School District 22

09/27/2026

🧡National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

As September 30 approaches, we encourage students, staff, families, and community members to take time to listen, learn, and reflect on the experiences and lasting impacts of Residential Schools, while honouring Survivors, their families, and the children who never returned home.

Several organizations in our community are holding gatherings in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, creating opportunities for remembrance, learning, healing, and relationship-building.

🧡 North Okanagan Friendship Centre will host its Reconciliation in Action community gathering on September 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Vernon. The gathering will include ceremony and drumming, guest speakers, a community lunch, and opportunities for reflection and connection.

Learn more: https://www.vernonfirstnationsfriendshipcentre.com/

🧡 Okanagan Indian Band will hold its annual Truth and Reconciliation Day gathering at Komasket Park from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on September 30. The gathering provides an opportunity to honour and remember those who attended Indian Residential Schools and to hold space for reflection, remembrance, and healing.

Learn more: https://www.okib.ca/event/truth-and-reconciliation-day/

Truth and reconciliation is an ongoing journey. Meaningful reconciliation begins with learning the truth, listening to Indigenous voices, reflecting on our shared history, and considering how each of us can contribute to a more just and respectful future.

🧡 Every Child Matters.

09/24/2026

Notice of Election

It's time to vote for your School Trustees! Democratically and locally elected school trustees are the voice of local communities in public education, setting direction for schools that shape the lives of all students and families.

October 17th, 2026 is general voting day. You also have two advance voting opportunities, on October 7th and October 14th.

Candidates and voting places vary with where you live. School Elections are aligned with Municipal Elections, so you can vote for your choice of Mayor and Council or Area Director at the same time as voting for School Trustee.

Please note, you can only vote at the voting location(s) assigned to your region.

For more information, including electoral areas, voter eligibility, and accessibility please visit the following link: https://www.sd22.bc.ca/news/NoticeOfElection

09/24/2026

🏫 B.C.'s Welcoming Schools

At SD22, we are committed to ensuring that every student feels safe, welcome, connected, supported, and ready to learn. This year, the Province of British Columbia has launched B.C.'s Welcoming Schools, a new resource hub that brings together guidance, tools, and supports to help schools, districts, and families create learning environments where all students feel safe, welcome, connected, and supported.

We encourage families to explore the new provincial resource hub and learn more about the supports available:

🔗 B.C.'s Welcoming Schools
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/welcoming-schools

Together, we can continue to build school communities where every learner feels a true sense of belonging.

We’re committed to creating welcoming school environments where all students feel safe and supported and can focus on learning.

09/23/2026

09/01/2026

School Bus Safety Reminder

The first day of school is just around the corner! On September 8, 2026, students will be walking to school, and buses will be on the road once again. As students return, we want to remind everyone to stay safe and be mindful of increased traffic and pedestrians in school zones.

Please remember to obey flashing red lights on school buses, slow down in school zones, and watch for students and families at pedestrian crossings. Let's work together to ensure a safe and smooth start to the school year for everyone.

Thank you for your careful attention and support as our learning community begins another new and exciting school year!

08/31/2026

Back to School

Hey SD22 families! 🌟 The countdown is on! The first day of school is just around the corner, and we can't wait to welcome students back on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 (morning only).

Get ready to dust off those backpacks and set those alarm clocks (yes, it's time to say goodbye to sleeping in 😴). We're excited to kick off another fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and fun!

Remember:
• Tuesday, September 8, 2026 is the big day!
• Be prepared for increased traffic and busy school zones. 🚗🚸
• Don't forget to bring your smiles and enthusiasm! 😁

Let's make this school year the best one yet! See you all bright and early on September 8th!

08/12/2026

School Board Elections: Considering running for School Trustee?

General local elections in B.C. are held every four years. The next general local election will be held on October 17, 2026. General local elections include elections for mayors and municipal councils, regional district directors, and school board trustees. A total of seven School Board Trustees are elected from three electoral areas for a term of four years.

