News

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EPIC COMEBACK WINS PROVINCIAL TITLE</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Okanagan Mission Secondary (OKM) Senior Girls volleyball team achieved a historic victory at the AAAA Volleyball BC Championships, held in Surrey at Earl Marriott and Seaquam Senior Secondary schools this past weekend. The three-day competition among the 16 AAAA BC teams culminated in a dramatic championship win for the Huskies, their second in three years.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"I'm so proud of the resilience and teamwork this team displayed throughout the season," said Huskies' Head Coach Rob Steciuk. "I believe in working on team culture and resilience as a foundation for great athletes, students, and citizens. The way these athletes competed as a small fish in a big pond and bounced back to succeed shows incredible character that goes beyond the wins."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9a7d428b-c5ad-4896-ad41-a9be988b0a51?fingerprint=ppb20251217041226" alt="Team and family photo of 4A Girls Volleyball Champions from OKM" width="346" height="260" style="width:346px;height:260px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Provincial Final pitted OKM against Riverside in a gold-medal match that would go down in history. After rallying to force a fourth set, the Huskies continued to battle through challenges, including an injury to tournament MVP Kylie Taylor, with Olivia Killpatrick stepping up in her absence. Setter Maya Andruchow orchestrated the offense brilliantly, distributing the ball to her teammates, including senior middles Avery Willis and Mercedes McKenna, who played key roles both offensively and defensively.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/89050362-a986-4869-a43d-6cfa6f9eae6c?fingerprint=ppb20251217040500" alt="Maya Andruchow number 8 Setter for OKM 4A 2024" width="254" height="256" style="width:254px;height:256px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The fifth set, played to 15 points, was a dramatic comeback. Riverside led 14-9, but OKM, led by Maya Andruchow’s clutch serving, fought back. Andruchow delivered five straight serves, tying the game at 14-14. The Huskies went up 15-14, but the Rapids responded to tie that match up 15-15. Huskies pushed through, eventually winning 17-15 with a critical block from Izzy Babcock and Mercedes McKenna.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/bb03061f-c49e-4d44-a0d7-30640b45cbbb?fingerprint=ppb20251217060136" alt="Image of 2024 team stars and coaches from OKM 4A Girls Volleyball" width="309" height="412" style="width:309px;height:412px"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"We are very proud of all our athletes and the high level of play teacher coaches inspire in the Central Okanagan," said Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools/CEO. "Teaching resilience and togetherness are proven time and again on courts, on fields, and in classrooms. Congratulations Huskies on this latest achievement!"</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">You can watch the </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3MyoTJxbfk" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">final point here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education elected Trustee Julia Fraser as Chairpersonat their Annual General Meeting. Trustee Lisa Guderyan was elected as Vice-Chair.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"At our 2024 AGM, I was deeply honored to accept the role of Chair, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to my fellow trustees for their confidence in me," said Fraser. "As Board Chair, my priority is to address the critical needs in our district and advocate for the resources essential for our students, staff, and families. I commit to leading with integrity, transparency, and respect, always putting the best interests of our students and families at the forefront."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees Amy Geistlinger and Lee-Ann Tiede were elected as the Chairs for the Education and Student Services Committee and the Finance and Planning Committee respectively, and Valene Johnson was acclaimed as the Chair for the Policy Committee. Trustee Wayne Broughton was acclaimed as the Regular Representative to the BC School Trustees Association Provincial Council and Trustee Chantelle Desrosiers was acclaimed as the Regular Representative to the BC Public School Employers' Representative Council. The Board also appointed Trustees Desrosiers and Guderyan as the Board representatives to the Indigenous Education Council.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board also set the regular Public Board Meeting dates and times for the 2024/2025 school year. The Meetings will take place once per month at 6:00 p.m., except for September and June, when there will be two meetings per month.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education announces the retirement of Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools/CEO, after 40 years in education, 10 with Central Okanagan Public Schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Over the past decade, Kevin's leadership navigated unique challenges while achieving extraordinary growth in academic success," said Lee-Ann Tiede, Chair of the Board of Education. "Kevin's many contributions will leave a legacy; his steadfast dedication set a standard that will inspire leaders in our district for years to come."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Since 1985, Kaardal has been a teacher, Vice-Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, and Superintendent of Schools/CEO in school districts across Western Canada. His tenure in the Central Okanagan since 2015 is marked by leadership of dedicated teams to consistently improve student learning outcomes. The past two years have seen the best learning results in District history, above provincial and national norms, with a graduation rate of 96 per cent, an Indigenous graduation rate of 86 per cent, and for students on-reserve (Westbank First Nation), a graduation rate near 100 per cent. Kaardal credits much of the collective achievement to staff and students embracing and applying annual themes of kindness, joy, gratitude, courage, hope, wonder, caring communities, and togetherness.