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 our school district. I have included a few items in my back-to-school message that are timely for the beginning of another exciting year.

School Readiness

I would like to thank our Facilities and Information Technology teams which, once again, have worked their magic this past summer completing a number of renovations and upgrades. I’ve been in a few schools already this year and they are looking fabulous.  We anticipate all schools to be shiny and ready to receive students next week – September 2nd.  Please ensure that you check your school’s website and any emails for the first week’s schedule.

Cell Phone Use in Schools

We are in our second year of cell phone restrictions in Saanich, and there have been some predictable growing pains as we work to change culture. Our procedures and Codes of Conduct about cell phones in schools follow provincial expectations for these tools. The goal? Create learning environments that minimize distractions while still allowing for meaningful use of technology when it supports instruction. We realize that cultural change takes time and may require some additional adjustments as we move through the second year of this ‘new normal’. As a district, we are committed to ensuring that students are learning in environments that are consistent in their expectations, sustainable, engaging and as distraction-free as possible.

Your assistance in reinforcing that cell phones are to be put away at school and only used when permitted by your child’s teacher, will help ensure that we continue to have engaging learning spaces. Thank you.

Artificial intelligence - AI

AI is changing the game -- and we’re leaning into it thoughtfully. Saanich is continuing its participation with a small group of districts across BC working together exploring how AI can support teaching, learning, and district operations. This fall, we’ll continue building our understanding and developing best practices. Our focus remains creating safe, supportive spaces to explore AI’s potential, while staying current with the latest developments.

Various AI resources can be found on our district website HERE. This is an excellent place for parents and guardians to find support for your children while exploring this powerful tool.

My Blog - The Power of Why

My first post of the new school year is now live – one where I talk about the critical role schools play in helping students navigate the tricky world of life transitions. I hope you can take 3-4 minutes to read: The Day I Became “Sir” and Other Signs I’m Not 25 Anymore. I would encourage to you sign up for email notifications of new posts – about every 3 or 4 weeks. I discuss many different themes – all focused on relevant educational topics – ones that will resonate with both educators as well as parents/guardians. You can click on the button on my website (Follow the Power of Why) to receive a notice of new posts.

Here We Go!

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