Superintendent’s Report – May 2026

Framework for Enhancing Student Learning (FESL)

** click here to see the Framework Report that outlines the goals, strategies, targets, and resource allocations for student success in all areas.

 

Student Learning – Intellectual Development

Numeracy:  Problem Solving at a District Level

“The Frogger Problem” – Students across similar grade levels at different schools tackled the same numeracy problem using a thinking classrooms approach where groups of students work together. 

It was a huge success with high levels of engagement in all the groups and an opportunity to approach numeracy from a number of perspectives. 

Pedagogies like these respond directly to the following commitments in the Board Strategic Plan under Student Learning:

 

  • Promote varied and innovative learning experiences and incorporate practical, hands-on, land-based, and experiential learning applications into the curriculum
  • Support students with different learning needs
  • Promote student voice and personal responsibility in their learning and school experience
  • Foster development of critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and competencies needed for future success

 

 

 

 

Preparing Students for Learning Success

The Early Learning team is once again providing opportunities for parents to prepare their children for entry into Kindergarten in a constructive and welcoming manner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Student Learning – Human & Social Development

Camp Cameron Continues to Provide Opportunities for Social Development and Physical Literacy

Below is the latest newsletter from our outdoor education coordinator, Lorenne Hamre.

A new challenge/obstacle course is now in place.

 

 

 

Canadian Mental Health Week – May 4-10, 2026

This year’s theme, Come Together, invited Canadians to strengthen mental health through small, everyday actions of connection.  Feeling connected and supported at work, at school and in our communities, helps reduce isolation and fosters well-being for everyone.

The Canadian Mental Health Association offers free, practical resources to support this work, including toolkits with quick activities, conversation starters, posters and virtual resources that can be used in-person, remote or in hybrid settings.

The ministry continues to support student and adult mental health and well-being throughout BC schools, with resources available through the erase (Expect Respect and a Safe Education) Mental Health and Substance Use web page.

 

 

 

 

Opportunities for Social Development Through Host Family Experiences

Please consider becoming a host family for our international students.

There is a monthly fee paid to the parents and it often creates life-long friendships and connections.

 

 

 

Human Development:  Physical & Mental Health

On May 4th, Cody Clements, the Clearview School volunteers, and ELC student volunteers hosted the first Cross Country Race of the season. The event was a huge success, welcoming nearly 350 students in Grades 1–9 from 10 schools across the district. The Primary race (Grades 1–3) covered 1.5 km, the Intermediate race (Grades 4–6) was 2.5 km, and the Middle Years race (Grades 7–9) was 4 km. Despite the hot weather, every runner completed their race and demonstrated outstanding resilience and determination. 

 

At the Surerus event, congratulations to the following top 3 runners in each division:

Primary male:

  1. Marco Betz – Clearview
  2. Banks Corcoran- Baldonnel
  3. Nash Schuman- Clearview

 

Primary Female:

  1. Rebecca Martin – Robert Oglivie
  2. Kacey Loney- ARYES
  3. Georgia Hampel -ARYES

 

Intermediate Male:

  1. Duke Wilson- ARYES
  2. Riley Durelle- ARYES
  3. Max Oversby- Charlie Lake

 

Intermediate Female:

  1. Sophie Driedger- ARYES
  2. Heidi Keim – Upper Pine
  3. Abby Baker- ARYES

 

Middle School Male

  1. Ben Betz- Clearvew
  2. Lenard Pugh- Clearview
  3. Finn Johnson- Upper Pine

 

Middle School Female

  1. Kora Dick

 

 

 

Early Learning presents Summer Camps …

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Student Learning – Career & Skill Development

Adventures in Health Care – April 14-17

Rotary partnered with Northern Health, School District 59, School District 60, the University of Northern British Columbia, and Northern Lights College to deliver a collaborative three-day project focused on exploring careers in healthcare.

Held from April 13–15, 2026, the initiative inspired and educated students about the wide array of opportunities available within the healthcare sector. Through interactive workshops, presentations, and hands-on activities, participants gained valuable insights into various healthcare professions, including nursing, medicine, allied health, and administration.

“This kind of hands-on, career-connected learning is exactly what helps students see themselves in future pathways,” said Stephen Petrucci, Superintendent of School District 60. “By working alongside our partners, we created meaningful experiences that connected students to real opportunities in healthcare right here in the North.”

The project provided students with the opportunity to interact with healthcare professionals, ask questions, and learn about the skills and competencies required for different roles in the healthcare field. Participants also received guidance on educational pathways and career development opportunities.

“We were excited to collaborate with Rotary, Northern Health, and our educational partners to offer this experience to students,” said Catherine Leroux, District Principal at School District 59. “This initiative aligned with our mission to prepare students for success in a rapidly evolving world and to inspire them to pursue rewarding careers that make a positive impact on society.”

Northern Health played a key role in connecting students with frontline healthcare professionals and real-world insights into the sector, while the University of Northern British Columbia and Northern Lights College played an integral role by providing resources, expertise, and mentorship throughout the project. Faculty members and students from various healthcare disciplines engaged with participants, sharing their experiences and insights into the healthcare profession. The initiative also responded to growing workforce needs in the region by helping students better understand local career opportunities and pathways in healthcare, supporting the development of a strong, future-ready workforce in Northern BC.

