News

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Candidate Information Session:</strong></b></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wednesday, August 12, 2026</strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">5:00-6:30 pm</strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Room 355, Learning Centre</strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1040 Hollywood Road S.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Municipal Election Date: October 17, 2026</strong></b></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><a href="/documents/d4b301da-eb31-4401-b01b-27c692b1cbfa/Trustee-Candidate-Information-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260709195930" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School District No. 23 (Central Okanagan) Trustee Candidate Guide</strong></b></a></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><a href="https://bcsta.org/elections/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BCSTA 2026 Elections Page</span></a></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><a href="https://bcsta.org/wp-content/uploads/BCSTA-Elections2026-MarketingGuide-5.4.2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BCSTA 2026 Elections Guide</span></a></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://bcsta.org/wp-content/uploads/BCSTA-Elections2026-MarketingGuide-5.4.2026.pdf" target="_blank" title="2026 BCSTA Guide"><img src="/images/3e238d50-5db0-429a-a627-cb19e415be8a?fingerprint=ppb20260707154409" alt="2026 BCSTA Guide" width="298" height="373" style="width:298px;height:373px;display:inline-block"></a></figure></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Helpful links:&nbsp;</span></h3><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Public Schools District Info</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.sd23.bc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School District No. 23 (Central Okanagan)</strong></b></u></a></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/district-info" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Purpose, Cultural Values, and Overarching Goal</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/role-of-school-boards-sd23.bc.ca" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Role of School Boards</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Handbook </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(being updated)</em></i></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/board-policies-board" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Board of Education Policies</span></a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/longtermfacilityplan" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">District Long Term Facilities Plan</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(being updated)</em></i></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://indigenouseducation.sd23.bc.ca/1-equity-in-action-agreement" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Equity in Action for Truth and Reconciliation 2025-2030</span></a></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Plan </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(being updated)</em></i></li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/catchment" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Catchment Area Maps</span></a></li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/bc4e566d-9455-4c62-8139-a193e5211df7/2026-27-meeting-schedule-public-1.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260707163607"&fingerprint=ppb20260707163607 rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Meeting Dates and Times</span></a></li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/fc574ffe-ab06-4f60-b92f-3337c2b80fd6/1190-Trustee-Expenses.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260522165024&amp;fingerprint=ppb20260522165024"&fingerprint=ppb20260522165024 rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy 1190 - Trustee Expenses</span></a></li></ul></div></details><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BC School Act and Ministry of Education and Child Care Info</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96412_00_multi#part4" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BC School Act </strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(Manual of School Law – K-12) Relevant Sections: (Part 4 – School Trustees, Division 3 – Elections (Page C-35) and Division 5 – Election Proceedings (Page C-46)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/ministries/education" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry of Education and Child Care</strong></b></a></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/administration/legislation-policy/school-trustee-election-procedures" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Trustee Election Procedures in B.C.</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/administration/legislation-policy/public-schools/framework?keyword=framework&amp;keyword=for&amp;keyword=enhancing&amp;keyword=student&amp;keyword=learning" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Framework for Enhancing Student Learning</span></a></li></ul></div></details><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BC School Trustees Association Info</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://bcsta.org/elections/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BCSTA 2026 Elections Page</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="/documents/a35e1575-3595-49ba-9481-3ca6fd81114f/BCSTA-CandidatesGuide-2026-Final-3-31-2026-1.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260407173415" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">British Columbia School Trustees Association (BCSTA) Candidates Guide</strong></b></a></p></div></details><details open="true"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elections BC</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://elections.bc.ca/" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elections BC</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Guide to Local Elections Campaign Financing in B.C</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="about:blank" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Candidate, Elector Organizations and their Financial Agents</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/local-governments/governance-powers/general-local-elections" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Resources - General Local Elections</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(Ministry of Municipal Affairs)</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="about:blank" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Candidate Videos (Ministry of Municipal Local Government)</span></a></li></ul></div></details><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Local