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Kevin exemplifies every quality that makes a truly great superintendent—leadership, vision, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to student success," said Julia Fraser, Vice Chair for the Board of Education. "Kevin’s collaborative spirit and strong relationships with staff, students, and the broader community have fostered a culture of trust and innovation. His legacy will be felt for years to come, and we are grateful for his wisdom, compassion, and relentless pursuit of excellence."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First inspired to teach by his grandmother and accomplished in teaching many subjects at the junior and high school levels, Kevin Kaardal's personal interests include athletics, fine art, and paleontology. These enriched his enthusiastic support of Central Okanagan Public Schools sports teams, art exhibitions, and theatre productions, as he consistently celebrated student and teacher achievements with his attendance at events and insights at public board meetings.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"I am grateful for the privilege of serving in the Central Okanagan and working with so many talented professionals and support staff who put students first," said Kaardal. "When we ensure each student is safe, cared for, and fed, we allow them to focus on their learning and thrive as lifelong learners. I'm also grateful for our many community partners - together, we improved young people's life chances and learners' ability to flourish."&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kaardal was honoured with numerous professional and academic awards over his career. He is a published author and frequent presenter at provincial, national, and international conferences. He served on multiple national and provincial boards and advisory committees, including as a national advisor for the College Board of Canada, and held executive positions including President of the Canadian Association of School System Administrators and President of the BC School Superintendents Association. In recent years, Kaardal served on multiple Ministry of Education and Child Care committees.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Senior staff is proud of his leadership during the pandemic. Kaardal served on the K-12 COVID Steering Committee and the Thompson-Okanagan COVID 19 Rapid Response Team as Co-Chair with the Deputy Chief Medical Officer. As a result, Central Okanagan Public Schools was able to stay open to in-person instruction for 96 and 98 per cent of students during the two years of the pandemic thanks to collaboration with Interior Health and the heroic work of the Central Okanagan's staff. Kaardal also led through multiple wildfires and floods and minimized learning disruption by working with District staff and Emergency Operations Services.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Central Okanagan Board of Education thanks Kevin Kaardal for his longtime service and many achievements in the Central Okanagan. Kaardal's last day of work will be June 30, 2025.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On World Teachers' Day, the Central Okanagan Board of Education is proud to recognize more than 2,400 teachers/teachers teaching on call in the Central Okanagan, who help make the District a national leader in academic achievement, career, social, and personal development.</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;">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;As such, the Day is also a reminder that the great strides in Canadian education are a result of countless people working together over many years to create a brighter future for children.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Public Schools encourages everyone to join us in thanking a teacher in their lives today.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="/documents/cd8da9a6-ebe4-4f6a-94fe-51b52be39c7a/World%20Teachers?fingerprint=ppb20251217060420'%20Day%20Message%202024.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">World Teachers' Day Statement from the Board of Education</span></a></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/78622618-4f2c-4771-9677-25fe1f87bf46?fingerprint=ppb20251217035631" alt="terry lee beaudry 2" width="322.65625" height="403.3136022377506"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Board of Education announces the retirement of Terry-Lee Beaudry, Deputy Superintendent of Schools, after 43 years of service with Central Okanagan Public Schools.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"For over four decades, Deputy Superintendent Beaudry has deeply affected our district, and over the last 10 years, she had a personally meaningful impact on me as a Trustee," said Lee-Ann Tiede, Board Chairperson. "Her role as a bridge between our district and the world is invaluable. Whether fostering relationships with international delegates or supporting students and staff through academic challenges, her influence is profound. We are fortunate and grateful to have her leadership, dedication, and unwavering support."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">After growing up in the Central Okanagan and graduating from Rutland Senior Secondary, Mrs. Beaudry attended the University of British Columbia before returning to the Central Okanagan to teach in 1981.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"Terry-Lee Beaudry led a storied career as teacher, school administrator, Director of Instruction, Assistant Superintendent, and Deputy Superintendent," said Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools/CEO. "She shared her passion for education widely, and her impact on our district will remain evident through both her own legacy and the work of her many colleagues and friends."</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As a champion for Truth and Reconciliation, Beaudry affected change in the Central Okanagan and beyond. She guided the development of Central Okanagan Public Schools' Equity in Action for Truth and Reconciliation Agreement, deepening relationships with the Westbank First Nation (WFN), the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB), and other Indigenous Education rights holders. The Agreement is a guide to commitment to Indigenous student success and has been recognized provincially as a model of excellence.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">She also organized collaborative opportunities for new teachers and worked with the BC Principals and Vice-Principals Association, for over twenty years, to embed reconciliation practices within Foundations coursework for new administrators.