School District 47’s calendar of events was full in June, according to Powell River Board of Education chairperson Dale Lawson.
In her monthly address at the June 21 school board meeting, Lawson said there are many busy months in the school calendar, but to her, June feels the most jam-packed by far.
“Some activities or chapters of life for our students and their families are wrapping up for the year or coming to a close while the anticipation, planning and optimism for new or different opportunities bring revitalized energy and enthusiasm to whatever comes next,” said Lawson.
The first ever district-wide conference for all grade sevens brought students together for a full day of learning and preparing for their transition into Brooks Secondary School and young adulthood, said Lawson. The day started with drumming by Drew Blaney, followed by a welcome and prayer from Tla’amin Nation elder John Louie.
“John noted that his words weren’t about religion but instead about spirituality; he spoke about our connection to the land and all that our community has to share,” said Lawson. “He spoke about how fortunate we are to be part of a progressive school district. He mentioned the traditional skill-builders program and expressed gratitude for the variety and depth of opportunities provided to students now, as compared to when he attended.
“It was wonderful to be in the room to witness 200 young people give their undivided attention to Mr. Louie and the other presenters throughout the day.”
Lawson said there were a number of fantastic presentations, keynote speakers and breakout sessions scheduled on the jam-packed day.
“It was my privilege to have the opportunity to listen in, alongside our students, to Dr. Leta Burechailo, who introduced her Eights are Great presentation,” said Lawson. “She delivered thoughtful advice on a variety of important topics. Dr. B helped students focus their listening on important but not always prioritized areas of good health such as activities, sleep, routine, healthy foods, managing emotions, navigating friendships and other relationships.
“Her presentation helped to strengthen student understanding of brain development and provided some great suggestions and tips to support success through high school, in addition to overall good health and well-being throughout their lives. Students were encouraged to pursue their passions and explore interests while maintaining a healthy balance as they learn and grow.”
Student social
Lawson said in a first for the school district, the district parent advisory council (DPAC), whose membership includes representatives from the parent advisory committees from each school, brought forward an idea for a district-wide grade seven dance to provide another opportunity for students to connect in a social setting before starting their high school experience.
“Parent volunteers reported the event as a success, estimating 140 kids in attendance, including some from our smallest school community on Texada Island,” said Lawson. “The $1 concession was a hit. Principals and parent volunteers helped with activities like glow in the dark face painting and a photo booth, while grade seven students mixed, mingled, danced and celebrated together.”
Lawson said the Brooks music program year-end junior and senior concerts were simply amazing.
“The Kitchen Sink band knocked it out of the park with their jazzy style and stage presence,” said Lawson. “The choir brilliantly performed in perfect harmony. A song titled 'Hunker Down' was among their repertoire for the evening, a piece by a Canadian composer with local ties, Tobin Stokes. It was my privilege to hear the piece twice this month.
“The first time was at the district-wide professional development day and long-term employee recognition luncheon, but it was the second time, at the Brooks concert, where our talented Paul Cummings provided commentary about where the entertaining and clearly local piece came from. You can enjoy the performance clip on the Brooks Secondary Facebook page.”
This June, the school district’s retirees were treated to an amazing multicourse meal catered by chef Connor Knickerbocker and the Brooks culinary students.
“Not only was everything about the made-from-scratch meal absolutely top-notch perfection, but some students participated in the preparation, service and cleanup who are not even a part of the culinary program yet,” said Lawson. “They chose to contribute because of their love of the culinary classroom culture and the people. I think that says more than words.”
Lawson said as this school year is wrapped up, she would like to thank all school district staff members.
“The work each of you do every day to support students and build community is appreciated,” she added. “I’d also like to wish everyone a restful, safe and enjoyable summer.”
