From the Board - January 20, 2026
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The K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw School District No. 83 Board of Education held its Regular Board meeting on January 20, 2026, with four of the 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 territory of the Secwépemc people.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Superintendent Donna Kriger provided an update aligned with the six priorities of the District’s Strategic Plan, highlighting ongoing progress and key initiatives across SD83.
Effective Governance & Leadership
Kriger reminded the Board that each month, work completed across the District by staff and students is highlighted in our Strategic Focus Report.
Human & Social Development
Families and community partners gathered at Carlin Elementary/Middle School for a warm and engaging Ready, Set, Learn session that blended early learning activities with connection, creativity, and fun. The event welcomed young children along with supportive community partners, including a Public Health Nurse and a representative from Child Care Resource & Referral. Families interested in learning more about Ready, Set, Learn or in finding upcoming sessions can visit the District website: Ready, Set, Learn Program Information and Recent District News on Ready, Set, Learn.
Intellectual Development
Director Jen Findlay, Principal Val Edgell, and Vice Principal Raegan Petch held a Family Math Games Night at Shuswap Middle School on Monday, January 12, 2026. Family Math Games Night supports and connects to our priority areas of Intellectual Development, Human & Social Development, and Community Partnership Development.
The Kindergarten and Grade 1 Early French Immersion programs are at capacity for the fall. Late French Immersion expression of interest is currently open - for more information, visit our website: Late French Immersion Program.
The Student Art Fair will be held from February 6 to February 13, 2026, at the Picadilly Mall. Kriger thanked Laura Tomlinson, Allison de Boer, and Mishel Quaal for organizing this event.
The 2nd Annual K-12 Environmental Expo will take place on April 30, 2026, at Salmon Arm Secondary. The Expo aligns with the District's Strategic Plan and Vision of Preparing students to become educated citizens who contribute to a dynamic, sustainable, and diverse world.
The Environmental Advisory Working Group has invited SD83 staff and students to participate in a collective effort to reduce our environmental impact and save on energy costs.
Organizational Development
Superintendent Donna Kriger provided a summary of the reconfiguration timeline, highlighting the following:
- Bastion, Hillcrest, North Canoe, Salmon Arm West, South Broadview, and Sorrento will become K-6 schools in the Fall of 2026
- Following the Grade 5 French Immersion (FI) consultation with Bastion staff and school community members, the decision has been made that Grade 5 FI will remain at Bastion for the Fall of 2026.
- In the Fall of 2027, the elementary schools will become K-7 schools and Shuswap Middle School will become a single-track French Immersion school.
- In the Fall of 2027, the new catchment boundaries will come into effect.
- For the Fall of 2026, Salmon Arm Secondary (SAS) will not be accepting cross-boundary and blended student applications due to enrolment pressures.
- J.L. Jackson (JLJ) students who reside in the SAS catchment, living in close proximity of JLJ may choose to apply for cross-boundary to JLJ.
- In the Fall of 2027, JLJ and SAS will become 8-12 schools.
Kriger acknowledged the significant impact that reconfiguration has on Bastion, Shuswap Middle, J.L. Jackson, and Salmon Arm Secondary and appreciates that staff have been understanding and are committed to doing what is best for students. She also acknowledged Principal Rob Cadden and Principal Gord Ritchie for their continued efforts to find creative solutions that support the best possible experience for students. Their strong student focus has been consistently evident during the ongoing collaborative discussions.
Visit our Reconfiguration Information webpage for more information.
As professionals it is important for us to be lifelong learners and continue refining our craft. Kriger thanked Director Jen Findlay for leading the learning opportunities and thanked all the educators who participated in the Early Literacy and Numeracy professional learning.
Community Partnership Development
Kriger highlighted the Kindergarten Information Session that was recorded by Director Jen Findlay and Vice Principal Allison de Boer. The session provides excellent information for parents of children entering Kindergarten in the fall.
The Kindergarten Registration Fair held at Sorrento Elementary on January 14, 2026, offered parents and children an opportunity to register for Kindergarten, meet Principal Paul Rosman, and the kindergarten teachers. Kriger thanked the community partners from Okanagan Regional Library, North & South Shuswap Community Resources, Public Health, Shuswap Children's Association, and Child Care Resource and Referral for investing in our students.
A 4 Band Parent Conference will be held on January 24, 2026, at the Prestige in Salmon Arm. This is an excellent opportunity for parents and guardians from Neskonlith, Adams Lake, Splatsin, and Skwlax te Secwepemculecw to learn about items such as post-secondary opportunities and career planning.
