News Stories

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.

The Abbotsford Board of Education is currently seeking feedback from families, employees, students and the larger community on the proposed school calendars for the next three years - 2024-2025 school year, 2025-2026 school year and 2026-2027 school year. Feedback will be collected via the school district's Engagement Portal until February 9, 2024.

As we near the end of 2023 and the beginning of the winter break throughout BC, Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care, has released the following end-of-year letters to families and staff.

Serenna Scarpino recently worked at Mámele’awt Indigenous Education Centre to complete Foods 12. She has been mentored by Chris Kelly, Elder and long-time employee of Abbotsford School District. In this course students learn about the connection to the land, gathering and community. Cooking and food, and the act of cooking with a good heart and a good mind and feeding the people are especially important components of community life.

The success of a recent initiative that brought together 100 Indigenous secondary students from across the Abbotsford School District with the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is being celebrated. On November 15th, students from grades 10-12 had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a full-day experience at UFV, exploring various academic programs and learning about the specific supports available for Indigenous students at the university.

The Abbotsford School District has initiated a proposed boundary review for the Cooper Meadows Development and the High Street Village Development. These reviews seek to address changes in catchment boundaries resulting from significant residential projects, ensuring students continue to receive the best possible educational experience as our community grows.

Following the Annual Organization Meeting on November 7, the Abbotsford Board of Education has elected its leadership team for the next year. Trustee Korky Neufeld will continue as Board Chair, with Trustee Preet Rai stepping up as the new Vice Chair.