December 16, 2021

TOGETHER

In this issue:

We

· Pg. 6:

LEARN

My Mom: Superstar Volunteer!

· Pg. 12: Parents Make the Play · Pg. 18: Thank You Opah! · Pg. 22: Giving Back: A Family Tradition · Throughout: District Student

Council Finds Hope

www.sd23.bc.ca

CAPITAL news

GIVING BACK

Mount Boucherie Secondary (MBSS) Visual Arts student Emily Frank created this artwork from an image taken by the Frank family as they evacuated their property during the Mount Law Wildfire. The artwork was gifted, along with hundreds of other student artworks, to firefighters and health care workers as an expression of gratitude from the students. A custom-made box holding the artworks was delivered to West Kelowna Fire Rescue and another box went to Kelowna General Hospital. Any person working at each facility could browse through the artwork and choose a piece to keep.

LOOK FOR THE HELPERS: THE VOLUNTEER ISSUE

KELOWNA UNITED FC Kelowna United FC Soccer Club was formed in 2007 to be the Select/Competitive arm of COYSA. Our teams start at U11 and go through to U18, with U13 to U18 vying for Provincials Titles in July. We were also tasked to provide the technical and skills development programs for COYSA Players.

We offer a variety of Academy programs for Ages 6 to 13 throughout the year in the Fall, Winter and Spring.

Winter Academy Registration starts now: Jan 8th to Mar 18th, 2022 Boys U11/12 (2010/2011)

Mon Jan 10th to Mar 14th (no session Feb 21st)

4 to 5pm - $175

Girls U11/12 (2010/2011)

Tues Jan 11th to Mar 15th

4 to 5pm - $195

Boys U9/10 (2012/2013)

Wed Jan 12th to Mar 16th

4 to 5pm - $195

Girls U9/10 (2012/2013)

Thurs Jan 13th to Mar 17th

4 to 5pm - $195

Boys/Girls U7/8 (2014/2015)

Fri Jan 14th to Mar 18th

4 to 5pm - $195

Girls U13/14 (2008/2009)

Sat Jan 8th to Mar 12th (no session Feb 19th)

9 to 10am - $175

Boys U13/14 (2008/2009)

Sat Jan 8th to Mar 12th (no session Feb 19th)

10 to 11am - $175

All Academies are in

Mission Dome/Prospera Pitch – 4075 Gordon next to H20 Pool Payment due before first session – credit card, etransfer to admin@kelownaunited.com or cheque to office #200-1415 Hunter Court, Kelowna BC V1X 6E6 To Register: www.kelownaunited.com and click on Programs 2

COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE

Kevin Kaardal

Superintendent of Schools / CEO

This school year’s theme is Hope because hope is an emotion that can be hard to find in difficult times, but essential to moving forward together. I believe the kind human connections in public schools inspire hope every day. The acts of learning and celebrating learning inspire hope in our own capacity to solve problems and improve the world around us – in both big and small ways. Even when facing natural disasters our young people strive to inspire hope in others by expressions of gratitude

and generosity. After a long hot summer of fires threatening our communities and resurgence of the fourth wave of COVID-19 pushing our hospitals to the brink, I find hope in the students who created artful expressions of gratitude for local firefighters and health care workers.

As the heartbreaking reports from former residential school sites across Canada reminded us of historical and ongoing trauma to Indigenous people, I find hope in the way our learners embraced the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with empathy and deep learning.

Today, as our province recovers from devastating weather events, we find hope in the school communities raising literal tons of food and clothing to help neighbouring communities.

As Mr. Rogers said, we must look for the helpers. In Central Okanagan Public Schools, we are grateful for the countless community members, families, and staff helpers who lead our learners in giving us hope. I have hope for our future because of the actions of our young people, the modelling of their educators and their commitment to building a kinder, gentler society where together we thrive.

...my capabilities as a student, an athlete, and a person. Knowing that I can accomplish so much motivates me and reminds me of the amazing things I get to look forward to.

Monica Hoffman Grade 10 Mount Boucherie Secondary

BOARD CHAIRPERSON’S MESSAGE

Moyra Baxter Chairperson, Board of Education

Thank you for taking the time to read this very special issue of Together We Learn. While you will see many stories of the people who give back to our district in the following pages, remember it is only a snapshot.

If we could somehow profile and acknowledge every single volunteer in Central Okanagan Public Schools,

this would be hundreds of pages long.

After many years as a trustee, I am often overwhelmed by the generosity of those who support our students in so many different ways. There are countless parents who join their school’s Parent Advisory Council, supporting all the students in their school. As well as providing input to school programs, they fundraise for everything from playgrounds for young students to memorable events for our graduates. There are the retired teachers whose passion for learning drives them to take time every week to help out in classrooms. There are the community members whose generosity changes lives, whether they’re providing nutritious meals for students or making programs like Central School’s Gateway Program possible. We hope that as you read this issue, you too will feel proud to live in a community where so many give of their time and their talents.

We are exceedingly grateful for each volunteer, so we humbly thank them for the difference they make in the lives of our students.

TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

3

READING 1-1 AT A.S. MATHESON

The Reading 1-1 program at A.S. Matheson Elementary is entirely staffed and organized by community volunteers. The lead organizer is Gwen Nickel, who has been involved with this program for about 6 years. She is amazing!

We have a total of 8 volunteers, mostly grandmothers, with ties to our school with grandchildren here, mothers of our staff members, or members of our community who just want to give back and make a difference in children’s lives. Thank you to all of our volunteers for giving back!

Braelyn reading with Eileen Meadows (a retired member in our community who wants to give back to our little people) Ms. Cicchelli- Braelyn, can you tell me what you love about the Reading 1-1 program?

Braelyn- What I love about Reading 1-1 is people come take me and I can get a break off, and then I get to read and then I get to find more unicorn stickers!

Ms. Cicchelli- What has Reading 1-1 done for you to become a better reader?

Braelyn- I like that it really helps me read.

Ms. Cicchelli- Can you tell me a little more about that?

Braelyn- Sometimes I like to read and sometimes I don’t, but sometimes I like to read a lot of times, but I don’t really do that lots.

Ms. Cicchelli- Tell me about some of the things you like to read about?

Braelyn- Um like, scary stuff, like, If you Give a Pig a Party or…

Ms. Cicchelli- Is that one of your favorite books?

Braelyn- Yep Ms. Cicchelli- Okay, tell me about some of the reading you do in the 1-1 reading room. Do you read this book (If you Give a Pig a Party) or do you read other books?

Braelyn- I read kid sized books, like on the levels.

Ms. Cicchelli- Would you say that they are just the right fit books? Do you feel confident when you read the books there?

Braelyn- Yep! Ms. Cicchelli- That is so amazing! Braelyn, thank you so much for sharing.

Aiden reading with Alana Neufeld (one of our school community parent volunteers) Ms. Cicchelli- Aiden, can you tell me what you like about Reading 1-1?

Aiden- Yeah, my favorite thing about 1-1 is just pretty much reading. I can read a whole Bad Kitty book in one day.

Ms. Cicchelli- That’s amazing! How do the 1-1 reading volunteers help you with your reading?

Aiden- They helped me by showing me a word that I missed and they help you solve those problems, yeah.

Ms. Cicchelli- What reading strategies do you use the most?

Aiden- I sometimes look at the pictures and read.

Ms. Cicchelli= That’s a really good strategy, using picture clues!

Aiden- Yeah, that’s an awesome strategy!

Ms. Cicchelli- Thank you for sharing Aiden, YOU are amazing!

SHARING STEM Thank you to parent volunteer Sarah Bendall for bringing this STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) project to enrich Mr. Duteil’s Grade 6 classroom!

Sarah was the PAC President at École Glenmore Elementary for three years. She’s also a TTOC in Central Okanagan Public Schools, specializing in secondary school science. Sarah volunteers every Monday and Friday to teach STEM to all of École Glenmore Elementary’s intermediate classes.

As PAC President, Sarah spearheaded many fundraising events, raising funds for a Gaga Ball Pit and the resurfacing of the Adventure Playground. She also created and spearheaded family STEM nights the last few years, playing an integral role in introducing and promoting STEM in the school and community. She received a BCPVPA Partnership Award for her volunteer work.

4

COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

DEVELOPING SAFE DRIVERS ...the future. I know that soon things will change drastically, and everything will eventually be okay.

Dani Nelson

With the continued support and generosity of Colin Pritchard from the Colin and Lois Pritchard Foundation, Central Programs and Services continues to be able to support Central students in passing their learners’ knowledge test at ICBC. Students then take part

Daycare Preschool After School programs Recreation Camps Virtual Programs Youth Drop-in Family Resource Programs

in the graduated driver training program at Kelowna & District Safety Council, which consists of 18 hours of driving theory and 10 road lessons. Students then have the opportunity to test for their N license and become well-educated, young drivers.

Grade 12 George Elliot Secondary

BGC Okanagan is a leading provider of programs to children and youth that support healthy physical, educational and social development.

CONTACT US: www.bgco.ca P: 250.762.3914 E: info@bgco.ca @bgcokanagan

We provide safe, supportive places where young people can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life.

TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

5

MY MOM: SUPERSTAR VOLUNTEER!

By Riley, Age 8, Grade 3, Rose Valley Elementary

My mom, Lana Rickett, is a SUPER HELPER at Rose Valley Elementary. She helps with lots and lots of fundraisers at the school. She is the vice-president at PAC and has done it since I was in Grade 1. I’m in Grade 3 now!

I’m so proud of my mom! She helped get money so we have snowshoes at the school!

She helped get money for our Lego Robots too at our school. She helped us get lots of other electronics too! I was so excited that she helped us get robots because I love engineering! We did inline skating and gymnastics too with the money we raised.

Last year she did a bottle drive fundraiser with the PAC. There were so many people from the PAC at our house. We had tons of mini pools at my house that were filled with bottles, and bags of bottles everywhere around our house!

