Powell River Board of Education chairperson Dale Lawson outlined Black Excellence Day during her monthly remarks at the January 18 school board meeting.
“This year, January 13 marked the second annual Black Excellence Day in British Columbia, a day to demonstrate our commitment to learning about black history, black art and black people,” said Lawson. “There were many black shirts throughout School District 47 demonstrating a stand in solidarity with black Canadians.”
Lawson said the school district purchased seats for all students to take part in the black excellence virtual event, a space held to provide a meaningful, inclusive and accessible experience for students across Canada.
“We’re proud of our students and staff who recognize the critical role each of us has in demonstrating our ongoing commitment to moving forward together in a society that is grounded in equity, is curious, knowledgeable and appreciative of diversity and culture throughout our community,” added Lawson.
She said that each January, communities across the province celebrate Family Literacy Week, and this year the celebration is from January 22 to 29. Decoda Literacy Solutions, the province-wide literacy organization, has announced this year’s theme title: Make it count! Play *Sort* Measure.
School activities will be profiled through the school district’s social media channels to highlight some of the literacy focused activities students will engage in throughout literacy week.
Anyone can visit the Decoda website at decoda.ca for free Family Literacy Week resources. Lawson said Decoda also holds an annual Family Literacy Week photo contest open to all BC residents for a chance to win prizes.
“Lastly, as we begin this new year, we also begin the vitally important process of developing our 2023 to 2027 strategic plan,” said Lawson. “We’re looking forward to strengthening our understanding of the complexities involved in building a solid strategic plan as a new board.
“It’s an exciting time for all of us to think about what’s possible and we look forward to engaging with all stakeholders to help inform planning and share goals to support student success.”
