As we approach spring break starting March 17, the pace of learning in our schools seems to accelerate. Children are working hard to improve their reading, writing, number and math skills, science knowledge, while participating in elementary and high school sports, performing in theatre productions; pursuing the media arts, trades and developing their kindness and empathy toward others.  

In this March report, you will find out just how many thousands of minutes Salmo Elementary students have been reading this winter and enjoy some great images of the Physics Olympics at L.V. Rogers Secondary. There are no less than three major theatre productions that happened this past month – A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Kootenay River Secondary School, Willy Wonka Jr. at Trafalgar Middle School, and The Lion King Jr. Spring Musical at Adam Robertson Elementary. Pink Shirt Day events happened on February 26 in each family of schools with examples of students embracing kindness at W.E. Graham Community School , Redfish Elementary and Brent Kennedy Elementary.  

To mark the seasonal arc between snowy days and summer sun, Winter Feasts happened across the district with Indigenous students, their families, Elders and SD8 staff joining one another around a table to share wonderful food and friendship.

The variety and depth of learning and connection happening daily in SD8 schools is evident. Recent school completion data that shows SD8 students are graduating at the highest rate ever, with Indigenous students leading the way. This is worth celebrating. Students, educators, and all SD8 staff who support learning across the district are doing things right. We will continue to work together with families to maintain this momentum in the pursuit of having every student graduate in our district.    

All this focus, effort and learning is exactly why spring break happens from March 17 – 28. Children are ready to rest, relax, process what they have learned over winter, and return to school rested in the spring to embark on the final months of the school year.  

I wish you a safe and fun spring break with your children and youth!  

Warmly,  

Trish  

Superintendent’s Report – March 2025