From the Board Report - May 19, 2026
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MEETING OPENING
The Board of Education of School District No. 83 (K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw) held its Regular Board meeting on May 19, 2026, with all five trustees in attendance, confirming quorum. Board Chair Corryn Grayston opened with a welcome and acknowledged that the Board holds its meetings on the traditional and unceded lands of the Secwépemc people.
BUSINESS ARISING
Amended Ministry Response to the 2026/27 Capital Plan & Capital Plan Bylaw
The Board received the Amended Ministry Response to the School District No. 83 (K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw) 2026/27 Capital Plan and Capital Plan Bylaw. This amendment reflects a revision requested by the District to the Minor Capital – School Enhancement Program (SEP) project.
The revision reallocates $975,000 from one SEP project (HVAC upgrades) to three projects, expanding work beyond Sorrento Elementary to include South Canoe Elementary and Salmon Arm West Elementary. This approach enables the District to maximize the impact of available funding by addressing needs across multiple schools.
The revised project delivery model makes use of the District’s internal operations and facilities staff, recognizing their capacity, expertise, and efficiency in completing the work locally. The Ministry reviewed the revised submission and issued an amended approval letter reflecting this change.
The Board of Education approved and adopted the School District Capital Plan Bylaw No. 2026/27‑CPSD83‑02 following three readings.
Supporting information: Ministry Response re: 2026-27 Capital Plan & Capital Plan Bylaw (Briefing Note), Amended Letter from the Ministry (Supporting Document), Appendix A (Amended): Direction for advancing supported capital projects (Supporting Document)
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Superintendent Donna Kriger provided an update aligned with the District’s Strategic Plan, highlighting ongoing work connected to the priority areas set by the Board.
EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE & LEADERSHIP
Strategic Focus Report
Kriger reminded the Board that each month, celebrations from across the District are highlighted in the Strategic Focus Report (www.sd83.bc.ca > Our District > Strategic Focus Publications).
INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT
Environmental Expo
Kriger provided the Board with an update on the second annual Environmental Expo, held at Salmon Arm Secondary on April 30, 2026, which brought together approximately 350 students to engage in learning focused on watersheds, climate responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The event featured student workshops, music, Indigenous perspectives, and strong community partnerships, reflecting the District’s commitment to sustainability and environmental education embedded across its strategic priorities.
The event was made possible through financial support from community sponsors, including the Shuswap Community Foundation, Rotary, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and the North Okanagan Teachers’ Association. A special thank you to Wayne Spencer and Kim Fulton for their hard work in organizing the Environmental Expo.
Glow Gallery at Highland Park
The Board received an update on the second annual Glow Gallery at Highland Park in Armstrong, where staff transformed a classroom into an immersive gallery using glowing art, music, and lighting to create a calm and engaging experience for students and visitors. The event highlighted staff creativity and the positive impact of arts‑based learning within the school community.
Kriger thanked Teacher Jenny Daughtry and her colleagues for transforming an empty classroom into a magical gallery.
HUMAN & SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Red Dress Day
Red Dress Day was acknowledged across the District on May 6, 2026, in recognition of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two‑Spirit people. Kriger reflected that while Indigenous women represent approximately 4% of the population, they account for 16% of homicide victims, 11% of missing women and girls, and are 12 times more likely to go missing, reinforcing the importance of awareness and action.
J.L. Jackson Secondary hosted its annual Red Dress ceremony, which included student participation, traditional drumming, the Secwépemc welcome song, and reflections on the significance of the day, honouring those lost and reinforcing the District’s commitment to remembrance, awareness, and reconciliation.
Indigenous Day of Learning
Kriger reflected on the Indigenous Day of Learning as a deeply meaningful and enriching experience for staff across the District. She expressed sincere gratitude to the Skwlāx, Splatsin, Adams Lake, and Neskonlith First Nations for welcoming staff onto their traditional lands and into their communities, providing opportunities to learn about rich history, cultural significance, and storytelling connected to the land. The day offered valuable opportunities to deepen relationships with Rightsholders. Kriger shared her gratitude to the Indigenous Education Department and the Quelmúcw Education Council for organizing the day, and thanked all staff for their participation and engagement. She described the day as an opportunity to deepen her own understanding of Indigenous perspectives and ways of knowing, while continuing to build meaningful relationships and friendships through shared learning.
