Safe, Caring & Inclusive Learning Communities

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our students had an incredible opportunity to participate in an adaptive sports session led by Northern Adapted Sports Association instructor Rob Stiles. Students from Anahim Lake joined us for a day filled with learning, teamwork, and fun as they explored wheelchair basketball skills and participated in games including Chaos Ball and other inclusive activities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The energy in the gym was amazing as students encouraged one another, built new skills, and experienced sport from a different perspective. It was inspiring to see such high levels of engagement, cooperation, and enthusiasm from all students throughout the day.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Experiences like these help foster empathy, inclusion, and understanding while showing students that sport and physical activity can be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Thank you to Rob Stiles and the Northern Adapted Sports Association for bringing this meaningful learning opportunity to our schools!</span></p><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/83ba5d8d-5a8b-498d-9e2e-65ca6a629f15?fingerprint=ppb20260519165701" alt="Adapted Sports kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ffaab72b-de58-4e82-af40-73603deeaf45?fingerprint=ppb20260519165659" alt="Adapted Sports 2 kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Several members of our Student Support Services team attended the PDA Live online session through POPARD, alongside over 120 participants from across the province.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The session highlighted the strong connection between Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), autism, and anxiety—reminding us that what can look like refusal is often an anxiety-driven response to everyday demands.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Key takeaways focused on practical strategies: prioritizing relationships, flexibility, and student autonomy, and using indirect, collaborative approaches to reduce anxiety and increase engagement.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Great learning and thoughtful discussion that directly supports our work in inclusive and responsive classrooms.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At our school, building a safe, inclusive and supportive community isn’t just something we talk about, rather it’s something our students live every day.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recently, students took time to write letters of appreciation to our bus driver and administrative assistant. Their words speak volumes about the relationships that make our school such a caring place to learn and grow.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For our school secretary, students shared:</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“I appreciate all you do for our school.”</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Thank you for being safe and fun all day.”</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“You are a good listener.”</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“You make me and others feel safe but I also feel like I can talk to you…”</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For our bus driver, students wrote:</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“You are kind, caring, passionate and overall an amazing bus driver.”</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“You are kind, caring, and funny.”</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Thank you for saying hi and bye.”</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Thank you for caring about our feelings, I feel that I can talk to you if needed.”</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“We appreciate you and your kindness.”</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">These messages highlight something powerful, specifically that our students feel seen, heard, and cared for by the adults around them. From the classroom to the bus ride home, every interaction matters.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This is what an inclusive community looks like: strong relationships, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to making everyone feel safe and valued.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ddfbe8c3-3177-4b06-9cc5-bf0ce6a8bacd?fingerprint=ppb20260428052120" alt="Every Role Matters kimberley ikebuchi" width="431" height="766" style="width:431px;height:766px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD27 Early Learning Coordinator, Beulah Smith joined Denisiqi at Naghtaneqed Elementary school for "Growing Little Roots" an early learning event sharing child development information and building relationships through playful engagement. Our station provided opportunities for building literacy skills through play.</span></p><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/26dc7053-b8bf-49e9-9821-ead3c7c93dcf?fingerprint=ppb20260422045143" alt="Ready, Set, Learn2 BEULAH SMITH" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0bac6a8c-7624-4409-8b75-8bc0ec748724?fingerprint=ppb20260422045142" alt="Ready, Set, Learn5 BEULAH SMITH" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Since February 2026 of this year, CCSD27 has been seeking input on the Northern BC School District's Accessibility Plan. The plan's key themes are to increase visibility of those with disabilities, develop targeted education and training programs, increase integration in school, and to focus on accessibility, empathy, and sensitivity training. The survey can be completed by accessing the district's website by clicking on "Our District, Accessibility, and the Northern BC School Districts Accessibility Plan Survey."