Welcome back to school everyone,
I hope that Delta’s amazing summer weather has given you all the opportunity to rest, relax, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. As we all get settled into our schools and learning spaces, I am excited for the coming school year and the engaging and innovative education opportunities ahead.
This school year, we will have some new challenges and changes across the District. As we work to fulfill the Class Size and Composition Agreement, Delta School District, along with all other districts in BC, will continue working to ensure that our classrooms are staffed with passionate and talented educators.
Our District also anticipates building new relationships with the Province, as we work with our new Education Minister, the Hon. Rob Fleming. These are exciting times for collaboration and growth.
Throughout the school year we will continue to improve the learning success for all our Aboriginal students and expand Aboriginal cultural awareness throughout the school district. We will also continue to enhance learning for every student in Delta, as we work towards our vision.
I know I can speak for my colleagues, Assistant Superintendents Nancy Gordon and Brad Bauman, when I say how fortunate I feel to be a part of the Delta School District Community. It is a pleasure to be able to engage collaboratively in dialogue with parents, teachers and students about the future of education for all our students.
Once again, I welcome back all those who are returning – and a special welcome to those who are joining us as new students, parents, and staff.
Have an excellent September and school year!
Doug Sheppard, Superintendent
Welcome back everyone!
On behalf of the Delta School Board I hope everyone has a safe and exciting first day of school. As we get back into the rhythm of another school year, I would like to offer a few tips to help smooth the transition from the sunny and (hopefully) relaxing days of summer, back to a focused learning mindset.
One way to start the year off on the right foot, is to build in some time to walk to school — even parking a few blocks away and making time for ten minutes on the playground before the bell will provide:
— A brain boost so your child is ready to learn;
— Greater safety for your child and others by removing cars from schools zones and student pedestrians;
— A positive social connection with children and other parents.
Here is a link to some helpful safety tips for getting to and from school: http://www.hastebc.org/files/PedSafetyPoints.Jan%2008.pdf
For some students the excitement of back-to-school can present itself in anxiety, nervousness, and/or stress. I have found this post from Kelty Mental Health helpful in my own parenting: http://keltymentalhealth.ca/blog/2017/08/healthy-strategies-back-school
This school year our District will continue its commitment to healthy, safe, and innovative learning opportunities for all our students. I hope to see many of you at events this year, and look forward to another exciting and successful year ahead!
Laura Dixon
DSD Board Chair
*Photo credit: Adrian MacNair, Delta Optimist