Music Department Highlights
Kriger shared an update on recent Music Department activities and achievements across the District, reminding the Board that music plays an important role in enhancing cognitive function, improving memory, strengthening problem‑solving skills, and supporting academic success.
Student musicians participated in travel experiences that combined performance opportunities with cultural enrichment, including festival and provincial competitions.
Salmon Arm Secondary concert and jazz bands earned gold at a Kelowna music festival; A.L. Fortune junior and senior drumlines placed third at provincials in Vancouver; Pleasant Valley Secondary School bands travelled to Victoria, performing along the way; and the A.L. Fortune Secondary Band travelled to Squamish and performed in several elementary schools. Kriger expressed appreciation for the dedication of music teachers and staff, extended special thanks to Michelle Honcoop for her commitment to music education, and recognized the achievements of the District’s young musicians.
Little Mountain Stomp
Kriger highlighted the Little Mountain Stomp, a large‑scale event that brought together approximately 1,400 students for a highly organized and engaging cross-country run day. She acknowledged the leadership of Joel Menzies, Principal of South Broadview, and expressed appreciation to the many event organizers, coaches, volunteers, bus drivers, and student athletes whose collective efforts ensured a safe, inclusive, and positive experience for all students.
National Principals’ Day & Teacher Appreciation Day
May 1 was recognized as National Principals’ Day, providing an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and leadership of principals across the District. Kriger expressed appreciation for the tireless commitment principals demonstrate in supporting student and staff growth, fostering caring and inclusive school environments, and setting positive school culture. She recognized their role in mentoring, guiding, and representing their schools with a high level of accountability, and thanked all principals for their leadership and service to students, families, and the broader community.
May 5 was recognized as Teacher Appreciation Day, providing an opportunity to acknowledge the vital role teachers play in the growth and success of students across the District. Kriger expressed gratitude for the dedication of teachers who activate curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning, and who continue to shape the lives of young people through their commitment, care, and passion for education.
Child Care Provider Month
May was recognized as Child Care Provider Month across the province, providing an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the essential work of child care providers. Kriger expressed gratitude for their commitment, resilience, and professionalism, and acknowledged the vital role they play in supporting children and families, including helping young learners transition into and succeed within the school system.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Bike Rodeo at M.V. Beattie
Kriger shared highlights from a bike rodeo at M.V. Beattie (MVB), where MVB hosted students from Shihiya on the Splatsin Reserve. The event, supported by the RCMP and school staff, provided students with opportunities to build confidence and skills for safe cycling. Kriger expressed appreciation to the RCMP as valued community partners, and to staff at both schools for their collaboration and support in creating a positive and engaging experience for students.
Doughnuts With A Grown-up
Kriger highlighted a family engagement event at North Canoe School on May 5, 2026, where families gathered for a welcoming morning organized by school staff and the PAC. The event provided an opportunity for connection over refreshments, while students proudly shared their learning and projects with their families. Kriger thanked the North Canoe school community for creating a meaningful opportunity for engagement.
Playground At Parkview
Kriger recognized the Parkview Elementary PAC for their successful fundraising and grant applications that supported site preparation and installation, and acknowledged the District of Sicamous for donating the playground structure at Parkview Elementary. She also expressed appreciation for the Operations Department, recognizing Director of Operations Travis Elwood and the team for their collaborative approach and commitment to finding solutions that helped bring the project to completion.
Safer Schools Together
Kriger shared an update on a recent Safer Schools Together online session and Q&A for parents, which focused on the supports and processes in place when concerns or worrisome behaviours arise at both the school and district levels. She highlighted the Safer Schools Together website, which includes a dedicated resource tab offering guidance and tools for both educators and parents.
