News

<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>

<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 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" 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>

<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>

<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"><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>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education invites all parents, students, staff members, partner group representatives, and members of the public to participate in a strategic plan engagement process in response to four key questions that will inform the District's future Strategic Plan.</span></p><ol class="editor-list-ol"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When you think about the world students are entering today, what do you believe students need most from their experiences in our schools to be successful?</strong></b></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When you think about the future, what ideas do you have that would improve student learning for all students?</strong></b></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What would help families feel more meaningfully involved in supporting student learning?</strong></b></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What is one change that would make schools healthier and more supportive places for students, staff, and families?</strong></b></li></ol><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://tejoin.com/scroll/821040678" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to participate</span></u></a></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The survey will close at 11:59 p.m. on March 31, 2026.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://app.smore.com/n/thf5pv" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please click here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or scroll below to read the latest District newsletter.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://app.smore.com/n/thf5pv?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><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please review the information below, then </span><a href="https://tejoin.com/scroll/995449446" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">click here to take the survey.</strong></b></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></h3><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Survey is open until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026.</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Following Ministry of Education and Child Care guidelines, the District requires a Long-Range Facilities Plan (LRFP) to guide facility decisions in line with student enrollment, educational needs, and community growth. The LRFP supports capital requests through the annual Five-Year Capital Plan and must be regularly reviewed to stay relevant and aligned with strategic priorities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The District is currently conducting a review of the LRFP, </span><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/257895d2-11d4-53c8-85b9-641719f84076/Long_Term_Facilities_Plan_-_June_2021.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217033304" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">last updated in 2021</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, to ensure it accurately reflects current facility needs, educational programs, demographic trends, and community growth. The LRFP informs Ministry funding decisions and will now be updated every two years to maintain accuracy for the Five-Year Capital Plan process.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The LRFP plays a critical role in shaping decisions about:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">New school construction and additions</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School consolidations and grade reconfiguration</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Long‑term program placement, including French Immersion pathways</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Facility capacity management</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Maintenance and modernization priorities.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The LRFP is the District’s primary planning document for communicating long‑term facility needs and providing a business case for capital investments. It incorporates data on demographic trends, enrolment projections, facility condition and capacity, community development, and educational programming.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The LRFP informs decisions on program locations, grade structures, school consolidations, and maintenance priorities, and provides clear justification for capital projects submitted through the annual Five‑Year Capital Plan. The LRFP identifies District strategies for a ten‑year period, with broader considerations for long‑term future needs.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/663e9603-d0b2-4c29-a233-a42320ab3f06?fingerprint=ppb20260218212740" alt="NGE drone" width="901" height="498" style="width:901px;height:498px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please </span><a href="/documents/01ace6e0-2579-4ad6-b2f7-5758d4d0fd9a/Letter-of-Support-from-Minister-Beare.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260219170449" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">click here to read the letter of support</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> from Minister of Education and Child Care Lisa Beare.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="/documents/01ace6e0-2579-4ad6-b2f7-5758d4d0fd9a/Letter-of-Support-from-Minister-Beare.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260219170449" target="_blank" title="Screenshot 2026 02 19 090615"><img src="/images/532c6eac-8b33-4234-a2a8-6f3104f5b836?fingerprint=ppb20260219170644" alt="Screenshot 2026 02 19 090615" width="264" height="358" style="width:264px;height:358px;display:inline-block"></a></figure></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we collectively mourn the recent tragedy, our thoughts remain with the victims, families, and entire community of Tumbler Ridge. As a school board, as parents, and as British Columbians, our hearts are broken. Our focus is now on the suffering of those directly impacted, the safety and well-being of our own school communities, and the shared sorrow felt across our province.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are saddened to see hatred emerging in the wake of this tragedy. Even as families waited to hear of their children’s status on that terrible day, there were some who revealed their own motives by speculating and assigning blame to the suspect’s identity. While we all seek answers in times of grief and uncertainty, it is never acceptable to target a community or assign blame to someone’s identity.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education remains committed to making sure schools are safe and welcoming for everyone. All students, staff, and members of our school communities are welcome for who they are. To ensure safety, our policies will continue to uphold the BC Human Rights Code; discrimination against any aspect of a person’s identity has no place in our schools or facilities. To those who feel unsafe or are concerned about others due to recent rhetoric, know that our Board remains committed to your safety and well-being at school.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">While some wounds of this tragedy may never heal, we know our only path forward is compassion and togetherness. To echo the words of some of those directly impacted, we urge our community to focus on the lives cut short and those who must live with immeasurable loss. In our schools, in our workplaces, and in our homes, may we continue to champion the kindness we all need right now.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="/documents/37f49e24-3eac-4157-912a-0b9b55fb8e0b/2026-02-13-Board-Statement-on-Tumbler-Ridge-Tragedy.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260213174058" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">See the signed statement here.</span></a></p>

