News Stories

As we continue to grow and evolve as an educational community, one of our most powerful tools in shaping success for all students is the commitment to culture. In line with our recently updated Enhancement Agreement for Indigenous Students, we are prioritizing three key areas: Student Success, Cultural Identity, and Equity and Access through Advocacy.

In 2023, the Abbotsford Police Department launched a contest inviting local Indigenous youth from our school district to design a shoulder flash that would represent their heritage, family, and community values. The initiative aimed to reflect the attributes they wished to see in their police force.

The response was positively overwhelming, with over 40 submissions of artwork received. On Truth and Reconciliation Day in 2023, these submissions were displayed in the AbbyPD lobby, where the public was invited to vote for their favorite design.

On October 5th, the Abbotsford School District joins the global community in celebrating World Teachers’ Day, a special occasion to honour the dedication and passion of educators who play an essential role in shaping the future. Teachers are the driving force behind student success, and in Abbotsford, they are at the heart of creating a vibrant and supportive learning environment for over 20,000 students.

In a continued commitment to supporting the educational success and cultural identity of Indigenous students, the Abbotsford School District has signed the 2025-2030 Enhancement Agreement for Indigenous Students. The signing took place during a luncheon event on June 17, 2024, attended by representatives from the Semáth First Nation, Mathxwí First Nation, Fraser Valley Métis Association, the Abbotsford Board of Education, and district leaders, staff, and students.

The Abbotsford School District is excited to announce the expansion of its annual appreciation day to include all support staff, now designated as Support Staff Appreciation Day. This special day, first introduced last year as Instructional Support Staff Appreciation Day, is dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of Educational Assistants, Youth Care Workers, International Student Liaisons, Indigenous Support Workers, Custodians, Administrative Assistants, and all other support staff members that contribute to the success of our organization.

On April 18, 2024, at the Semá:th First Nation Longhouse, an Honouring Ceremony took place for the 2024 Indigenous Role Models. Organized by the Mamele’awt Community Indigenous Education Centre, the event brought together Indigenous and school district leaders, community members, students and many supporters of the Role Models keen to celebrate their accomplishments.

The Abbotsford School District's Indigenous Education Department, under the guidance of the Indigenous Education Council (IEC) and in collaboration with Semá:th First Nation, Mathxwí First Nation, and the Fraser Valley Métis Association, is proud to continue a district-wide initiative to support Grade 5 Indigenous students as they transition to middle school. This initiative aligns with the district’s Strategic Plan, which emphasizes fostering a sense of belonging and connection among students and promoting cultural understanding and respect.

Ten outstanding Grade 12 Indigenous students from the Abbotsford School District have been announced as this year's Indigenous Role Models. Following a rigorous review process conducted in December 2023, the Indigenous Education Advisory Committee considered applications from a pool of over 200 eligible students. The chosen students have distinguished themselves through their deep cultural connections, exemplary leadership, and dedicated service in their schools and broader communities. 

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of public education, our commitment to providing every student with a world-class education remains at the forefront. It is with this vision in mind that I write to you today.

The Abbotsford Board of Education has a new governance leader. Trustee Shirley Wilson was elected as Chair at last night's public meeting of the Board. Wilson was first elected to the Board of Education in 2005. She succeeds Trustee Korky Neufeld, who stepped aside following his recent announcement to run in upcoming provincial elections. Trustee Preet Rai will continue as Vice-Chair.