Brian Campbell, District Principal, Careers & International Education

 

 

Students to Explore Future Careers at Xplorefest 2026

The Pomeroy Sport Centre was buzzing with energy on May 7 as School District No. 60 (Peace River North) hosted its annual Xplorefest, welcoming hundreds of Grade 5 students from across the region for a full day of hands-on career exploration.

Xplorefest is designed to spark curiosity and introduce students to a wide range of career pathways through interactive, engaging activities, while supporting the district’s focus on ADST (Applied Design, Skills and Technology). This year’s event featured stations in trades, science, technology, healthcare, and skilled professions, giving students the opportunity to build, create, and experiment alongside industry professionals and community partners.

From trying virtual welding, exploring tools used in the trades, to learning about healthcare careers, students were encouraged to think about their future in a fun and supportive environment. The event highlights the importance of early exposure to career possibilities and helps students begin to connect their interests and strengths to real-world opportunities.

“Xplorefest is all about hands-on learning and opening doors for our students,” said Superintendent Stephen Petrucci. “When students can see and experience different career paths at a young age, it builds confidence and helps them start thinking about what their future could look like.”

The event was supported by strong community partnerships, including a generous donation from Shell Canada, which continues to invest in career education opportunities for students in the region. Additional support from industry partners and post-secondary institutions, including Northern Lights College and University of Northern British Columbia, helps make Xplorefest a meaningful and engaging experience.

School District 60 extends its sincere thanks to all volunteers, educators, and sponsors who contribute to making Xplorefest 2026 possible.

Brian Campbell, District Principal, Careers & International Education

 

 

 

People Development

Leadership Professional Development

Since the Fall, I have been taking the school and district leadership through a learning series in relation to “The Spirit of Leadership”, a framework for leadership guidance in British Columbia.  The basis of the learning is built off of a collaboration between the BC School Superintendent’s Association (BCSSA) and the BC Principal & Vice-Principal Association (BCPVPA).  Our most recent unit was on “Aligning Structures with a Vision for Learning”.  School and district leaders reviewed their school Frameworks and professional growth plans, with a view to aligning structures, practices and resources.

 

 

 

Truth & Reconciliation

Ribbon Skirt Showcase – April 30, 2026

 

 

 

Indigenous Learning Day

 

 

 

 

 

“Take 3”

Baldonnel Elementary

Sacha Kay’s grade 1/2 class at Baldonnel School came up with a great idea to help out the community and decided to do a food drive to help the local Women’s Resource Society.  Once the Baldonnel PAC heard of this, they decided to contribute a large amount of food to the cause.
Altogether, Baldonnel students, staff and parents collected 277 individual items for donation.
The Baldonnel PAC also reached out to other SD60 schools and challenged other PAC’s to contribute.
This call was answered in a huge way by Wonowon Elementary school and the community of Wonowon.  Together they also collected 211 food items for donation.
Following is a message from Katherine McIsaac from the Wonowon PAC … “Wonowon School students participated in a food donation challenge this year for the Women’s Resource Society. Our 80 amazing students brought in 211 food items for donations in 4 days. We were happy to take part in this generous challenge that will help many families in the area.”
Craig Brownlee, Principal, Baldonnel Elementary

 

 

 

 

Robert Ogilvie Elementary School

Art Show – Celebrating Creativity & Community

This year at Robert Ogilvie Elementary, we proudly hosted a school-wide Art Show celebrating the creativity, imagination, and talents of our students.

Throughout the year, students explored a variety of artistic experiences, and this event provided an opportunity to showcase their learning and creative expression with our school community.

 

 

A Showcase of Student Creativity – Artwork from every classroom was displayed throughout the show. Students contributed pieces from many different art experiences completed over the year, including:

  • 3-D cardboard cakes
  • Sculptures
  • Layered artwork
  • Plaster birds
  • Soap carving

And many more creative classroom projects …

The variety of artwork reflected the unique voices, talents, and imaginations of our students.


Interactive Art Stations – To make the event engaging and hands-on, we also created eight interactive stations for students, families, and guests to enjoy:

  • Magnetic Poetry Station
  • SWIS Countries of the World Station
  • Draw Your Face Station
  • Weaving Station
  • “Lion Roars Kindness” Word Activity
  • Table-Size Operation Game
  • Large Poster Colouring Stations
  • Mobile Creation Station featuring our RO values:
    • Respect
    • Accountability
    • Resilience
    • Kindness

We also included:

  • An Art Show Reflection Sheet and Scavenger Hunt

These activities encouraged visitors to not only view the art, but to actively participate in creativity and reflection.


Why This Matters …

The art show highlighted the importance of:

  • Creative expression
  • Student voice and individuality
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • Community connection through the arts

It also reinforced that art is not simply about the final product—it is about imagination, problem-solving, perseverance, and joy.


Reflection – The excitement and pride students felt while sharing their work was truly special. The art show transformed our school into a vibrant celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community.


When students are given opportunities to create and express themselves, they develop confidence, connection, and a deeper sense of belonging.

Christine Todd, Principal, Robert Ogilvie Elementary

 

 

 

North Peace Secondary School
Team Canada Dodgeball
NPSS, ELC, BBMS, & DKMS hosted two representatives from the Canadian National Dodgeball team in March.
Riel and Zion visited each school and PHE classes throughout the week.

We wrapped up the week with a dodgeball tournament held at the Kids Field House Arena by the ELC with multiple teams from each school competing in their respective grades.

Jaclyn McNicol, Vice-Principal, North Peace Secondary School