They were on the driveway, and there were enough to fill a real pool! My dad said the house looked like a junkyard! All the PAC kids and parents helped with sorting bottles too, but we took breaks on the trampoline! It took weeks to get them all to the bottle depot!

She does a Date Night Wallet fundraiser to

buy great things for the school. She went to so many places to get all kinds of coupons and donations. She went every day after school for a long time to get things. Then people would buy tickets to try to win the date night wallet. It had all kinds of gift certificates for restaurants, bowling, golfing, Escape Room, and all kinds of other things!

She also helps with getting school clothes. I was at one of the PAC meetings and heard them talking about all the ideas for what our new shirts, hoodies and baseball hats would look like this year. She came up with lots of ideas!

I’m so excited that there are hats this year! She helps us all have great Rose Valley Elementary school spirit!

A few years ago, she did a Halloween Party at school in the gym. It was really fun because all of us wore costumes and there were Halloween games. It was REALLY fun! Almost everyone in the school was there! She decorated the gym with Halloween decorations. She let me help! I helped her put some of them up.

I’m so proud that my mom is such a Super Star helper at Rose Valley Elementary.

HOPE... ... when a student holds a door open for a late teacher. It is uplifting to see students who may be struggling during recent events stop and take time to help someone in need. It gives me hope that there are good people in the world with goodness in their hearts despite what they might be going through.

Jadyn Ringrose Grade 12 Mount Boucherie Secondary

6

COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

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TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

7

PARENT HELPER AT MAR JOK

Interview by Neelyn Gosal, Grade 5 Mar Jok Elementary

Parent Volunteer: Jaclyn Lindberg How are you?

I’m good, thank you.

How many kids have you had at Mar Jok? Two - they are now in Grades 6 and 8 at Constable Neil Bruce Middle.

What makes you want to volunteer here?

When I first started to volunteer I wanted to help in the classrooms to help out my kids’ teachers.

I liked being able to be part of what was happening in my kids’ classrooms.

What volunteer things have you done?

I’ve helped in the classrooms with home reading organization – and reading with children and I’ve gone

S

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... the kindness of others, like seeing a person donate food to someone who can’t afford a meal, or holding open a door when someone’s hands are full.

These actions, as simple as they are, remind me that despite our differences, everyone is connected by empathy.

We accept Mastercard, Visa and cheque.

There are NO CASH CODs unless picked up and paid in full 24 hours in advance.

TO ORDER EMAIL: annyh@kelownarockets.com Identify yourself by using SD23-18 Please contact Anne-Marie 48 hours prior to the game you wish to attend.

Phone: (250) 979-0853

8

on field trips. I joined the PAC the year the school opened in 2014. I wanted to be an active part of the school community.

While on the PAC I helped with fundraisers like Purdy’s chocolates, year-end picnics, and Christmas poinsettias. I’ve also helped with Hot lunch and pizza day.

What is your favorite part of volunteering?

Being able to help other people – the teachers, the staff and the students.

Do you think you will volunteer at CNB? Yes I am waiting for their hot lunch program to start to help out.

Thank you for coming and talking with us.

You’re welcome, thanks for asking me.

COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

Mehak Parihar

Grade 11 Rutland Senior Secondary

Play, learn, run and have fun at the Y! Child Care

Recreation

Full-day child care

Sports and games

Preschool

Art, dance and music

Before and after school care

STEM projects

Camps (seasonal and Pro D days)

Youth Leadership Development

Child minding and Zoned In

Swim Lessons Parent & Tot Preschool and school age levels Star Leadership Program Private Lessons

Free Family Support

Education & Training

Family Play Time: play-based experiences for children ages 0–6 and their caregivers

Lifeguard Certifications

Prenatal Wellness: weekly yoga and six rotating education topics for support during and after pregnancy

Teen Mindfulness Group

As a charity, the YMCA offers financial assistance for all their programs and services to those in need.

Charitable registration # 11924 0224 RR0001

Babysitting and Home Alone Youth Employment Services

Learn more at ymcaokanagan.ca TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

9

AMY GRUNDY: SUPER VOLUNTEER!

By Drake, Grade 3, Peachland Elementary

1. How long have you been volunteering at Peachland Elementary?

I have been a volunteer since 2013 when my son was in kindergarten. I started as a reading mom with Mrs. Poole, best kindergarten teacher there ever was.

2. Why did you start as a volunteer here?

I wanted to be involved in my son’s school and the school that I attended as a child. When I was here, we had to go to the Primary School first, it’s across from Swim Bay near the baseball field.

Cartoon images by Drake

Mrs. Grundy Drake

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10 COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

3. Why do you like to work and volunteer at Peachland Elementary?

I love this school and the kids in it and I enjoy helping the hard working staff!

4. What are your favourite things you have done with the kids at Peachland Elementary?

Some highlights were reading with all the kids. I helped with literacy support.

I enjoyed helping out with the Apple Bowl for Track meets. Lately, I have been teaching the kids how to bake pies.

