Submitted by Chair Amanda Amaral
March 11, 2026
Welcome March!
This month we “spring forward” for the last time, celebrate International Women’s Day, and pause for Spring Break.
Time change brings change. As we adjust to daylight saving time, we are reminded that even a small shift can have a meaningful impact on our routines, energy, and wellbeing. Remember to be gentle with yourself as we adjust.
Celebrate International Women’s Day! This year’s global theme, Give to Gain, focuses on how generosity fosters reciprocity and support. Give to Gain calls us to lead with generosity, knowing that when we offer encouragement, care, and opportunity, we strengthen one another and our entire community. Every woman’s story reflects where we are as a learning community, as a society, and as a country. By giving our time, our voices, and our compassion, we build belonging, reciprocity, and take a step closer to equity.
When reflecting on how International Women’s Day shows up in our Strategic Plan, the theme Give to Gain resonates strongly with strands that focus on relationships, community, and connected learning. I see clear alignment with three of our key strands:
- Authentic Relationships — where generosity of time, care, and listening builds trust, belonging, and mutual support.
- Authentic Real-World Learning — which emphasizes meaningful connections between schools and the broader community, reflecting shared learning and shared benefit.
- First Peoples Principles of Learning — which centre reciprocity and respect, aligning closely with the idea of giving in order to gain understanding and support.
When we lead with generosity, empathy, and respect, we strengthen our connections and create spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. In doing so, we build a stronger learning community for all and honour our value of Belonging.
As you look ahead to Spring Break, consider what you can give in order to gain—whether it is time, kindness, encouragement, or understanding. In doing so, we continue to strengthen our connections and support one another.
We wish all staff, students, and members of our learning community a wonderful and restorative Spring Break!
Amanda Amaral
Chair