The highest leverage strategy of educational improvement efforts is the development of staff capacity. In collaboration with the Cariboo-Chilcotin Teachers Association we are making significant investments in quality professional learning for educators in current, research-based practice to increase knowledge and confidence.
Some examples of the work of are:
- Shifting from one-off workshops to a robust learning series with successive professional development sessions and classroom learning rounds, time to practice and reflect in between, and a community of practice network to support one another
- Learning Series with exceptional BC, Canadian, and global leaders in numeracy, literacy, educational research, inclusion, resilience and trauma-informed practice.
- Common district assessments with support for learning how to administer them, analyze results, and use what is learned to plan for instruction
- District mental health plan
- Full program of support for new teachers in their first three years
Explore the ways we are LEARNING BETTER TOGETHER with support for professional learning in Cariboo-Chilcotin School District:
Grade 7 Collaborative Literacy Instruction and Intervention Planning
Columneetza Junior Secondary
On June 18, current and incoming Grade 7 teachers met with project leads Charlotte Lundeen (District Speech-Language Pathologist), Francis McCoubrey (Department Lead), and learning support teachers Brit Andersen and Katie Clarke.
Vice-Principal Cameron Leading Inclusive Practices
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Vice-Principal Cameron is leading inclusive practices across classrooms at Columneetza Junior Secondary School. Alina Cameron is passionate about inclusion in education.
Provincial Teacher Mentorship Pilot Project is Underway at SD27
The Provincial Teacher Mentorship Program is designed to be responsive, relational, and rooted in shared learning. Whether you’re just starting out, transitioning roles, or deepening your practice, PTMP offers mentorship experiences that are personalized, practical, and community-driven.
PVP Information Session for My BluePrint+
Eleven PVP had a great ZOOM session with MyBluePrint introducing portfolios and core competencies enhancements to their product for Fall 2026.
Band Finishes on a High Note
Columneetza Junior Secondary
A huge congratulations to our talented band members who performed in front of a full house on Thursday evening. Your hard work, dedication, and musical talent were on full display, and you made our school community proud! A special shout-out goes to Mrs.
Interactive Stories
150 Mile Elementary
Families enjoy a variety of ways to interact with books at StrongStart. Story provocations are often available, allowing children the opportunity to engage with stories characters and props from books that have been shared.
DART Assessments - Spring Priority Planning
Columneetza Junior Secondary
There are district-wide literacy assessments, including DART, in use across the district. Schools administer these assessments in the fall and spring, mark them together using common standards (anchor marking), and analyze the results to make informed instructional decisions and monitor student
Carole Fullerton Supporting Cataline Intermediate Teachers
Cataline Elementary
Carole Fullerton returned to Cataline Elementary school as part of the School District Professional Learning Rounds, working alongside our intermediate teachers. Hosted by Mr. Wilson, Carole explored the concept of numbers of a whole, focusing on decimals and percentages.
Learning with Engage Sport North
Tatla Lake Elementary/Junior
Our school recently had the opportunity to welcome Rob Stiles from Engage Sport North for some engaging days of embedded professional development focused on physical literacy and instructional practice.
6 Minute Solution
150 Mile Elementary
On our last Pro-D day of the year many teachers from 150 Mile gathered to 'sharpen their skills' in using the 6 Minute Solution literacy initiative presented by our own LST Julie Knevel.
Pro D - Building Literacy Through Play
Likely Elementary
A staff team from Likely School attended the Pro D session to learn more about play-based literacy activities. Building literacy skills through play supports children’s natural curiosity while strengthening essential reading and language foundations.
Math Made Fun with Carole
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Carole Fullerton is always a fun and welcomed guest at our school, bringing positive energy and enthusiasm wherever she goes. Her work has been instrumental in helping increase numeracy levels through practical, student-centered strategies.
6 Minute Solution to Leverage Reading Comprehension
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Julie Knevel delivered an amazing workshop focused on 6 Minute Solutions and how to effectively leverage the program to strengthen reading comprehension. She clearly explained practical strategies that teachers could immediately apply in their classrooms.
April Professional Development - Focus on Inclusion
Mile 108 Elementary
In April, our Learning Support Teacher, Joy Gammie, led a collaborative professional development session focused on strengthening instructional practices to support inclusion for all learners.
Trauma Informed Classroom
Skyline/Storefront Alternate
Presenters visited Skyline and Storefront Alternate School to share 10 key steps for creating a trauma-informed classroom. They explained how stress and trauma affects student behavior and learning.
Leather Work Pro D
Skyline/Storefront Alternate
Leather work was a great activity and skill to learn. The youth will benefit from knowledge gained and staff was thrilled with their end result. Thanks for a great workshop!
Focus on Fluency & Comprehension!
Marie Sharpe Elementary
What a fantastic workshop with Julie Knevel during our April 24 Professional Development Day! At the beginning of the year, Julie taught a Pro-D Workshop on how to use the 6 Minute Solution in classrooms.
Taking Our Learning Outside
Nesika Elementary
At Nesika, our staff are dedicated to creating meaningful outdoor learning experiences that actively engage students. We believe learning extends beyond the classroom, and we intentionally incorporate outdoor opportunities that are both purposeful and inspiring.