In the past, I was a member of the PAC and helped raise funds for things for kids, organize sports equipment, decorate for all special events, organize assemblies and yearbooks, count money, marshal the course for the Terry Fox Run, and organize cupboards and rooms.

5. Would you be interested in volunteering to do something else in the future at Peachland Elementary?

Definitely, anywhere in this awesome school. I like to help in all teachers’ classes. If I know there is something to be done, I can do it. I like to help everyone out in any way I can.

And this is why we consider Mrs. Grundy our "Super Volunteer"!

Non-Competitive Sport Instruction for Kids!

10 Sports!

• Volleyball • Lacrosse • Football • Baseball • Basketball

• Golf • Hockey • Rugby • Tennis • Football

1

2

3

Physical Literacy

Sports Skills

Social Skills

1. 16 months - 2 years old 2. 2 years to 3.5 years 3. 3.5 years - 5 years 4. 5 years - 7 years https://www.sportball.ca/ REGISTER AT WWW.SPORTBALL.CA @sportballokanagan

TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

11

PARENTS MAKE THE PLAY Watson Road Elementary’s Playground Enhancement Committee set a goal to empower all abilities and ages to play, exercise, learn, and socialize together while enriching our community. Since April 2021, we have been actively fundraising and planning for a new inclusive adventure playground to enhance our school site.

Our playground committee is led by a dedicated parent, Sabrina Chapman, who has been supported by many parent volunteers at our school to help bring our vision to reality.

We are gifted with many parent volunteers who have supported our school using their skills as grant writers, committee members, fundraisers, bottle drive coordinators, volunteers, and even a graphic designer. On November 25th, Melissa Martin and Andrea Gavel held the draw for our Playground Raffle, which raised just over $17,000.

Andrea Gavel has skillfully designed fundraising ideas to bring in close to $50,000 towards our enhancement projects. We applaud all of the efforts of our families and school community for working together to support a new playground for our students, which will be installed in the spring of 2022.

Watson Road Elementary

Playground

Enhancement Project

Fall 2021 Update We are now in full “swing” fundraising mode for our new Watson Road Playground to build on provincial Playground Equipment Project funding!

That means our new playground is closer than ever. Keep an eye out for more updates, in the meantime, see below to find out how you can help make our playground dreams come true!

Project timeline: Feb 2021

April 2021-2023

Playground Enhancement Committee formed

Multi-phased fundraising campaign

Parents! Miss the call out to join the Playground Enhancement Committee but want to help?

Spring-Fall 2021

Collect student input + Research equipment + Operational review + Funding analysis

Reach out! watsonplayground@gmail.com

How you can help us build our new WRE playground: Donate your time

by volunteering for playground fundraising events and initiatives

Donate your energy by participating in upcoming fundraisers!

Donate to the fund!

Personal donations are also kindly and generously accepted.

Tax receipts available.

Make an online donation

12

Spring 2022

Late Fall 2021

Share playground replacement project design with community

Further information & construction phases

Upcoming Fundraisers!

$60,000 $55,000

SEPT 25 Bottle Drive Drive-Thru (Saturday!) 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ WRE School

$50,000 $45,000

OCT 2-6 Donation Campaign

$40,000

OCT 7-17 Dielman’s Fundraising Catalog

$35,000

OCT 27 Dominos Pizza Night

$30,000 $20,000 $15,000 $10,000 $5,000

NOV

School Raffle Tickets

DEC 9

Dominos Pizza Night

...and more to come!

$11,700 raised to date!

Because healthy, active kids are better learners

COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

Seeing others happy gives me hope, knowing that everybody is fighting their own battle each day and they are still putting smiles on people’s faces while fighting with the thoughts in their heads.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Grace Mallette

By Deklyn Linde and Brooke Perreault (Grade 3, Hudson Road Elementary) We appreciate Mrs. Curtis because she is very helpful. Each year she joins us at Jim Lind Arena to help with our skating field trip.

She helps us find our skate sizes, tie our skates, and put on our helmets.

She is a nice helper. At school, she

Grade 12 Rutland Senior Secondary

helps us pick up garbage and makes sure we are all safe. She doesn’t have to do these things, but we are sure glad she does.

We couldn’t do it without her. Thank you Mrs. Curtis for everything you do for Hudson Road.

Registration for the 2022 youth outdoor soccer season for players born 2004-2017 is starting soon.

Involvement in youth soccer is a great way for kids to enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle, make new friends and learn skills that will help them throughout their entire lives.

Please see details and register at one of our following Clubs: www.kelownaunited.com www.kelownayouthsoccer.com (Kelowna) www.lcysa.ca (Lake Country) www.okmissionsoccer.com (Mission) www.rutlandyouthsoccer.ca (Rutland) www.wysa.ca (West Kelowna)

Developing positive experiences through teamwork and fair play www.centraloksoccer.com

TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

13

COACH DOUG - DECADES OF SERVICE Doug Meraw has given thousands of volunteer hours to George Elliot Secondary (GESS) and Central Okanagan Public Schools over a 35 year career. Here’s a short summary of his outstanding work: • Doug started his coaching career in Alberta in 1986 and taught near Edmonton for five years.