Elections Legislation</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/r15001_00" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Local Government Act</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/loo82/loo82/39_380_93a" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Local Government Election Regulation, B Reg. 380/93</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/14018" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Local Elections Campaign Financing Act</span></a></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/14019" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Local Elections Statute Amendment Act</span></a></li></ul></div></details><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Key Dates</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Election Period: January 1, 2026 – September 18, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Pre Campaign Period: July 20 – September 18, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nomination Period (BC-wide): September 1, 2026 – September 11, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Declaration of Candidates: September 11, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Challenge of Nomination Deadline: September 15, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Candidate Withdrawal Deadline: September 18, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Candidate Endorsement Withdrawal Deadline: September 18, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Campaign Period: September 19, 2026 – October 17, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Voting Day (General): October 17, 2026 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Disclosure Statement Filing Deadline: January 15, 2027</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Late filing deadline for disclosure statements (with $500 fee): February 16, 2027</span></p></div></details><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/be9aba85/files/uploaded/2026+School+Trustee+Forms+Package.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Trustee Candidate Nomination Package</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://bcpsea.bc.ca/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">British Columbia Public School Employers' Association (BCPSEA)</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/loo82/loo82/39_380_93a" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial Disclosure Act</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/235_96/search/CIVIX_DOCUMENT_ROOT_STEM:(%22Reg.%2032/2001%22)%20AND%20CIVIX_DOCUMENT_ANCESTORS:96139?1#hit1" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Financial Disclosure Act Reg. 32/2001</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><iframe data-lexical-video-id="9XhOOW6TY9Q" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/9XhOOW6TY9Q" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><iframe data-lexical-video-id="cCn3aErORR4" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/cCn3aErORR4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><a href="https://app.smore.com/n/b1ank9" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please click here to read the June District Newsletter</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or scroll below:</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://app.smore.com/n/b1ank9?embedded" title="Smore newsletter" scrolling="auto" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="min-width: 320px;border: none;"></iframe></div></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education unanimously approved a 15-minute adjustment to secondary school start and dismissal times, effective September 2026 (excluding Central School).</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Under the new schedule, secondary schools will begin at 9:15 a.m. and end at 3:30 p.m., maintaining the current instructional time. The change supports a more efficient transportation system, increases capacity on existing bus routes, and is expected to reduce annual transportation costs by nearly $500,000 while improving service for students across the district.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The decision follows public engagement that included feedback from over 1,200 parents, caregivers, students, staff, and community members. The Board is grateful to everyone who took the time to share their perspectives.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"We heard thoughtful feedback from all sides of this discussion," said Board Chair Valene Johnson. "Participants told us that student well-being, transportation reliability, extracurricular opportunities, and family schedules all matter. Trustees carefully considered those priorities before reaching this decision."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board recognizes that a later dismissal time will require adjustments for some students and families. Feedback identified concerns related to after-school employment, athletics, extracurricular activities, childcare, and family routines. These concerns were a key part of the Board's deliberations.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"While this is a relatively small adjustment to the school day, we understand that even a 15-minute shift can affect students and families in different ways," said Johnson. "We do not dismiss those impacts. At the same time, the Board believes the overall benefits to student well-being and sustainable transportation services support moving forward."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As implementation begins, schools and district staff will work with students, families, employee groups, and community partners to support a smooth transition. The Board appreciates the engagement shown throughout this process and remains committed to making decisions that support student success while responsibly stewarding public resources.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Public Schools is looking for families who have an extra room in their home and some extra room in their hearts for sharing Canadian culture with international students. The District's International Education program carefully matches students with families that can provide a welcoming home and will enjoy the mutual enrichment that comes from hosting students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://international.sd23.bc.ca/homestay-requirements?hash=inL2hvbWVzdGF5LXJlcXVpcmVtZW50cw==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learn more and start your application here.</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Our homestay program is internationally recognized because we run it ourselves, so we offer great support for both the students and the families who choose to open their home," says Raquel Steen, Assistant Superintendent. "We have a lot of students who are eager to learn about Canadian culture and live the Okanagan lifestyle, but we always need more families who would like to enjoy the many benefits of the cultural exchange."