Grade 7 Numeracy Project
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Grade 7 educators, learning support teachers, and Jr. Sec. Columneetza math educators are collaborating on something special with the help of numeracy consultant Carole Fullerton. “Pulling Together” is a collaborative math plan currently in development for the 2026-2027 school year.
Learning About Birds
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Nature educator Lauren McLean recently visited the district for the April pro-d day. Hosted by nature-enthusiast and CJS grade 7 educator Frances McCoubrey over at Scout Island, participants learned how to create a multi-disciplinary learning plan around the central topic of Birds.
Primary Literacy
Cataline Elementary
Cataline primary teachers continued their commitment towards improving and furthering their literacy programming and targeted phonic instruction; focusing on our 2025/2026 school goal of improving student literacy rates. During April 24th Professional Development Day, Mrs. Tomlinson and Ms.
Graphic Novels
Lac La Hache Elementary
Staff participated in language arts workshops presented by Bryan Gidinski. Staff learned how to use graphic novels to build literacy skills. The learning included having students use dialogue and character thinking in their writing.
Instructional Learning: Supporting the Whole Child
Tatla Lake Elementary/Junior
Staff at our school continue to engage in professional learning that supports both student well-being and creative expression. Recent professional development opportunities included EASE (Everyday Anxiety Strategies for Educators) online training and hands-on learning through an Introduction to
Literacy Bins
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Our Literacy Bins grew out of the hands-on work happening at Chilcotin Road during the 2024–25 school year and were developed by Marianne and Erin, with support from our SLP, Charlotte Lundeen. They’re grounded in the same adapted core assessment we’re now using across the district.
Story Stones & Oral Language Workshop
Tatla Lake Elementary/Junior
Anahim Lake Elementary/Secondary
Recently, educators from Tatla Lake School, Anahim Lake School, and Nagwuntl'oo School came together to participate in a workshop focused on using “story stones” to build students’ oral language skills.
Recruitment Update
HR, PVP and some CCTA staff have been actively engaged in numerous recruitment efforts to date. In person events include Lakehead - Thunderbay, Lakehead - Orillia, University of Alberta, Windsor University, UBC and VIU.
Compassionate Systems Leadership – Student Support Services
In Student Support Services, we’ve been spending time really looking at how we work together as a team. There’s been a focus on understanding our impact—not just in the work we do, but in how we show up with each other and with schools.
Easy As Pi
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Columneetza grade 7 students were challenged to memorize as many digits of Pi (3.14) as possible, ahead of Pi Day March 14. Teacher leader Frances McCoubrey had the top three students from each class face off, and judges Mr. Harding and Mrs. Zurak were astounded with the results.
The Great Reading Race
Mountview Elementary
Mountview recently ran the Great Reading Race - a competition between all our classes to see who could read the most books before Spring Break. The rule was all books had to be read at home.
Mountview Teachers on Pro-D Days
Mountview Elementary
During the February Pro-D day at Mountview our primary (grade K-3) teachers got together and worked hard on learning more about teaching the science of reading with our younger students.
Three Horse Lake Teachers Join HCTF Education Mentorship Pilot Program
Horse Lake Elementary
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation has initiated an Education Mentorship Pilot Program for teachers in School District #27, and three Horse Lake teachers are spearheading the program.
Carole Fullerton Visit - Cataline Numeracy
Cataline Elementary
Cataline teachers and students were in full participation with numeracy specialist, Carole Fullerton, who worked with Mrs. Sache and her grade 1 students building numeracy instructional capacity and foundational numeracy skills.
Professional Learning Rounds with Bryan Gidinski
Lake City Secondary
Lake City English department hosted Bryan Gidinski for another learning round. Teachers watched Bryan work with students in an English 10 First Peoples class and then spent time as a group debriefing the lesson, brainstorming ways to adapt the lesson for other classes, and sharing inspiring lessons
Staff Development on Supporting Students with AAC
Cataline Elementary
Cataline’s educational assistants and support teachers met with our speech and language teacher Ms. Rilla to continue learning about how to support assistive communication users with their talkers.
Math with Carole Fullerton
150 Mile Elementary
Carole Fullerton, a math specialist, was in this week working with Mrs. Davis', Mrs. Bowers' and their students to build math skills. Tackling addition and subtraction of larger numbers and patterns they were engaged thoroughly and enjoying math immensely.
Leatherwork
Big Lake Elementary
Likely Elementary
Horsefly Elementary/Junior
Learning leatherwork during Pro‑D offers a creative, hands‑on way to build patience, perseverance, problem‑solving skills, and attention to detail. This tactile craft supports educator well‑being while providing a clear teaching benefit: it models experiential learning and equips teachers with
Teachers Engaging in Professional Development
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Mrs. Harrison writes: "I focused on Carole Fullerton's resource "Sums and Differences", as she had been in my class in late January, modelling intentional strategies for addition and subtraction. Building mathematical competency in students is part of building my own instructional capacity.
School Administrators Taking in the UFLI Presentation at 100 Mile Elementary
Forest Grove Elementary
Several administrators joined their teachers at the UFLI workshop presented by 100 Mile Elementary teachers that are fantastic at sharing the knowledge. Cross pollination in practice.