• Jan. 1991: started his teaching/ coaching career in BC when he accepted a job at George Pringle Secondary.

• Sept. 1991-Jun. 1994: taught and coached volleyball and basketball at KLO Secondary.

• Sept. 1995 moved to GESS where he’s coached multiple seasons of volleyball and basketball for most of 27 years: • Served on the BC Boys Volleyball executive for about 10 years.

• Served as Zone Commissioner (OCSAA) and on the valley (OVSAA) executive for most of his 31 years of coaching in Central Okanagan.

• Served on the host committee for the BC Boys AA and AAA Provincial Championships for 20 years.

• Coached teams in provincial championships nearly every year. Won three bronze medals and finished in the top ten with either boys or girls volleyball nearly every year.

• Coached teams for the BC Summer Games program, and the Lake Country and Kelowna Volleyball clubs for 20 years or more. Won two Provincial titles, and a Silver medal at the Western Canadian Championships.

Throughout Central Okanagan Public Schools, hope is everywhere. I find hope when I am passionate about a topic or subject at school because it is my driving force to do well and succeed.

Hope is one of the key parts of a successful learning environment and I feel that everyday when I am at school.

Zach Johnson Grade 11 Kelowna Secondary School

14

COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

...my peers, family, friends and the stories I read.

I especially find hope in my self-reflections, as I look back on who I used to be and the self-growth I went through since I was younger.

I find that I see hope everywhere, and always look for it wherever I go.

Shannon Rowe Grade 12 George Elliot Secondary

TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

15

SHARING EXPERIENCE AND KINDNESS

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

by Cheryl Hoffman, Food for Thought – Program Coordinator Lionel Van Peteghen has been working shoulder to shoulder with Central students for over 10 years. His volunteer time has made a significant difference for many of our Central students, as he brings a wealth of knowledge, kindness, experience, and patience into our building every time he shows up.

Classes as cool as your kids!

Offering - Kids’ Rock Band Classes (ages 4-7 & 7-12) - Private lessons for piano, guitar and voice - Baby/Toddler & Parent classes - Preschooler & Parent classes

www.discovermusicstudio.com • 778-214-1630 #210, 1751 Harvey Ave, Kelowna, V1Y 6G4

16

COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

This Food for Thought Volunteer is Cathi Watkins. She recently retired from being an accountant and now gives her time to ensuring children don’t go hungry. She is a pleasure to work with and has contributed so much to the Food for Thought Garden Project. Cathi has a passion for gardening and is happy to support the Backpack Program with her extensive knowledge of planting, caring, and harvesting locally grown food. She is even interested in teaching our youth about the growing cycle of food. Cathi has the biggest smile, and we are proud to have her on the Food for Thought Volunteer Team!

Susan Derickson Mount Boucherie Secondary School is grateful for all the people that volunteer and contribute to our school community. This is Susan Derickson, who is our PAC president and has been a valued volunteer for many years. We asked her a few questions to get some insight about her experience with us.

What has been the most memorable part of helping out with MBSS? “One of the most memorable parts of helping out at MBSS has been with the 2020 dry grad committee. Everyone

on that team worked so hard to make graduation special and it was very challenging, under the restrictions of the pandemic. All of our original plans had to be cancelled and it was amazing to see how parents came up with wonderful alternative ideas and pulled everything together in a short amount of time. When our first group of grads entered the dinner venue in their formal attire, it was a very satisfying and emotional moment for me.”

If there is one take away from this experience what would it be?

“One take away from my volunteer experience at MBSS has been to recognize how busy families are.

Parents that come out to help with school activities are often balancing work and other volunteer commitments with their responsibilities at home and hopefully some leisure time, too.

I feel fortunate to have been able to fit this into my schedule but know that it is not possible for some.”

Thank you for your contributions to not only MBSS, but to our district as well.

We’re hiring Certified Education Assistants!

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TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

17

THANK YOU OPAH!

Opah (David Strudwick) is that one in a million remarkable person, who definitely deserves recognition for his commitment to support students and teachers in our journey to educate children. He has been volunteering at Shannon Lake Elementary for eight years and has been in Ms. Sawatzky’s classroom for nearly three years, showing up every Thursday!

When working through our financial literacy unit, Opah enjoys bringing in his rare coin

collection to share, and if the class is learning how to read maps, he has some very unique maps to supplement the lesson. Every winter, he lugs in a big box of pine cones for art activities, pointing out the unusual patterns in the different pine cones to the students.

Shannon Lake Elementary is a richer school community with the support from citizens like Opah! Thank-you for your investment in our students!

A Q&A WITH OPAH!

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COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

BELGO HELPERS

By Jayda Mackenzie and Esme Wesley As intermediate students at Belgo Elementary, we enjoy being lunch monitors, game leaders, and big buddies. It makes us feel good to be helping the younger kids, and it makes younger kids feel good too. For us, it feels like we’re also helping the school community. We enjoy getting to know new and younger kids.

Sənsisyustən House of Learning

We invite you to experience the beauty that is our place, culture and community.