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Beaudry came alongside UBC Faculty and local Indigenous Knowledge Holders to re-imagine the UBC-Okanagan School of Education Teacher Education Program, became an Adjunct Professor for UBC, and received the ABCDE Education Advocate of the Year – Outstanding Service to BC Public Education award, as well as the UBC Alumni Builder Award. She also deepened the school district's relationship with the Yukon First Nations Education Directorate to share learning about Indigenous advocacy in schools.</span></p><blockquote class="editor-quote" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"It has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to have spent my entire professional career in Central Okanagan Public Schools, supporting the needs of our community's children and families," said Beaudry. "I feel incredibly fortunate and proud to have worked with such exceptional colleagues, students, parents/caregivers, and community members over the years to enhance learning for all students. I regard it an honour to have collaborated with Indigenous rights holders and leaders to advance reconciliation in our schools and communities. Although I look forward to life's next chapter, I will always hold SD23 in my heart!"</span></blockquote><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Currently on secondment with the Ministry of Education and Childcare, Terry-Lee will return to the District in mid-November. Terry-Lee Beaudry's last day of work will be December 31, 2024. Central Okanagan Public Schools' Board of Education wishes her joy and success on her new journey in retirement.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://blog.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/808/2024/09/Back-to-School-Letter-to-Families-FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here to read the back to school letter</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to students, parents and caregivers from Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://blog.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/808/2024/09/Back-to-School-Letter-to-Families-FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">English version</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://blog.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/808/2024/09/FR-Back-to-School-Letter-to-Families-FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">French version</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/7be05510-7532-4c9b-9267-4f756acd905f?fingerprint=ppb20251217040217" alt="BC ECC H RGB pos" width="inherit" height="inherit"></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Public Schools reminds drivers to use extra caution when the school year begins on Tuesday. To keep children safe, drivers must set aside extra time for commutes and be patient in school zones, at crosswalks, and in both lanes around stopped school buses.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School zones go back into effect in the Central Okanagan on September 3, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"We want everyone to arrive at school safely, so we ask our community to take extra care around schools, crosswalks, and school buses," says Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools/CEO. "With over 25,500 students heading back to school this year, streets will be very busy, so all drivers need to take extra time, be alert, and avoid distractions."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/3a982ccf-e0c7-42d5-b6c8-8f7e78540f36?fingerprint=ppb20251217033607" alt="school bus stop sign" width="430.65625" height="286.94933391114535"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For a full list of tips for drivers and families, including the sobering statistics on injuries each year, please </span><a href="https://www.icbc.com/about-icbc/newsroom/2024-aug-21-school" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">visit the ICBC newsroom</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Key reminders for families:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Teach children basics of crossing streets and walking on sidewalks</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Teach children to stay focused on their surroundings while walking, cycling, or riding a scooter and to listen for traffic and scan for approaching vehicles</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Use "Kiss and Drop" lanes at school with patience and courtesy</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Park only in designated spots</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; When necessary, park a short distance from the school and walk with your children to the school yard</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Key reminders for all drivers:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Stop signs and flashing red lights on school buses mean STOP in both traffic directions</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Slow down and watch for people at all crosswalks; note that stopped cars may be yielding to pedestrians</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Distracted driving is as dangerous as impaired driving – put devices away</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Always exercise patience, respect, and courtesy to keep everyone safe</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please click here to read the </span><a href="/documents/b63d3208-0ac1-43e9-94c9-bb809aa0b8ee?fingerprint=ppb20251217060058" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">End of School Year Message from Minister Singh</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Public Schools congratulates all the participants in the </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/QdW3sU8psBc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">31</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>st</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Annual Innovation Generation (iGen) Challenge</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> for demonstrating collaboration, creativity, and innovation in their business plans and pitches.