Dear Parents and Guardians,

ÍY, SȻÁĆEL HÁLE (Good Day)

Welcome back to a new school year. And, for those of you who are joining us for the first time, welcome to Saanich Schools. I have included a few items in my back-to-school message that are timely for the beginning of another exciting year of learning and growth.

School Readiness

I would like to thank our district teams in Facilities, Information Technology, Finance, Human Resources and Learning Services. They have worked their magic again this summer to ensure that our schools are ready to welcome the thousands of students and staff back into classrooms. I’ve been in a few schools already this year and they are looking fabulous – ready to welcome students on September 8th.  Please ensure that you check your school’s website and any emails for information about your child’s first week of school.

My Blog - The Power of Why

My first blog post of the new school year is now up – one where I talk about the critical necessity of both belonging and hope in a new school year. It is short, 3-4 minute read: Every September Begins with Hope . I write to share my thinking on a number of educational and leadership topics – ones that I hope will resonate with both educators and parents & guardians. I blog about once a month. You can click on the button on my website (Follow the Power of Why) to sign up.

Grade K-3 Literacy Screener

This Fall, all Kindergarten to Grade 3 students in Saanich Schools will participate in Early Literacy Screening. These brief, age-appropriate assessments help educators identify students' literacy strengths and any areas where additional support may be beneficial. Early identification allows schools to provide timely instruction to support reading success for every learner. Screening will be conducted by classroom teachers during regular school activities. For more information, please visit the MECC Site.

Families are also encouraged to learn more about literacy development and screening by visiting our Saanich Schools Literacy Learning at Home website, available through the Resources tab on all school websites. A monthly Literacy Link newsletter will also be shared with families to support literacy learning at home. Previous editions are available on the website.

School Climate

BC continues to place a significant focus on school climate and culture – the critically important focus of ensuring that schools are welcoming and engaging places – safe places – where staff do their best to build student success. BC’s ERASE website (Expect Respect and a Safe Education) continues to evolve with even more resources to support student wellness. The website hosts information on a variety of topics including Diversity and Inclusion, Mental Health and Substance Use, and School and Online Safety – there are some great resources for parents, students and school staff.

Saanich Schools continues to emphasize the importance of student wellness through the Board’s 2022-2027 Strategic Plan, various staff in-service opportunities, and our Health & Wellness resources page with direct access to a Mental Wellness Hub (supporting positive mental health) for students, parents and caregivers.

Feel free to connect with your child’s teacher or school administrator for more information about what is happening in your child’s school.

Welcome Back!

It’s shaping up to be another exciting year in Saanich. Wishing everyone a wonderful start next week and a year full of growth, connection, and great moments.

Sincerely,

Dave Eberwein

Superintendent & CEO, Saanich Schools