Sənsisyustən House of Learning is a Group 2 Independent Elementary School with the BC Ministry of Education. We teach current BC curriculum with an integration of Okanagan Syilx perspectives. The syilx/Okanagan translation of Sənsisyustən is “the place where you become anything you choose to be.” The school, designed after a traditional native pit-house, lends itself to interactive learning in a warm and nurturing environment.

Our school edifies the Seven Teachings: humility, honesty, bravery, respect, love, truth, and wisdom. Teachers, staff, Elders, and School Board Members strive to make that a reality for students.

The place where you become anything you choose to be.

9 million renovation and expansion completed in 2019

$

What we offer: A balance of academics with Okanagan Language and culture taught in every grade.

Cultural field trips such as tea picking, gathering sage, and digging bitterroot.

Small class sizes, allowing for more one on one teaching time.

A Learning Assistance Program for children who may require additional support.

A school-wide discipline program that promotes social responsibility.

1920 Quail Lane, Westbank First Nation Tel: 250 768 2802

Email: school@wfn.ca

Web: sensisyusten.ca

TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

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CONNECTIONS TO ROTARY INTERNATIONAL

by Rita Miller, ELL Support Teacher, Chute Lake Elementary

A few students at Chute Lake Elementary (CLE) recently met with Mr. Lockie Bracken, who is a member of a local chapter of Rotary International.

for donation to the local food bank. Rotary has provided our school with a Peace Pole, which is a multilingual monument to peace, and is in over 180 countries all over the world.

Since September, the Peace Pole has had a presence in the foyer at CLE. The students presented Mr. Bracken with a collection of student drawings and sketches related to current discussions around what “peace” means, ranging from mental health and wellness to living a stable life to living without war.

During the interview, students also inquired about the philosophy and mission of Rotary International.

(L-R) Lena Swieboda, Mae Washburn,Rita Miller, They had a list of questions about what Rotary Evan Carter, Alexis Thody does and how Rotary does it. They heard about international collaborative projects, and learned The students interviewed Mr. Bracken about the about various types of exchanges in pre-pandemic times.

Rotary’s involvement with the school.

Recently, Rotary’s involvement has included They enjoyed their time spent with Mr Bracken work in the school garden to grow vegetables and and shared a common vision to spread peace and herbs over the summer, and then harvest them kindness in our world.

(L-R) Lena Swieboda, Mae Washburn, Lockie Bracken, Evan Carter, Alexis Thody

The meeting sparked a genuine interest in these students regarding Rotary’s local and global initiatives.

They have since formed a student club and are now planning how they might build more of a partnership with Rotary International in the new year.

We are excited to see how this connection through community service may evolve in the future.

THE GARY BENNETT FAMILY FUND The Gary Bennett Family Fund (GBFF) provides scholarships to the most deserving of Central School’s Gateway Program students to help cover the extra costs of their education at Okanagan College.

Each school year, the Fund offers several $500 scholarships to students who apply for financial assistance.

The Fund also supports breakfast programs in Central Okanagan Public Schools. For the 2021-2022 school year, the GBFF has donated $1,000 in Superstore Gift cards to each of the schools whose breakfast programs it is sponsoring. Thank you to the Gary Bennett Family Fund for their continued support of our students!

20 COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

Gary Bennett (center) with 2019 scholarship recipients.

Invisalign First treatment is designed for little smiles.

As a child grows, their smile grows with them. And even with baby teeth, it may be the perfect time for children ages 6 to 10 to start orthodontic treatment. This is known as Phase 1 treatment. The goal of Phase 1 treatment is to develop young jaws and/or arches to make room for existing teeth and for incoming permanent teeth.

Invisalign First aligners are: • Designed to treat a broad range of teeth straightening issues in growing children, from simple to complex, including crowding, spacing, and narrow dental arches.

• Removable for easy hygiene, making it easier for growing children to brush and floss.

• Designed for comfort – which means no discomfort from rubbing brackets or poking wires.

• Can help with oral habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.

Dr. Jonathan Suzuki is a certified specialist in orthodontics at the Landmark Dental Center in Kelowna.

He is an expert in both aligners and braces with 20+ years of experience.

If you are interested in finding out more about clear aligner treatment for your child -please call (250) 762 3342 option 7 for a consultation

GIVING BACK: A FAMILY TRADITION Deborah Leskie: Donations, helping with shopping, supplies and events.

Interview with Toni Koryakuss How long have you and your family been involved at South Rutland Elementary (SRE)?

19 consecutive years (2003-2022) What roles have you taken on during that time frame?

Toni; PAC president, PAC vice president, fundraising coordinator, Grade 5 liaison, hot lunch coordinator, food hamper/family support programs, and extra duties when called upon, such as gaming and account reconciliation. My extended family also helps:

Tallon Koryakuss: PAC babysitter, helping with fundraisers.

Taisha Koryakuss: Helping with fundraisers and events.

Our extended family(Auntie & uncles): helping with fundraisers, events & donations

Any wisdom for young parents/ volunteers entering our schools?