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0735afb7-eda1-43d1-aac2-e04cecb158f4?fingerprint=ppb20260416053916" alt="CCSD27 Seeks Input on Accessibility Plan Hattie Darney" width="443" height="232" style="width:443px;height:232px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CCSD27 has access to online sessions for parents, caregivers, grandparents and youth ages 10 &amp; up! The last session for "Establishing Safe, Caring, &amp; Respectful Digital Communities" is on May 13th from 6:30-7:30pm. The last session for "Establishing Family Practices for Safeguarding Against Cyberbullying &amp; Sextortion" is on June 10th from 6:30-7:30pm. You can access these workshops using the school district's website under "Students &amp; Families, Safe &amp; Inclusive Schools." A big shout out to ERASE and Safer Schools Together for these offerings!</span></p><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/179d7314-5fbc-4ca7-aa38-6b1cf5b88f60?fingerprint=ppb20260415043634" alt="60 Minute Online Workshops for Families from Safer Schools Together &amp; ERASE2 Hattie Darney" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1e2f6b34-e955-4dcd-a516-7b85c26cb010?fingerprint=ppb20260415043634" alt="60 Minute Online Workshops for Families from Safer Schools Together &amp; ERASE1 Hattie Darney" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Cariboo Chilcotin School District is pleased to introduce the Super Attendance Recognition Program, a new initiative that celebrates student effort and acknowledges the vital role families play in supporting regular school attendance.</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Being present at school supports learning, well-being, and a strong sense of belonging. Each day helps students build relationships, establish routines, and engage fully in the experiences that support their growth and success. For this reason, attendance is a key focus for the District.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recognizing Effort, Progress, and Commitment</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The program is designed to recognize attendance in meaningful and encouraging ways. Each month, students will be celebrated if they meet one or more of the following criteria during the previous month:</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Achieve 90% or greater attendance for the month</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Improve attendance by 10% or more compared to the previous month</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Maintain 90% or greater attendance year to date</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students who meet any of these milestones will receive a certificate recognizing their effort and commitment to being present at school.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Monthly and Year-End Draws</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From all eligible students across the three categories, one student will be selected each month to receive a family-focused gift. In February, for example, prizes included $100 grocery gift certificates. Students eligible for monthly recognition are also automatically entered into a grand year-end draw, offering another opportunity for families to be recognized and celebrated.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A Shared Responsibility</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This program is not about perfect attendance. It is about recognizing effort, growth, and partnership. By celebrating attendance, the District aims to strengthen connections between students, families, and schools while encouraging positive habits that support learning and well-being.</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families with questions are encouraged to contact their school for more information.</span></p><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/2d62853f-523f-46df-a515-ab88c619d04f?fingerprint=ppb20260412023642" alt="C Lenardon Attendance 1 cheryl lenardon" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d8d1e0d4-9305-44c1-a9fe-6843de65de65?fingerprint=ppb20260412023645" alt="Clenardon Attendance 2 cheryl lenardon" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Through targeted Indigenous Education funding, our school has expanded its classroom and school library collections with high-quality Indigenous texts and resources. These books reflect the voices, histories, and lived experiences of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples and are accessible to students across grade levels. This growing collection supports literacy development while strengthening connections to Indigenous knowledge.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/bb4a7e6a-1ee0-4da2-9f26-e69ed925ddb4?fingerprint=ppb20260216200353" alt="Inclusive library kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/39b0432f-88a7-4d46-8c0f-f3c02f986b37?fingerprint=ppb20260216200353" alt="inclusive library 2 kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At Tatla Lake Elementary &amp; Jr. Secondary School, building a safe, caring, and inclusive learning community means creating opportunities for students of all ages to feel connected, valued, and engaged. One way we are doing this is through our monthly School Spirit Days, planned and led by our senior students.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">These events give our senior students a meaningful platform to demonstrate leadership, take ownership of school-wide initiatives, and act as positive role models. They collaborate to plan and organize activities, and ensure that every student—from our youngest learners to our oldest—feels welcome and included.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">So far this year, our Spirit Days have included a movie afternoon and a games afternoon. The excitement continues to grow as we prepare for our next event: a hands-on Lego STEM challenge designed to bring students together through problem-solving and teamwork.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">These monthly events are fostering a strong sense of belonging, empowering our senior students, and contributing to an inclusive school culture.