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
Capstone Projects – Presentations at Prespatou School
On November 21st, I had the opportunity to visit Prespatou School and take in one of the Capstone presentations by Ferris MacPherson (pictured below). He explained the process around tanning hides and brought in one that he had been working on.
Part of the Career-Life Connections program, and required for graduation, the Capstone project gives students the opportunity to explore their passion projects in-depth. They work with a teacher mentor and the process culminates in a presentation to education staff who then evaluate it.
Below is a handout used by the Chilliwack School District that illustrates the nature of this initiative.
Learning Services
Our Deaf and Hard of Hearing Student Panel on November 21st, was a powerful celebration of peer relationships and the many forms that teaching can take. The three student speakers were past graduates of NPSS and were motivational, informative, and inspiring to say the least.
Ethan Blackley opened with an engaging account of his journey through culinary arts college and into the oil field, candidly describing the challenges of navigating high-noise environments and sharing practical strategies for coping with hearing loss in demanding workplaces.
Shaya Jeffery then took the stage with a heartfelt message about self-worth, describing her early feelings of inadequacy and her realization that there is no such thing as “normal”—a message that resonated so strongly that students eagerly opened up about their own aspirations for life after graduation.
Finally, Kyrissa Clarkson spoke about her experiences in retail, the struggle to advocate for a more suitable position, and her courageous decision to pursue further education despite self-doubt; now working in healthcare, she continues to face communication barriers such as masked interactions, yet remains determined and resilient.
Each speaker’s story naturally led to problem-solving, hope, and practical inspiration for their peers, culminating in additional insights from Terry Maloney about choosing careers compatible with hearing loss. Students asked thoughtful questions, shared openly, and expressed clear recommendations for improving their school experience, including ASL classes for all and universal closed captioning in classrooms to support inclusive communication for everyone.
Sally Birley, Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Learning Services
Experiential Learning: CBC Article on Dr. Kearney Go-Cart Club
The go-cart club at Dr. Kearney has gone national!
Please check out this CBC article here on the program that was mentioned in my October Superintendent’s Report.
Student Learning – Human & Social Development
Fruit and Veggie Program Revived in our Schools
Thanks to a $50,000 donation from Sureline/Surerus, we will be re-implementing this program, which has undergone some changes in how the food is prepared and delivered.
Schools will be able to have more choice in the selection and quantity, which should cut down on waste and cost.
It is being organized through our centralized Feeding Futures program.
Fundraiser for Hurricane Melissa (Jamaica) – based out of Dr. Kearney
Cassandra Baker-Watson, guidance counsellor at Dr. Kearney Middle School, organized a fundraiser to support communities in Jamaica following the devastating Hurricane Melissa.
Donations came in from around the community and will be sent over in the near future.
Source: Ed Hitchins, Energetic City News
Follow-up to the International Para Hockey Tournament in Dawson Creek
Several intermediate and middle school students enjoyed this unique competition in Dawson Creek with the tickets sponsored by local industry and the bussing and lunch costs covered by the district.
The atmosphere was electric as our students cheered on Canada and other countries.
A big shout out to the city of Dawson Creek for connecting with our district on this initiative.
Donations from FSJ Firefighters Charity and Lux Apparel —– winter clothing for kids
Once again, the FSJ Firefighters Charity, in partnership with Lux Apparel have provided much needed winter clothing for several of our students across the district.
Each year the FSJ Firefighters Charity supports our students in a variety of ways and we are very grateful for their community engagement and support.
Naloxone Kits and AEDs in Schools
As per Board policy, all schools have access to AEDs and will now also have naloxone kits as part of the first aid kit beginning in January.
The sign below will indicate that the kit is present. Relevant staff will be trained in the new year.
Student Learning – Career & Skill Development
Career Education Week – November 24-28, 2025
Coastal GasLink Award of $10,000 for Shop Improvements
“Dear Mr. Campbell, Coastal GasLink is pleased to inform you that funding has been approved for THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 60 (PEACE RIVER NORTH) in support of your initiative, Shop Equipment Upgrade for the following amount(s) of CA$10,000.00.”
People Development
Leadership Development
11 teachers are being sponsored by the District to take the BCPVPA Explorations Course, which addresses a variety of topics related to stepping into formal school leadership positions. We are excited by the interest and experience that will be represented.
District Annual Christmas Dinner & Dance 2025
With even more staff attending this year, we had a lovely evening of food, dance and winning of prizes! With over $5000 in prizes, there was a great selection for the winners. A special thanks to Sharon Schell for her work in preparing the logistics as well as making all the beautiful centerpieces.
The Board subsidizes the cost of this event significantly, keeping the ticket price down to $35 per person for the entire evening, whereas the actual cost is $75 per person.
Introduction to ASD Virtual FLEX (7-week virtual course)
Autism Outreach Virtual Flexible ASD Course
The ASD virtual FLEX course covers the same content as the in-person 5-day Introduction to ASD course, but is offered over a 7-week period for maximum flexibility to those juggling work and home commitments. Topics include the basics of ASD, individual differences, understanding and changing behaviour, social and communication skills, life skills, and much more!
Truth & Reconciliation
Article from Energetic City on Indigenous Ed Programming and Support
Indigenous Education Council 2025-26
“Take 3”
Energetic Learning Campus
The ELC Movember Paper Airplane Fundraiser was a huge success!
We raised $500 towards Men’s Health Awareness!
Thank you to Izzy, Harlo, Harlyn, Het, Kenzie, and Walker for taking the initiative to organize this event.
Thank you to the staff and students for their participation and a big thank you to our community sponsors!
Lori Coulter, Vice-Principal, ELC
Margaret ‘Ma’ Murray Community School
A big shout-out to Blaise in Grade 1, who won this year’s FSJ Fire Prevention Week draw!
With her win, our entire school community enjoyed a delicious pizza lunch.
A heartfelt thank you to the FSJ Fire Department and Pizza Hut for providing such a great lunch!
Keith MacGillivray, Principal, MMMCS
Alwin Holland Elementary
We are proud to share that Alwin Holland collected an outstanding amount of non-perishable food for the Huskies’ Fill the Bus fundraiser in support of the Salvation Army.
Thank you to all of our families for your generosity and for helping make a meaningful difference in our community this holiday season.
Thank you to Mrs. Snow’s class for organizing this event for our school.