North Vancouver School District Community Report 2023

community report 2023

Eastview Elementary Teacher Melissa Baker captured Grade 6 students observing wildlife as part of the Cheakamus Centre Outdoor School Program experience.

VISION STRATEGIC GOALS

We provide world-class instruction and a rich diversity of engaging programs to inspire success for every student and bring communities together to learn, share and grow.

VALUES

TRUST We act with integrity. We are open and honest in our communication with one another.

RESPECT We relate to each other with care and appreciation. We honour diversity and recognize the exceptional in everyone.

RESPONSIBILITY We are accountable for our actions. We support positive change, continuous improvement and the pursuit of excellence.

COLLABORATION We develop relationships and affiliations to achieve shared goals and consider each other in our decisions and actions.

• Student-Centred Education: Provide equity-based education that supports the learning needs of all students.

• Innovative Instruction: Enhance innovative and effective approaches and curriculum to develop educated citizens.

• Welcoming and Inclusive Culture: Enhance our welcoming, safe and inclusive culture and learning environment.

• Mental Health and Well-Being: Promote mental health and well-being through social emotional learning and trauma-informed practices.

• Truth, Healing and Reconciliation: Champion truth, healing and reconciliation, and embed Indigenous ways of knowing.

• Environmental Stewardship: Lead on sustainable practices and nature-based learning to address environmental challenges.

Windsor Dukes clinch victory in AA junior football BC final. PHOTO NICK LABA

Principal Rick Chan was a finalist in the Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education, School Leadership category.

Students at Capilano Elementary enjoy coming together in multi-age groups each month to do different activities.

Teacher Meera Shah (L) and District Principal of Curriculum and Assessment Sandra Singh (R) celebrate Diwali at Braemar Elementary.

A beautiful art installation by Sutherland Secondary’s Ms. Dokhani and senior art students.

Message from the Chair and Superintendent

The North Vancouver School District would like to thank the Coast Salish people, specifically the Sḵwxwú7mesh Nation and Tsleil-Waututh Nation, upon whose unceded traditional territory the school district resides. We value the opportunity to learn, share and grow on this traditional territory.

Vancouver Board of Education

Dear Community Members,

On behalf of the North Vancouver School District and Board of Education, we are proud to share this year's Community Report.

Published each spring, the Community Report provides snapshots of the outstanding work happening across the school district. Collectively, the stories told in this school year's Community Report give reason to pause and reflect on all that is possible when people – students, educators, staff, families, Indigenous rights holders, education partner groups, and the wider North Vancouver community – come together to create connections, foster curiosity and build a community of learners.

This school year, we have focussed on reconnection and creating space for events, ceremonies and initiatives that reunite the community.

The stories highlighted within this report exemplify what makes NVSD schools vibrant learning communities. We invite you to visit the Learn, Share & Grow blog, where you will find more learning stories as they are added throughout the year—be sure to visit the website often at www.sd44.ca

Thank you for your interest in the teaching and learning across the school district and for your ongoing support of the K-12 public education system in North Vancouver.

KULVIR

CHAIR NORTH VANCOUVER BOARD OF EDUCATION

SUPERINTENDENT

KULVIR MANN

BACK ROW (L TO R): George Tsiakos, Daniel Anderson, Antje Wilson FRONT ROW (L TO R): Linda Munro, Leilani Tumaneng, Cyndi Gerlach, Kulvir Mann

DR. PIUS RYAN

MANN

DR. PIUS RYAN

NORTH VANCOUVER SCHOOL DISTRICT

National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated at the Education Services Centre.

North

CONNECTION

Ridgeway’s Project of Heart

BY LISA DALLA VECCHIA COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Project of Heart is an inquirybased, hands-on, collaborative, intergenerational, artistic journey of seeking truth about the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Teacher Sarah Mazzei was keen to launch Project of Heart with students and staff on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. “A lot more people know the truth now, but this is going beyond education about residential schools and their legacy,” explained Sarah. “This is about taking physical action and doing something concrete that will provide others an opportunity to continue talking about the true history of Canada.”

Sarah and Education Assistant Gail Baker, together with the administration team of Jillian Gordon and Dean Yeo, shared the

idea with the Ridgeway Indigenous Education team who were enthusiastic to make it happen. Every Ridgeway student learned about residential schools and their legacy on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. After a gradeappropriate classroom discussion, each student was given a wooden tile to work on.

Each student contributed a finished tile, whether it was a student in Kindergarten colouring a tile orange or a student in Grade 6 or 7 focusing on an image or a word that symbolized reconciliation for them. “It was like taking all our hopes for reconciliation and bringing them together into one piece of art, a conversation starter,” Sarah shared.

Once all the tiles were completed, Teacher Janae Chiu made the circular wood frame and thoughtfully

placed the tiles along the frame, bringing the project to life.

Carpenter Ross Davidson then made the frame that would support the art and plexiglass cover and allow it to

be hung in a prominent place in the school.

“Each year, we want to push forward and do a little more for reconciliation,“ said Sarah. ■

Sparking inclusion – A custom welding bench for Argyle students

BY SEASPAN VANCOUVER SHIPYARDS

Employees from Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards made a special delivery of a custom-built, wheelchair-accessible welding bench to Argyle Secondary. Argyle offers a unique range of skills-based courses and work experience options, including metalworking and the Youth Work in Trades program. The program, a part of SkilledTradesBC (formerly Industry Training Authority), allows students in Grades 10-12 to earn a paycheque, high school credits and training hours that go towards their trade credentials.

The welding booths in Argyle’s metalworking shop posed a challenge for a student, and the school was working on a solution to make the space accessible for this student and future students with disabilities.

