Superintendent’s Update

Posted On Monday October 06, 2025

October 2025

Dear parents and staff, 

As we welcome October, I want to recognize the efforts of parents and staff who supported students in starting the school year successfully. Together, we create a strong foundation for their engagement in learning.
 
Along with all of the school start up routines and immersion into the curriculum, September included some other important events. Last week, students and staff throughout the District recognized National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with meaningful experiences and activities that went beyond the symbolic wearing of orange shirts. Assemblies, guest speakers and classroom activities during the week and throughout the year are helping to create the awareness and action necessary to build the inclusive and respectful future we all want. Everyone benefits from learning and reflecting on the history and lasting impact of residential schools.
 
At the end of September, we published the Enhancing Student Learning Report highlighting the progress, challenges, and steps we’re taking to improve outcomes for all students. As we take action in areas where we need to grow, we are also pleased to see improvement in primary literacy, grade to grade transitions, graduation rates, and positive shifts in belonging and cultural safety. As a district, we continue to enhance areas identified as strengths and focus greater efforts where evidence indicates that more attention is required.
 
Looking ahead, October is a time to share gratitude. Along with National Principals Month and the recent honouring of World Teachers Day, I am grateful for everyone’s contributions to creating a good day every day for each learner in our school system. We know that students thrive when our schools are welcoming and inclusive spaces. Every staff member helps to create that environment. Thank you for your hard work, care, and unwavering commitment to students.

As daylight decreases with the coming of Fall, please remember that School Bus Safety Week, coming up on October 20–24, is a reminder of the vital role transportation plays to keep our students safe. As youngsters walk to and from their bus stops and to and from school, please be mindful of speed zones and pedestrian safety. When we do that, in combination with the efforts of the transportation team and our bus drivers, everyone wins.

Best wishes for a happy Thanksgiving weekend.

Sincerely,

Mike McKay
Superintendent

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SEPTEMBER

Fred Fox Encourages Students to Continue Terry Fox’s Legacy
 
Every September, schools across the District join millions across Canada in honouring Terry Fox by participating in Terry Fox Runs. This year, Terry’s brother, Fred Fox, visited four SD73 elementary schools to share stories about Terry Fox and the values that shaped his life and legacy.
 
Read more here.

YMCA Parkcrest Care and Learning Centre Opening
 
On Monday, September 22, 2025, the Kamloops-Thompson Board of Education and YMCA BC, with support from the Ministry of Education and Child Care, celebrated the opening of the newest child care centre in the Kamloops-Thompson School District.
 
Read more here.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Indigenous Family BBQ at the
Henry Grube Education Centre
Tuesday, October 7, 2025 | 4:00–7:00 PM
 
Storytelling, Indigenous games, community resources, door prizes, and more. Bring and blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a free hot dog, bag of chips, treats, and a drink.
 
Learn more and register here.

Parent Engagement Session: English Language Learners & Newcomer Families
Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | 6:00–7:00 PM
 
Join us for a virtual information session to learn about essential school information and community support resources for English Language Learners and newcomer families.
 
Learn more and register here.

UPDATES FROM THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

At the September 22, 2025, Regular Public Board Meeting, the Board of Education approved a new committee structure and Board meeting schedule to help guide important decisions, support student learning, and streamline District and Board operations. To learn more about this new structure, the Enhancing Student Learning Report, and other reports from the meeting, read the latest Board Notes here. The next Regular Public Board meeting will be Monday, October 27, 2025, at 7:00 pm at the School Board Office.

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