Teachers Engaged in Professional Developement
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Some teachers of Chilcotin Road Elementary gathered together to explore the world of UFLI. Mrs. Hutchinson writes: "I spent my Pro-D day learning about the UFLI Phonics program and exploring how it supports systematic, explicit reading instruction.
Chilcotin Road Engages in Professional Development
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Some teachers participated in session 2 of the 4 seasons of Indigenous Learning. This module was about connecting with the land and working on building that connection through talks with the land in the traditional languages.
TD Snap, Talkers & Communication Boards with Charlotte Lundeen!
Marie Sharpe Elementary
During our February staff meeting this Tuesday, Charlotte Lundeen joined the MSE staff to present on the TD Snap system, also known as “Talkers.” Staff had the opportunity to explore the system firsthand using iPads that Charlotte provided.
Compassionate Systems Staff Meetings
Cataline Elementary
Cataline begins every meeting with a compassionate systems activity. Sometime this is grounding or gratitude, and in February, staff looked at the iceberg model.
Pro-D Up Cycling
Alexis Creek Elementary/Secondary
A staff member attended the A.D.S.T. workshop called Up-cycling for professional development. Here she learning to re-cycle old T-shirt to make yarn projects.
Learning How to Work with Leather!
Marie Sharpe Elementary
What a fantastic workshop run by Calvin Williams during our February 13 Professional Development Day! We got to learn about the process of tanning leather from start to finish and the different ways of Tanning, Chrome and Vegetable.
Deepening Understanding Through Secwépemc Teachings
Nesika Elementary
On our last professional development day, a few Nesika teachers had the privilege of participating in a session focused on learning about the history, culture, and traditions of the Secwépemc Nation within Secwépemcúl’ecw.
Pro-3D Workshop
Alexis Creek Elementary/Secondary
February's Professional Development Day, one staff member attended a A.D.S.T. workshop on teaching students, K to 12, how to make 3-D projects using Tinkercad software. Here are a couple of samples of designs created at the workshop.
Columneetza Hosts Learning Rounds and Pro-D
Columneetza Junior Secondary
During Pro-D week this February, Columneetza hosted literacy consultant Bryan Gidinski for a Learning Round in grade 7 followed by a well-attended Pro-D session for teachers. Thank you continuing these connections to our school Bryan! We are excited to measure the impact in our classrooms.
Reinforcing Numeracy Routines in Grade 7
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Numeracy consultant and friend to SD27, Carole Fullerton, recently spent consecutive days reinforcing numeracy routines in grade 7 classrooms. At Columneetza, our grade 7 teachers were given the opportunity to release from their classrooms for a learning round led by Carole in Mrs.
Enhancing Literacy for All
Mile 108 Elementary
This Pro-D provided we had the opportunity to learn practical tips and instructional strategies from our colleagues at 100 Mile Elementary — Tammy Varney, Cindy Craig, Courtney Dolinski, and Stacy Jones.
Get Your Teach On - Teach with Energy
Cataline Elementary
Teachers Mrs. Tomlinson, Mrs. Enns, and Mrs. Dikur shared with Cataline staff their learning from the Get Your Teach On Conference they attended. With a passion and enthusiasm towards improving literacy practice, these teachers led the sharing with practical ideas, while providing staff with
Deepening Practice in Literacy Instruction
On our February Professional Development Day, teachers, Education Assistants, principals, and Learning Support Teachers from six schools came together with a shared purpose: strengthening literacy instruction for every learner.
Building Instructional Capacity Through Representation and Reconciliation
Tatla Lake Elementary/Junior
Staff from Tatla Lake recently engaged in powerful professional learning with David A. Robertson, deepening our understanding of representation as a critical component of reconciliation and instructional practice.
WILD Schools
150 Mile Elementary
Jessica and Roland from HCTF (Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation) was at 150 Mile Elementary working with staff on WILD school curriculum. We spent time reviewing outdoor education resources and lesson plans and afterwards, we went on a short trip through the land behind the school investigating
Using UFLI in Literacy
Lac La Hache Elementary
Learning about the UFLI program and how it introduces and practices literacy skills. Examples of how it is used in classes and how it supports a range of learners were demonstrated. Teachers left with clear language and resources to implement the program in their classrooms.
Bryan Gidinski Layered Literacy Making Magic Out of Myths
Lac La Hache Elementary
Teachers were presented with a framework for a term’s worth of work of layered literacy strategies which can be broadly applied to multiple grade levels and topics. Good teaching practices were emphasized with examples of student work.
Hands On Learning for Teachers and Students Alike
Nesika Elementary
At Nesika, we are continually seeking innovative and meaningful ways to engage our learners in both academic pursuits and environmental education. In this photo, our teachers are participating in a recent professional development session, where they are learning how to upcycle everyday materials and
Carole Fullerton Visit
Lac La Hache Elementary
Lac La Hache Elementary had numeracy expert Carole Fullerton visit. Carole discussed with teachers strategies to teach math better. Then Carole lead a math lesson for the primary class. Teachers observed the lesson and communicated with students to hear their mathematical thinking.