“When I had a Grade 8 student who uses a wheelchair express interest in signing up for metalworking, we were struggling to find a way to make the area more accessible,“

said Ryan Edgar, metalworking teacher. “When Seaspan heard about our situation, they offered to custom build a solution.”

A team of volunteers spent 15 hours

fabricating a bench that allows a wheelchair to roll under it, enabling users to weld from a seated position. The result was a custom-built welding bench that could be integrated into the school’s metalworking shop to allow students to fully participate in welding activities.

“Everyone deserves a chance to learn a new skill and be supported by their community,” said Vancouver Shipyard’s Trades Workforce Development Supervisor Steve Wingate. “The skilled trades community is always looking for ways we can spark a young person’s interest in a career in the trades, and I’m so proud our team was able to make this happen.”

“We’re grateful Seaspan was able to make this contribution and make our metalworking course more accessible for students,” added Edgar. “It’s important all students have access to try out these trades courses.” ■

BY NICKY MEY VICE PRINCIPAL

At Eastview Elementary, we are passionate about embedding equity and diversity into our daily school lives.

The children from our Grade 2/3 classes celebrated Black History Month with a focus on identity and The Colors of Us, by Karen Katz. Together, we read a beautifully descriptive story that used all sorts of kitchen spices and foods to describe the colour of our skin. Students then chose their favourite descriptor of their colour and combined it with a unique art project to represent self and other. This same group of students also highlighted the lives of exceptional people of colour. Throughout the month, as students lined up to complete their daily hand washing,

they accessed the stories and incredible histories of Black lives on our Black History Month storyboard.

Grade 1 students in Ms. Barreca’s/ Mrs. Thomson’s class celebrated the colour of their skin with beautiful

Black History Month at Eastview Elementary Teacher applauds philanthropic students

BY MINA KERR-LAZENBY NORTH SHORE NEWS

Marta Orellana, a French Immersion Grade 5 and 6 teacher at Dorothy Lynas, is singing the praises of her class after they conceptualised and carried out their own successful charity event – raising over $600 for the North Shore Youths Safe House.

The group made reindeer hot cocoa bags in class, made announcements and posters to spread awareness of their endeavour, and then sold the festive creations out of their classroom.

They spent the funds raised on essentials including new pyjamas, socks, underwear, hats, hygiene products and snacks for the youth shelter, with students’ families also donating gifts.

“We reached out to our community and the students’ enthusiasm was contagious, so many businesses jumped on board to be a part of the giving,” said Orellana.

“The class mobilized and inspired an entire community to support these teens in a tough place.”

Orellana said Paul Butler, the director of Safe House, had provided the students with a wish

poems and illustrations. Student Eleni summarized the learning taking place best when she said, "No matter who you are or if someone is different than you, everyone in the whole world should feel proud and included!" ■

School district and City Fire launch

CPR-C pilot program

BY LISA DALLA VECCHIA COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Over the course of a few weeks, 50+ Grade 10 students from Carson Graham Secondary and Sutherland Secondary participated in the CPR-C pilot program.

North Vancouver City Fire Department (NVCFD) first responders visited each school, spending six hours with students, covering topics such as CPR, choking, opioid recovery and deadly bleeds.

list but was brought to tears when he picked up the haul of Christmas gifts.

“It was the most heartwarming gift we could have received, giving to others,” he said. ■

“We appreciate first responders teaching students the importance of assessing the hazards of an incident, how to use lifesaving equipment, and the steps involved in reporting to an emergency dispatcher,” said Carson Graham Teacher Darren Wong.

“It was an engaging way to learn,” shared one student. Another said, “Instructors were personable and relatable.”

Upon completion of the pilot program, students received a certificate of completion.

Assistant Fire Chief Mike Danks said, “Our team really enjoyed being back in schools, sharing our knowledge and experience with students. Public education and safety are important components of our work, and it was nice to see that come together for this pilot program.”

Both the NVCFD and school district look forward to continuing this learning experience and expanding the pilot program. As District Career Coordinator Jennifer Kinakin shared, “CPR-C is a great example of community and career connections. This experience has been a nice addition to our career education offerings.” ■

Happy Pride Month!

BY MJ SORBA TEACHER

Representation matters, and Queen Mary’s Social Diversity Club is committed to uplifting and celebrating Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (2SLGBTQ+) identities all year, and especially during the month of June.

Despite restrictions at the start of the year due to COVID-19, students were determined to organize the school’s first Pride Week.

Organized by Grade 7 student Katie, the Kick Off to Pride Week event welcomed the North Shore Pride Alliance and Mayor of the City of North Vancouver Linda Buchanan.

Members of the North Shore Pride Alliance spoke of acceptance, being your true self, homophobia, and 2SLGBTQ+ activism to intermediate students, and read books about

diversity and inclusion to students in Grades 1 and 2. Kindergarten students had the opportunity to mingle and ask questions to Drag Queen Jaylene Tyme.

In addition to the Kick Off event, the Social Diversity Club revealed plans to install a rainbow 4-square on the basketball court, thanks to a grant provided by the United Way.

Throughout the week, members of our social justice action club used their platform to create PowerPoints to share the history of Pride and how to be an ally with members of the school community. They also hosted a Just Dance Pride Party and encouraged peers to create a superhero identity that reflected their unique strengths and gifts.

We would like to thank the City of North Vancouver for supporting our efforts to enrich the Queen Mary community through the Youth

Truth and Reconciliation Week

BY CINDY HUDSON PRINCIPAL

Lynnmour/Xá7elcha students and staff are committed to listening, learning, teaching, and sharing the

full authentic history of the Indian residential school system in Canada.