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The winners of iGen Finale are:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1st Place ($3500): Seraphic Stationery (RSS) - Yuvraj Dosanjh, Griffin Hendry, and Tanav Goel</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e8863193-bec3-4549-a4f2-e0af8353b8a4?fingerprint=ppb20251217060817" alt="SeraphicStationery" width="374.65625" height="249.77083333333334"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2nd Place ($2500): Pro Performance (MBSS) - Ty Bunn and Caisen Dodd</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9b642ac4-7a3f-420d-aac6-eb87cc55470c?fingerprint=ppb20251217041226" alt="ProPerformance" width="372.65625" height="248.42711121100612"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3rd Place ($1500) – iTutorFriends (OKM) - Brayden Jarrard</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/cf84e671-8d47-48ba-84e2-4d1d705791e6?fingerprint=ppb20251217060435" alt="iTutorFriends" width="373.65625" height="249.10416666666666"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Best Market Research ($900): Amiga (GESS) - Zoe Wiens &amp; Lauren Munro</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ca92ea8f-7a9a-4561-b900-b0c59e03a3a3?fingerprint=ppb20251217060354" alt="Amiga" width="374.65625" height="249.77083333333334"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">While the following finalist teams did not win additional money, they all walked away with $400 and deserve recognition for their hard work and outstanding presentations:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Deskables (RSS) – Hayden Kruggel and Alex Reister</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Glistening Gifts (GESS) – Bryn Nelson</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Illumi (MBSS) - Taia Botha</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Melody Murals (OKM) – Annabelle Lee and Sydney Blackmore</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The District would also like to thank the many educators who mentored the students and the community partners whose time and donations help young entrepreneurs continue their business journey. The livestream of all presentations </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/QdW3sU8psBc" class="editor-link"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">can be viewed here</strong></b></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/498d7e04-5040-4202-8c2b-d1d2ed5044ff?fingerprint=ppb20251217033838" alt="A bus driver checks in a student bus rider with their bus pass system Image courtesy of Tyler Technologies" width="inherit" height="inherit"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School buses in Central Okanagan Public Schools are now equipped with routing software that enhances student safety, increases fleet efficiency, and improves communication with parents, drivers, and schools. This modernization of the transportation system will improve the safety, comfort, and efficiency of students' commute, while providing additional peace of mind for parents.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The software is on a tablet mounted in school buses. Key features of the technology include:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Telematics Systems: Telematics allow for real-time monitoring of each school bus and provide the bus driver with turn-by-turn route directions and bus stop placement. The system enhances student safety, efficient route planning, monitors vehicle health, optimizes maintenance schedules, and improves fuel efficiency.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Integrated bus pass system: Implementing RFID technology to monitor when students get on and off the school bus will both enhance student safety and provide bus drivers with a confirmed list of students who are riding on the school bus.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mobile Apps for Parents: The mobile app "My Ride" is scheduled to be introduced in the 2024-2025 school year and will allow parents to track and receive real-time updates regarding their child's school bus route.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each student registered on a school bus route gets a bus pass to scan when boarding and leaving the school bus. When a bus arrives at a scheduled stop, the assigned students will be identified on the tablet. If a student accidentally boards an incorrect bus, or disembarks at an unassigned stop, the system will alert the driver.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Transportation Services will distribute bus pass cards during May and inform parents and school staff about the new technology and what to expect with the changes.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/82a8ae07-40b0-48fe-bab4-74d55597aa39?fingerprint=ppb20251217040322" alt="Students set their Lego robots up in the ring for a sumo style battle." width="inherit" height="inherit"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LEGO robots battled in the ring at Central Okanagan Public Schools 9th Annual District SumoBot Competition. This year, the event was held in The Commons at UBCO and it was an awesome venue for 80 different school teams to test their creations in friendly competition.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/29f95ca0-4339-4284-acd4-546251442368?fingerprint=ppb20251217033347" alt="Two students at a laptop inspecting the code for their robot and making adjustments between rounds" width="inherit" height="inherit"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To be successful in the SumoBot, student teams strategize, design, build, and program LEGO MINDSTORMS</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>®</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> robots to autonomously seek out and either flip or push their competitor’s robot out of the ring. Through research, trial and error, and hands-on experience, students ages 9 – 14 learn to problem solve and grow their appreciation and interest in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d18e5fd6-1391-4038-8ea4-5b73532d3dc6?fingerprint=ppb20251217060504" alt="An adult helps students as they check their robot code on a tablet" width="inherit" height="inherit"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you to all of the parent and teacher volunteers who make this event possible and thank you to our amazing hosts at UBC Okanagan!</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendent/CEO's Statement on Childcare Provider Appreciation Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Today we honour and show our gratitude for the early childhood educators and childcare professionals who show daily patience, compassion, and resilience for our children, allowing them to thrive and grow in a nurturing environment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The creativity and enthusiasm shown by our childcare providers foster meaningful connections with the youngest learners and their families. Today, we have more childcare facilities than ever operating in our schools and connected to our schools through our community partners such as BGC Okanagan, YMCA Okanagan, and The Clubhouse. These facilities connect learners and their families to their neighbourhood school, fostering a sense of belonging to start their educational journey. They also offer opportunities for our K-12 learners to develop empathy and build the foundations of meaningful careers when they engage with the dedicated childcare providers and young learners.