Literacy Week Day 2!
Marie Sharpe Elementary
Today was Day 2 of Literacy Week! We had the pleasure of having Wildland Firefighter Zach Herrick & Community Engagement Specialist Madison Dahl from Cariboo Fire Centre come read the beautiful book "Wildfires" to Ms. Pagé's class today! They stayed for 45 mins to answer all the student questions!!
Recruitment Efforts at UBC
I had the pleasure of representing SD #27 with Dancing Water at UBC, sharing with future educators why the Cariboo Chilcotin is such an incredible place to live, and teach.
From the Ground Up
100 Mile Elementary
Principal Crystal Dawn Langton proudly shared highlights with the Board of the instructional practice at 100 Mile Elementary that is having an impact on student success.
Creating Structures
Horsefly Elementary/Junior
Marshmallows and tooth picks allow kids to use their hand to create 3D towers.
Sharing the Wealth (of Experience!)
Lake City Secondary
Experienced teacher Jodie Mason takes time to share her engaging ideas around teaching Social Studies curriculum to early career teacher Keaton Smith and teacher-candidate Adriana Smith.
Multipliers Conference November
Naghtaneqed Elementary/Junior
Learning to use staff to their fullest potential and discovering true full potential.
IH Practicum Students Sharing Information
Skyline/Storefront Alternate
IH Practicum Students set up an Escape Room activity for all Skyline Students. Topic was Sexual Health. The students enjoyed the activity and the pizza party afterwards. Great partnership and learning opportunity for Skyline youth.
Likely and Big Lake Teachers Attend Literacy ProD
Big Lake Elementary
Likely Elementary
Staff from Likely and Big Lake Schools attended the Literacy ProD session hosted by teams at 100 Mile Elem. and Mile 108 Schools. Presented by Speech-Language Pathologist (Charlotte), the session explored evidence-based strategies to support literacy development across grade levels, while examining
Collaborative Literacy - Next Steps
Cataline Elementary
Cataline Elementary School primary teachers continued their literacy connection and work with District Helping Teacher, Marianne Okrainetz, during the November Professional Development Day. Ms.
Bryan Gidinski in the High School Classroom
Lake City Secondary
Lake City Secondary English teachers spent yet another meaningful afternoon learning from Bryan Gidinski. With his extensive knowledge and experience in the elementary classrooms, Bryan engaged all of our teachers- from teacher candidates who are not yet certified to 25+ years experienced teachers.
Strengthening Literacy
Mile 108 Elementary
Twenty-eight educators came together to strengthen instructional practice in literacy. This session is part of our ongoing, collaborative series of professional learning opportunities designed to enhance students’ literacy skills through a consistent, shared, and evidence-based approach that
Math Department Book Study
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Teachers in the Columneetza Math department are using a new resource by Learning Series numeracy expert Peter Liljedahl to fine-tune practices that elevate student thinking, increase the joy of teaching, and eliminate stand and deliver board examples and worksheets cycle that is so prevalent in math
Building Strong Readers Together
100 Mile Elementary
This week, teachers from across our district met to learn how to use the UFLI reading assessments so we can better understand each child’s current reading level and know exactly where to take them next on their learning journey.
UFLI in the South
100 Mile Elementary
Last Monday's Pro-D session, led by the knowledgeable Charlotte Lundeen, brought our South End educators together to deepen our understanding of UFLI assessment practices.
Literacy with Bryan
150 Mile Elementary
In this last Pro-D session several members of the 150 Mile staff went to the Bryan Gidinski workshop. Staff learned ways to weave reading, writing and oral language into layered instruction.
Collaboration Across the South End
100 Mile Elementary
Teachers and principals from our South End elementary schools gathered this Saturday to mark the Foundational Skills Assessments—a meaningful opportunity to collaborate, connect, and deepen our shared understanding of early learning across the district.
Layered Literacy
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Teachers from Chilcotin Road Elementary were engaged in Bryan Gidinski's Layered Literacy Pro-D. They were given the tools to immediately implement new strategies in the classroom that would enhance literacy learning. Specifically their writing output from students.
Joy in the Studio
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Ms. Mason rarely stops to capture the creative joy in the studio, as she is too busy living the dream to take pictures... But these were such great moments. 1st pic - Elio (Quinn) Smith-Hall making a connection with the spirit of this ceramic project.
Cultivating a Conscientious Book Culture
Lac La Hache Elementary
Staff was learning about the importance of having a diverse representation in school literature. This diverse representation helps all readers feel valued and increases their understanding of the world.
The Giving Tree - Traditional Metis Story Pro-D!
Marie Sharpe Elementary
Mrs. Merth, Ms. Apryl, Ms. Pagé, and Ms. Sukaroff participated in "The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Metis Story" Pro-D this Monday! What a fantastic way to spend a day developing professionally and increasing their instructional capacity! Thanks for the photo Mrs. Merth!
Assessment Practices Collaboration
Nesika Elementary
This past pro-d, a group of English and French teachers worked collaboratively on aligning assessment practices between the French and English programs in our school.