Over the course of Truth and Reconciliation Week, all classes participated in age-appropriate

Initiative grant. Beyond Pride Week, the grant provided students in the club an opportunity to participate in an anti-racism activist workshop

and select 20 new books about inclusion and diversity for the school library, and also helped to fund an Indigenous art installation. ■

learning inside and outside the classroom (highlights follow).

Intermediate classes travelled to UBC for stops at the Reconciliation Pole and Museum of Anthropology. Students learned about the carving of the pole, the sharing that occurred when the pole was raised, and the traditional territory of the Musqueam, Sḵwxwú7mesh and Tsleil-Waututh peoples.

At school, story was used to help students gain new understandings about what residential schools were and the impact they had and continue to have.

One class read and discussed Shishi-etko by Nicola Campbell. The story is about a young girl who on her way to school, collects items from around her community so she does not forget all the wonderful pieces of home. Following the reading and discussion, students created memory bags and added

items from our natural surroundings to hold as memories.

Using a variety of resources, including The Orange Shirt Story by Phyllis Webstad, Stolen Words by Melanie Florence, and Amik Loves School by Katherena Vermette, primary students explored a variety of thoughts and feelings to understand what a child their age may have felt like being taken from their family.

To end the week, Division 2 students led the school in a powerful assembly to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day). Student leaders shared descriptions of what residential schools were and what students experienced when they attended. An important take away was, “The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not a celebratory holiday, but a day to remember, acknowledge, listen, and learn.” ■

Dogs are motivating North Van kids to come to school

BY NICK LABA NORTH SHORE NEWS

One day, a student at Mountainside Secondary went to the counsellor’s office when he was feeling low. Dervish, the certified assistance dog, seemed to understand this.

"He came on the couch and rested his head in my arm, fell asleep,” the student said. “That really helped me calm down.”

Other kids share the same sentiment. Walking through the halls, students naturally come to greet and pat Dervish. Some call him a “good vibes dog.”

Attendance enforced by mainstream schools can be a barrier for some students, and isn’t required of the roughly 120 kids at Mountainside.

While social pressures and a structured learning environment

can be deterrents, dogs are often a reason to go.

Most canines can be a comforting presence, but Dervish belongs to a relatively new class of service dogs trained to be a support in schools or other settings where multiple people require care.

Dervish has been trained by Pacific Assistance Dogs Society to help children with extra support needs in schools.

While he’s attentive and quickly obeys a number of commands, Dervish’s core skill set involves self-control and his ability to connect with students.

“He provides an opportunity for students to feel safe, calm and grounded, in terms of just being close to him,” said Mary Sparks, a counsellor at Mountainside.

Sparks applied to receive a facility dog a few years ago, after hearing

Stream of Dreams project

BY LAUREN VANDERHAM TEACHER

“Learning ultimately supports the well-being of the self, the family, the community, the land, the spirits,

and the ancestors.” (First Peoples Principles of Learning, FNESC).

Female salmon lay thousands of eggs. Currently, less than one percent of those eggs survive to

about them through a colleague. After sitting on a waiting list, she began training with Dervish last December before he fully moved in with her in January.

“He has lots of fun,” she said. “He

the next generation (Pacific Salmon Foundation, 2022).

We want this knowledge to be a part of the classroom and community dialogue. At Seymour Heights Elementary, we understand how fundamental salmon are within the environment. We also understand we have the power to create change.

Through the teachings of Tchilaqs7Tchila (Gordon Dick), his son Gordie, and Swalklanexw (Dallas Guss), and using art and story, students explored the integral role of salmon within Coast Salish culture. After learning about salmon in the past and present, students and staff engaged in the Stream of Dreams Fish on Fences project.

This experience allowed students to expand their knowledge of local salmon and watersheds from field experts, as well as create a collaborative mural on the school grounds.

We believe the salmon on Seymour

supports me too [by] grounding me. He gets me outside, taking a break. Or I walk with kids outside, and then I'm moving myself so I probably am healthier for him –physically healthier and [mentally].” ■

Heights’ fence represent connection, resiliency, and hope for a better future. They also represent community, and that we need each other to succeed.

We anticipate the art will inspire others to learn more about the importance of salmon, resulting in small- and large-scale change.

The First Peoples Principles of Learning helped shape our experience, as we were reminded that the benefits of engaging in such a process does not solely affect one component. Indeed, by supporting salmon, we are sure to see growth within ourselves, community, and the interconnectedness of the land.

We hold our hands up in appreciation to the Pacific Salmon Foundation and Stream of Dreams Foundation for their support and guidance with this project. ■

* Written on behalf of the Seymour Heights Indigenous Education Committee.

A student at Mountainside has formed a bond with Dervish.

PHOTO

NICK LABA

Seycove at sə́yəmətən

BY NVSD COMMUNICATIONS

June 2022 – Seycove Secondary was gifted the name, Seycove at sə́yəmətən by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation (TWN). The English phonetic pronunciation of sə́yəmətən is ‘say-əm-me-ton.’

The naming process began in 2021, when retired Principal Rob McLeod and Indigenous Support Teacher

Andrea Yeo met with TWN Director of Treaty Land and Resources

Gabriel George and Cultural Program Manager William George Thomas.

TWN Council felt Seycove at sə́yəmətən was best suited for the school. In the hənqəminəm language, sə́yəmətən is the name of the original Indigenous village at Strathcona and means a place of good water Strathcona provided shelter and solace during rough water events for the TWN when they travelled through Indian Arm.

At a traditional ceremony, hosted at the school and which included TWN Council members, school district administrators, and Seycove students and staff, Gabriel explained how language was developed and how they are now in the process of revitalizing language and bringing it back to the land.

