Welcome back to the start of another exciting year in Delta schools.
My hope for all our staff, students, and parents is that this summer has offered some time for rest, joy, and reflection and that you all look forward to this school year with energy and a commitment to having an incredible year of learning.
This summer I had an opportunity to connect with colleagues and leaders in education from across our province and globally. The BC Public Education system is viewed as one of the most successful in the world – and through the revisions in curriculum and innovations in classrooms, we are seeking even greater achievements. In Delta, I am very proud of the work our educators do for our youth as we pursue Our Bold Vision for Learner Success. Our work in this district is garnering attention from educators around the world. Our dedication and commitment to helping more youth develop to be able to thrive as adults is becoming the change we want to see in the world.
However, that doesn’t mean our work is done. In Delta, we understand and embrace with passion the role we play in the lives of the students we serve each day, and it is our duty to continue to strive to learn, grow and do better, for our students, staff, and school communities.
A focus of the coming year will be our District Framework for Enhancing Student Learning. The four overarching goals of CONNECTEDNESS, READING, ASSESSMENT, and GRADUATION will be the foundation on which we drive our educational leadership for the next few years. Also building on last year, we will continue to improve the learning success and equity for all students including expanding our understanding of First Peoples cultural awareness throughout the school district.
Delta School District is becoming a leading district for innovative teaching and learner success, both locally and around the globe.
I truly believe Delta School District is becoming a leading district for innovative teaching and learner success, both locally and around the globe. It is an honour and joy to be able to work with the incredible staff in this district, and to engage collaboratively with parents, staff and students about the future of education for all our youth.
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. I look forward to the coming school year and the sharing of our successes and stories.
Have an excellent 2018/19 school year!
Doug Sheppard, Superintendent
On behalf of the Delta School Board, I would like to welcome back everyone on the 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 (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 health and safety tips about walking to and from school:
WALKING TO SCHOOL TIPS
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:
BACK TO SCHOOL MENTAL HEALTH TIPS
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