Kriger concluded her Superintendent Report by welcoming Sean Kelly and Matthew Laslo to our District. Sean will be joining Principal Mark Marino in the role of Vice Principal at A.L. Fortune and Matthew Laso will be joining Principal Gord Ritchie in the role as Vice Principal at J.L. Jackson.
Supporting documents: 2026 01 20 Superintendent Report (PowerPoint), Reconfiguration Information (webpage), Early Learners (0-5 years) (webpage) and Registering for School (webpage)
BUSINESS ARISING
Policy 110 Accumulated Operating Surplus
Policy 110 Accumulated Operating Surplus aligns with the Board’s strategic priority of responsible governance and stewardship. It strengthens the Board’s commitment to accountability and governance while also adhering to the Ministry of Education and Child Care’s requirement that all boards have in place a policy on accumulated surplus in line with the Ministry’s K-12 Public Education Accumulated Surplus Policy.
The Board gave first reading to Policy 110 Accumulated Operating Surplus at its November 18, 2025, Regular Board Meeting. This policy was brought forward for second reading at the December 16, 2025, Regular Board Meeting and was tabled to allow for public feedback on this policy to be collected. No public feedback was submitted.
The Board of Education approved the second and final reading of Policy 110 Accumulated Surplus.
Supporting Document: Board Policy 110 Accumulated Operating Surplus - 2nd and Final Reading (Briefing Note)
Policy 4060 Accumulated Operating Surplus (Reserve)
New Board Policy 110 Accumulated Operating Surplus was developed in response to Ministry Policy, using the Ministry-provided policy template. As a result, it replaces Policy 4060 and Regulation 4060.01R. The repeal of Policy 4060 was tabled at the December 16, 2025, Regular Board meeting to allow time for public feedback on Policy 110.
The Board of Education approved the recommendation to repeal Policy 4060 Accumulated Operating Surplus (Reserve).
Supporting Document: Board Policy 4060 Accumulated Operating Surplus (Reserve) - Repeal (Briefing Note)
NEW BUSINESS
Sled Sicamous Fundraiser
The Board discussed an upcoming event involving the use of a school facility by a community group in Sicamous. The Board, Superintendent Donna Kriger, and Acting Secretary-Treasurer Jeremy Hunt acknowledged that the group was provided with short notice regarding a change that affected their ability to host an event at the school which serves alcohol.
Kriger explained that recent updates to facility rental practices were made to address long‑standing issues, including outdated fee structures and the District’s responsibility to manage risk. These changes, approved in October 2025, included strengthening expectations around the use of school facilities and clarified that events involving alcohol would not be permitted in schools. It was recognized that while these changes were made with student and school safety in mind, the transition created unintended challenges for community groups.
The Board discussed the importance of clear communication when changes affect local communities and recognized the need for earlier notification moving forward. Trustees also acknowledged the value of community access to school facilities and the importance of balancing that access with safety and stewardship responsibilities.
As an existing booking had already been approved, the Board agreed that the rental could be honoured for this year only. The Board directed Superintendent Kriger to continue discussions with the Sled Sicamous community group regarding the February 14, 2026, event.
Supporting document: Administrative Procedure 510 Public Use of School Facilities
Field Trip Request - Shuswap Middle School - Montreal & Quebec City 2026
Shuswap Middle School Principal Val Edgell, along with teachers Roni Wocknitz and Lindsey Welch, presented a request for Board approval of a Grade 8 French Immersion field trip to Montreal and Quebec City scheduled for May 31 to June 5, 2026. At the time of the presentation, 27 students were registered to participate.
The proposed trip provides students with an immersive opportunity to engage in French language and culture through a range of curricular‑connected experiences, including cultural and historical tours, art and mural exploration, use of public transit, visits to Old Montreal and Quebec City, and other guided educational activities. The trip is designed to support students who have been studying French since Kindergarten in Early French Immersion or since Grade 6 in Late French Immersion.
Trustees expressed appreciation for the comprehensive planning and thorough information provided, including supervision plans, a student Code of Conduct, and risk management considerations. Details related to the tour company, itinerary, curricular connections, trip costs and funding, insurance coverage, and travel arrangements were included in the Board package.
The Board of Education approved, in principle, the Shuswap Middle School Grade 8 French Immersion field trip to Montreal and Quebec City in May/June 2026.