Hənqəminəm is spoken by many Coast Salish Nations, but there are different dialects. When language was developed, it was formed and influenced by the geography of place. Elements including elevation, proximity to water, and living in a valley or on the plains shaped vocal cords and allowed for different sounds to be made and enunciated.  Today, language is used to help undo trauma. “Today is healing,” said Gabriel. “Any little piece of language adds to the whole.”

Gabriel also shared how those present at the ceremony were

witnesses, and how being a witness came with the responsibility to take what they had learned, commit it to memory and do the work that helps in healing.

Teachers honoured in blanketing ceremony

BY MINA KERR-LAZENBY NORTH SHORE NEWS

Teachers implementing the rollout of Indigenous courses have had their efforts acknowledged by being honoured in a blanketing ceremony.

“On behalf of Tsleil-Waututh Nation Chief and Council, I hold my hands up to the North Vancouver School District for championing reconciliation, and for strengthening the foundation of Indigenous teachings and learning with students,” Tsleil-Waututh Nation Councillor Dennis Thomas said.

Sutherland Secondary Teacher

Jennifer Kwong said it was a very rare opportunity for “settler folk” to not only witness a blanketing ceremony, but to be honoured in that way. “It’s very empowering for teachers to have that.”

Kwong has been working alongside Rose Greene, District Principal,

Indigenous Education and Equity, to gain a better grasp of the Indigenous worldview, learn the curriculum and understand the best way to approach in a teaching environment.

Greene said Kwong was one of “many teachers” who answered the

call to lead the new courses, which began in September.

Greene said the dozen-strong group have begun teaching with “a good mind and a good heart” and have been working since May to learn, and create curriculum alongside

“It is a privilege to work alongside Tsleil-Waututh Nation,” said Principal Sarah Best. “We are honoured to be gifted this Indigenous name for our school.” ■

the local Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and educators. “All students deserve to learn the authentic true histories of the lands they live, learn and play.”

Keeping in line with the new graduate requirement that all secondary students must complete Indigenous-focused coursework before graduating from Grade 12, Kwong said the lessons focus on social studies from an Indigenous worldview, literature from Indigenous authors and poets, and history from the perspective of oral culture.

While initially nervous for what reaction would be from parents, Kwong said the response has been “very, very positive” and she has received ample support from families.

“They realize they are getting to do something that should have been done a very long time ago.” ■

Tsleil-Waututh Nation members, students, staff and school district representatives gather at a traditional ceremony.

PHOTO NORTH VANCOUVER SCHOOL DISTRICT

Cove Cliff: Together IS better Known To Us – A student exhibition

BY DAYLEN LUCHSINGER DISTRICT VICE PRINCIPAL, ARTS EDUCATION

Students from the Artists for Kids (AFK) Studio Art Academy had the opportunity to work with Lacey Jane Wilburn, Canadian contemporary painter, to create a collection of paintings.

Over the course of three days, which included a studio visit, students worked closely with Wilburn, asking questions, receiving feedback, and developing skills working with oil paints as a medium.

This experience afforded students the opportunity to work with a professional artist and develop a significant piece for their own portfolios. The AFK Studio Art Academy is proud to provide learning and development experiences for students and facilitate students showcasing their considerable talents to the wider community. ■

BY ERIN VANDEKERKHOVE PRINCIPAL

At Cove Cliff, we regularly come together as a school community to celebrate kindness, being helpful, and being safe.

We keep track of our good actions using a Gotcha board that is displayed on the bulletin board across from the school’s office. When the board is full, students earn a reward.

Rewards earned so far this school

year include an extra recess, and most recently, an amazingly delicious popcorn day.

After collectively filling the Gotcha board, each student was rewarded with an individual bag of freshly popped popcorn, prepared by the office staff and Grade 7 helpers.

Great job Cove Cliff! Keep up the important work of taking care of ourselves, each other, and our place – Cove Cliff Elementary. Together really is better. ■

While working with Wilburn, students were encouraged to create portraits of people in their lives. By painting portraits of those with whom they are familiar, students learned how to capture the physical form of loved ones and about the emotional depth and significance that such a person holds for them.

The finished paintings were first displayed at Griffin Art Projects. The work then became part of the students’ exhibition housed at the Gordon Smith Gallery, located at the Education Services Centre.

Sherwood Park hosts a community potlatch

BY MEGAN WHEATLEY PRINCIPAL

To celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day, Sherwood Park held an outdoor assembly followed by a school-wide potlatch.

The assembly included singing, dancing and drumming and featured students who spoke about National Indigenous Peoples Day and the potlatch.

To further support the school community’s learning, during the assembly, Teacher Librarian Ms. Laursen read the story A Kwakwaka’wakw Potlach by Sally Williams.

The story is centred on the importance of the potlatch. The word potlatch means “to give.” It is a traditional Indigenous gathering where community members come together to learn and practice their culture.

Some of the ceremonies that may be performed at a potlatch include celebrations of life, naming of children, passing on of dances, and marriage.

A potlatch is a time for family members to share their sacred treasure box of songs, stories, dances, regalia, and other sacred items. Like any celebration, the sharing of food is integral, as it is

through the sharing of food that we connect with one another.

Student Nate portrays a pensive moment in a selfportrait.

At Sherwood Park, the potlach took place over the lunch hour on the school field. Students brought nutritious lunches packed at home, but ate together as a community. As part of the potlatch, families were asked to include a traditional Indigenous food(s) in their children’s lunch, including dried seaweed, salmon, berries, tuna, buns with jam (in place of bannock or fry bread) and/or any kind of wild game.

Indigenous Support Worker  Q'puts (Henry Schooner) and students gather to celebrate the potlatch.