<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Budget Development Overview</strong></b></h4><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ministry of Education and Child Care requires Boards of Education to plan and report spending in alignment with their strategic plans. For Central Okanagan Public Schools, this means ensuring that every investment supports student learning, equity, system wellbeing, and the sustainability of our programs.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The budget is the culmination of presentations, consultation sessions, and collaborative discussion across our school system. The goal is to present a responsible, balanced budget that reflects the best educational decisions for students while meeting all legislative requirements.</span></p><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Current Budget Context</strong></b></h4><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like many districts in British Columbia, Central Okanagan Public Schools continues to encounter inflationary pressures, capacity challenges, and increasingly complex student needs. Looking forward to the 2026/2027 school year, the District projects a decline in student enrolment and anticipates further budgetary constraints. These financial pressures stem from rising inflation, legislative requirements, and increased costs associated with benefits, utilities, insurance, software licensing, and other essential services. As district funding is allocated by the Ministry of Education and Child Care on a per pupil basis, it is crucial that the per pupil rates for 2026/2027 are appropriately adjusted to reflect these growing demands.</span></p><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Public Engagement &amp; 2026/2027 Budget Survey</strong></b></h4><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Public Schools values authentic input from our learning community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The </span><a href="https://tejoin.com/scroll/391833275" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026/2027 Budget Survey is open from February 4 to March 4, 2026</strong></b></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, inviting feedback from staff, partner groups, parents, students, and community members. Responses help the District understand which programs and services are community priorities, especially during times of fiscal pressure.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://tejoin.com/scroll/391833275" target="_blank" title="Click here to take the survey"><img src="/images/a8d69f10-099d-42e6-b9de-238f59becd6c?fingerprint=ppb20260203214342" alt="Click here to take the survey (2)" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></a><figurecaption>Click here to take the survey</figurecaption></figure></p><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Budget Guiding Principles</strong></b></h4><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In accordance with the </span><a href="https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/96412_02" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Act</em></i></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, the District prepares a comprehensive budget plan each year. Guiding principles ensure that decisions are consistent, student‑centered, and aligned with District values:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The student comes first.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All allocations reflect the District’s Vision, Purpose, Cultural Values, Strategic Plan, and school‑level goals.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Resources must be used effectively and responsibly.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The annual budget must be balanced and meet all statutory requirements.</span></li></ul><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board of Education Strategic Plan</strong></b></h4><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board’s budget development principles work in tandem with the </span><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/b39c0875-253d-5f5b-8ae7-f58ce1771ea9?fingerprint=ppb20251217060031" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2021–2026 Strategic Plan</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, which reinforces the four strategic directions that underpin budget priorities. These strategic directions guide how budget requests are evaluated and resources are allocated across the District. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/8a30150e-425d-4dd3-b0ff-5ff0b1180d3b?fingerprint=ppb20260204001106" alt="Budget Strat Plan " width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Annual Budget Development Timeline</strong></b></h4><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The following outlines the timeline for the development of the 2026/2027 Budget.