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Childcare providers continue to meet the diverse needs of our students. On behalf of the entire district, I extend my sincere appreciation for your invaluable contributions. Your dedication to shaping the future generation does not go unnoticed, and your impact will be felt for years to come.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for everything you do.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Okanagan Public Schools congratulates Terry-Lee Beaudry on receiving the </span><a href="https://education.ok.ubc.ca/2024/04/12/terry-lee-beaudry-ubc-alumni-builder-award/#:~:text=The%20Alumni%20Builder%20Awards%20recognize,ambition%20for%20a%20better%20world" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">UBC Alumni Builder Award</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. The award recognizes her dedication to students, her many contributions to transforming education, and her work with UBC and the Okanagan School of Education (OSE).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Terry-Lee has held the positions of teacher, Vice-Principal, Principal, Director of Instruction, Assistant Superintendent, and is currently Deputy Superintendent.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"I am deeply honoured to receive this award on behalf of my colleagues at the District and University level who have had a hand in strengthening our current Central Okanagan Public Schools/UBC partnership and who remain committed to building reconciliation practices in education for the betterment of all children and communities,” said Beaudry. "It continues to be an absolute privilege and pleasure to collaborate with exceptional teachers, support staff, educational leaders, community members, and university faculty to create equitable opportunities while transforming learning in schools."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Over the years, Terry-Lee Beaudry's many accomplishments include organizing collaborative opportunities for new teachers and collaborating with the BC Principals and Vice-Principals Association to embed reconciliation practices within Foundations coursework for new administrators. She has also worked alongside UBC faculty and local Indigenous Knowledge Holders to re-imagine the OSE Teacher Education Program, became an Adjunct Professor for UBC, and received the ABCDE Education Advocate of the Year – Outstanding Service to BC Public Education award.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"We congratulate Terry-Lee on receiving this award that recognizes her many accomplishments and her contributions as an educator and leader in our district for over four decades," said Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools/CEO. "Her work with UBC has impacted hundreds of educators in our journey towards truth and reconciliation. We are also grateful for her leadership of the District's Equity in Action for Truth and Reconciliation Agreement that is decolonizing our relationship with Indigenous communities."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"The Board of Education congratulates Deputy Superintendent Beaudry on this distinction," said Lee-Ann Tiede, Chair for the Board of Education. "Central Okanagan Public Schools is fortunate to have leaders like Terry-Lee creating opportunities for our students and staff to thrive."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5fd0c86c-cbd6-427d-a263-b513e3aa9453?fingerprint=ppb20251217034523" alt="UBC Alumni Builder Award" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Terry-Lee Beaudry (left) Deputy Superintendent of Schools, and Margaret McIntyre Latta, Director of the UBC-Okanagan School of Education, at the ceremony for the UBC Alumni Builder Award.</em></i></p>

<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Apply for School Bus Transportation Application for the 2024-2025 school year!</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></h3><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">IMPORTANT:</strong></b></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Although school bus transportation applications are accepted throughout the school year, priority seating for the 2024–2025 school year is given to those applicants who have applied before the end of day on May 31, 2024.</strong></b><br><br><a href="https://busconnect.sd23.bc.ca/application" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CLICK HERE</strong></b></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to submit a school bus transportation application for the 2024-2025 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students must be registered to ride on the school bus.</span><br><a href="http://www.sd23.bc.ca/ProgramsServices/transportation/Pages/default.aspx#/=" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click here for detailed information regarding student eligibility for transportation</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><br><a href="http://www.sd23.bc.ca/Board/Policies/Section%204%20%20Students/470R.pdf" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">470R – Guiding Principles for Transportation in Central Okanagan Public Schools</strong></b></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Safety is everyone's responsibility. Motorists are required to stop for school buses when the red alternating lights and stop signs are activated. Please use extra caution near bus stops, crosswalks, and school zones.&nbsp;</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/a0144778-2660-4900-aa9f-a385ce9c9374?fingerprint=ppb20251217041834" alt="FOR FLASHING RED LIGHTS" width="inherit" height="inherit"></p>

<p>Central Okanagan Public Schools congratulates six local educators on winning the Premier’s Award for Excellence in Education.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/documents/66f4d0a3-f0cf-45e4-9cfa-8d73af67ef40?fingerprint=ppb20251217034958">NR_PAEE_Winners2023.pdf</a></p><p><img src="/images/ebd61e4f-61ca-4e1e-a0cf-ac31e7fdf9f8?fingerprint=ppb20251217060846" alt="PAEE Group"><br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>