The Sherwood Park community participated in the shared experience of eating together, and in doing so, strengthened its sense of belonging and community and understanding of Indigenous culture. ■

Queensbury’s season of caring and giving

BY KELLY LA ROUE PRINCIPAL

Prior to the Winter Break, and amid the hustle of the holiday season, Queensbury students and staff were keen to spread holiday cheer and joy for others.

Led by Teachers Maisie Harrison and Jason Bott and their Grade 6/7 classes, every Queensbury class enthusiastically participated in Project Backpack.

Project Backpack is a communitybased campaign that facilitates the efforts of organizations, including schools, who would like to make a difference in the lives of youth who are experiencing homelessness.

Students were tasked with collecting a variety of comfort items, including toiletries, snacks and clothing. In total, 35 backpacks were filled to be distributed to vulnerable youth living on the Downtown Eastside.

Jason Bott shared, “It truly was a joyful experience to see both the school community come together and Grade 6/7 students prepare the bags to be delivered to those in need.”

In addition, Grade 2/3 students in Bev Grantham’s class, who recently learned to crochet, generously and eagerly made toques to donate. The beaming smiles on students’ faces was something to see!

The Queensbury community didn’t stop there…collecting and donating 120+ boxes of cereal to the North Shore’s Harvest Project. It really was a lovely December of caring and giving. ■

Climate Action and Sustainability Week

environmental non-profits and representatives from local, regional and provincial governments.

Ocean Wise took students on an immersive ocean adventure inside their Sea Dome, with 360-degree cinematic footage highlighting the connections among ocean health, climate change and daily life.

The fair included two film screenings: The Heart of the Fraser, accompanied by a presentation from Executive Producer Ken Ashley; and What about our Future?, a short film chronicling the Sustainabiliteens, a group of young environmental activists who organized the largest protest in Vancouver's history.

Celebrating Lunar New Year

BY JOANNA LANE VICE PRINCIPAL

To mark Lunar New Year at Seymour Heights Elementary, I wanted to work with a student to create a presentation that was both informative and personal.

After receiving an enthusiastic reply from Grade 6 student Nichole Skelton, and support from her parents, we worked together, bringing together photos and stories, including examples of how our families celebrate Lunar New Year. We co-presented to all classes, with Nichole explaining that 2023 was the Year of the Rabbit, and sharing traits and qualities of the rabbit, some of which include having a soft and calm personality.

Both Nichole and I shared some of our traditions, including giving and receiving red envelopes, spending time with family, going to dim sum in the morning, and watching the parade.

There were a number of students who also celebrate Lunar New Year who really connected with the stories we shared.

At the end of each presentation, we surprised everyone with Chinese Good Luck Candy! ■

BY LUKE SMEATON MANAGER OF ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY

The school district’s first Climate Action and Sustainability Week was a great success, with thousands of students engaging in conversations about environmental issues and taking action in our community.

We are incredibly grateful for the support from students and staff, and to participating organizations,

including partners Ocean Wise and The Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup, for their valuable contributions.

Climate Action and Sustainability Week kicked off with a series of short videos, followed by a virtual exhibition of the entries in the Take Action Art Contest.

Mid-week, the BeAware Fair at Carson Graham Secondary gave students a chance to learn from

The week concluded with the NVSD Community Cleanup. We had an amazing turnout on a beautiful day with over 4,000 students from 20 schools participating. A huge thanks to all the staff champions and volunteers who stepped up to lead and support the cleanups across the school district.

Activities highlighted the many forms climate action can take. Let's keep the momentum going: What action can you commit to? ■

Student Nichole presents to the class.

Students participate in the Community Cleanup.

Artful doors welcome all to Cheakamus

BY CATHY JENKINS PROJECT MANAGER, CAMPUS RENEWAL

September 2022 – Cheakamus

Centre was treated to a celebration with friends from the Sḵwxwú7mesh Nation, Aboriginal Housing Management Association, and BCIT’s School of Construction and the Environment.

The celebration marked the conclusion of Building a Greener Future Together, a pilot project that saw the transformation of Cabin #4 into a model for energy efficiency, while empowering and creating green career pathways for Indigenous women and 2SLGBTTQQIA+ people.

Coast Salish Artist Sinámkin (Jody Broomfield) used the original cedar cabin doors as his canvas. “These doors honour and uphold our two-spirited friends and relatives,” explained Sinámkin. “I colour blended all the colours of the

2SLGBTQ+ flag as the background, with a reflection of the spirit of the eagle, which represents being proud of who you are and letting your spirit soar. At the top and bottom are the watchful eyes of the Ancestors."

As part of the ceremony, the doors and artist were brushed with cedar boughs that had been dipped in

stream water, while a traditional song was performed. Sinámkin shared that this protocol ceremony work gives back the part of himself he had put into the creation of the artwork, allowing him to move on to other creations.

The speaker for the ceremony was Sempúlyan. The ceremony included

a lesson on the name Cheakamus, an Anglicization of Chʼiyáḵmesh ("people of the fish weir") the original village site. Aaron Williams led the traditional drumming and singing.

In accordance with Coast Salish protocol, blankets and headbands were wrapped to cover the hearts and minds of participants. Sempúlyan called four witnesses to be responsible for holding and sharing knowledge about the ceremony moving forward.

The Cabin #4 doors are a celebration of the many ways in which diversity is expressed throughout the North Vancouver School District. They are a beautiful symbol of the welcoming doors at Cheakamus Centre, where staff strive to ensure all who visit feel safe, accepted, included and respected.