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><img src="/images/df1a0c64-f774-496b-8ed3-9d4f7af85f24?fingerprint=ppb20251217060651" alt="Close up of family smiling with their international student" width="356.65625" height="445.56616641630075" style="width:356.65625px;height:445.56616641630075px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">While the monthly compensation of $1,100 tends to help host families both with living costs and subsidizing family activities, those who have been hosting for many years say the real rewards are the experiences students share with their families and making lifelong connections around the world.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><img src="/images/15615b1b-02cd-489e-9c8b-14479d027f5a?fingerprint=ppb20251217033054" alt="Family from behind at Disneyland wearing Mickey Mouse t-shirts" width="353.65625" height="469.5701906435065" style="width:353.65625px;height:469.5701906435065px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"In the beginning it was just rewarding having different culture in the house and sharing the culture of the Canadian family," says homestay dad Trevor Besse. "After 20 years of hosting, we've seen the students inspire our own kids to be more confident and outgoing, and we've made so many friends around the world with the students' families."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><img src="/images/cecbf544-af3c-4c53-bf36-b8055ac56ffe?fingerprint=ppb20251217060435" alt="Host family and children on the right with the student's family from Germany on the left" width="367.65625" height="330.19308190652475" style="width:367.65625px;height:330.19308190652475px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Our biggest recommendation is just to try it out," Besse continued. "There are short-term placements that allow you to see if it's for you and you can still make great connections in that short time."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The District is accepting applications to host students in September for either short or long-term stays. They are currently looking for just a few more homes in the Mission and Central Kelowna area, but welcome families from all areas of the Central Okanagan to apply. Those interested can </span><a href="https://international.sd23.bc.ca/homestay/hostfamilyapplication/Pages/default.aspx#/=" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">apply online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. If you have any questions please email </span><a href="mailto:homestay@sd23.bc.ca" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">homestay@sd23.bc.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or call (250) 470-3258.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Over the past four months, students in the GESS Lake Country Fire Hall Junior Fire Academy have demonstrated exceptional dedication, perseverance, and commitment. The Fire Academy provided an introduction to the firefighting profession through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and physical conditioning. Students developed valuable skills while gaining firsthand experience in many aspects of emergency services.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Throughout the program, students completed extensive training in first aid and emergency response, learning how to assess and care for injured individuals in a variety of situations. Practical training exercises included fire hose handling and deployment, hydrant tagging and operation, fireground strategies and tactics, vehicle fire suppression, dumpster fire scenarios, and auto extrication techniques. Students were also trained and certified in wildland fire mitigation and suppression, earning S100 and S185 certifications.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/c6d0a717-8b25-440f-954a-c8162290487a?fingerprint=ppb20260624191144" alt="GESS fire academy 2026 2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In addition to technical firefighting skills, students participated in rigorous physical training designed to improve strength, endurance, and overall fitness. The demanding nature of the program challenged students both mentally and physically, helping them develop resilience, discipline, and a strong work ethic. Classroom learning complemented the practical components through textbook readings, fire service theory, safety procedures, and discussions about the responsibilities and expectations of firefighters.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The success of the Fire Academy is a testament to the hard work and determination of all who participated. Students embraced each challenge with professionalism and enthusiasm, demonstrating remarkable growth over the course of the program. Their commitment to learning, teamwork, leadership, and service has prepared them well for future opportunities in emergency services and beyond. The accomplishments of these students are a source of great pride, and they are to be congratulated on successfully completing this intensive and rewarding four-month journey. Special thanks to Deputy Chief Kynan O’Rourke and lead instructor Sean Sookochoff for their guidance, expertise, and support throughout the program.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In Spring 2025, École George Elliot Secondary (GESS) received a $200,000 BC Parks Learning By Nature grant. Central Okanagan Public Schools was one of only six school districts in British Columbia to receive funding and was the only high school in the province selected to create a Nature Park. Beginning in October 2025, a dedicated group of students worked alongside members of the Okanagan Indian Band, community volunteers, district employees, and other partners to design and refine the Nature Park. During the final two weeks of the school year, these students, together with classes from across GESS, planted more than 2,664 native plants, shrubs, and trees throughout the site.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4a525f85-d8e1-49c3-a1e7-dd6b5fb17fea?fingerprint=ppb20260624175843" alt="GESS Nature Park 1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Nature Park was created to increase biodiversity on school grounds through the exclusive use of native species while providing a rich outdoor learning environment. The space will support curriculum-based learning, promote student well-being, and create opportunities for land-based learning with local Syilx Elders and Knowledge Keepers. Students will have the opportunity to learn the names, significance, and traditional uses of native plants while developing a deeper connection to the land.