May 30, 2025
Dear St’a7mes Families,
We had a wonderful time this week at Xwawchayay (Porteau Cove). A heartfelt thank you to Matthew, the Squamish Nation Education Department, Char, Virginia, the dive team, and the incredible volunteers from UBC and BC Parks for making this experience so special. We also want to recognize and thank our amazing classroom teachers. So much important learning happens before days like these—through conversations, activities, and exploration in the classroom.
Being out at Xwawchayay represents the heart of who we are as a school community, and we are deeply grateful to be able to learn and grow in this way.
As we enter the final four weeks of the school year, here are a few important reminders:
- Provincial Assessments: Students in Grade 10 and above will be writing their literacy and numeracy provincial assessments next week. Please ensure your child is at school on Monday and Wednesday to participate.
- Pit Cook – June 17: We are excited for our upcoming pit cook! Much of the learning between now and then will be centered around this event. Please help your child come prepared to be outside and to use their hands to learn in active, land-based ways.
- Device Usage: As the school year winds down, we’ve noticed some slipping in our digital device expectations. A reminder:
- Personal digital devices are not permitted in K-6.
- In Grades 7-12, devices must be turned off and put away during instructional time.
This is a district-wide and provincial policy, and we will be reminding students and following up with families as needed. Your support is appreciated.
Finally, we want to lift up and honour three students who have been living by our school values this week:
Tímit - Dylan
Wanáxws - Christin
Chén̓chenstway - Everly and Cyrus
Take care
Cory Hartling
Principal, St’a7mes School