Education Assistants Pro-D - Building Capacity, Clarity and Confidence
Some of the Educational Assistants attended the EA Pro-D session. It was a fantastic morning/afternoon of shared learning, great questions, and meaningful conversations about inclusive practices across our district.
Strengthening Social Emotional Learning Practices
Many SD27 educators recently participated in a four-week Outdoor Learning course designed to strengthen Social Emotional Learning (SEL) practices. Each 60-minute session offered practical strategies to support student wellbeing through nature-based experiences.
Algebra Outdoors
Forest Grove Elementary
Forest grove staff exploring outdoor math activities inspired by the Maths No Problem website.
Story Workshops
Cataline Elementary
Ms. LeBourdais presented the "Story Workshop" to Cataline staff. Teachers had the opportunity to listen to the presentation, work with the story kits, and time to collaborate about the implementation of the program within the school and their class.
October Professional Development - Literacy Focus
Mile 108 Elementary
Staff had the opportunity to work directly with Bryan Gidinski, a passionate educator and literacy specialist. Through two in-class professional development sessions Bryan modeled engaging and practical strategies for teaching writing that nurtures student voice, creativity, and confidence.
South End Literacy Focus Group
Mile 108 Elementary
On October 28th, our passionate team of educators gathered after school to deepen our collective understanding of the foundations of literacy. Guided by our focus on Shared Responsibility, Common Tools, and Consistent Instruction we’re uniting our efforts to make a lasting and meaningful difference
Collaborative Assessment
Marie Sharpe Elementary
Teachers gathered after school to collaborate on literacy assessments across all grade levels. Thoughtful, professional conversations lead to plans to take the information back to the classroom so that all students benefit. Special thanks to Marianne O.
Professional Learning - With Bryan Gidinski
Mile 108 Elementary
This week, our staff had the opportunity to work directly with Bryan Gidinski, a passionate educator and literacy specialist, during in-class professional development sessions. Bryan modeled engaging, practical strategies for teaching writing that nurture student voice, creativity, and confidence.
The 6 Minute Solution
150 Mile Elementary
Julie Knevel hosted "The 6 Minute Solution" literacy workshop today at 150 Mile. This literacy program is a hands-on student oriented literacy program that helps students concretely see their fluency and accuracy reading skills progress.
Effective Language Arts Teaching
Lac La Hache Elementary
taff participated in a workshop with Bryan Gidinski. Staff learned about methods to get students to think deeply about what they read and sharing their thinking. Topics covered included Double Entry Diaries and Reading Portfolios.
ProD of POPARD at Chilcotin Road
Chilcotin Road Elementary
A team of us got together to learn more about Autism and girls. Super valuable information especially for this team of educators. Thank you Kristy Petroni for leading us this morning.
Chilcotin Road Friend Visits Again
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Carole Fullerton has played a large role in helping to transform numeracy in Chilcotin Road. Big thank you to teacher Tarla-Rae Sayenchuk for her willingness to be vulnerable and allowing a fellow professional to come into her learning space and help guide instruction.
FSA Team Comes Together
Cataline Elementary
Our Grade 4 teachers, supported by admin and our learning support department, met for a working lunch to collaborate and plan for a successful FSA season. This ensures all students can find success in the assessment and teachers can effectively use the FSA to guide their teaching and learning.
Bryan Gidinski Visits Horse Lake
Horse Lake Elementary
Both students and teachers were treated to a morning of Literacy Learning thanks to literacy specialist Bryan Gidinski's visit to Horse Lake Elementary.
Big Lake Rides
Big Lake Elementary
Students in K-7 at Big Lake School participated in the HUB Cycling Program. Even the adults learned new bike skills! Look forward to using this new learning in the local community and when visiting more urban centers.
September 29th Pro-D
Alexis Creek Elementary/Secondary
On September 29th, I joined some of my colleagues to continue developing my instructional capacities in outdoor education. Here, we are learning new ideas and strategies by combining Art with Natural Sciences. We are selecting natural objects to draw and share with a partner.
Early Literacy
Cataline Elementary
During September 29 Professional Development Day, most Cataline Elementary School primary teachers focused their day around early literacy instruction and programming.
Art Therapy Supports Self Regulation and Mindfulness
Water Color is an important tool in Social Emotional Learning for youth. It combines the calming effect of art with the development of essential emotional and social skills, such as self-regulation, and mindfulness.
Using Drawing Activities
Lac La Hache Elementary
Staff participated in a professional development workshop to learn how to use drawing activities to help teach. Learning included using drawing to develop speaking and listening skills, using observational skills, textures, using grids, magnification, and bringing the activities to the outdoors.
Learning Through Collaboration
Nesika Elementary
The French Immersion teachers at Nesika have spent the month of September collaborating on improving instruction in classrooms. Teachers are learning about new French Literacy Assessments and how to improve phonics instruction in the French Classroom.
ProD - September's Intentional Learning
Mile 108 Elementary
Our first Professional Development Day of the 2025–2026 school year centered on moving our school goals forward: -Strengthening literacy skills and abilities for ALL learners -Building and maintaining a safe and positive school culture School teams deepened their understanding of foundational
PSO Restorative Justice
Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
For the September 29th Pro-D Day, PSO hosted a restorative justice workshop by the Williams Lake Restorative Justice Society. The workshop, open to all staff in all roles, visited restorative justice philosophy, case studies, and possible uses in classrooms and the school.