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This whole process has been an incredible learning experience for the students at GESS., "This has grown me as a person," said Frankie Berback-Rosengreen, a Grade 11 student. "[Before doing this] I didn’t know how adults did what they did. It was invisible to me. Being a part of this has made it visible to me. It’s exciting to see my ideas turn into real physical things that people said yes to.”</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The project also aims to strengthen community connections by creating a welcoming outdoor learning space for people across Lake Country. Students in Marnie Birkeland's AP Passion to Action class have also been working hard with Bella Vita daycare, which is next door to the classroom, to raise money for a dome-shaped greenhouse to be installed beside the Nature Park. This will allow students at the school to learn how to grow their own food, teas, medicines, and plants to create dyes, inks, and natural make-up products. Two students, Carter and Emma Mochinksi, are also creating a circular composting system at GESS to reduce waste at school, then use the soil that is generated to improve the garden and greenhouse spaces. Next year, École Okanagan Mission Secondary, École KLO Middle, Black Mountain Elementary, and Shannon Lake Elementary will also create Nature Parks through new $100,000 BC Parks Foundation grants.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/KCNN260618_Y_hr.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260618172524" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Telling Our Stories: The Literacy Issue</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> is absolutely stuffed with student voice and learner agency!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kick-off your summer reading with the phonetic spelling and careful printing of the youngest learners, the thoughtful poetry and essays of secondary students, and everything in between! </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">You're one click away from:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">An undeniable plea for a pet hamster</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A creative comic about a taco headed for the big time</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">An entire choose-your-own-adventure novella</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A poem that reminds us why we need to belong</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">And so much more!</span></li></ul><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><a href="https://digital.kelownacapnews.com/specialsections/Kelowna-Capital-News-Y-06182026/1/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to enjoy the latest edition of Together We Learn!</span></a></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://digital.kelownacapnews.com/specialsections/Kelowna-Capital-News-Y-06182026/1/" target="_blank" title="TWL Spring2026 COVER"><img src="/images/406f55c4-0124-460d-9500-a1f981f383c9?fingerprint=ppb20260618180912" alt="TWL Spring2026 COVER" width="388" height="422" style="width:388px;height:422px;display:inline-block"></a></figure></p><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;">On May 28th the first Youth for Change Colour Run kicked off with an inspiring opening assembly featuring guest speakers sharing stories and experiences, including RSS Principal Hugh Alexander, Mayor of Kelowna Tom Dyas, East Meets West Children’s Foundation representative Mohini Singh, Assistant Superintendent Lynda Reeve, BGC Okanagan, RSS Custodian Loc Nguyen, and RSS Co-President Alaa Alaiwah, with founder Beverly Rosario emceeing the event. During the assembly, Mohini Singh generously donated $1,500 toward the event, helping support the cause in a meaningful way.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4b373e2e-05a8-474c-b2d3-9ffa48e4699a?fingerprint=ppb20260605170008" alt="first rss colour run 1" width="507" height="338" style="width:507px;height:338px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The event brought together over 2000 students, staff, and community members for a day filled with energy, featuring community booths, food trucks, activities, petting goats, and the highly anticipated colour run. Beginning at 2:00 PM, many students and teachers from both RMS and RSS participated in the run and were splashed with colour throughout the event, creating an exciting and memorable atmosphere for everyone involved.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Founder Beverly Rosario shared, “I’m honestly shocked by the success of this event. Seeing so many people here today warms my heart and shows how youth are truly supporting youth.”</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><blockquote class="editor-quote"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Co-founder Abdullah Alyasinalkhani added, “I’m surprised by the success of this event, especially since it’s the first time it’s running.”</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Together, the event reached its goal in raising over $3,500 in support of BGC Okanagan, with all proceeds going toward helping combat youth poverty and homelessness in our community.</span></p>

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for taking the time to learn more and share your thoughts. Here is the background and information you should know before taking the survey:</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education requested a full review of student transportation costs, which are currently approaching nearly $7M/year:</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Currently, the Ministry of Education and Child Care (MECC) provides $600K.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families pay fees that generate ~$2.4M.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The District subsidizes ~$3.8M from the operating budget that could otherwise go to classrooms.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">One option that emerged from the review is to explore staggered start and dismissal times for secondary schools:</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Secondary school start and dismissal times would be 15 minutes later than they are now (</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9:00 &gt; 9:15 a.m.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3:15 &gt; 3:30 p.m.