Julie Mercer

The Board of Education discussed the strategic plan, including updates on literacy initiatives, workplace wellbeing surveys, and student-led projects. Key financial and operational matters included the approval of the Capital Plan Bylaw No. 2026/27-CPSD51-01, a review of the 2026/2027 preliminary operating grant, and the introduction of Election Bylaw No. 2026. The meeting also covered reports on Early Learning Child Care leads, banking procedures, and various committee and trustee updates, as well as an overview of expenditure reports and progress on the second draft of the 2026/2027 budget.

The meeting featured a presentation on the Perley Circle of Courage and a strategic plan update. Key business items included a discussion on kindergarten screening data, an expenditure report, and the approval of an increase in the transfer from operating funds to local capital. Additionally, the Board passed the Amended Annual Budget Bylaw for the 2025/2026 fiscal year and reviewed enrollment projections. Administrative reports were presented by the Superintendent and the Secretary Treasurer, alongside updates on committee activities and BCPSEA resolutions.

The Board discussed the postponement of the Election Bylaw No. 2026 to a future meeting to allow for further editing and necessary consultation with external authorities. Additionally, the Board reviewed and approved the 2026/2027 School Calendar, noting minor adjustments required for elementary school bell schedules to ensure compliance with instructional hour requirements.

The board discussed several key topics, including a presentation on the Perley Circle of Courage program and updates on BCSS student activities. An assessment tool for early literacy was introduced to address developmental challenges, and the board approved an increase in the transfer from operating funds to local capital. Additionally, the board passed the 2025/2026 Amended Annual Budget Bylaw. Other discussions included reports on the BCPSEA AGM, senior management updates on children and youth services, and various trustee reports regarding provincial and regional councils. The session also addressed concerns during a question period, including program cancellations, resource needs for parents, and safety protocols.

The meeting included the adoption of the agenda and recognition of Indigenous peoples and ancestors. Key discussions involved a Rightsholders and Partners comment period focusing on Teacher Counsellors. A strategic plan update featured a presentation on the 'Not Just Visitors Anymore: Growing Relationships Between Students and Seniors' program, alongside updates from the GFSS and BCSS Student Trustees covering academic activities, student events, and athletic seasons. The Superintendent also detailed counselling supports available to students. Business items included committee reports: the Finance Committee presented the Expenditure Report (to December 31, 2025) and confirmed the recalculated Operating Grant, which increased based on actual enrollment, and reviewed the 2026/27 Budget Process Timeline. The Operations Committee presented the Draft Long-Range Facilities Plan. The Policy Committee reported on housekeeping changes adopted for Policy 120 and Policy 121. Board Chair Hall reported on provincial work regarding teacher certification timelines, the Policy Review project, and upcoming general local elections. Senior Management reports covered the school calendar submission timeline, accessibility efforts, and budget preparation. Trustee reports were provided from various committees and councils. The Question Period addressed the school calendar, teacher counsellors, and grant funding for the seniors/students program.