Supporting documents: Shuswap Middle School Grade 8 French Immersion Field Trip Request (Briefing Note)
2026/27 School Fees
Superintendent Donna Kriger provided the Board with an information update regarding school fees for the 2026–27 school year. She reminded trustees that, at the September 2025 Regular Board Meeting, a briefing note was presented outlining increasing costs associated with District music instrument rentals and repairs. At that time, the Board was advised that a return to a historic monthly fee may be necessary to address rising maintenance, cleaning, and replacement costs.
Kriger reported that school principals have been reviewing proposed fee schedules in consultation with their Parent Advisory Councils to ensure fees appropriately reflect the cost of services and supplies. With respect to music fees, it is anticipated that a proposed rate of approximately $5 per month will be recommended, resulting in a fee of roughly $50 over the course of the school year. This figure is consistent with a fee that previously existed in the District and aligns with an earlier proposal brought forward by the District Vice Principal of Music, Michelle Honcoop. Final confirmation of the proposed music fee is still pending.
It was noted that the briefing note was provided for the Board’s information in advance of the formal presentation of school fees, which will be brought forward at the February Board meeting for approval. Providing advance notice allows schools to include approved fee information in school agendas, registration materials, and planning documents.
Supporting documents: 2026/27 School Fees - For Information (Briefing Note)
2025/26 Amended Annual Budget
Acting Secretary‑Treasurer Jeremy Hunt presented the proposed 2025–26 Amended Annual Budget in accordance with Policy 190 – Budget Monitoring and Reporting and section 113 of the School Act. Trustees were reminded that the annual budget bylaw process includes first, second, and third readings, with the amended budget required to be adopted by bylaw in February, and the annual budget for the following year adopted in June.
The amended budget reflects adjustments to the Operating Fund, Special Purpose Funds, and Capital Fund based on updated Ministry funding information released in December 2025 and revised enrolment data reported in September.
Compared to the Annual Budget, total operating revenue, from the Ministry of Education and Child Care, decreased by approximately $121,000, largely due to a reduction in the Ministry’s Salary Differential funding as the District’s average teacher salary fell below the provincial average. This decrease was partially offset by enrolment‑related changes across various funding categories. Overall, operating budget activity was limited, with no salary increases included at this stage.
Expenditure changes include the implementation of previously approved budget priorities, including the addition of 10 Certified Education Assistant positions, 3 Library Clerk positions, approximately 2.8 FTE teaching positions, and additional Positions of Special Responsibility and substitute days at middle and elementary schools. An increase in Services and Supplies was also noted, primarily due to the allocation of restricted surplus funds and school budget allocations. Trustees expressed interest in receiving further information at the end of June on the impact of new initiatives, including Library Clerks and Positions of Special Responsibility.
The Special Purpose Funds increased to approximately $16 million, reflecting growth in targeted and restricted grants that require separate reporting. This increase was mainly driven by Classroom Enhancement Fund (CEF) remedies, which are not included during the annual budget.
A brief update was provided on the ongoing Transportation Review, including potential future considerations such as tire‑changing equipment and ridership tracking software; these items are not included in the current budget.
Within the Capital Fund, local capital expenditures reflect costs associated with school reconfiguration, including potential portables, building improvements, furniture, and technology carrying over from previous years. Overall budget increases are attributed to capital acquisitions, Special Purpose Funds, and operating expenses, resulting in a net increase to the Budget Bylaw amount of $4,112,925.
Hunt noted that while the District continues to manage financial risk through accumulated surplus, the projected unrestricted surplus remains below the desired 1%–2.5% range. Additional information will be gathered in the coming weeks to refine projections and support future planning.
The Board of Education approved the first reading of the 2025–26 Amended Annual Budget.
Supporting documentation: 2025-26 Amended Budget Priorities (Briefing Note) and (PowerPoint)
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Education Direction Committee
Trustee Marianne VanBuskirk reported that the next Education Direction Committee meeting is scheduled for February 4, 2026.
Finance & Facilities / Audit Committee
Vice Chair Amanda Krebs reported that they reviewed the monthly financials, budget, and received a facilities update.
Labour Relations Committee
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that the Labour Relations Committee met on January 15, 2026, and discussed the upcoming administration of the Guarding Minds Survey. Assistant Superintendent Michelle Guillou shared that the survey will be shared with all District staff and consists of approximately 52 questions focused on areas such as employee engagement, growth and development, and overall workplace experience.
The survey is intended to support the Committee’s understanding of staff experiences across the District and to inform the development of the Workplace and Well-being initiatives. It was noted that the survey is confidential, and that the resulting data will be reviewed to identify key themes, concerns, and areas of strength.
Once priority focus areas have been determined, the Workplace and Well-being Committee will communicate next steps and initiatives to staff across the District.