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Benefits of changing to later start and dismissal times are: </strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Increased operational efficiencies</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Less wait time before and after school for students </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reduced waitlists for students wanting to ride the school bus</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reduced supervision time at some schools</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BC Transit may be able to increase ridership</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Estimated $600,000 annual savings</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Potential impacts include:</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Adjustment to personal schedules for secondary students, staff, and families (e.g. sports, jobs, extra-curricular activities)</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Adjustment to secondary school schedules and programs</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Change would affect all secondary students, not only bus riders</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BC Transit would need time to adjust schedules</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Timeline:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The District has consulted with District Student Council, Central Okanagan Parent Advisory Council, and secondary administrators. </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 11 - May 29:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> The following survey is open to get feedback</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Report to the Board of Education for consideration</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If the Board of Education's decision in June is to proceed with this change, the implementation could be as early as September 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><a href="https://tejoin.com/scroll/339279926" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS</span></u></a></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://tejoin.com/scroll/339279926" target="_blank" title="School Bus Safety Week - February 2015"><img src="/images/da178369-026d-5d34-8010-77bc0949d2cd?fingerprint=ppb20251217060611" alt="School Bus Safety Week - February 2015" width="599" height="228" style="width:599px;height:228px;display:inline-block"></a></figure></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><a href="https://app.smore.com/n/q0c6k" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please click here to read the latest District Newsletter</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or scroll below:</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://app.smore.com/n/q0c6k?embedded" title="Smore newsletter" scrolling="auto" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="min-width: 320px;border: none;"></iframe></div></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p>May 1 is the day to take a moment and thank your principal and vice-principal! National Principal's Day is our chance to recognize the leaders of our school communities for their tireless dedication to the growth of our students and staff.</p><p>Throughout the school year, principals and vice-principals support, mentor, and guide teachers and staff to create caring and inclusive learning environments for our students. They lead and represent schools, set the school culture, and represent the school in interactions with families and the broader community.&nbsp;</p><p>We are grateful for the leadership and innovation of our principals and vice-principals in Central Okanagan Public Schools. Their commitment to learner agency, inclusion, and safety shapes the next generation of leaders from the Central Okanagan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:58.4%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:2800/1575;" src="/images/abfa3ca8-3b4c-4e51-9e17-4da51aab1fd8?fingerprint=ppb20260429174815" alt="principals day 2026" width="2800" height="1575"></figure>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Colleagues,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we move into the month of May, I want to pause and recognize that </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 1 is National Principals Appreciation Day</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> — an important opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to the principals who serve and lead across Central Okanagan Public Schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The role of the principal is one of the most important and complex leadership roles in public education. Each day, principals hold responsibility for creating the conditions where students feel safe, known, included, challenged and supported. They lead learning, support staff, engage families, respond to community needs, and make hundreds of decisions, often quietly and behind the scenes, that shape the daily experience of students and staff.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In a rapidly changing world, the work of school leadership has never mattered more. Our principals are leading in a context of increasing diversity and complexity among learners, families and society. They are supporting students with a wide range of strengths, needs, identities, cultures, lived experiences and aspirations. They are helping staff respond with care, skill and professionalism. They are building school communities where belonging, wellbeing, equity and excellence are not separate priorities, but deeply connected commitments.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We know from research and from our own experience that effective school leadership has a significant influence on student learning. Principals improve learning not only through the decisions they make, but through the cultures they build: cultures of trust, collaboration, high expectations, professional learning and shared responsibility. Their leadership helps shape the life trajectories of students by ensuring that every learner has access to meaningful relationships, strong instruction, rich opportunities and a sense of hope for the future.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Principals also play a critical role in system-level change. The priorities we hold as a district; improving literacy and numeracy, strengthening equity and inclusion, advancing Truth and Reconciliation, supporting student voice and agency, deepening family and community partnerships, and sustaining healthy learning environments come to life through the daily leadership of principals in schools. They translate system direction into meaningful local action. They help staff make sense of change. They listen to students and families. They lead with both courage and compassion.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On behalf of Central Okanagan Public Schools, I want to extend heartfelt appreciation to every principal in our district. Thank you for the leadership you provide to your staff, your students and your communities. Thank you for the care you bring to difficult decisions, the hope you create for students, and the steady commitment you demonstrate to improving learning experiences for every child.