Safe, Caring & Inclusive Learning Communities

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Several members of our Student Support Services team attended the PDA Live online session through POPARD, alongside over 120 participants from across the province.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The session highlighted the strong connection between Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), autism, and anxiety—reminding us that what can look like refusal is often an anxiety-driven response to everyday demands.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Key takeaways focused on practical strategies: prioritizing relationships, flexibility, and student autonomy, and using indirect, collaborative approaches to reduce anxiety and increase engagement.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Great learning and thoughtful discussion that directly supports our work in inclusive and responsive classrooms.</span></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SD27 Early Learning Coordinator, Beulah Smith joined Denisiqi at Naghtaneqed Elementary school for "Growing Little Roots" an early learning event sharing child development information and building relationships through playful engagement. Our station provided opportunities for building literacy skills through play.</span></p><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/26dc7053-b8bf-49e9-9821-ead3c7c93dcf?fingerprint=ppb20260422045143" alt="Ready, Set, Learn2 BEULAH SMITH" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0bac6a8c-7624-4409-8b75-8bc0ec748724?fingerprint=ppb20260422045142" alt="Ready, Set, Learn5 BEULAH SMITH" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Since February 2026 of this year, CCSD27 has been seeking input on the Northern BC School District's Accessibility Plan. The plan's key themes are to increase visibility of those with disabilities, develop targeted education and training programs, increase integration in school, and to focus on accessibility, empathy, and sensitivity training. The survey can be completed by accessing the district's website by clicking on "Our District, Accessibility, and the Northern BC School Districts Accessibility Plan Survey."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0735afb7-eda1-43d1-aac2-e04cecb158f4?fingerprint=ppb20260416053916" alt="CCSD27 Seeks Input on Accessibility Plan Hattie Darney" width="443" height="232" style="width:443px;height:232px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CCSD27 has access to online sessions for parents, caregivers, grandparents and youth ages 10 &amp; up! The last session for "Establishing Safe, Caring, &amp; Respectful Digital Communities" is on May 13th from 6:30-7:30pm. The last session for "Establishing Family Practices for Safeguarding Against Cyberbullying &amp; Sextortion" is on June 10th from 6:30-7:30pm. You can access these workshops using the school district's website under "Students &amp; Families, Safe &amp; Inclusive Schools." A big shout out to ERASE and Safer Schools Together for these offerings!</span></p><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/179d7314-5fbc-4ca7-aa38-6b1cf5b88f60?fingerprint=ppb20260415043634" alt="60 Minute Online Workshops for Families from Safer Schools Together &amp; ERASE2 Hattie Darney" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1e2f6b34-e955-4dcd-a516-7b85c26cb010?fingerprint=ppb20260415043634" alt="60 Minute Online Workshops for Families from Safer Schools Together &amp; ERASE1 Hattie Darney" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Cariboo Chilcotin School District is pleased to introduce the Super Attendance Recognition Program, a new initiative that celebrates student effort and acknowledges the vital role families play in supporting regular school attendance.</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Being present at school supports learning, well-being, and a strong sense of belonging. Each day helps students build relationships, establish routines, and engage fully in the experiences that support their growth and success. For this reason, attendance is a key focus for the District.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recognizing Effort, Progress, and Commitment</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The program is designed to recognize attendance in meaningful and encouraging ways. Each month, students will be celebrated if they meet one or more of the following criteria during the previous month:</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Achieve 90% or greater attendance for the month</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Improve attendance by 10% or more compared to the previous month</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Maintain 90% or greater attendance year to date</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students who meet any of these milestones will receive a certificate recognizing their effort and commitment to being present at school.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Monthly and Year-End Draws</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From all eligible students across the three categories, one student will be selected each month to receive a family-focused gift. In February, for example, prizes included $100 grocery gift certificates. Students eligible for monthly recognition are also automatically entered into a grand year-end draw, offering another opportunity for families to be recognized and celebrated.</span><br><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A Shared Responsibility</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This program is not about perfect attendance. It is about recognizing effort, growth, and partnership. By celebrating attendance, the District aims to strengthen connections between students, families, and schools while encouraging positive habits that support learning and well-being.</span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families with questions are encouraged to contact their school for more information.</span></p><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50%;"><col style="width: 50%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/2d62853f-523f-46df-a515-ab88c619d04f?fingerprint=ppb20260412023642" alt="C Lenardon Attendance 1 cheryl lenardon" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245);"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/d8d1e0d4-9305-44c1-a9fe-6843de65de65?fingerprint=ppb20260412023645" alt="Clenardon Attendance 2 cheryl lenardon" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PSO student Eva Black has a firm conviction - every kid deserves a birthday cake on their birthday. Working with the Food Bank and local donors, she put together birthday cake boxes as part of her Grade 12 Capstone project. Each kit has everything needed to make a yummy cake for a family in need. Thanks for supporting the community spirit Eva!</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/77d7fec2-cba1-4ee8-a47d-4ad5f33fd7e4?fingerprint=ppb20260204050219" alt="Birthday Cake Kits 1 Robert Mac Donald" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5400f579-779e-4622-87bc-6d1a7c72e497?fingerprint=ppb20260204050219" alt="Birthday Cake Kits 2 Robert Mac Donald" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are always excited to have Elder Mike Archie visit PSO. Mike did some drumming and also brought pizza for the students. Constable Flett also joined us to hear Mike speak. Visits from an Elder are a significant opportunity for our students to learn more about local First Nation communities. Great day!