You are qualified to be nominated, elected, and to hold office as a School Trustee if you meet the following criteria:

- Canadian Citizen;
- 18 years of age or older on general voting day (October 17, 2026);
- Resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months (March 10, 2026) immediately before the day nomination papers are filed; and
- Not disqualified under the School Act or any other enactment from voting in an election in British Columbia or being nominated for, being elected to or holding office as a trustee, or be otherwise disqualified by law.

If you would like to stand for election for the Office of School Trustee, you must submit a completed nomination package between 9:00 a.m. September 1, 2026, to 4:00 p.m. September 11, 2026, as follows:

- In person during regular business hours or by mail at School District No.22 (Vernon), 1401 15 Street, Vernon, BC V1T 8S8; or
- By email in pdf to Chief Election Officer Adrian Johnson, [email protected]

For more information visit the SD22 website:

General local elections in B.C. are held every four years. The next general local election will be held on October 17, 2026.

08/05/2026

Welcoming Student Space for Wildfire Evacuees (K-12)

School District 22 is opening a welcoming student space at Seaton Secondary School for children and youth impacted by wildfire evacuations. This is an opportunity to connect with others, build community, and participate in engaging activities in a supportive environment.

For more information visit our SD22 Website:

https://www.sd22.bc.ca/news/wildfire-support-and-donation-centre

08/05/2026

Support for Wildfire Evacuees (Donation & Distribution Centre)

School District 22 is working in collaboration with community members of the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) to host a Donation and Distribution Centre to support individuals and families who have been evacuated due to the wildfires.

📍 Location: Seaton Secondary School (2701 41st Avenue, Vernon)
🕗 Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily all this week

We are grateful for the generosity of our community and the partnership with OKIB as we come together to support those affected during this challenging time.

Community members requiring assistance, as well as those wishing to donate, are welcome to visit the centre during operating hours.

Please consider donating:
- toiletries and hygiene products
- clothing (all ages and sizes, including new socks and underwear)
- baby supplies (wipes, diapers, bottles, etc.)
- non-perishable food
- bottled water
- games/activities for children, teens
- pet supplies (cat litter, scratching posts, dog bowls)
- blankets, pillows, and towels
- gift cards for groceries, gas, or other essentials
- lightening charging cords
- support for laundry servies
- charging blocks
- racks for clothing
- hangers
- boxes and totes
- sunscreen
- nail clippers

Donation needs may change as response efforts continue. For updated information please check with the Donation and Distribution Centre at Seaton Secondary or visit the Facebook site: Donations for OKIB evacuees affected by Bradley Creek Fire I Westbank, BC at https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1HFfAehEgP/

08/03/2026

Wildfire Activity and Supportive Resources

Across the Okanagan, many of us have watched the wildfire situation with heavy hearts. Our thoughts are with everyone who is being affected during this difficult time. Even though school is not in session, we know that members of our School District 22 community, including families and staff are carrying worry, disruption, and deep concern for their loved ones and their homes. We also acknowledge the significant impact occurring on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan People.

Although classes are not currently in session, district staff are monitoring the situation and preparing for a safe return of students and staff when the school year begins.

If you or someone you know requires information or support in relation to this situation, we encourage you to connect with local emergency services and community resources, including:
• NOYFSS (North Okanagan Youth and Family Services) – Counselling, youth support, family services 250 545 3572
• CYMH (Child & Youth Mental Health) – Mental health support for children and youth 250 549 5404
• Youth Integrated Services Hub – Youth counselling and supports 250 540 5202
• BC Wildfire Information – Official wildfire updates https://www.bcwildfire.ca
• For SD22 Staff – Employee and Family Assistance: 1-844-880-9137

If wildfire activity affects the start of the school year or district operations, we will communicate promptly through our website, email, and official social media channels. In challenging times like these, our greatest strength is our community. We see every day how neighbours support neighbours, and how acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion make a meaningful difference for those facing difficult circumstances.

We remain committed to ensuring that every member of our School District 22 community feels welcomed, supported, and cared for upon entering our schools in the Fall. Please continue to follow the guidance of local emergency officials and prioritize your safety.

On behalf of the Board of Education and all of us at School District 22, thank you for your care for one another.