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our district is stronger because of your leadership, and our students’ futures are brighter because of the work you do each day.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jon</span></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For Your Action</strong></b></u></h2><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Compassionate Systems - Working Together for Well-Being in BC Schools and Communities - June 29/30 in Kelowna</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bring a team to this two day session, offered by Compassionate Systems BC, which will introduce participants to the compassionate systems framework. Compassionate Systems, a pillar in BC Mental Health in Schools strategy, is an integrated framework to build personal well-being, strengthen relationships, and apply systems thinking tools to help us thrive in the complexity of today’s education system.</span><br><a href="/documents/5e1f7c41-e9c8-45b1-94cf-78194b41cf50/Compassionate-Systems-June-29-and-30-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260419180359" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Compassionate Systems - Working Together for Well-Being in BC Schools and Communities</span></a></p></div></details><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Red Dress Day - May 5, 2026 - For P/VP | Teachers</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tuesday, May 5th marks Red Dress Day, a time to honour and raise awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people. This day reflects a deeply painful and ongoing part of our country’s history and present. As leaders, advocates, and teachers, it is essential that we speak the truth about this injustice with our students, while ensuring that our approach remains age-appropriate and responsive to their understanding.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="/documents/b43fdf76-de57-4b8a-a31b-fe0dd9106d0a/Red-Dress-Day-Resources.pptx?fingerprint=ppb20260410210626" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Red Dress Day Resource</span></a></p></div></details><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Resources Staffing Meetings - For Teachers</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Meeting with all Priority 1, 2 and 3 teachers (Zoom)</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Monday, April 27, 2026 - 3:45 pm to 5:15 pm</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Meeting with interested TTOC's (Zoom)</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Tuesday, April 28, 2026 - 3:45 pm to 5:15 pm </span></p></div></details><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For Your Information</strong></b></u></h2><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ecole George Pringle Secondary School Parent Information/Consultation Sessions</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Constable Neil Bruce Middle School</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Tuesday, May 5, 2026 - 6:00 to 8:00 pm</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ecole Glenrosa Middle School</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Thursday, May 7, 2026 - 6:00 to 8:00 pm</span></p></div></details><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kelowna Art Gallery - Art in Action - For All Staff</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">March 14 - June 21, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Young artists in grades 9-12 from across the Central Okanagan School District were invited to participate in the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">40th annual&nbsp;</strong></b><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Art in Action</strong></b></i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">student exhibition. This year the exhibition is inspired by the theme&nbsp;</span><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kaleidoscope.</strong></b></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The word “kaleidoscope” can symbolize change, transformation, and perspective, representing how life’s experiences - both good and bad - can be reframed to create new patterns and meanings. A kaleidoscope represents creativity, diversity, beauty, inner complexity, and the interconnectedness of individual parts creating a whole. A small shift in one’s viewpoint can completely alter the overall picture.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nearly 100 works of art exhibited here will create a kaleidoscope of perspectives for all to view.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(Kelowna Art Gallery website)</span></p></div></details><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry of Education and Child Care Reminders</strong></b></u></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Upcoming Board Events</strong></b></u></h2><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 35.4655%;"><col style="width: 64.5345%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 29, 2026 - 5:00 pm</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Finance and Planning Committee</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 6, 2026 - 4:00 pm</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">General Affairs Committee</span></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 13, 2026 - 4:00 pm</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Finance and Planning Committee</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 20, 2026 - 6:00 pm</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Public Board Meeting</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 27, 2026 - 4:00 pm</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy Committee Meeting</span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Important Dates in April/May</strong></b></u></h2><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 35.5285%;"><col style="width: 64.4715%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">April 28, 2026</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Day of Mourning</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 2026</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Allergy Awareness Month</span></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 4 - 8, 2026</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">TTOC Appreciation Week</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 4 - 10, 2026</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Health Awareness Week</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 5, 2026</span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Day of Awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls</span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><hr><details open="true"><summary><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Calendar Dates At A Glance for 