Superintendent's Report to the Board | June 2025
This report highlights key updates and events from the past month, all grounded in our core values of learning, belonging, integrity, and equity.
Celebrating National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day
In the words of Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada:
“Every day, we deepen our understanding of our national history and uncover new truths through the stories of Indigenous peoples, including Survivors of residential schools. Some of these stories contain unspeakable pain, loss of culture and of language, but also tremendous courage and determination.
Only by understanding the impacts of our history can we take meaningful steps toward reconciliation and build a more inclusive society for the future. History is being written every day, and with their incredible achievements and positive contributions, Indigenous peoples are writing new chapters that are shaping a vibrant and successful future we can be proud of.
On this month and every month, let us honour our past and embrace the history, knowledge and traditions of our First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.”
Schools across the district embed and honour these cultural teachings through activities and events throughout June and the school year.
Celebrating Pride Month
Sunshine Coast Schools proudly celebrates Pride Month by raising Pride flags at school and district sites, visibly demonstrating support for the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. These symbolic acts sent a strong message of acceptance and help create safe, inclusive spaces for students, staff, and families. This celebration reaffirmed the district’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, respected, and valued.
District Student Spring Forum Hosted by DSLT
The District Student Leadership Team (DSLT) recently hosted its annual Spring Student Forum, bringing together student leaders from Grades 6–12. The event opened with a Kiva Panel, where DSLT members shared personal insights and experiences. Following the panel, students collaborated in table groups to discuss themes of learning, belonging, and the overall school experience, contributing valuable perspectives on education in our district.
DELI Elementary Leadership Conference at YMCA Elphinstone
Elementary student leaders participating in the DELI program attended a dynamic leadership conference at YMCA Elphinstone. The day was filled with team-building challenges, leadership development exercises, and opportunities to connect with peers across schools. The event successfully supported the growth of young leaders, thanks to the efforts of staff and volunteers who made the day memorable and meaningful.
Nurturing the Learning Spirit: Canoe Journeys and Cultural Connection
At Porpoise Bay Provincial Park, Indigenous secondary students participated in the “Nurturing the Learning Spirit” gathering—an annual tradition featuring a canoe journey that invites students to reflect on their educational experiences. In a parallel event, Indigenous elementary students gathered at Porpoise Bay to connect with nature and community. These events exemplify the district’s ongoing commitment to honouring Indigenous perspectives.
District Track and Field Events Highlight Student Spirit
Elementary students from across the district recently showcased their athletic talents at two major events. Chatelech Secondary hosted the High Jump Event, while Elphinstone Secondary welcomed students for the District Track and Field Day. Both events highlighted student skill, determination, and sportsmanship. Appreciation is extended to the participants, staff, coaches, and volunteers whose efforts created an unforgettable experience for all.
May Professional Development Day with Dr. Dustin Louie
Nearly 100 staff gathered for a powerful professional learning day workshop with Dr. Dustin Louie, Director of UBC’s Indigenous Teacher Education Program. Focusing on transformative reconciliation, Dr. Louie’s session deepened the district’s collective understanding of Indigenous education and reinvigorated the commitment to providing engaging, inclusive learning experiences.
BC Liquor Stores 2025 Dry Grad Campaign Success
The 2025 BCLIQUOR Dry Grad Campaign was a great success, with Sunshine Coast stores and patrons donating over $8,000 to support local dry graduation celebrations. This province-wide campaign has helped fund alcohol-free grad events, reinforcing safe and joyful milestones for students. Gratitude is extended to all contributors for supporting youth in our communities.
Coastal Voices Anthology
Now in its 15th year, the 2025 Coastal Voices Anthology features a vibrant collection of student writing from Kindergarten to Grade 12. A celebration event will take place on June 12 at the Festival Pavilion at the Rockwood Centre, honouring the published students, alongside their families, and guests. This longstanding initiative is a collaboration between the Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts and the district, highlighting the importance of storytelling and literacy in our community.