Volunteering within your school community is an extremely important piece to your child’s education. Volunteering within your PAC is not only about financial Hank Leskie: Donations, building support and fundraising, it will help items for the school, setting up and your school community and children taking down/helping with events. create irreplaceable memories and Trent Koryakuss: DJ at events, What motivates you and your growth. Showing your children that setting up and taking down/helping extended family to give so much of giving back to others is a gift and your time? with events. can benefit not only your child, but Tyler Leskie: bottle drives and Supporting education and learning is many children and families for years our family’s passion. Loving our little to come. fundraisers. school community and how special it Trever Leskie: PAC babysitter, car is. Teaching our children that giving How has volunteering at SRE wash, fundraisers, setting up and back to others is a rewarding life impacted you personally? taking down/helping with events.

Some of my best memories have lesson.

Is there any undertaking that you been made at our school. Not only have I had the privilege of gaining are particularly proud of? community connections and No matter how large or small the friendships throughout the years, but task has been through the years, our household has learned valuable every single one has been rewarding. lessons from giving back.

However, helping our school rebuild our PAC and dedicating over 11,000 Anything else you want to add? volunteer hours to this in 2.5 years My heart is full from all the and over $35,000 raised is my opportunities SRE has given me. I most rewarding and memorable would not be the person I am today experience. without our wonderful little school.

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED,

“WHAT IS COPAC?”

• 1645 Dilworth Dr #111, Kelowna* • 2109 Louie Dr., Westbank* • 25-11852, BC - 97, Lake Country

*Transporation provided from school

www.keesokanagan.com

22 COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

COPAC is the Central Okanagan Parent Advisory Council, the district PAC representing the parents and caregivers of the over 24,000 students across Central Okanagan Public Schools.

COPAC serves many roles but our most important functions are to represent the voices and perspectives of parents and caregivers to the Board of Education and senior staff.

Whether the issues are catchment boundary reviews and changes, the need for new schools, school and student safety, or inclusion of diverse student communities, COPAC is a place for parents to come, to be heard, and to work together to tackle shared

challenges and advance opportunities to further public education and the student experience in Central Okanagan Public Schools. Every school PAC in the District is a member of COPAC and should elect a COPAC Representative to regularly attend meetings and keep their school community informed of district level news. COPAC Reps are also welcomed to bring issues forward from their own school communities.

Just like school PACs, COPAC is an entirely volunteer run organization.

If you would like to become more involved with COPAC, attend any of our meetings, or just learn more, you can visit our website www.copac.sd23. bc.ca or email our President Simon Adams at copac.president@sd23.bc.ca

GIVING BACK THROUGH GAMES

Mr. Wilf Pauls is a retired teacher who has been facilitating the “Games Project” with Ms. Dion, Ms. Ivanovic, and Ms. Craig’s G. 4 and 5 students on Friday afternoons at Peter Greer Elementary (PGE). Our students have really benefited from their time with Mr. Pauls.

Can you give us a brief background of your teaching experience?

• Teaching experience: Classroom teacher, Principal, Coordinator, Science specialist, Music teacher and Teacher Librarian • Locations: Kelowna; Watson Lake YT.; Old Crow, YT.; Lahr, West Germany with DND; Mile 108 Elem.; Zaire, Africa; North Okanagan Shuswap SD.#83 - Salmon Arm, Enderby, Falkland etc.

What is the Games Project?

• The Games Project introduces children to non-digital, no screens traditional games: Table Hockey (Canada), Pitchnut (India, Quebec), Crokinole (Southern Ontario) & Sjoelbak (Holland).

These games require hand-eye, physical involvement, and are played in small group settings so that people actually speak with one another, laugh, and learn to win or lose while having fun. I introduce the background story of each game, how to play the game and then the students play the games. I often also read the true story called “The Crokinole Kid” - The story of my grandson’s experience at the BC Crokinole Championships.

How do you incorporate the children's books you have written into the Games Project?

• I usually do author visits for Baby Brawn Hockey Superstar, Baby Brawn Basketball Superstar and Fweddy the Wed Fwog Pwince, separately.

• With the author visits I bring hockey and basketball equipment and activities for the Baby Brawn stories. For Fweddy, we talk about pronunciation difficulties, play with words, talk about bullying and also laugh at different sounds in our language.

Why do you choose to volunteer in schools although you retired many years ago?

• I resigned my full time job in 2011, but worked part time and did author visits until November, 2018. After that the Games Project came into being, I managed to present it to over 2500 students before COVID shut it down. I found it difficult to retire because there is such purpose

and satisfaction when I see children and adults inspired and excited by real experiences. Children catch on when you care about them, when you have fun, are passionate about something, and when you’re real.

Games and stories show that. The adrenaline rush I feel when students engage so fully is worth all the time, money, and effort.

...my future. I find hope in the knowledge that I have so much life to live, and problems to solve. I find hope in my community and in the courage that they give me. To me the future is hope.

