Greg Forbes-King

The meeting began with an acknowledgement of the traditional and unseated territory of the Samath First Nations and the Mas Masky First Nation. Congratulations were extended to Superintendent Nathan Ning for receiving the King Charles III Coronation Medal. The agenda adoption was moved and seconded. Discussion occurred regarding the process for remote versus in-person meetings. The approval of minutes from the December 9th public board meeting and consent items, including school liaison lists and committee appointments, were addressed, with a specific inquiry raised regarding terminology used in an employee association report concerning decolonization, which the Chair deferred to a future meeting. The board then addressed the minutes of the Education Committee meeting held on December 2nd. Key discussion points included a report from the Director of Information Technology, Steve Stoby, detailing accomplishments for 2024-2025 aligned with the 'Engaging Opportunity' strategic pillar. This included the successful replacement plan for all staff devices over the summer of 2025, which optimized resources and improved equity of access, and significant progress in cybersecurity measures, such as utilizing AI for attack disruption, firewall hardening, and increasing multi-factor authentication adoption. The Director also highlighted challenges, including operating with a lean staff (13 FTE versus a full complement of 15 FTE), the increasing speed of cyber incidents, third-party security risks, and the need for continued focus on business continuity and disaster recovery planning. Future plans for 2025-2026 include a full review of all district technology. The meeting concluded with recognition of staff efforts in managing significant community flooding prior to Christmas.

The meeting began with an acknowledgement of meeting virtually due to safety concerns and recognition of the traditional territory of the Samath First Nations and the Matby First Nations. Key discussion points included the adoption of the agenda, which was preceded by commentary regarding the virtual format. The Board also heard an announcement regarding the passing of John Roberts, a respected and long-serving educator and principal within the district, and condolences were extended to his family. The Director of Instruction for Learning Support Services provided an update on the district strategic plan progress, detailing initiatives under Student Success (including pilot projects for literacy for non-speaking students via Early Reader Skillbuilders and use of technology/AI), Engaging Opportunities (including parent workshops on topics like ADHD and community resource connection), and Progressive Workforce (focusing on staff capacity to address challenging behaviors, utilizing BCBAs, and creating a district behavior specialist position). Future focus areas for the 2025-2026 school year were outlined as literacy, well-being, safety, work experience, and strengthening strategic community partnerships. A video showcasing the work of the Learning Support Services department was also presented.

This document describes the Abbotsford School District's Nature Kindergarten program, which integrates the full kindergarten curriculum with extended outdoor learning experiences. The program aims to foster inquiry, exploration, and a deep connection with nature, while promoting environmental stewardship. It focuses on developing children's physical confidence, problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and cooperative skills through daily immersion in diverse natural landscapes.

The meeting commenced with an acknowledgement of the local indigenous community, recognizing the traditional and unseated territory of the Seamath First Nation and Math First Nation. Key procedural items included the adoption of the agenda and the election of the board chairperson, which resulted in Trustee Peterson being acclaimed as Chair. Subsequently, the board proceeded to elect a vice chair, resulting in Trustee Wilson being elected by vote over Trustee Kander Rajan. The newly elected Chair Peterson thanked former Chair Wilson and Vice Chair Ry for their service, emphasized focusing on student success based on the existing strategic plan, and referenced an upcoming discussion on the district's Measuring Up report.

The meeting featured a presentation by Dr. Shahana Alibhai on the role of emotions in mental health, focusing on emotional regulation and intervention thresholds for adolescents. New executives were onboarded, and the Treasurer's Report detailed current bank balances. The Constitution and Bylaw Committee established its review membership. New business included a discussion on common practices for inviting district leaders and trustees to DPAC meetings, leading to motions requesting a presentation from the Board of Education regarding trustee roles and responsibilities, and asking visiting trustees to provide introductory updates. Clarification was sought and action taken regarding concerns about noon-hour supervision and crossing guard responsibilities, which will be brought to the superintendent. The open floor addressed rules on student sports transfers following school changes and a request for petition support regarding supportive housing near a school.