Blog Posts

Integrating Indigenous perspectives, histories, and knowledge systems into our classrooms is a transformative journey that goes beyond curriculum enhancement. By incorporating Indigenous perspectives across all subjects, we not only honour the rich heritage of Indigenous communities but also nurture a more inclusive and interconnected learning environment for all students.

At Colleen and Gordie Howe Middle School, the arrival of spring heralds not just blooming flowers and warmer days but also a cherished tradition that brings the school community closer together: the Spring Play Day of the WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) program. This annual event is more than just fun and games; it is a pivotal part of the school's efforts to foster leadership, inclusivity, and a strong sense of community.

The grade 12 Capstone projects are well underway at Abbotsford Traditional School. These learning opportunities focus on real-life experiences where students develop skills for future post-secondary education and employment pursuits. Projects are student created and reflect individual talents and interests. They can take the shape of small businesses, community fundraisers, coaching, or volunteer programs.

Clayburn Middle School strives to create engaging and new opportunities for students. One way we achieve this is by offering Special Interest Days. Twice yearly, Clayburn staff share an area of passion with students by creating hands-on, interactive, and meaningful learning activities in late winter and mid-spring. Staff are encouraged to emphasize the importance of finding joy and passion in learning that can inspire further desire for experiencing success in learning and life.

Being the oldest high school in the city, Abbotsford Senior Secondary School has a proud history. Take a walk down our Graduates Hall, which features all the grad classes since 1956. Look around our Heritage Wing, highlighting the physical changes that our school has seen and showcasing some of the historic athletic accomplishments of our teams and past graduates. Throughout our building, the storied history of our school and the people who have filled its halls are celebrated.

Why do people hate? Because they’ve been hated? Or are they hurt? These are some of the important questions students at Chief Dan George Middle are trying to answer, digest and unpack as they explore anti-racism, equity and diversity. This school year, our focus has been on accepting and understanding each other’s cultures and diverse backgrounds by building community in our classrooms. Students have had many opportunities to engage in reflection and action in social-emotional learning to be better citizens.

I think it is important for a Superintendent to try and stay connected to what is happening across the district and the broader community. While there are never enough hours in the week, I do my best to make regular rounds and to take in community events. And wherever possible, I like to share the good things I see.

Yale has a history of strong support for its Indigenous students. As a staff, we acknowledge the need to learn more about Indigenous culture in the spirit of being culturally sustaining.  

Throughout the 2023/2024 school year, WA Fraser Middle School and Chief Dan George Middle have participated in a unique program called Agenda Gap. Agenda Gap is a research-driven program led by Dr. Emily Jenkins at UBC and funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Mental Health Promotion – Innovation Fund. It is a facilitated program co-created with youth collaborators to support young people engaging in policy decision-making to enhance conditions for positive mental health for themselves and their communities.