2025/202</strong></b></u><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">6</span></u></h2></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">DATE</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EVENT</span></p></th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 18, 2026</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Victoria Day</span></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 24, 2026 to May 30, 2026</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National AccessAbility Week</span></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 2026</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Pride Month</span></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 2026</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Indigenous History Month</span></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 21, 2026</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Indigenous People's Day</span></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 25, 2026</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Last day of school for students</span></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 26, 2026</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative Day</span></p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></details><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="/documents/6f742928-7ae1-4b3f-9cb0-cd882106bbac/2026-04-22-Letter-of-Thanks-to-Volunteers.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260423153741" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please click here to read a letter</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> from the Board Chair to everyone who volunteers in schools and creates learning opportunities for students.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><hr></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Public Notice: Board Policy Manual Modernization – Phase 1</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education is pleased to announce the completion of </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Phase 1 of the modernization of the Board’s Policy Manual</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This work supports effective governance by ensuring Board policies are current, clear, and aligned with best practices. You can view the proposed updates by clicking below:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/a321a788-2930-48e2-b6c0-34bf53107aa8?hash=wwL2EzMjFhNzg4LTI5MzAtNDhlMi1iNmMwLTM0YmY1MzEwN2FhOA%3D%3D" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Proposed Policy Manual</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="/documents/3558f57d-68dc-4d95-ae8e-c6b316fe0ec3/Proposed-Administrative-Procedures.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260414221206" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Proposed Administrative Procedures</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board invites members of the public to attend the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Public Board Meeting on April 22</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, where Trustees will consider and make a decision on the </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">official approval of the Phase 1 policy updates</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board values transparency and community engagement and welcomes public interest in this important milestone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Meeting details, including the agenda and participation information, will be available on the </strong></b><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/board-meeting-info-board" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meetings page</strong></b></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> of the District website.</strong></b></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://app.smore.com/n/0tq65" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please click here to read the latest District Newsletter</strong></b></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or scroll below.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://app.smore.com/n/0tq65?embedded" title="Smore newsletter" scrolling="auto" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="min-width: 320px;border: none;"></iframe></div></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Public Schools congratulates Grade 12 student Alaa Alaiwah on being selected as a 2026 Loran Scholar. The District Student Council co-president spent his high school years exemplifying service, leadership, and learner agency at Rutland Senior Secondary (RSS).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/901c11b4-e2d5-4aa5-809d-a004154708c4?fingerprint=ppb20260325183733" alt="Alaa Alaiwah 1" width="544" height="362" style="width:544px;height:362px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As a 2026 Loran Scholar, Alaa is one of 36 from more than 5,400 Canadian applicants who demonstrated embracing the challenge of leaving the world better than they found it. As a newcomer to Canada in middle school, Alaa navigated the many challenges of a new language and culture and has dedicated himself to helping others.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"At Rutland Middle School, and especially Rutland Senior Secondary, I found a community that supported me, challenged me, and helped me grow," said Alaiwah. "I strive to be the best because I am taught by the best at Rutland Senior Secondary. From coming from nothing to building my path, I am proud to say I am a Rutland Boy."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From thousands of applicants in Canada, Alaa joined just 90 finalists who went to Toronto in February to present for the final selection process.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"To me, becoming a Loran Scholar means taking initiative to lead meaningful change while reflecting, learning from feedback, and growing through challenges," Alaa said. "What excites me most about the future is learning alongside people who want to make a difference. Opportunities like the Loran Summer Programs and Mentorship experiences are exciting because they bring together people who challenge and support each other."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Among his studies at RSS, Alaa was especially inspired by his learning in the Lifeguard Academy and his teacher Allen McNabb. He will use the scholarship of $100,000 over four years to study the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of British Columbia Okanagan.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations Alaa!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To learn more about the 2026 Loran Scholars and the Loran Award, visit </span><a href="http://www.loranscholar.ca" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.loranscholar.ca</span></a></p>