News

<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>

<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Spring enrolment application period begins </span><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/school-enrollment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Monday, February 2, 2026 at 7:00 a.m. online</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and runs until Friday, March 13th, 2026. </span></h4><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/Registration-Ad-Spring-2026-2027-FI-Note.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217194733" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here for the Spring 2026 Registration Ad</strong></b></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or click </span><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/school-enrollment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">here for the enrolment page</strong></b></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Summer enrolment period: Tues., Sept. 1, 2026 - Thurs., Sept. 3, 2026</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">French Immersion Kindergarten Info Session on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. </span><a href="https://sd23.zoom.us/j/64295820700?from=addon#success" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">on Zoom</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Calling all youth with powerful ideas to share! TEDxKelowna Youth returns to École Okanagan Mission Secondary (OKM) on May 19, 2026, so the time to apply to be a youth speaker is now. This inspiring event brings together students from across the Okanagan to share ideas worth spreading and lead conversations that matter.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Each year we host this event, we are amazed by the creativity, passion, and commitment youth bring to their communities. TEDxKelowna Youth provides a platform for these powerful ideas to reach the world and spark meaningful change.” -Graham Johnson, TEDxKelowna Youth Organizer.</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">More than a speaking event, TEDxKelowna Youth is a platform for youth leadership and innovation, aligned with our school district’s theme of Learner Agency. Students will explore topics shaping our world and future, including:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learner Agency – Taking ownership of learning and life.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Health &amp; Wellbeing – Building resilience and supporting one another.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learning &amp; Innovation in Schools – Rethinking education for tomorrow.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Truth &amp; Reconciliation – Honoring stories and creating pathways for understanding.</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Climate Action &amp; Sustainability – Driving change for a healthier planet.</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Artificial Intelligence – Navigating opportunities and challenges in a digital age.</span></li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Other Powerful Ideas – If it matters to you, it matters to us!</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Speaker applications are now open and will be accepted until January 1, 2026. Students interested in sharing their voice and inspiring change can apply at </span><a href="https://www.tedxkelowna.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">www.TEDxKelowna.com</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Join us at OKM’s Mission Mainstage Theatre for a day of ideas, innovation, and impact. Together, let’s celebrate the power of youth voices and their ability to shape the future.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://www.tedxkelowna.com/" target="_blank" title="Slide"><img src="/images/769ad1f0-0c02-457c-a616-0eb9dcf06303?fingerprint=ppb20251217035619" alt="Slide" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></a></figure></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please </span><a href="https://secure.smore.com/n/xhpgt" 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 through below. (no download required)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://secure.smore.com/n/xhpgt?embed=1" title="District Newsletter" scrolling="auto" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="min-width: 320px;border: none;"></iframe></div></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students from École George Elliot Secondary (GESS) will join thousands of youth around the world to call for urgent climate action through the Global Child Climate Manifesto, an international youth declaration presented at the </span><a href="https://cgeducation.org/#cop30-2025" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">COP30 UN Climate Conference</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> in Belém, Brazil.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/35572c17-b395-4e5b-88e3-89485f4915d7?fingerprint=ppb20251217033527" alt="Carter Mochinski and Liberty Sanderson" width="230" height="306" style="width:230px;height:306px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Liberty Sanderson (Grade 11) and Carter Mochinski (Grade 12) will join the initiative as part of #Decarbonize, the world’s largest school-based climate education program, coordinated by the Centre for Global Education (CGE). The project brings together classrooms from more than 80 countries to explore climate science, share cultural perspectives, and co-author global solutions for a sustainable future.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"By sharing their learning on the world stage, Liberty and Carter are showing the power of developing student agency," said Jon Rever, Superintendent of Schools. "Like so many of their peers, these students follow their curiosity, share their enthusiasm, and empower each other to make change in the world."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">By engaging in the #Decarbonize (</span><a href="https://decarbonize.me/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">decarbonize.me</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">) program, students develop a deep understanding of how local action connects to global systems, from reducing emissions and protecting local biodiversity to ensuring climate justice for all.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“I want to protect and preserve the land for future generations. I can’t stand by and let our earth be destroyed, and that is why I will stand up for it," said Carter Mochinski, Grade 12. ""I have big ideas and want to see change now. My perspective deserves to be heard on the world stage."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">About Decarbonize and the Centre for Global Education:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">#Decarbonize is coordinated by the Centre for Global Education (CGE), a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to transformative global learning. The initiative empowers young people worldwide to engage in research, dialogue, and advocacy around the climate crisis.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://secure.smore.com/n/5fbdj" 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" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><div monaco-code-embed=""><iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://secure.smore.com/n/5fbdj?embed=1" title="District Newsletter" scrolling="auto" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="min-width: 320px;border: none;"></iframe></div></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><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;">Congratulations to the new Board Chair, Trustee Valene Johnson, elected at the Board of Education Annual General Meeting on Oct. 29, 2025.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/36355161-d5a4-5bfa-a517-9709f706f068?fingerprint=ppb20251217033539" alt="" width="211" height="273" style="width:211px;height:273px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Other elections and appointments determined at the AGM were as follows:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Vice-Chair: </span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Chantelle Desrosiers</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Standing Committee Chairs:</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Education and Students Services: Trustee Lisa Guderyan</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Finance and Planning: Trustee Julia Fraser</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy: Trustee Wayne Broughton</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Executive Staff Management: Trustee Lee-Ann Tiede</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Note: The Board Chair is an ex-officio member of all Board Committees.