</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/63216b24-0c75-49fd-9723-2cfcde16c73a?fingerprint=ppb20260123203947" alt="Elder Visit with Mike Archie 1 Robert Mac Donald" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/12908c6f-a273-4cfd-8c62-11bf8677bfdb?fingerprint=ppb20260123203948" alt="Elder Visit with Mike Archie 2 Robert Mac Donald" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Several PSO students are placed in TRU programs this year ranging from Automotive Technician, Electrical, Welding, and Carpentry. Two students are currently participating in the Carpentry program with TRU Williams Lake. Their program began in August. They will return to PSO for a final semester before their graduation with host of hands on skills and certifications which will support their launch into their next steps after graduation!</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/499cd39c-0373-44f2-b506-8a8b9a68def1?fingerprint=ppb20251217034010" alt="PSOCarpentryTRU caitlin currie" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/eabfd445-df1f-420e-a1dc-aabafb81dc7a?fingerprint=ppb20251217040459" alt="PSOCarpentryTRU2 caitlin currie" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On November 26, 2025, PSO hosted Justin Brien, former Junior hockey player turned motivational speaker and TED Talks presenter. He shared his story which navigated complex issues such as sports psychology, drugs / substance abuse, and mental health. PSO works hard to create a safe and caring community which supports all students' needs; the topics of mental health and addictions are essential for students to learn how to navigate. We believe in supporting all students struggling with loneliness, depression, and anxiety, and are seeking ways to cope. Justin addressed the stigma which surrounds these topics, and he encouraged students on how to find their own authentic values to live by. At this talk, PSO also welcomed 58 students from David Stoddart school in the neighbouring community of Clinton, BC, so that they would also have a chance to hear Justin's powerful story. The talk “hit home” for many students, who were visibly inspired after hearing about Justin’s healing journey.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1d1219cb-4107-4f48-bf0e-e6235fcb478b?fingerprint=ppb20251217033752" alt="PSO Justin Brien Visit 2 Robert MacDonald" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/adc0a948-f30a-4bd3-87ff-87a3cf1cd9b7?fingerprint=ppb20251217035552" alt="PSO Justin Brien Visit 1 Robert MacDonald" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Today educators in a variety of roles and responsibilities within the school setting came together to train or re-train on non-violent crisis intervention strategies with district principal Kristina Beaulne. The verbal and non-verbal behaviours, actions and strategies that educators use can have a profound de-escalating effect with youth and with grown-ups in our learning communities. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this learning round today.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b92c04fb-4915-4e59-bd6c-12396a44229e?fingerprint=ppb20251217035632" alt="Non violent Crisis Intervention Training1 holly zurak" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/43f81bc7-7a97-49b2-8814-9de760f68238?fingerprint=ppb20251217033943" alt="Non violent Crisis Intervention Training2 holly zurak" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Constable Flett is an integral part of our school community, and the kids love him.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0e86032d-c6b6-4cd7-b19b-2e514a601a47?fingerprint=ppb20251217033715" alt="Charlie and Constable Flett Robert MacDonald" width="369" height="516" style="width:369px;height:516px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Gr 8 Science practiced circle work in their classroom. Students engaged with the concepts of BC First Peoples Principals for Learning in the context of their science class while also practicing how to share their thoughts and ideas in circle.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6789c8ab-cb44-40a7-b9e6-a6b3dc593d37?fingerprint=ppb20260208062629" alt="PSOCirclework caitlin currie" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/e8daa3c5-7589-4347-b901-628063ddb5ce?fingerprint=ppb20260208062629" alt="PSOcirclework2 caitlin currie" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PSO was excited to host our little buddy kindergarten class from 100 Mile Elementary. Little buddies partnered with our Foods 11/12 class to decorate Christmas cookies. Little buddies then attended PSO's mini powwow with their big buddies.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/4442ec64-84b4-5924-8e9f-00c9d664bb62?fingerprint=ppb20251217033956" alt="q8k7k84b.jpg" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></div></div>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PSO Students raised food donations in B block classes for the local food bank in a "Week of Giving". Students in PSO's Psychology 11 class collected donations from other classes and delivered donations this Friday.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a00e63fe-4613-5b7d-afab-8993d23c53ce?fingerprint=ppb20251217034854" alt="3wgmdgcq.jpg" width="564" height="260" style="width:564px;height:260px;display:inline-block"></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PSO grade 12 students Jake Miller and Izaiah Ambrus are completing the Youth Train in the Trades program in Carpentry through TRU this fall. Both Jake and Izaiah are thriving in the program and are amazing examples of the opportunity trades programs can provide students to complete their learning and get ahead in their career goals.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/53e91cd7-014b-5585-857c-7d4224cea909?fingerprint=ppb20251217034036" alt="ceqjbvt5.jpg" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/2f1d7e16-6224-5679-94f8-691886857590?fingerprint=ppb20251217033835" alt="oj2r8t0m.jpg" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p></div></div>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PSO's Foods 11/12 and Art 11/12 classes enjoyed hosting 100 Mile Elementary Kindergarten students. Older students helped the visiting class bake cookies and do some face painting to get ready for Halloween. Some really important connections were made and we look forward to more collaboration.</span></p><div data-lexical-layout-container="true" style="grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; display: grid;"><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/4b01f9a3-9e4f-5c4d-be0a-bf7c224956eb?fingerprint=ppb20251217034010" alt="ykwjqjo6.jpg" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p></div><div class="editor-layoutItem"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/713fcf06-e67e-5800-8de2-d150aad6b217?fingerprint=ppb20251217034422" alt="npv2qr05.jpg" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"></p></div></div>