The artful doors were generously funded through the Grand Challenges Canada Indigenous Innovation Initiative’s Gender Equality and BC Multiculturalism Grant programs. ■

Supporting schools to integrate Indigenous plant knowledge

BY LUKE SMEATON MANAGER OF ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY

AND MERYN CORKERY

VANCOUVER AREA COMMUNITY

ANIMATOR, FARM TO SCHOOL BC

The Coast Salish Gardens Program seeks to bring native plant and traditional food knowledge into the minds, hearts, and bellies of children and youth by developing native plant gardens and outdoor spaces on school grounds.

In early 2022, Farm to School BC and the Coast Salish Native Plant Nursery at Maplewood Flats collaborated to support six North Vancouver schools develop garden spaces and develop curriculum material to encourage their use as teaching tools.

Participating schools included Norgate Xwemélch'stn Community

Elementary, Sherwood Park Elementary, Carson Graham Secondary and Windsor Secondary, as well as Tsleil-Waututh Nation siʔáḿθɘt School and Capilano Littlest Ones School - Xwemélch'stn Etsimxwawtxw.

Each school developed its own approach, with many creating or adding to native plant gardens, growing food to gift to community members, learning more about traditional and contemporary uses of native plants, and connecting to the land around their school.

The program aims to go beyond simply building gardens, by providing professional development opportunities for staff and building connections between educators and community partners.

As the program continues, participants will work towards

Windsor students make seed nuggets using a wildflower blend that features native plants.

developing native plant profiles and signage featuring Sḵwxwú7mesh sníchim and hənqəminəm, as well as an online ethnobotany resource hub for schools.

The Coast Salish Gardens Program is a partnership between Farm to

School BC (administered by Public Health Association of BC) and Maplewood Flats (an initiative of the Wild Bird Trust of BC). The project is supported by the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Vancity, and the TD Friends of the Environment Fund. ■

Cleveland Elementary –Exploring and learning together

BY TINE PARKER VICE PRINCIPAL

Cleveland Elementary is a thriving community, with students and staff engaged in learning and exploring together.

From the salmon project, where we have three tanks of salmonids in the school, to working in the Capilano River to learn about the rock cycle, rock classification and building inukshuks, we have been focussing on learning through the lens of environmental stewardship and Indigenous worldviews.

Students care about their local community. They keep surrounding areas clean and safe while

learning how nature works to help us breath, exercise and relax.

Cleveland hosted our own 2022 Winter Olympics! Classes competed in seven sports, including curling, sled hockey, biathlon, cross-country skiing, hockey and aerial skiing. The Grade 7s organized an opening ceremony, which included a torch relay and taking an oath. It was a wonderful experience. All students were involved and have asked for a summer Olympic event!

The sense of community is strong at Cleveland, and we look forward to providing students and staff with opportunities to learn and grow together in new and fun ways. ■

Windsor student awarded largest Canadian STEM scholarship

BY LISA DALLA VECCHIA COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Congratulations to Iliana Hodgins, one of 100 students who enrolled in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) undergraduate program at 20 partner universities in Canada to receive a $100,000 Schulich Leader Scholarship.

A Windsor Secondary graduate, and the first Windsor student to win a Schulich Leader Scholarship, Iliana entered the Biomedical Engineering program at the University of Calgary fall 2022.

Iliana was selected by Windsor’s scholarship committee for her outstanding academic, leadership, athletic, citizenship and service achievements and contributions to the school community.

she could help a group realize its potential.”

Students engaged in cross-curricular learning with math (shapes), science (rock cycle and balance), socials (inukshuk) and physical and health education (hiking in the forest).

Eugene Minn, nominator and teacher shared, “Iliana's greatest ability was how she helped everyone around her perform to their fullest potential. Whether as the supportive and caring student in the classroom who always helped others in need, or as the volleyball team's starting setter, she always enthusiastically took on any leadership role where

Identity Impressions – A Grade 3 art exhibition

BY GLENDA ROBERTSON PRINCIPAL

Grade 3 students at Norgate Xwemélch’stn presented their art exhibition, Identity Impressions, to their Grade 7 buddies and to their families.

Through their “How We Express Ourselves” unit of inquiry, students developed their understanding related to the central idea, “We can express aspects of our identity through a variety of art forms.”

During the unit of inquiry, they built and showed their understanding of the concept of identity by developing Pieces of Me visuals to represent the multiple facets of who they are.

By reading stories that included different personal features, cultural facts, ethnic characters and life stories, students were encouraged to theorize as to what aspect(s) of identity authors shared through their own stories.

Students also explored how visual artists share aspects of their

personal identity through artwork, as well as the varied ways people express and share aspects of their identify.

To demonstrate their overall understanding of the lines of inquiry and central idea, students created a piece(s) to share a personal story of who they are with the broader school community.

Their gallery presentation was a huge success, and their artwork has now become a special installation in the school’s front entry display case.

Iliana acknowledged how fortunate she has been, since her years at Sherwood Park Elementary, to be guided by many community members, and thanked “my family, as well as each teacher, coach, and mentor for pushing me to my full potential.”

Iliana’s post-secondary goals include using her “post-secondary education to positively impact society through innovation and entrepreneurship, and specifically in the area of AI neural interface technology.” ■

This unit of inquiry helped students understand they are artists who can express themselves and share their identity with the broader community and world. ■

Outdoor Safety and Emergency Preparedness Open House

Elementary strings students win 3rd place in national music challenge

BY LISA DALLA VECCHIA COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

CBC Music’s annual Canadian Music Class Challenge invites music teachers from across the country to bring together a group of students to learn and perform a Canadian song from a pre-approved list.

accomplishments!” said Strings Teacher Clarice Scop.

BY LISA DALLA VECCHIA COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

May 2022 – The school district hosted the inaugural Outdoor Safety and Emergency Preparedness Open House at Argyle Secondary.

