarten;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Offer hands‑on, play‑based activities for preschool‑aged children; and,</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Provide families with information about local early learning resources and services.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February has been an exciting month for early learners and their families, with Ready, Set, Learn events helping to support fun, play‑based exploration for children ages three to five. These play‑based events offer hands‑on activity stations, creative and sensory exploration, early literacy experiences, active play, and opportunities for families to engage together in meaningful, developmentally rich activities. Every child receives free books and a bag of early learning resources to take home.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In addition to the fun, families are able to meet educators and connect with local early learning and health professionals such as Public Health Nurses, Child Care Resource & Referral, and Shuswap Children’s Association. These supports help families build confidence, learn about local resources, and access information in a relaxed and welcoming environment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3caa18e9-7e9f-4ebc-b37a-aba77b99b188" alt="Ready Set Learn - PAR5" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out highlights from recent events held at schools across the District:</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hillcrest: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-Hillcrest-Elementary" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-Hillcrest-Elementary</span></a><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">South Broadview: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-Parkview-Elementary" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-Parkview-Elementary</span></a><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Falkland: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-Falkland-Elementary" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-Falkland-Elementary</span></a><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bastion: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-Bastion-Elementary" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-Bastion-Elementary</span></a><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">South Broadview: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-South-Broadview-Elementary" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-at-South-Broadview-Elementary</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families can learn more and find upcoming dates on the District website:</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Program Information: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/Ready-Set-Learn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.sd83.bc.ca/Ready-Set-Learn</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District News</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/Ready-Set-Learn-2026</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD83 is continuing to host Ready, Set, Learn opportunities throughout school communities. SD83 extends an open invitation to families of children ages 3–5 to the following events:</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 4 </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sorrento Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Multipurpose Room, 10:30-11:30 am</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 5 </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Silver Creek Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Library, 12:15-1:15 pm</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 6 </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Armstrong Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Library, 10:00-11:00 am</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 10</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">North Canoe Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Library, 12:30-1:30 pm</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 11</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Salmon Arm West Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Library, 12:30-1:30 pm</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 12 </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grindrod Elementary</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Library, 1:00-2:00 pm</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/66d8f5c1-93a7-4fb6-9b16-4dfe8087b0b2" alt="RSL Blocks" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/bead675d-f04d-4241-b871-9b6cb53ba7d8" alt="Organizational Development Header" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026-2027 SCHOOL REGISTRATION</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><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" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/registration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" 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" dir="ltr"><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" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Registration webpage</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><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&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"><img src="/images/5c255862-fe12-4516-94bc-4dd0d16fe4af" alt="New Registration 2026-27" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">FRENCH IMMERSION PROGRAM</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The French Immersion Department has created a new marketing video. Check it out -</span><a href="https://sd83bcca.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/IQAAMWeSyBQfRpREHTbv6DtRAR40GC_1sCesHU2yX-sOLow?e=c93huu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Welcome to the French Immersion Program in SD83</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/05b983c4-6c37-4cd3-a3a9-2d3daf06e1d9" alt="Welcome to French Immersion" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For additional information regarding Early French Immersion and Late French Immersion, visit the District website: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/French-Immersion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">French Immersion</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">DISTRICT FACILITY RENTALS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are District facilities available for community events, programs, and activities. To help ensure a smooth and consistent process for all users, we encourage community members to review </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/98039adb-0493-4c62-bde2-cf2413cc12c4/AP-510-Public-Use-of-School-Facilities.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative Procedure 510 Public Use of School Facilities before submitting a rental request.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/98039adb-0493-4c62-bde2-cf2413cc12c4/AP-510-Public-Use-of-School-Facilities.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you would like to </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">rent a space, please submit a rental permit through our online booking portal which is available on the </span><a href="http://www.sd83.bc.ca/district-facility-rentals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Facility Rentals</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> webpage.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative procedures (APs) provide staff with guidance to ensure their work aligns with Board policies and meets the organization’s expectations or requirements.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Most recently, </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/300-Student-Registration-and-Student-Transfer-Requests." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">AP 300 Student Registration and Student Transfer Requests</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> was amended and finalized on February 2, 2026. To access the current APs, visit the District website: </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/administrative-procedures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative Procedures</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0184a0b3-4bd4-4975-82ac-cc35a8a04d3b" 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"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">FEBRUARY REGULAR BOARD MEETING</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw School District No. 83 Board of Education held its Regular Board Meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Read the </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/2026-02-17-From-The-Board-Report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From The Board Report</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (</span><a href="http://www.sd83.bc.ca/news/From-the-Board-February-17-2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.sd83.bc.ca/news/From-the-Board-February-17-2026</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">) for a summary of the meeting.</span><br><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BOARD POLICY UPDATES</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At the February 17, 2026, Regular Board Meeting, the Board passed motions to approve the following amended policies: </span><a href="https://sd83.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/documents/Policy-100-Foundational-Statements.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 100 Foundational Statements; Policy 130 Roles and Responsibilities of the Board</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">; </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/7bede1d6-0259-44c0-8bd0-6751094b7964/Policy-131-Roles-and-Responsibilities-of-the-Board-Chairperson.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 131 Roles and Responsibilities of Board Chairperson</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">; </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/28631a71-3fea-4c16-be32-689500d37fb0/Policy-133-Roles-and-Responsibilities-of-Individual-Trustees.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 133 Roles and Responsibilities of Individual Trustees</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">; </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Policy-134-Trustee-Code-of-Conduct.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 134 Trustee Code of Conduct</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">; </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/6a54a685-6c56-47ec-b229-87ebac59d299/Policy-135-Trustee-Conflict-of-Interest.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 135 Trustee Conflict of Interest</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">; </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/Policy-136-Trustee-Attendance" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 136 Trustee Attendance</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">; and, </span><a href="https://www.sd83.bc.ca/documents/bb1f2d84-a75c-4c49-9d6e-384ea25ff4ef/Agenda-Regular-Board-Meeting-Feb-17-2026.pdf#page=68" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 190 Financial Planning and Reporting</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. All Board policies are available on the District website: </span><a href="http://www.sd83.bc.ca/board-policies" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.sd83.bc.ca/board-policies</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OVERVIEW OF TRUSTEE RESPONSIBILITIES</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learn more on the British Columbia School Trustees Association website:</span><br><a href="https://bcsta.org/trustee-responsibilities" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">https://bcsta.org/trustee-responsibilities</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e9ff75a1-0267-480c-a159-a31f295197d6" alt="BCSTA" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>