Kriger also reminded the Board of the importance of the “Report, Don’t Repost” approach, encouraging families to share concerns directly with schools rather than circulating unverified information, and reaffirmed that student safety remains the District’s highest priority.
Supporting information: 2026 05 19 Superintendent Report (PowerPoint), District’s Strategic Plan (PDF), Environmental Expo Brings Community, Music, and Learning Together (webpage news), Highland Park Elementary’s Glow Gallery Returns (webpage news), Music Department Highlights (webpage news), Little Mountain Stomp (webpage news), May is Child Care Month in BC (webpage news) Bike Rodeo Brings Safety, Skills, and Smiles at M.V. Beattie (webpage news), Doughnuts With A Grown-up (webpage news), Playground at Parkview (webpage news)
NEW BUSINESS
Field Trip Request – J.L. Jackson Secondary – France 2027
The Board of Education received a presentation from Mme Martine Dollack, French Immersion and Core French teacher at J.L. Jackson Secondary School, proposing an international field trip to France for senior French Immersion students in March 2027. This would be the third international trip to France organized by Mme Dollack, following two previously successful trips.
Mme Dollack outlined a proposed change in tour provider from EF Tours to Explorica to improve affordability, itinerary flexibility, and overall student experience. The proposal also includes an early departure option, allowing students to stay in central Paris and participate in cultural and historical activities, led by Mme Dollack.
The proposed itinerary includes time in Paris, the Loire Valley, and the Normandy Beaches, with visits to significant cultural and historical sites such as the Louvre, Château de Chambord, Loire Valley Château, and World War II memorial locations. The trip is designed to deepen language immersion, cultural understanding, and student engagement in the French Immersion program, particularly at the senior secondary level.
The total cost of the 11‑day trip is estimated at $4,700 per student and includes insurance coverage and safety measures through the Explorica package.
Trustees acknowledged the extensive planning, attention to student safety, and the educational value of the experience, noting its potential to support student retention in French Immersion through Grades 11 and 12.
Following discussion, the Board approved the J.L. Jackson Secondary School International Field Trip to France in March 2027.
Supporting information: J.L. Jackson Secondary School International Trip – France 2027 (Briefing Note), Paris & the Loire Valley Trip Itinerary and Information
Field Trip Request – A.L. Fortune Secondary – Eastern Europe 2028
A.L. Fortune Secondary School Principal Mark Marino presented a proposal for a Grade 10–12 international field trip to Berlin, Prague, Krakow, Auschwitz, Budapest, and Vienna during Spring Break in March 2028. The itinerary includes travel through five countries over 12 days, using a combination of plane, train, and bus transportation, with a two‑day add‑on to enhance cultural exposure.
The trip is being planned in partnership with EF Tours, with an emphasis on student safety, travel support, and pre‑travel preparation. A global travel protection plan is included, allowing for flexible cancellation if required.
To improve affordability and accessibility, the trip is planned over a two‑year timeline, allowing families to spread costs through monthly payments of approximately $294. Community fundraising will also occur to assist students with required costs.
Trustees appreciated the advance planning, safety measures, and the positive impact of international travel on school culture, student engagement, and life‑skills development.
The Board of Education approved, in principle, the A.L. Fortune Secondary School International Field Trip to Eastern Europe in March 2028.
Supporting information: A.L. Fortune Secondary School International Trip - Eastern Europe 2028 (Briefing Note), Eastern Europe Tour Itinerary and Information
2026/27 Internal Administrative Calendar & Board Meeting Schedule
Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the briefing note included in the Agenda noting that all Regular Board Meetings are proposed to be held on the third Tuesday of each month, with the following exceptions:
September - Board Meetings will be held on the last Tuesday of the month (September 29, 2026) to allow sufficient time for the Framework for Enhancing Student Learning Report and 2026 Audited Financial Statements to be completed.
October - No regularly scheduled Board Meetings will be held due to the 2026 School Trustee Election.
March - Board Meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of the month (March 9, 2027) due to Spring Break.
The Board of Education adopted the 2026/27 Internal Administrative Calendar and Board Meeting Schedule, as amended as follows: reschedule the Education Directions meetings to November 4, 2026, February 3, 2027, and May 5, 2027.