Learning Support Teachers Learning Together
The Learning Support Teacher meeting provided an opportunity for educators to learn together, focusing on strengthening their knowledge and practice around Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and inclusive education.
Learning To Teach in the Great Outdoors.
Horsefly Elementary/Junior
Educators learned to draw in nature.
Salish Quarter Bag Workshop
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Columneetza teacher Shannon McCartney led a hands on workshop on September 26, leading teachers to create a Salish quarter bag. Shannon taught about the Musqueam people and how they wove quarter bags.
New Teachers Engage in Place-based Pro-D
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Columneetza Junior Secondary was abuzz with many local pro-d offerings on September 26. All of of our new Columneetza teachers engaged with SD57’s Glen Thielman in a session called “Place-Based Learning – Focus Group and Sharing”.
St. Joseph's Mission - Learning, Understanding, Feeling
Marie Sharpe Elementary
Ms. Katsura, Mrs. Campbell, Ms. Soichuk, and Ms. Campsall, along with many other educators from Cariboo Chilcotin School District, took part in a tour of the grounds where St. Joseph’s Mission once operated.
Project Wet and WILD Workshop
150 Mile Elementary
Jessica and Roland from HCTF (Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation) spent the afternoon with staff teaching them about Project Wet activities which augment our WILD school activities. Topics such as the water cycle, properties of water and water on the Earth were covered in detail.
Advancing Instructional Capacity in French Immersion
100 Mile Elementary
French Immersion educators from École 100 Mile Elementary, Nesika, Lake City Senior Secondary, and Peter Skene Ogden recently engaged in a cross-school professional learning session designed to strengthen instructional practice.
Learning Together While Apart and Exploring Restorative Practice
Forest Grove Elementary
Working with fellow principals on communications tools and joining in on the Restorative Practice presentation with Jim World. A great day of learning!
Orange Shirts Symbolize Deeper Learning
Lake City Secondary
Staff and students wore Orange Shirts on October 26. The photo merely represents the deeper learning that occurred throughout the week, and that will continue to occur throughout the year, as educators work towards the 94 Calls To Action.
Assessment Workshop For Early Career Teachers
Horse Lake Elementary
Horse Lake Elementary played host to ten new and early career district teachers, six of whom teach at our school, who gathered for an Assessment Workshop presented by local educator Marlene Funk.
Literacy Instruction
150 Mile Elementary
Many teachers at 150 Mile gathered to learn more about RTI (Response to Intervention) as it applies to the many facets of learning but specifically to literacy. Julie Knevel, with her vast knowledge in early literacy strategies and skill development, hosted the morning workshop.
Building Instructional Capacity in French
Tatla Lake Elementary/Junior
To strengthen French instruction, staff are engaging in AIM Language Learning training. This approach uses gestures, stories, music, and movement to create an immersive environment that builds student proficiency in French in fun and meaningful ways.
Learning Alongside for Success
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Columneetza teachers Colin O’Keefe and Matt Tyne, supported by new teacher program rep Dustin Hubner, recently led new Columneetza teachers through a workshop they put together using MyEducation tools for start-up success.
Journaling
Skyline/Storefront Alternate
Journaling is a therapeutic tool that helps to regulate us. The youth have developed amazing skills, regulation and appreciation of our world through journaling. Learning life long skills.
Strive for Five Conversations. Educators Collaborating
Marie Sharpe Elementary
Kaarina Fichtner, teacher from Marie Sharpe, is leading the primary collaboration group literacy book club this year. Over 20 teachers and administrators throughout Cariboo Chilcotin School District have enrolled to read Strive for Five Conversations, and will meet regularly to discuss each section
Staff Learn Together
Horsefly Elementary/Junior
Staff discuss the indigenous history in the Horsefly Valley.
Learning How to Do Some Simple Circle Activities
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Staff gathered at the beginning of the year and we learned together how to easily do some fun circle learning outside. Thank Educo for teaching us some fun new handshakes that teachers could share with their classes.
New Teacher Sharing
Columneetza Junior Secondary
Manveer Kaur led an impactful aspect of the new teacher workshop organized by Nara Riplinger and Dustin Hubner, sharing about her experience last year and important cultural differences for teachers who may be new to Canada. Thank you for sharing with your new colleagues Ms. Kaur!
Lake City Educators Take Time to Learn Connection Activities
Lake City Secondary
Staff at Lake City Secondary spent part of the first day participating in some "Get To Know You" activities that they then used in their classrooms the first week of school.
District PRO-D Day at Alexis Creek School
Alexis Creek Elementary/Secondary
The staff at Alexis Creek School are gathered together to watch and listen to the School District's welcoming back and the setting of direction for the school year.
Closing Circle
In July, two new CCSD PVP attended the BCPVPA Foundations for New School Leaders program at UBC. They met with other principals and vice principals around the province to connect and learn. Presenters included Dr. Dustin Louie, Carolyn Roberts, and Dr.