Rowan Murdain Grade 12 George Elliot Secondary

More photos can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ViwgDSEncBNEfes0M29ZbDS5X6zimRSl?usp=sharing

TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

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I think gratitude and helping go hand in hand. Once you are grateful for something you already have, accepting it on the whole with all the flaws, you experience a feeling of sublime happiness which you want another human to experience as well.That is when HELP comes into the foray. You tend to observe any person in the hunt for the feeling and you now want the person to experience the same joy. That is when you become selfless and offer anything to make them succeed.

To see the heart-felt contentment and happiness through the eyes of people who get help and to feel it through my heart. It is very important to know who we are helping and in what situation. So when you help by knowing it, the self satisfaction fills your heart, expecting nothing in return. I believe the world is a big family and we need to help each other.

John Felipe

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

By Julie Loveridge-Marks, International/ELL/ French teacher, Rutland Senior Secondary John came to Rutland Senior Secondary when he was in Grade 9, and he has been an exemplary student ever since. John was one of my English Language Learners (ELL), but he soon left our program and no longer needed our assistance because he persevered, studied exceptionally hard, and took full accountability for his learning.

John has continued to be an important member of our ELL community at RSS and is my “go 24 COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

to” student when we welcome our new International and Permanent Resident students.

John was also elected as the RSS student council president this year.

He is kind and thoughtful, and has put in countless volunteer hours in our school helping new International and Permanent Resident students settle in.

John is an all-around exceptional young man.

THE WITNESS BLANKET January 15 to April 10, 2022 Kelowna Art Gallery

The Witness Blanket is a large-scale installation by artist and master carver Carey Newman, inspired by a woven blanket. A 40-foot-long reproduction of this powerful work will be presented at the Kelowna Art Gallery from January 15 to April 10, 2022.

The Witness Blanket stands as a national monument to recognize the atrocities of the Indian residential school era, honour the children, and symbolize on-going reconciliation.

The original piece is made from hundreds of items reclaimed from Indian Residential School Survivors, churches, government, and other cultural organizations, which were borrowed from 77 separate sites across Canada. Each item tells a story of loss, strength, resilience, and pride.

The Kelowna Art Gallery is

honoured to exhibit this true-toscale reproduction of The Witness Blanket, constructed from cedar with photographic panels to represent the original artifacts. The Witness Blanket is an exhibition based on the art of Carey Newman and is developed in collaboration with, and circulated by, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (Winnipeg, Manitoba).

Central Okanagan Public Schools, in partnership with the Kelowna Art Gallery, UBC Okanagan, the Kelowna Museum, and Sncewip Heritage Museum have been planning to host this exhibition for several years. It is anticipated that 2,000 students will have the opportunity to visit this exhibition to learn more about residential schools and truth and reconciliation.

NOT READY TO STOP Bob Hayes taught in Central Okanagan Public Schools from 1976 to 2010, but he still loves to give back to the school community through volunteering at Ellison Elementary. He comes in every week to share historical items with the class, play games, and generally help out in the classroom.

TOGETHERWELEARN • SD23.BC.CA

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PLANTING THE SEEDS OF HOPE The Outdoor Exploration Centre (OEC) at Pearson Road Elementary had its Grand Opening in October and allows students to learn about food growing and the land with two greenhouses, sixteen garden beds, and an outdoor classroom. The OEC was made possible through the support of the Central Okanagan Public Schools and its Operations Dept., PSE Parent Advisory Council support, a grant from the Kiwanis Club, and the TD Friends of the Environment program as well as numerous community sponsors. Rutland Secondary School students, several of whom were once Pearson Road students, also supported the project by building all sixteen outdoor planter boxes.

The Grand Opening was an opportunity for the school to recognize the many district and community contributors to the project: · Chuck Cullen of TEAM Construction Management, brother-in-law to Miss V. (the Pearson Road teacher who inspired the outdoor learning project) · The OEC committee comprised the following teachers, principal(s) and PAC members: Sarah Korzinski, Allison MacAfee, Claire Barclay, Lynn White, Anneka Konopada, Elaine Mearns, Debbie Dachwitz, Ethan McCluskey, Karrie Carter, Nina Ferguson, Rob Zoppi and Jaime Raymer.

The following organizations provided volunteer support of labour, expertise, and gifts-in-kind: · Kiwanis · TD Friends of the Environment · Whole Kids Foundation · Bylands · The Greenery · Pro Sign · Pro Source · Quality Chain Link Fencing · TEAM Construction · Big Yellow Bag · Okanagan Xeriscape Association · Door Tech · TNT Services · KRM Kelowna Ready Mix · Wild Bloom Nursery · Home Hardware · Everlast Greenhouses & Solariums Ltd · Reimers Farm Services · Growers Supply · Peter Boyd, The Independent Grocer 26 COMMUNITYCONNECTION • DECEMBER 2021

Students gathered in their new outdoor classroom, which is surrounded by plants native to the Okanagan.

Chuck Cullen, of TEAM Construction Management, and brother-in-law to Miss V. (the Pearson Road teacher who inspired the outdoor learning project)

Pearson Road students give out free jars of the Pearson Panther Picante salsa they made from their garden’s bounty.

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