Brett Apolczer

The board reviewed findings from a strategic plan engagement survey identifying core themes to guide future initiatives. The board approved the 2027-28 Five-Year Major Capital Plan, which includes significant renovations and additions at Springwood and DP Todd Secondary schools. Additionally, the 2028-2029 school calendar was approved. Governance actions included the passing of bylaws for trustee elections, setting the inaugural board meeting date, and appointing election officials for the upcoming civic election. Furthermore, a new board-authorized leadership course for students was established, and the board continued its policy modernization efforts by updating and rescinding several policies.

The Board received a presentation from the PGSS Family of Schools regarding strategic plan priorities, including literacy, numeracy, and graduation rates. The Board adopted a $217 million annual budget for 2026-2027 and approved the Annual Facility Grant Plan for submission. Governance actions included the approval of new board-authorized courses, the 2026-2027 meeting calendar, and the schedule of fees. Staff were directed to explore the feasibility of a district-supported elementary sports program. Additionally, the Board approved an adjustment to trustee remuneration to align with provincial benchmarks and initiated policy modernization by repealing outdated human resources policies.

The committee conducted a review of several draft policies, including Student Voice, Parent Engagement, and Partnerships, Corporate Sponsorships and Donations. Minor revisions were implemented for the Parent Engagement policy, and additional items were identified for further review regarding the Partnerships, Corporate Sponsorships and Donations policy. The committee also discussed the schedule for upcoming meetings.

The Board discussed and received the report of the Ad Hoc Policy Committee and approved the third and final reading of Bylaw 5 Board Procedures. A comprehensive list of existing policies was repealed to streamline operations. The Board approved several new or updated policies, including those related to student voice, parent engagement, and partnerships. Additionally, the 2025-2026 Amended Annual Budget Bylaw was passed through all three readings. The Board deliberated on a proposal to reschedule an upcoming regular public meeting and initiated a formal review process for Trustee remuneration to be considered during the next budget cycle.

The board meeting included presentations on school learning priorities, student advisory council activities, and literacy/numeracy assessments. Key actions involved receiving the Ad Hoc Policy Committee report, advancing bylaw readings for board procedures and traffic/access to property, and repealing several existing policies. The board approved a new authorized course, the Statement of Financial Information, and the annual budget process and timeline. Furthermore, the board reviewed financial and class size reports, approved a new policy for unexpected health emergencies, and conducted annual elections for the Board Chair, Vice Chair, BCSTA Provincial Council representatives, and BCPSEA representatives.