Coinciding with the last day of the national Emergency Preparedness Week, this multi-generational familyfriendly event was meant to promote the health, safety and well-being of students, families, and wider North Vancouver community; build awareness and resiliency around outdoor safety and emergency preparedness; and showcase the expertise of first responders and emergency management bodies.

The event consisted of an outdoor trade show and information sessions/workshops. Those in attendance spoke with and learned from experts and got up close to emergency vehicles and equipment used in real-life rescues, including a North Shore Rescue/Talon helicopter, a Royal Canadian Marine Search & Rescue lifeboat, a North Vancouver City Fire Department ladder truck, and a District of North Vancouver Fire & Rescue Services wild land trailer and truck.

Save the date! The 2nd annual open house will take place on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at Argyle Secondary. ■

For 2022, the school district’s Elementary Strings program recorded The Girl by Canadian band City and Colour.

“Students worked really hard, and I'm excited to share their

With about 70 violin, viola, and cello players from five different schools across the school district, student musicians came together at the Gordon Smith Gallery of Canadian Art to showcase the vibrancy of the North Vancouver arts community –our city and colour!

Students from Braemar, Canyon Heights, Dorothy Lynas, Larson, and Ross Road Elementary had the opportunity to learn new string techniques, connect with a strong tradition of Canadian music, and build community with other young artists.

As Clarice emphasized to students throughout this musical experience, “You are all winners for working hard, showing up, and making music together.”

Students perform at the Gordon Smith Gallery of Canadian Art.

And the judges agreed, awarding the North Vancouver School District musicians third place in the category Elementary Instrumental (Grades 4-6). ■

Student meets Justin Trudeau while playing politician for the day

BY MINA KERR-LAZENBY NORTH SHORE NEWS

It's not every day a secondary school student's itinerary involves hobnobbing with the prime minister.

As part of École Handsworth School’s Take Our Kids to Work Day, ninth-grader Brogan Maloney toured Parliament buildings and met with political bigwigs. His most notable experience was sitting down with his uncle's (James Maloney, Liberal MP for the Etobicoke Lakeshore district) colleague, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

"It was awesome," said Maloney, reflecting on the experience. "He is a really nice person."

Chewing the political fat with the country's leader sparked an interest in politics for Maloney, who said, prior to the event, he hadn't really thought about what he would do for a career.

It hadn't been his first foray into the political sphere. In 2019, he aided his uncle's campaign in Toronto, knocking on doors, handing out flyers and helping deliver lawn signs – but he had never considered it as a career until his day donning the politician's hat.

Helping young teenagers realize what job opportunities are available to them is the aim of the annual national program, which was first initiated in 1994 by the Learning Partnership.

"The program gives Grade 9s a chance to see what the working world is like," said Handsworth VicePrincipal Meghan Downie.

"To see what networking looks like, and to have the opportunity to potentially get some ideas for after high school."

For some students, it is simply an opportunity to understand the careers of their family members,

to see them outside of the context of parent, or uncle, and better understand what they do to help contribute towards the family.

"To be able to see it in person is very cool for students," said Downie. ■

PHOTO ALEXA SMYTH

Trilingual Me! Moi, Trilingue! “Belting it out” with Code Ninjas

BY JENNIFER KINAKIN DISTRICT CAREER COORDINATOR

Diane Ehling’s Grades 5/6 class (Cove Cliff Elementary) and Sheena Montgomery’s Grades 4/5 class (Lynn Valley Elementary) took part in a pilot program aimed at exploring innovation and creativity in computational literacy while coding for games. The pilot was made possible through a school district grant designed to support students explore the career-related skills they will need to develop to prepare for the future.

"I like coding,” said Asher, Grade 5  student. “Dave and I love playing video games together, and it is fun to be able to create the game we play."

"You get to be creative and have fun,” explained Jaden, Grade 4. “There are examples for inspiration.  I am learning how to code and know what X, Y and Z are on my screen and how to move and create objects."

Thank you Code Ninjas for partnering with our school district to offer this exciting opportunity that allowed students to earn their "belts" while completing coding challenges on a student-centred platform that allows all students to work and learn at their own pace. ■

BY TRACY LANGER DISTRICT FRENCH FACILITATOR

A group of North Vancouver educators, including French Immersion teachers, Core French teachers, English Language Learning teachers and education assistants, attended an after-school workshop with Language Education Researcher and Teacher Inna Figotina.

Inna is the author of Trilingual Me! Moi, Trilingue! This dual-language children's book tells the story of a young girl who overcomes challenges on her journey in becoming trilingual.

Born in Moscow, Inna spoke Russian, and then learned both English and French upon arriving in Canada at the age of seven. Inna explained to the group how becoming trilingual shaped her identity and how her experiences support a close connection with language learners.

During the workshop, Inna shared examples of how to use dual-

language books in the classroom, providing direct connections to the BC curriculum. She shared guiding questions about how to celebrate dual-language learners and relayed the importance of having students reflect on the many benefits speaking additional languages provide.

Inna shared a quote by Dr. Rahat Naqvi, Professor and Chair of Language and Literacy at the

University of Calgary, "Using bilingual children's books in the classroom promotes children’s cultural awareness, in that they become attentive to the uniqueness of their own and other cultures."

Participants appreciated Inna’s practical suggestions for teaching languages and how we might apply her presentation to support students in the North Vancouver School District. ■

Students interview Minister of Education and Child Care

BY DEVAN COWARD TEACHER

March 2021 – Students in my Grade 5/6 class at Ross Road Elementary had the opportunity to interview the Minister of Education and Child Care, the Honourable Jennifer Whiteside.

The interview was part of a yearlong series, in which students engaged with local, provincial and federal leaders about issues that matter to them.