Encouraging Movement with Active Travel Days
From May 26 to June 6, Go Active Travel Weeks promoted walking, biking, and rolling to school throughout the district. Participation was encouraged with prize raffles and supported by ICBC-led Road Safety Blitzes. Best Routes to School Travel Maps were available online, helping families navigate active routes. These events promote health, environmental awareness, and independence, reinforcing the district’s dedication to student well-being.
Celebrating Student Achievement at Elphinstone Secondary Showcase Events
Elphinstone Secondary recently hosted two evenings recognizing student achievement. The Fine Arts Presentation on May 27 showcased visual art, woodworking, film, theatre, and music, reflecting student creativity and talent. On June 3, Grade 12 students shared Capstone Projects that highlighted their interests, goals, and future plans. These events offered a platform for families, staff, and peers to celebrate student accomplishments.
Ed Leadership Team and Learning Guides Wrap-Up
The Educational Leadership Team and Learning Guides convened for their final session of the year to reflect on their progress with the strategic and school growth plans. This year’s learning included sessions with Will Richardson, Shane Safir, and Dr. Dustin Louie. Their work helped weave the district’s strategic priorities into all areas of practice, setting a strong foundation for continued development.
Chatelech Theatre Brings Oz to Life
Chatelech Secondary’s Music Theatre Ensemble presented The Wizard of Oz on May 26 and 27. Audiences followed the yellow brick road through captivating performances and a magical production. The students’ dedication and artistry shone brightly on stage, making the event a highlight of the school’s arts programming.
Trustee School Tours: Final Day Recap
The Board of Education completed the final leg of their school tour series, visiting Chatelech Secondary, SCAS Sechelt, and Kinnikinnick and West Sechelt Elementary. Trustees experienced the unique strengths and achievements of each school community, observing firsthand the remarkable efforts of staff and students. These tours continue to be valuable opportunities for connection, learning, and appreciation.
Recognizing Scholarship and Bursary Donors
This year, more than 145 scholarships and bursaries totaling approximately $385,000 are being awarded to the graduating class of 2025. The district is deeply grateful to donors whose generosity empowers students to pursue post-secondary dreams with confidence and support. Their contributions create lasting impacts on the lives of our local youth.
Horseback Riding Supports Student Balance, Movement, and Well-Being
Horseback riding therapy offers a unique way to support students with movement and sensory challenges. Through a partnership with a CANTRA-certified equestrian instructor and in consultation with the school district physical therapist, students in our district benefit from both Hippotherapy and Therapeutic Riding sessions each week.
Currently, four students participate in these specialized equestrian sessions, each program tailored to individual needs and abilities. Funding is made possible through MCFD’s At Home Program: School-Aged Extended Therapies and Autism Funding, as well as generous support from our local Lion’s Club.
BC CAISE Conference Insights: Medical vs. Social Models of Disability
This May, Inclusive Educators from our district had the privilege of attending the annual BC CAISE (B.C. Council of Administrators of Inclusive Support in Education) conference. The event’s thought-provoking theme, “Ableism,” provided an in-depth exploration into how our perspectives and practices impact students with disabilities. One of the key learnings centered around understanding the Medical and Social Models of Disability and their practical implications for our schools.
Conference discussions offered a clear takeaway: shifting from a medical to a social model means moving our focus from ‘fixing’ students to proactively removing barriers in our classrooms and school communities. Embracing inclusive pedagogies, such as UDL and collaborative strategies, affirms disability as an identity and establishes an environment where every student belongs.
Careers Program Update: Carpentry Students Build Skills and Confidence
The Carpentry program entered its final weeks with students making remarkable progress on their sheds and structures. Recently, students in the program participated in a resume workshop, where they updated their resumes to include the program and the valuable skills they’ve developed over the past five months.
The culminating Carpentry Celebration will take place on June 12th. This event will highlight student achievements and the success of this year’s program.