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/33706e91-71f7-4e0f-8ed5-3e8f432a3272?fingerprint=ppb20260203220202" alt="Budget Timeline " width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><details open="false"><summary><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Annual Budget Development Timeline</span></p></summary><div data-lexical-collapsible-content="true"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Feb. 2, 2026: Budget Info Presentation/Budget Survey Begins</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Feb. 11, 2026: Finance and Planning Committee Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mar. 13, 2026: Ministry of Education and Child Care District Funding Announcement</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Apr. 15, 2026: Superintendent of Schools Budget Proposal Report at Finance and Planning Committee Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Apr. 29, 2026: Superintendent of Schools Budget Report at Finance and Planning Committee Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">May 20, 2026: Tentative Annual Budget Bylaw Set at Public Board Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jun. 17, 2026: Review of 2026/2027 Annual Budget Bylaw at Finance and Planning Committee Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jun. 24, 2026: Adopt 2026/2027 Annual Budget Bylaw at Public Board Meeting</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jun. 30, 2026: 2026/2027 Annual Budget Bylaw Due to Ministry of Education and Child Care</span></p></div></details><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Additional Resources</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For more information, please explore:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/9c1ca0fc-0974-4a3f-911b-376a0c840758/26-27-Budget-Planning-Presentation.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260203191451" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026/2027 Budget Planning Presentation</span></a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/0cf5b103-c8a4-4e64-9608-0ed515a31ac5/2025-26-Annual-Budget.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260428202511" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025/2026 Annual Budget</span></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/295e69ad-827e-45d9-8711-5ce5cae0f391/SD23-2024-25-Financial-Statements-FINAL-SIGNED.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217033347" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2024/2025 Financial Statements</span></a></li></ul>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://app.smore.com/n/tbwj2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to read the latest District Newsletter</span></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/tbwj2?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 class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The refresh of the </span><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/b39c0875-253d-5f5b-8ae7-f58ce1771ea9/District_Strategic_Plan_-_2021-2026.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217060031" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Plan</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> is underway and there will be public engagement sessions through January and February 2026.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please consider </span><a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=fm6MqPyOx0uVb-gXBFfxeD60HbMpeuFKvbApR2YajUBUOTVNSlpCVVNHTkZEUUM4VUhMWTQ5Q0Y4UyQlQCN0PWcu" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">registering to attend</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> the session for your family of schools/area. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Session are not presentations, they are facilitated conversations to make sure every voice is heard as we shape the future of Central Okanagan Public Schools, from the focus in classrooms to parent engagement to shaping budgets, and more. This is a unique opportunity for our families, staff, and community to be heard as they engage in authentic conversations with our school leaders, senior staff, and trustees. </span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Strategic Plan: 2026 Public Engagement Sessions </strong></b></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">January</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thu., Jan. 15, 2026 (6:00–9:00 p.m.) — COPAC-focused session</strong></b></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location: LC Meeting Room 355</span></li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thu., Jan. 22, 2026 (6:00–9:00 p.m.) Rutland Senior Secondary School</strong></b></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location: RSS Foyer</span></li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mon., Jan. 26, 2026 (6:00–9:00 p.m.) George Elliot Secondary School</strong></b></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location: GESS Library</span></li></ul></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">February</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thu., Feb. 5, 2026 (6:00–9:00 p.m.) Mount Boucherie Secondary School</strong></b></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location: MBSS Foyer</span></li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tue., Feb. 10, 2026 (6:00–9:00 p.m.) École Kelowna Secondary School</strong></b></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location: KSS MPR</span></li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tue., Feb. 17, 2026 (6:00–9:00 p.m.) École Okanagan Mission Secondary School</strong></b></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Location: OKM MPR</span></li></ul></li></ul>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://app.smore.com/n/hwb4g" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to read the December District Newsletter</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or scroll below:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://app.smore.com/n/hwb4g?embed=1" 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 class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>