Partner Group Committee
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that the next meeting is scheduled for February 26, 2026.
Policy Committee
Policy 190 Financial Planning and Reporting
Trustee Brent Gennings reported that Policy 190 Financial Planning and Reporting is a Ministry requirement intended to strengthen transparency and accountability in school district financial planning and reporting. The policy aligns with provincial expectations that Boards develop and publicly report on multi‑year financial plans that demonstrate how funding and resources support strategic objectives and student outcomes.
Acting Secretary‑Treasurer Jeremy Hunt explained that the revised Policy 190 represents a comprehensive shift from the existing Budget Monitoring and Reporting approach toward a more holistic, long‑term financial planning framework. The new policy links multi‑year financial planning with the District’s Strategic Plan and Enhancing Student Learning goals, which are also submitted to the Ministry.
Hunt further noted that the development of the multi‑year financial plan will involve collaboration with key education partners, including the Quelmucw Education Council, Budget Advisory Group, and the District Parent Advisory Council. This inclusive approach is intended to ensure alignment between financial decisions, strategic priorities, and community engagement.
The Board of Education approved the first reading of New Policy 190 Financial Planning and Reporting, which has been posted for public feedback until Thursday, February 19, 2026 (Board Policy Feedback).
Supporting documents: Board Policy 190 Financial Planning and Reporting (Briefing Note)
Policy 9080 Student Admission, Attendance, and Withdrawal
Board Policy 9080 Student Admission, Attendance, and Withdrawal was adopted in 2018. Since its adoption, the related Administrative Procedure 300 has been developed to provide more detailed guidance on student admission, particularly in response to school reconfiguration changes.
Superintendent Donna Kriger reported that Regulations related to student attendance and withdrawal have remained in place and continue to reflect current practices. Work is scheduled to begin with members of the Principal and Vice Principal team on the development of a new administrative procedure focused specifically on student attendance and intervention strategies to address chronic absenteeism.
The Policy Committee unanimously supported the repeal of Policy 9080. Through discussion regarding the policy’s current relevance, the Committee further requested the development of a new policy and/or procedure to address inclusive and alternative learning environments.
The Board of Education approved the recommendation to repeal Policy 9080 Student Admission, Attendance, and Withdrawal.
Supporting documents: Policy 9080 Student Admission, Attendance, and Withdrawal - Repeal (Briefing Note)
Committee of the Whole
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported that the next Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 26, 2026, for the purpose of reviewing Board governance policies.
EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
Restorative Practice
Assistant Superintendent Chelsea Prince and District Vice Principal of Student Wellness Tanya Harrington provided the Board with an overview of Restorative Practices, describing the initiative as an example of bringing the Strategic Plan to life through targeted training of the SD83 Leadership Team. The presentation highlighted strong alignment with the Board’s Mission, Vision, and Values, and specifically with strategies under the Human and Social Development priority area.
The Board heard that Restorative Practices is a transdisciplinary approach designed to strengthen relationships and support students in developing the social, emotional, and communication skills needed to resolve conflict and repair harm. The approach supports students in navigating conflict from minor incidents to more complex situations, while fostering engagement, belonging, and emotional growth.
A key component of the presentation focused on the “Social Discipline Window,” which provides a framework to guide adult responses to student behaviour. Harrington explained that approaches characterized by high control and low support, or low control and low support, may result in short‑term compliance or unclear expectations but do not build students’ capacity to change behaviour. In contrast, a restorative approach emphasizes high expectations paired with high levels of support, allowing adults to model skills, set clear boundaries, and help students develop accountability and self‑regulation.
The importance of working with students rather than doing things to or for them was emphasized. Restorative practices allow students to reflect on their thinking and emotions, understand the impact of their actions on others, take meaningful responsibility, and participate in repairing relationships. The use of restorative questions was described as a key strategy to build empathy, increase understanding of harm, and support both those who caused harm and those who were affected, ensuring all voices are heard.
The presentation also outlined a sustainable, multi‑year training plan developed in partnership with the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP). Year One focuses on training principals and vice principals through a two‑day Restorative Practices Framework and Restorative Conferencing session scheduled in February 2026. Year Two will extend training to school‑based teams, including counsellors and teacher leaders. Years Three and Four will focus on a “Train the Trainer” model to build internal capacity and support consistent implementation across the district.
This phased approach is intended to move beyond one‑time training and instead establish a shared framework and common practice across schools. The initiative supports the Board’s commitment to developing confident, caring students and fostering inclusive, connected, and supportive learning communities.