WILD School
150 Mile Elementary
150 Mile Elementary was recognized by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation in the WILD Schools Outdoor Education Program. 150 Mile was recognized for being the school putting in the most professional development hours for a school in the province!
Teachers Collaborate on Student Literacy
Nesika Elementary
Teacher leader Melissa Therrien has been collaborating with teacher Marina Campsall demonstrating a new approach to unlocking content area literacy with older students. The teachers co-teach the whole group with reading long multisyllabic words and comprehending content area text.
From the Cariboo-Chilcotin to St. John’s Newfoundland
In ongoing recruitment efforts, Jennifer Loewen, Manager of Human Resources, travelled to St. Johns Newfoundland and attended Memorial University's (MUN) Teacher Recruitment Fair. MUN was selected as one of the in-person career fairs to attend this year due to previous hiring success.
Honouring our Roots, Nourishing our Connections - ECEBC Conference 2025
SD27 Early Childhood Educators joined colleagues from throughout the Province at the annual Early Childhood Educators of BC Conference (held for the first time in two locations simultaneously, Kamloops and Richmond BC).
Lake City Student Vote 2025
Lake City Secondary
Mr. Fahoum's Model UN club organized the 2025 Canada Student Vote. Students learned the basics of the electoral system in Canada and participated by voting.
Teachers Benefit from Collaboration
Lake City Secondary
French Immersion teachers, Mr. O'Keefe and Mme. Pritchard take time to plan for the coming year and how to incorporate more Indigenous resources into the French program. English aficionados Mr. Fahoum and Dr. Macwan observe a teacher candidate lead an English 12 lesson.
Marking and Anchoring Student Assessment
Cataline Elementary
Cataline teachers and helping teachers gathered to assess spring reading and writing activities. Anchoring our learning and reviewing examples ensures students are assessed accurately and teachers are growing their practice.
Ms. McCoubrey Engages in Place-Based Learning to Bring Back to Columneetza
Ms. McCoubrey is an avid supporter of place-based learning and getting students outside to explore core and curricular competencies. What better way to learn new an inspiring ways to do this work, than to engage in this as a teacher and a learner! This year, Ms.
Welcome TWINQ Teachers!
School District 27 has teamed up with Thompson Rivers University (TRU) to participate in the Teachers with International Teaching Qualifications (TWINQ) pilot project. The background of this program stems from an impending teacher shortage throughout Canada.
Student Teachers Building Capacity with Numeracy Consultant
Nesika Elementary
One of our Teacher Candidates Marie (TRU) led the learning, hosting well-known numeracy consultant Carole Fullerton in her grade 2/3 practicum classroom. Several of our primary teachers were able to take part as well!
Literacy with Bryan Gidinski
Cataline Elementary
Cataline Elementary School had the pleasure of hosting Bryan Gidinski during the latest professional development day. As part of School District 27 Learning Series, Mr.
Better Outside Than In – Outdoor Strategies for Primary
Some dynamic learning and collaboration took place at a recent professional development session titled Better Outside Than In – Outdoor Strategies for Primary, led by Kacie Young and Eileen Bennison at Scout Island.
Building Trauma-Informed & Resilient Schools
SD27 staff joined Ronda Ziakris from the Calgary MNP office for a pair of 2-day sessions. Staff learned about how the human brain is affected by trauma then collaborated, discussed and learned about strategies to bring back to their school sites.
Teaching with Intention
Marie Sharpe Elementary
Natalie Craig's class is working on setting goals for themselves to improve in our district's key focus areas of literacy and numeracy. Dedicated work by both the students and teacher have led to great growth and progress this school year.
International Teacher Candidate Joins Nesika
Nesika Elementary
Anila Joy joined the Nesika team this week! Ms. Joy is originally from India and is currently enrolled in the Masters of Education program at TRU and is completing a practicum requirement as part of the new TWINQ Project (Teachers with International Teaching Qualifications).
Collectively Working on Literacy
Marie Sharpe Elementary
Mountview Elementary
This year our entire primary group has dedicated themselves to teaching literacy intentionally and purposefully. Students work in small groups with EAs, Indigenous Support Workers, and teachers to work on literacy skills that target their level.
Building Instructional Capacity through Physical Literacy
Tatla Lake Elementary/Junior
Tatla Lake School hosted a workshop focused on Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS), welcoming educators from Tsideldel School and Nagwuntal'oo School. Through the National Coaching Certification Program, participants engaged in learning designed to improve how we teach, adapt, and lead physical
WILD Schools
150 Mile Elementary
Staff at 150 Mile continued their WILD Schools learning with Jessica and Roland from HCTF Education. Focus was local plant identification and how to maintain native species on the school grounds and in the local area.
Building Literacy Skills Through Play
Early Learning Coordinator, Beulah Smith delivered an interactive workshop March 10, 2025 at Tatla Lake School. Educators from Tsi Del Del, Nagwuntl'oo, HeadStart and Tatla Lake joined us for "Building Literacy Skills Through Play". Learning together, being inspired and sharing a meal.
Québécois Author Alexandra Larochelle
Nesika Elementary
La classe de Mme Jones had the privilege of a visit from Québécois author Alexandra Larochelle who shared her story of how she became an author at age 10, followed by a Q&A period. Tellement excitant!
