Have a safe, healthy, and happy holiday!
December 20, 2024
Dear Parents/Guardians and Students,
As we turn the page on our calendars to a new year, I want to first express my gratitude for everyone’s collaboration in these first few months of the school year. As a growing District, we continue to encounter changes and new processes. Thank you to students, staff, and families for being a part of the district-wide student inclusive conferences at the elementary level and also the sharing of reflections at the middle and secondary level. We value your partnership in supporting student successes and transitions.
There have been many announcements to celebrate in this school year. The Board of Education has named the new Northeast Latimer Elementary on the Willoughby Slope, Josette Dandurand Elementary School. The late Josette Dandurand was a Kwantlen First Nation elder, SD35 cultural presenter, advocate for social justice and leader in Truth and Reconciliation. For years, she had shared her wisdom, teachings, and stories of her experiences in residential schools with students and staff. We are honoured to have her positive legacy continue when we open the new school in September. For the media release, read more here.
The District also celebrates the announcement of the building of a new middle school and a new secondary school in the Smith neighbourhood on the Willoughby Slope. It is slated to be the largest education capital project in the province’s history. We know that these, as well as other ongoing projects that create additional spaces, will help relieve enrolment pressures in our growing District. For the media release, read here.
As we look ahead to January, we will begin inviting new families to register for Kindergarten entry. This will be the District’s second year operating an online registration system. It will begin earlier to help staff in planning for next year. District staff in various departments have been working on making improvements to the registration process as well as enhancing orientation to help families with this early years transition.
The lead up to the holidays are always a time for connection, community, and generosity in our schools. Students, staff, and families, including PACs, have been working hard on celebrations and performances that raise spirits and bring people together, and charity initiatives that help those in need. We acknowledge your efforts and thank you for helping develop caring and compassionate students and building community. You can read a summary of activities in our schools here.
The Board of Education is sending season’s greetings to all Langley students, staff, and families. You can read Board Chair Candy Ashdown’s message here.
On behalf of the District, hoping you can rest, relax, and have a meaningful time with your loved ones. Have a safe, healthy, and happy holiday!
Sincerely,
Mal Gill
Superintendent of Schools