District Newsletter

The annual decoration of the Springvalley Middle (SMS) foyer is always a joyous sign of the holidays, but how did they make it even more welcoming? By holding a pop-up Holiday Shop where families could fill baskets with food or clothing, all thanks to the generosity of SMS students and families!

Well done to the leadership students, Ms. Ramsey, and all the staff who worked so hard to make the event a shining example of how we do kindness in the Central Okanagan!

Their last visit of the year to Chartwell Chatsworth Retirement Residence saw École Belgo Grade 2/3 learners spreading holiday cheer to the residents as they sang together, handed out cards, and shared their recent inquiry into culture and heritage. The exchanges between generations and cultures brought joy to everyone!

Middle school learners had a fun look at what next year holds thanks to an evening of lock in rooms at Rutland Senior. From karaoke and game shows to visits with Santa and our furry friends from UBC-O's B.A.R.K. program, students had a blast raising money for mental health.

Thanks to Mr. Low, the RSS Leadership students, and our community partners like B.A.R.K. and The Foundry for a fun evening of games, food, and community at Rutland Senior!

Hearing from students about what they value most in their school library was at the heart of MBSS' participation in the national Dear School Library campaign. Inspired by Lindsay Zier-Vogel’s Dear Street and her Love Lettering Project, students wrote heartfelt messages on paper hearts, creating a vibrant visual display. Their words highlighted the importance of a quiet space to work, a welcoming and safe environment, friendly and helpful staff, flexible and comfortable seating, and, most of all, access to a wide variety of books. MBSS was thrilled to win a $500 box of books from the Saunders Book Company, further enriching their collection. This initiative gave students voice to share why the library matters to them and how it supports their learning, creativity, and sense of belonging.

The intermediate classes at Mar Jok made 240 beautiful holiday cards for the seniors and elders at Village at Smith Creek Care Home!

Enjoy stories from around the district in the latest edition of Together We Learn!

At the December Public Board Meeting, the Board enjoyed hearing from GMS and CNB staff and students about their experience through the Kasugai Exchange Program. The students' multimedia presentation shared how this international experience supported student growth, strengthened global connections, and fostered deep cross-cultural learning.

The Board of Education was also thrilled to recognize Kathy Ross, a grade 3/4 teacher at Peachland Elementary School, for receiving the Susan Langley Earth Steward Teaching Award for Excellence in Sustainable Education in Canada.

The next Public Board Meeting is on Wednesday, January 28th.

Non-instructional days, school breaks, and statutory holidays can all be found on the 2025-2026 school calendar.

Climate Action Ripple Effect (CARE) student projects succeed when they have the support of community volunteers! Click below to learn about different volunteer opportunities with this exciting climate education initiative.

Know a student with a powerful idea worth sharing?

Encourage them to apply to be a speaker at TEDxKelowna Youth 2026.

Applications close January 1st.

Remember to contact WHEELS with your ideas for everything from t-shirts to mugs!

They're also available to help with getting your skis and snowboards waxed and sharpened for the season!

You get great prices and support our learners as they transition to employment!

Call 778-484-4054 to see how WHEELS can help!

Host families make lasting relationships that span the globe and receive compensation of $1100/month/student.

stətm̓áliʔs means relatives in nsyilxcən.