Supporting information: 2026/27 Internal Administrative Calendar & Board Meeting Schedule (Briefing Note)
Trustee Election Bylaw No. 1-2026
A board is required to adopt an election bylaw when the board of education is to conduct a trustee election.
Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the briefing note included in the agenda, highlighting that agreements with municipalities in Trustee Electoral Areas 1, 2, and 3 are currently being developed. Beginning with the 2026 general school election, there will be a new requirement for boards of education to pass a bylaw identifying the locations designated for public notice posting in accordance with section 50 of the Local Government Act. The information outlined in the bylaw will be made publicly available on the District’s website, at the Board Office, and on the District’s Facebook page.
Supporting information: Trustee Elections Bylaw No. 1-2026 (Briefing Note), Draft Trustee Elections Bylaw No. 1-2026
Shuswap Middle School Playground
The 2026-27 Minor Capital Plan submitted to the Ministry in September 2025 included a request for a playground at Shuswap Middle School through the Playground Equipment Program (PEP). This was identified as a need as the school will be transitioning to a K-7 French Immersion school starting in September of 2027 and currently does not have a playground. Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt reported that the District was notified that the application for playground funding for the 2026-27 school year was unsuccessful.
To ensure that a playground is in place for the start of the 2027 school year, the District will work collaboratively with school administration and the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) to develop an implementable plan. This will include confirming the site, establishing design priorities appropriate for a K–7 French Immersion program, developing detailed costing, and a phased implementation approach.
District staff will also support the pursuit of supplementary funding through fundraising, grants, and potential local capital contributions.
In parallel, planning and design work will be completed to ensure the project is shovel-ready, allowing the District to respond quickly to any future PEP funding opportunities while meeting program timelines.
Supporting information: Shuswap Middle School Playground (Briefing Note)
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Education Direction Committee
Trustee Marianne VanBuskirk reported that the Committee met on May 6, 2026, beginning with Student First stories that highlighted the impact of student voice and learning across the District. The Committee discussed the Ministry-mandated K–3 Early Literacy Screening timeline and the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework, which helps identify and address student needs across academic, behavioural, and attendance areas. Updates were also provided on the District’s writing focus, including Adrianne Gear’s September ProD session on Powerful Writing and the School-wide Write initiative, which will become a mandatory District assessment in fall 2026. In addition, the Committee reviewed MyBlueprint+, a K to 12 platform supporting student learning and post-secondary planning, and received an update on SD83’s AI strategy focused on building knowledge and capacity among educators.
Finance & Facilities / Audit Committee
Vice Chair Amanda Krebs reported that the Committee met on May 4, 2026, and discussed the Annual Facility Grant and other items included in the Regular Board Meeting Agenda.
Quarterly Financial as at March 31, 2026
The Board received the quarterly financial update for the period ending March 31, 2026. Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt reported that the District remains in a strong overall financial position, with revenues largely in-line with expectations and modest increases seen in rental and lease income. Salary expenditures are tracking close to projections, though some variances are noted in educational assistants, due to staffing challenges, and substitute costs, both of which will continue to be monitored. Upcoming teacher salary increases and related Ministry funding, which was recently confirmed, will impact the year-end financials.
As of March 31, the District currently reports an accumulated surplus of approximately $4.1 million; however, a significant portion of this is restricted, with pending payroll expenses and year-end adjustments affecting the final amount. While most expense categories are stable, pressures such as fuel costs for transportation and earlier heating requirements are being closely watched. Upcoming teacher salary increases and recently confirmed additional Ministry funding will also impact final year-end results. Overall, the District continues to project a stable financial outlook, with some variability expected as year-end adjustments are finalized.
Supporting information: Quarterly Financial as at March 31, 2026 (Briefing Note)
2026/27 Annual Budget
The Board considered the 2026–2027 Annual Budget and provided first reading of the budget bylaw. Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the draft budget, noting it follows a format consistent with previous years and reflects current funding and expenditure projections.