Supporting Documentation: Restorative Practices Overview (PowerPoint) and Restorative Practices (video)
BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION (BCSTA)
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported on the BCSTA Board Chair Call held on January 15, 2026. Approximately 60 participants attended, and three key agenda items were discussed: regional representation, Board policy review, and trustee elections.
With respect to regional representation, discussion focused primarily on Motion 15, an extraordinary motion expected to be brought forward at the 2026 AGM. Trustees were encouraged to review the background information, which was recently posted in the BCSTA portal. No recommendation is being made by BCSTA at this time; however, Boards were encouraged to familiarize themselves with the documentation in advance of the AGM.
An update was also provided on the Board policy review process. The first phase of the review is nearing completion and is intended to support Boards in clarifying the distinction between governance policy and administrative procedures. As part of this work, jurisdictional scans are being conducted to identify best practices across districts, particularly for Boards managing a large number of policies. Additional learning opportunities, including sessions at the AGM and possible virtual sessions later in February, are being planned.
The Board Chair Call also included discussion regarding updates to foundational statements. It was emphasized that there is no intention to alter the purpose or intent of the existing statements; rather, the goal is to modernize the language to ensure it remains current and relevant.
Trustee elections were highlighted as a significant area of focus for districts. A newly updated template bylaw has been shared, and districts were reminded of the July 24, 2026, deadline to publicly share information related to voting locations. It was also noted that the electoral landscape is changing, with BC elections reporting that a number of provincial-wide political parties have registered to run candidates in most districts.
Trustees were reminded that the Canadian School Boards Association (CSBA) AGM and Annual Conference will take place in Whistler from July 5 to July 8, 2026, with registration opening on January 22, 2026.
BRITISH COLUMBIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS EMPLOYERS' ASSOCIATION (BCPSEA)
Chair Grayston reported that she will be attending the BCPSEA Annual General Meeting on January 29, 2026. She further advised that discussions related to negotiations and bargaining are ongoing. Agreement has been reached on 11 items; however, several bargaining items remain outstanding. The next meeting related to negotiations is scheduled for January 29, 2026.
QUELMÚCW EDUCATION COUNCIL
Assistant Superintendent Chelsea Prince provided an update on behalf of Trustee Tennile Lachmuth regarding the work of the Quelmúcw Education Council. The Board was informed that, in December, members of the Quelmúcw Education Council were invited to participate in a provincial Indigenous leads call, where they shared information about the Council’s work with districts across the province.
A key takeaway from the provincial discussion was recognition of the District’s long‑standing commitment to Indigenous education. The Education Council has been in place for approximately 30 years, and its continued success was attributed to the dedication of long‑serving members, strong partnerships with the District, and sustained Indigenous leadership over many years. This foundation positioned SD83 well to respond efficiently to the introduction of Bill 40, as many required structures and practices were already established.
The Board was also advised of an upcoming parent conference being organized in collaboration with the four local bands. Director Reid Findlay will present alongside Assistant Superintendent Chelsea Prince and District Principal Kristin Crawford. The event has grown from the previous year and will include participation from all four bands.
In addition, the night prior to the conference, a staff appreciation gathering will be hosted by Quelmúcw, utilizing Indigenous Education Council funding. The event is intended to recognize Indigenous Education staff for their contributions, particularly in light of ongoing recruitment and retention challenges. Many Indigenous Education staff work in highly demanding roles that are both professional and deeply personal in nature, often as sole practitioners within their schools. The gathering will provide an opportunity to acknowledge their work, foster connection, and express appreciation for their commitment and support of students.
CORRESPONDENCE
Board Chair Grayston referenced the correspondence included in the agenda:
- Letter from the Ministry of Education and Child Care regarding School Food Coordinated procurement Grant
- SD83 Board Chair letter to the Minister of Finance regarding SOFI Remuneration Limit
TRUSTEE REPORTS
Trustee Marianne VanBuskirk reported that she attended the Bastion Winter Concert on December 18, noting the inclusivity of the event and the strong student talent showcased under the leadership of two new teachers. She also reported attending the Homecoming Basketball Tournament held on December 22 and 23, 2025, which featured former alumni returning to challenge the Jewels and the Golds.
Board Chair Corryn Grayston reported on her participation in the North Shuswap PAC meeting, where discussions focused on changes resulting from school reconfiguration.
UPCOMING DATES
January 29, 2026 - BCPSEA AGM (virtual)
February 17, 2026 - Regular Board Meeting
February 20, 2026 - BCSTA Provincial Council (virtual)
February 20-21, 2026 - Oliver BCSTA Thompson-Okanagan Branch meeting