</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Representatives to the Indigenous Education Council:</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees Fraser, Guderyan, and Desrosiers (alternate)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee Appointments to Provincial Representative Assemblies:</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BC Public Sector Employees Association (BCPSEA): Trustees Fraser and Desrosiers (alternate)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">BC School Trustees Association (BCSTA): Trustees Broughton and Tiede (alternate)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3616b401-83a4-4a29-b466-3865ecca4f74?fingerprint=ppb20251217033539" alt="Trustee Graphic Oct 25" width="668" height="501" style="width:668px;height:501px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations to École Casorso Elementary teacher Helen Park on receiving a Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence Certificate of Achievement.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The kindergarten-grade 1 teacher received the distinction for creating an inclusive classroom where all students can start their K-12 journey feeling safe, confident, and ready to learn.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"We all strive to create inclusive learning environments where each student has agency and can build on their personal strengths and interests to thrive, both as a learner and a whole person," said Jon Rever, Superintendent of Schools. "Helen exemplifies the inclusion and professional collaboration we seek to build every day, and we are all very proud of her as a teacher, mentor, and colleague."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Helen nomination was supported by a parent of a student with diverse needs who is now thriving in school.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"For Helen, inclusivity is non-negotiable, and because of this attitude, our son has never once missed a class experience or been marginalized in any way," said the parent. "Helen’s impact goes beyond her own exceptional work because she leads and inspires others. Because of the needs of her students, she hosts many other professionals in her classroom and has built a culture of high expectations and deep collaboration.”</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Helen Park credits the recognition and success of her classroom to collaborative effort.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"When we can meet the needs of many diverse students, it is thanks to a team of dedicated professionals who can work closely with individual learners and their families," says Park. "I am grateful for this recognition because it underlines that when we all work together, we can build the inclusion that changes the lives of all learners."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/ised/en/programs-and-initiatives/prime-ministers-awards/recipients/2025-teaching-excellence/biographies#Helen-Park" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Read more of the many reasons why Helen Park received the Award here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Drivers and families in the Central Okanagan are reminded to watch out for young commuters as they travel to and from school by bus. Whether it's stopping for a stopped school bus, slowing down near crosswalks and school zones, or </span><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/documents/Bus-Safety-Trifold.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260428202539" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">reviewing school bus safety</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> at home, our community can help ensure every student gets to school and home safely.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"While our educators and drivers work to make every bus rider aware of the rules that keep them safe, School Bus Safety Awareness Week reminds our community to watch out for our children and stop preventable accidents," says Gail Prokopchuk, Transportation Manager for Central Okanagan Public Schools. "Almost daily, our bus drivers report commuters who rush past stopped school buses that have red alternating lights activated, which endangers our young bus riders."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/3a982ccf-e0c7-42d5-b6c8-8f7e78540f36?fingerprint=ppb20251217033607" alt="school bus stop sign" width="451" height="300" style="width:451px;height:300px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School bus drivers want to remind Central Okanagan drivers that when "We Stop – You Stop!" Traffic in both directions must stop for school buses showing flashing red lights and extended stop signs, because children may cross the street in front of the bus. Failure to stop for a school bus can result in a $368 fine, with escalating penalties for repeated violations.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Adults can be good role models for children when driving in school and playground areas:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Watch your speed</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. A 30km/h speed limit is in effect in school zones from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and in playground areas from dawn until dusk, unless otherwise posted.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Be patient.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Drop off your child close to the sidewalk. Don't let them dash from the middle of the road.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Know the law.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Always yield to pedestrians and stop for school buses when their red alternating lights are flashing.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National School Bus Safety Week is a public education program to address the importance of school bus safety and is held during the third week of October every year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.sd23.bc.ca/school-bus-safety-and-the-law-transportation?hash=wwL3NjaG9vbC1idXMtc2FmZXR5LWFuZC10aGUtbGF3LXRyYW5zcG9ydGF0aW9u" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to learn more about School Bus Safety and the Law</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> or visit </span><a href="https://www.icbc.com/road-safety/teaching/road-safety-for-your-kids" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ICBC Road Safety</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This Sunday, Oct. 5 is </span><a href="https://www.unesco.org/en/days/teachers?hub=66722" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">World Teachers' Day.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This year's theme is </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Recasting teaching as a collaborative profession.”</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> As always, the Day highlights the vital role of teachers in education systems while emphasizing the transformative potential of collaboration both within and outside of classrooms.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In Central Okanagan Public Schools, the collaboration of our more than 2,400 educators exemplifies our Vision of "Together We Learn." Another key guiding principle of the Board's Strategic Plan is Transformative Leadership, which helps us create shared understanding around powerful teaching and learning so we continue to build innovative and sustainable learning environments. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To prepare our students to meet the Overarching Goal of the District, Central Okanagan Public Schools' teachers work to ensure each learner "…</span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">will develop foundational skills and core curricular competencies so that they can be empowered to follow their passions and strengths and thrive holistically as resilient and engaged global citizens</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">." Teachers play a critical role in the development of a civil society as they instill values like equity, empathy, honesty, respect, and responsibility.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The welcoming, inclusive, and innovative learning environments in our district are possible because of our educators' dedication to collaborative lifelong learning. We thank them for their commitment to their vocation, their colleagues, and their students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Since UNESCO launched World Teachers’ Day in 1994, October 5</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the work of more than 60 million teachers, most of them working in developing countries with limited resources.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On World Teachers' Day, we encourage you to thank a teacher in your life.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d798a759-bed1-471b-aaca-db4b8cb39927?fingerprint=ppb20251217060545" alt="WTD Ad 2025" width="557" height="322" style="width:557px;height:322px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>