Hunt highlighted several broader budget risks, including uncertainties related to collective agreements, fluctuations in student enrolment, change in government funding, and budgeting assumptions such as average wage costs. He also noted additional cost pressures related to rising benefit costs, CPP and EI rate increases, and inflationary impacts on technology, software, fuel, and general supplies. Further pressures related to sick leave and staff absences were identified as factors that could impact the District’s financial position.
Hunt proposed several allocations within the Local Capital Reserve, including applying the remaining bleachers allocation to replacing the bleachers at A.L. Fortune Secondary. He also recommended that interest revenue earned within the reserve be distributed to support reconfiguration-related equipment and resource costs, including the Shuswap Middle School playground, J.L. Jackson and Salmon Arm Secondary reconfiguration equipment, and general equipment needs associated with K–7 school reconfiguration.
The District is projecting a decline of approximately 154 FTE in student enrolment for the upcoming year. This decrease is expected to reduce overall funding and place additional pressure on the District’s financial position.
The proposed budget also includes staffing initiatives, such as a reduction in principal teaching time to increase overall teacher FTE, and the addition of a Vice Principal at Hillcrest Elementary in response to increased enrolment. In an effort to reduce teacher absenteeism, a $500,000 initiative was also proposed to provide additional professional staffing support to address complex student needs while helping to reduce teacher absences. While Trustees expressed support for the potential benefits of this initiative, they also acknowledged the financial risk, as it is expected to be funded through anticipated savings in substitute costs rather than new funding. The Board recognized that this approach may not be sustainable long-term without additional initiatives or funding from the Ministry.
Overall, Trustees expressed support for the budget, balancing the need to invest in student supports with the importance of maintaining financial stability.
Supporting information: 2026-27 Annual Budget (Briefing Note), Annual Budget 2026-2027 (PowerPoint)
Labour Relations
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that there was no Labour Relations meeting in May.
Partner Group
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that the next meeting is May 21, 2026.
Policy Committee
Trustee Brent Gennings reported that at the Policy Committee Meeting held on May 6, 2026, Policy 121 and Policy 310 were reviewed.
Policy 121 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity – Minor Revision
Superintendent Donna Kriger reported on the briefing note outlining proposed minor revisions to Policy 121 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. The Board made a motion to accept the amendments to the policy.
Supporting information: Policy 121 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (Briefing Note), Policy 121 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identification (Board Policy)
Policy 310 Student Code of Conduct – Minor Revision
Superintendent Donna Kriger reported on the briefing note outlining proposed minor revisions to Policy 310 Student Code of Conduct. The Board made a motion to accept the amendments to the policy.
Supporting information: Policy 310 Student Code of Conduct (Briefing Note), Policy 310 Student Code of Conduct (Board Policy)
Committee of the Whole
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that at the Committee of the Whole meeting held on April 27, 2026, Trustees reviewed a range of Board policies as part of an effort to update governance policies in advance of the upcoming election. This review was intended to ensure policies are current and to support a smooth transition for any newly elected Trustees. As a result, a number of recommendations were developed for Board consideration. Trustees also discussed changes to policy development, including consolidating and reducing the number of policies and linking broader overarching policies to multiple administrative procedures.
Board Governance Policies
The Board passed motions approving the amendments to the following policies:
- Policy 137 Roles and Responsibilities of the Board Vice Chairperson (renumbered to Policy 132)
- Policy 138 Electronic Meetings of the Board
- Policy 140 Delegation of Authority
- Policy 141 Role of the Superintendent
- Policy 160 Policy Development
- Policy 170 Monitoring Board Performance
Supporting information: Board Governance Policies (Briefing Note), Policy 132 Roles and Responsibilities of the Board Vice Chairperson (Board Policy), Policy 138 Electronic Meetings of the Board (Board Policy), Policy 140 Delegation of Authority (Board Policy), Policy 141 Role of the Superintendent (Board Policy), Policy 160 Policy Development (Board Policy), Policy 170 Monitoring Board Performance (Board Policy)
EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
Indigenous Day of Learning
Assistant Superintendent Chelsea Prince expressed gratitude to the Quelmúcw Education Council and local First Nations for their work in planning the Indigenous Day of Learning, leading and teaching workshops, and hosting staff in their communities.
