Stuart Kamstra

The meeting featured a presentation on the Climate Action Ripple Effect (CARE) initiative and its impact on student agency. The board received a report on the Foundry Kelowna expansion, specifically regarding the establishment of a new satellite site on the Westside to improve accessibility to mental health and support services for youth. Other key actions included the declaration of National Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day, the approval of the 2026/2027 Governance Framework and Annual Workplan, the adoption of a Policy Review framework, and the approval of School Community Student Learning Plans. Additionally, the board reviewed survey results regarding a potential 15-minute adjustment to secondary school start and dismissal times to optimize transportation efficiency and support student wellbeing. The board also prepared advocacy points for the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services regarding per-pupil funding and operational cost coverage.

The Board acknowledged the Traditional Territory of the Okanagan People and recognized two students for scholarship awards. A presentation on the 2025/2026 Annual Workplan was provided. Action items included the approval of a 15-minute adjustment to secondary school start and dismissal times, the adoption of the 2026/2027 Annual Budget Bylaw, and the approval of the Multi-Year Financial Plan. The Board also reviewed information items, including field study summaries and sustainability initiatives. Furthermore, an email was submitted to the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services advocating for increased per-pupil funding and additional support for operational and capital costs.

The Board of Education meeting included an educational presentation on numeracy instruction and student engagement. Several declarations were made, including National Allergy Awareness Month, Mental Health Week, National AccessAbility Week, and Pride Month. Action items addressed included the approval of Trustee indemnity for the upcoming fiscal year, a request to the government for increased per-pupil funding, a review of transportation timing for secondary students, approval of the operating budget, and various capital plan resolutions. Additionally, the Board undertook a comprehensive modernization of the policy manual by rescinding several outdated policies and regulations.

The meeting featured a presentation on a multi-year collaborative teaching project focused on student agency, inquiry-based learning, and classroom design. The Board declared several commemorative weeks, including National Volunteer Week, TTOC Appreciation Week, and a Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Discussions occurred regarding catchment boundary options for the upcoming opening of École George Pringle Secondary School, resulting in a directive for further public consultation. The Board reviewed the policy manual mapping process, gave three readings to adopt an election bylaw, and received various reports including budget survey results, information on field study summaries, and video surveillance reporting. A notice of motion was introduced regarding advocacy for increased, inflation-indexed per-pupil funding.

The meeting included an update on the Post Critical Incident Response Team and their protocol for school support. The Board declared School Bus Safety Awareness Week and Foster Family Month. A presentation was given by the Kelowna-Kasugai Sister City Association regarding a cultural exchange. Trustees discussed student enrollment trends and out-migration reasons. The Board passed motions to add Earth Day and Women's History Month to the Board Annual Declarations of Awareness Days. Correspondence regarding before and after school care was received, and the Board agreed to send a letter of appreciation to the Revelstoke Board of Education for hosting a recent branch meeting.