Arrow Lakes School District No. 10

The Education Partnership Committee meeting addressed several key areas. Presentations included an update on the Strategic Plan Progress and 2019-2020 Priorities. Policy matters involved a recommendation for a Special Policy Committee regarding Policy 301 (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity), recommended revisions for Policy 680 (Transportation Assistance), and a recommendation for approval of new Policy 322 (Physical Restraint and Seclusion). The Superintendent provided an update covering enrollment figures, the announcement of a new Child Care Centre for New Denver funded by the Minister of Child and Family Development, an update on the NSS Climbing and Bouldering Wall Project, resolution of bus driver shortages with new hires and a new bus delivery, a report on Professional Development days focusing on assessment and ergonomics, ongoing teacher professional learning in literacy and Indigenous Education, an article featuring the district in the Kootenay HUB publication, updates on the provincial funding model changes, confirmation of the Grade 6 Quebec Exchange program, and a discussion on rural recruitment challenges. A notice of date change for the December meeting was also confirmed.

This Annual Plan for the Policy Committee outlines objectives for reviewing, updating, creating, and adopting Board policies. Key focus areas include establishing a comprehensive policy review framework, prioritizing specific policies for review and adoption, and aligning the policy manual structure with the District's new Governance Model adopted in October 2024.

The meeting included the adoption of the agenda and approval of the December 2025 meeting minutes. Key discussions included the Principal's Report covering upcoming events like 'Battle of the Books', Pro D Day, Avalanche Safety Training, student well-being assessments, and ski trip logistics, noting the school enrollment is back to 97 students. The Financial Report indicated funds are being used quickly due to need. The School District Report highlighted ongoing work by the Policy Committee to update the District policy manual and noted the availability of free, on-line safety sessions for families. New business addressed a request for PAC donation guidelines for 'Battle of the Books' prizes and a parent inquiry about applying for a grant for library upgrades. It was also noted that PACs are prohibited from formal membership with Chambers of Commerce under the school act.

The Parent Advisory Council (PAC) meeting agenda was adopted, followed by discussions on reports from the Principal, Financial Officer, and School District representative. Key topics included fundraising efforts for the Battle of the Books and Book Fair. The PAC approved a funding request for the 'Earth Embodied' initiative. A funding request for a Musical Drumming Workshop was tabled, with a motion to pursue further funding avenues.

The meeting included the adoption of the current agenda and approval of the previous meeting's minutes from December 2, 2025. Key discussions involved a Good News Report from the Superintendent. Student presentations were given by members of the NSS Writers' Club regarding their trip and creative development, and by a representative on activities within the REACH program. The financial report indicated the district is operating within a tight budget due to lower-than-forecast enrollment revenue, necessitating strategies like limiting expenditures and deferring discretionary expenses. Notice of Motions were provided for policy amendments to be discussed in February and April, specifically concerning policies related to sexual orientation and gender identity, graduation ceremonies, child protection, restraint, staff recruitment, safe and caring schools, procurement, and land disposal.