Highlights from the Indigenous Day of Learning include:
Splatsin welcomed staff from M.V. Beattie and A.L. Fortune to participate in canoe trips to pictographs and land-based grounding and meditation activities at Mara Lake Provincial Park. Learning centered on cultural landmarks, connection to the land, and practices that can be adapted for classroom use.
Shihiya School staff hosted staff from South Canoe, Ranchero, and North Canoe, who rotated through story-based language and culture lessons integrated with physical activity. Learning highlighted how Indigenous language and culture can be taught through storytelling and movement in school settings.
The community of Skwlāx welcomed staff from Carlin Elementary Middle, Sorrento, Silver Creek, Salmon Arm West, and the District Education Support Centre to experience a wide range of cultural activities, including language learning, storytelling, traditional medicines, crafts, sweat lodge teachings, and games. The day included a community meal and a closing song.
The Neskonlith Indian Band hosted North Shuswap Elementary, where staff engaged in learning about traditional plant use, including harvesting and mat-making, and listened to stories around the fire.
The Adams Lake Band hosted staff from Hillcrest Elementary, Bastion Elementary, and South Broadview Elementary at Switzmalph (Pierre’s Point). Staff chose from activities such as canoeing, storytelling, medicine pouch making, plant walks, language learning, and berry harvesting.
In closing, Prince shared that she was honoured to highlight the strength and resilience of local Nations and included the following reflection from an Indigenous Education team member in anticipation of the day:
“The more I think about going to Skwlax tomorrow, the more excited I get. It feels like such an honour to be invited (as a large group) to learn about a culture and a territory I know so little about. My heart is honestly bursting. It is not Skwlax’s responsibility to take on such a significant role in ‘teaching’ me (or district staff), nor is it the responsibility of Splatsin, Adams Lake, or Neskonlith, who are hosting other district staff around the territory. It is my responsibility to open my heart and mind to a way of life, thought, and experience that may be different from mine. To have the local Nations themselves jointly organize and host, take on expenses and time, and share their culture to provide a learning experience like this is truly extraordinary, and I am so grateful.”
Supporting information: Indigenous Day of Learning (Report)
BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION (BCSTA)
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that there was a Joint Sector Call held on April 22, 2026, hosted for Elections Technical Advisory Group Committee members to share information on the upcoming election, legislative changes, and a review of the process. The Thompson-Okanagan BCSTA Branch has created a handbook for new trustees, which has been distributed in draft form for feedback and is currently being finalized. BCSTA also has a library of resources available for trustees’ review.
BRITISH COLUMBIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS EMPLOYERS’ ASSOCIATION (BCPSEA)
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that she will participate in the BCPSEA Annual General Meeting scheduled for June 15, 2026.
QUELMÚCW EDUCATION COUNCIL
Trustee Tennile Lachmuth reported that there was no Quelmúcw Education Council meeting held in May and noted that the Indigenous Graduation is scheduled for Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
TRUSTEE REPORTS
Trustee Brent Gennings reported that he attended the District of Sicamous Committee of the Whole meeting where they shared updates on new housing projects, Parkview Elementary playground, and dance competition.
Trustee Marianne VanBuskirk reported that she attended the Hillcrest Hustle cross-country run, Intergenerational Choir Concert, Room Renaming meeting at Salmon Arm Secondary, and acknowledged Salmon Arm’s Youth Week from May 1-7, 2026.
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that she participated in the Vice Principal interviews on April 28, 2026, and is looking forward to participating in the Capstone Presentations, SD83 Speaks, and the Carlin Country Market.
UPCOMING DATES / EVENTS
Committee of the Whole re: 2026/27 Budget – June 2, 2026 – 5:00 p.m.
Regular Board Meeting – June 23, 2026 – 6:00 p.m.
The May 19, 2026, Regular Board Meeting agenda and recording is available on the District website: Board Meetings.