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/2ab1c10a-6e6c-4823-8946-f4343354410f?fingerprint=ppb20260122010410" alt="School Spirit Days kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b649ce78-63f2-46c4-84a0-a7baf5523244?fingerprint=ppb20260122010409" alt="School Spirit Days 2 kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Today educators in a variety of roles and responsibilities within the school setting came together to train or re-train on non-violent crisis intervention strategies with district principal Kristina Beaulne. The verbal and non-verbal behaviours, actions and strategies that educators use can have a profound de-escalating effect with youth and with grown-ups in our learning communities. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this learning round today.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b92c04fb-4915-4e59-bd6c-12396a44229e?fingerprint=ppb20251217035632" alt="Non violent Crisis Intervention Training1 holly zurak" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/43f81bc7-7a97-49b2-8814-9de760f68238?fingerprint=ppb20251217033943" alt="Non violent Crisis Intervention Training2 holly zurak" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At Tatla Lake School, we believe in fostering inclusive learning communities that welcome and support learners of all ages. Each week, we host our Ready, Set, Learn playgroup for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers. This free, drop-in program provides a warm and welcoming space for early learners to explore, play, and grow together.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Through play-based activities, children develop early social, emotional, and physical skills while caregivers build connections with one another. One of the highlights each week is our gym time, where little ones have the opportunity to run, jump, explore movement, and build confidence in a fun and supportive environment.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cariboo Chilcotin School District is proud to offer early learning spaces where families can gather, relationships are strengthened, and our youngest community members are supported as they begin their lifelong learning journey.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/9ae019ee-4df1-4367-810c-62c03d8c089e?fingerprint=ppb20260211002800" alt="Ready Set Learn 2 kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/7a85005f-2cc4-4b4c-9d01-3493a64e08ca?fingerprint=ppb20260211002800" alt="Ready Set Learn kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our K–11 students recently teamed up to play a Code of Conduct themed Kahoot. The activity helped students review their rights, responsibilities, and expectations in a fun and engaging way.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Together, we reinforced that everyone has the right to be safe at school, and the shared responsibility to act respectfully, participate safely, and help create a positive learning environment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f31f6fe2-e5a8-4709-b5d4-5ab0c1dd8547?fingerprint=ppb20251217040525" alt="Screenshot 13 9 2025 152711 play" width="557" height="289" style="width:557px;height:289px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tatla Lake School recently participated in a virtual author visit with Peter H. Reynolds. This special event marked the culmination of our involvement in the Indigo Empathy Library Program.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Throughout the program, students explored the theme of empathy—learning how to recognize the feelings of others, care for themselves, and build positive relationships. Peter Reynolds, author of books like The Dot and Say Something, shared stories that inspire kindness, creativity, and connection. He reminded us that “together is better” and encouraged students to use their voices to make a difference.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This experience supported our ongoing efforts to foster a school environment where every student feels seen, valued, and included.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/ba615efd-4c5a-401e-8cf5-09e630d4a3fc?fingerprint=ppb20260208052740" alt="Empathy Library Peter Reynolds 1 kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a08f970a-50b3-447e-9cb0-825180445d5c?fingerprint=ppb20260208052740" alt="Empathy Library Peter Reynolds kimberley ikebuchi" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ADST (Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies) activities in schools foster meaningful engagement in learning by encouraging creative, hands-on experiences. Students are challenged to think critically and solve problems creatively. They learn how to approach challenges, iterate solutions, and persist through difficulties, fostering resilience and independence. The ADST kids provided by SD27 Career Education Department are a great resource for teachers and the students thoroughly enjoy the projects! Tatla Lake students are currently learning about carpentry and making nail art.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/a5b84cef-fd2f-5ebd-80d5-3526b3cf3dff?fingerprint=ppb20251217035221" alt="7qavkdxj.jpg" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/b66410ed-20e8-58cb-b752-f402dd828315?fingerprint=ppb20251217035619" alt="ve5k5i3g.jpg" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p></div></div>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our grade 5-7 students recently participated in an ERASE (Expect Respect &amp; A Safe Education) online session. The session provided students with essential tools to recognize, report, and prevent bullying, discrimination, and harassment online. ERASE is a valuable resource for students, adults, and school staff, all working together to make our school a place where everyone feels valued and supported.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/0f80735e-d734-5666-8b0f-2b2c6124d786?fingerprint=ppb20251217033715" alt="eom1evic.jpg" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></div></div>