"We have interviewed a justice from Canada's Supreme Court; Mayor Mike Little, District of North Vancouver; MLA Susie Chant; and now, the Minister of Education and Child Care," said Grade 5 student Calla.

Grade 6 student Colin said, "It was exciting to meet the Minister face-toface because all our other interviews were on Microsoft Teams, due to COVID."

Students questioned the Minister on topics including the length of the school day, the number of students

in classrooms, the curriculum, and why elementary schools do not have grass fields.

"I appreciate the interest and commitment students expressed on a variety of issues that affect their school and community," said the Minister. "I was particularly impressed by the thoughtful land acknowledgment," which was given by Grade 5 student Nia. "It is clear very important learning is happening in [the] classroom."

We want to regularly give students a voice in their learning and their community. By bringing community leaders and representatives into the classroom, students can make their voices heard and inspire real change. ■

Boundary Elementary’s Principal for a Day

Seymour Heights celebrates International Dot Day

BY LISA DALLA VECCHIA COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

International Dot Day is a day to celebrate creativity and self-expression and boost selfconfidence.

Katie Nicholls, Grade 1 teacher at Seymour Heights Elementary explained, “Dot Day is inspired by the book The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds. I read the story to the class and then discuss how even the littlest dot can be artwork and to not be afraid to explore and show your creativity.”

Katie has been sharing this message and celebrating International Dot Day with students for five years. Examples of the activities students enjoy throughout the day follow.

loop-de-loop, dashes, etc.), making the outline in black marker and then using watercolour paints to complete the artwork.

Another fun learning activity included having students start with a “magic” dot and turning it into something else by drawing a picture around it. For example, students transformed the dot into a flower, moon, avocado, dog, ladybug…even a unicorn!

Through all of these lessons, students learn to take risks, be creative and use their imagination. In addition, students develop math, writing and other skills.

BY TIM MACLEOD PRINCIPAL AND LISA DALLA VECCHIA COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

It’s not every day a student gets promoted to top job, acting school principal!

Eager to make a strong impression, Grade 1 student Aston arrived ready to start his day at 8:30 a.m., and with mini doughnuts to share with staff.

Following a school tour, he welcomed staff and students into the building and spoke with families who were curious to meet the new administrator.

A principal always needs to keep an eye on what is happening on and around school grounds. As an example, Aston watched for traffic violations and dealt with a dog on the school playground.

Once he ensured students were in their classrooms, engaged in learning with teachers, he headed to the Education Services Centre, where he met with his boss, Superintendent Dr. Pius Ryan. Aston came prepared with questions, including, What exactly do you do? and What is your goal as superintendent?

He then returned to Boundary, where he had to make a big decision, which he shared over the PA system: extending morning recess for five minutes!

Ongoing professional development is an important part of a principal’s learning. A math lesson took up the rest of Aston’s morning.

Over lunch, Aston supervised classrooms and then went outside for more supervisory duties, plus some much needed student engagement (i.e., playtime).

After lunch, Aston completed a playground and grounds inspection, submitted work orders, acknowledged student birthdays, and visited classrooms.

Following a second professional development unit, Aston was gifted the book, Principal for a Day by Marisa Kossoy, and thanked for his service to the Boundary community.

School Principal Tim MacLeod was most pleased with Aston’s first day and happy to know that if ever the need, Aston could help out with school duties in the future.

A special thanks to Boundary’s Parent Advisory Council, for making this opportunity possible! ■

In one activity, students used a paper plate and had several circles starting from the centre, working their way to the edge of the plate. Students decorated each circle section with different types of lines (e.g., wavy, checkered, zigzag, cloud,

One of the best parts of the lesson for Katie is how the excitement for Dot Day fills the entire classroom with enthusiasm and joy. “With a mix of learning aspects and engaging in cross-curricular activities, students are excited to participate in dot activities,” shared Katie. “I love seeing their creativity and all the ideas they come up with." ■

Acting Principal Aston (L) with Principal Tim MacLeod (R).

A Year in Review

Inclusive Education

students with Ministry identifications staff took part in professional learning opportunities education assistants Learning Services specialist staff

86% grad rate

Innovative Instruction

elementary schools implemented the Early Literacy Assessment Tool and participated in the Primary Instruction Network teachers participated in online and in-person professional development opportunities elementary and secondary educators participated in the Lower Mainland Assessment Series teachers representing almost all elementary schools completed the Harvard University Making Thinking Visible online course English Language Learner educators participated in the ELL Network teacher-librarian educators participated in the TL Network teachers involved in the Secondary Teacher Leader Network

Indigenous Education

71% grad rate

Enrolment Rates June 2022

total enrolment

15,883

Career Development

students enrolled in Careers-related classes and programs students enrolled in Youth Work/Youth Train in Trades (apprenticeships) and Work Experience (internships) programs

Careers-related classes at secondary schools across 17 career-specific courses educators active in the District Career Network career centres district-wide

Social Emotional Learning

staff attended SEL or mental health pro-d sessions staff completed Everyday Anxiety Strategies for Educators staff engaged in school/district networks on Adult Well-Being administrators engaged in trauma-informed practice and neurodiversity in-service schools intentionally planning for building a sense of belonging for children and youth elementary schools teaching SEL using the Second Step program

Inclusive Education professionals trained in Mental Health First Aid hours of on-demand Trauma Informed Practice training available for schools

Student Voice

students participated in the District Student Leadership Council (DSLC) student-led virtual meetings focussed on student voice and dialogue students on DSLC Executive

Success Rates

98.4% 80% 91% 84%

meeting or exceeding expectations

$

& for graduating students, valued at >$2.5 Million