Bryan Gidinski Leading Literacy
Teachers from around SD27 have been working with Bryan Gidinski throughout the year in classrooms as well as on professional development days. Bryan has helped us find ways to get students writing more and thinking more using some creative yet meaningful strategies.
Writing Workshop
150 Mile Elementary
150 Mile Elementary had Bryan Gidinski from the Learning Series leading two writer's workshops. Mrs. Iverson's Grade 2/3 class and Mrs. Vath's Grade 5/6 classes learned key elements to expand the quality, and also quantity, of their writing efforts.
Carole Fullerton Shares Numeracy Strategies For Multi-Grade Classrooms
Horse Lake Elementary
Carole Fullerton and Helping Teacher Alison Bos returned to Horse Lake Elementary and focused their efforts on strategies that could be used in multi-grade classroom situations.
Horse Lake Students and Teachers Get Introduction To Coding
Horse Lake Elementary
District Helping Teacher Allison Bos visited Horse Lake Elementary armed with iPads and robotic devices, and helped the grade 1 & 2 students in Ms. Armitage's class, and the grade 3 & 4 students in Mrs. Lum's class learn some key ADST components of coding.
PSO Staff Collaboration and Graduation Assessments
Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
PSO Staff working in department groups in our staff meeting to pull apart graduation assessments and support cross-curricular goals for students in skill development. Some good questions were asked as we did a deep dive into the assessments that started with trying to write one!
New Teacher Candidate HIRED!
Lake City Secondary
Our school was so pleased to welcome VIU teacher candidate, Mattias Aaslie. Robert Fahoum was the sponsor teacher for Mattias who is an English/Drama specialist. On his last 'official' day at Lake City, Mattias received word that he was hired on with SD27!
Mentorship is Alive and Well!
Lake City Secondary
Retired teacher, Barb Blewett, spends time helping new-to-us teacher, Maureen Newman-Buafo. The two have been partnered for a few months as part of the district's Learning Alongside mentorship program which matches new teachers with retired teachers.
Students Succeed at Legion Remembrance Contest
Nesika Elementary
We’re pleased to share that several Nesika students placed in this year's Williams Lake Legion Remembrance Day poster and literary contest. Congratulations! The students will be invited to a ceremony in which they will be recognized for their achievements.
Leadership Series
This week the leadership series with Dylan Wiliam continued for the CCPVPA and management. Participants reported back about using educational research to help inform our school plans and specific goals.
More Good Questions
Nesika Elementary
All of our teaching staff had a chance to learn from numeracy expert consultant Carole Fullerton yesterday. Carole led learning rounds focused on assessment in Ms. Kolinsky and Mme Jones’ classrooms, while other teachers were released from their classrooms to observe and learn.
Who Can Take a Box of Cheerios and Make Math FUN? Carol Fullerton Can!
Chilcotin Road Elementary
Carol Fullerton working with staff and students, helping to strengthen Numeracy at Chilcotin Road. As part of our School Plan for Learner Success, we believe that strengthening our teams capacity to engage students in new ways will increase and strengthen our students overall Numeracy scores and
Carole Fullerton and Horse Lake Primary Teachers Join Forces to Teach Numeracy
Horse Lake Elementary
Horse Lake Elementary was fortunate to host Numeracy Consultant Carole Fullerton for the third time in recent years, with a focus this time on improving primary numeracy.
Building Capacity at Nesika
Nesika Elementary
Teachers, with the support of helping teacher Natalie Ohlhauser, collaborated over an early dinner to assess the Nesika students' literacy work. DART, EPRA and SWW were all looked at and discussed in both English and French.
Changing Possibilities 4 Young Children
Community Early Childhood Educators, StrongStart Educators and SD27 Kindergarten teachers, joined by Changing Possibilities facilitator Jillian Lewis, Co facilitator SD27 Early Learning Coordinator Beulah Smith and Director of Instruction, Early Learning and Inclusive Education Wendell Hiltz
PSO Grows in Assessment and Communicating Learning
Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
PSO Staff collaborated at the November staff meeting to improve reporting practices by working on collective understanding of assessment and communicating student learning.
Math Lessons Outdoors
150 Mile Elementary
On a wildly windy and rainy day the staff at 150 Mile Elementary went outside with the WILD School instructors, Jessica and Roland, to explore types of math lessons that can be done outside. Here we are learning how to approximate the height of trees.
Classrooms 2 Communities
Many of our SD27 colleagues travelled to Vancouver for the C2C Conference. Teacher Frances McCoubrey was a lead partner and facilitator and SD27 was a contributing sponsor. We made many connections inside and beyond of local colleagues, with many take home ideas to come back to SD27.
Literacy Assessment Dinner Session
Cataline Elementary
With the support of Helping Teacher, Marianne Okrainetz, Cataline teachers participated in a literacy benchmarking dinner session, where teachers got together to collaborate with their colleagues, bounce ideas off each other, while also sharing a few laughs.
Learning at the C2C Conference
Forest Grove Elementary
Exploring outdoor educational instructional strategies at the Classrooms 2 Communities conference. Great to have SD27 experts leading us.
Weekly Kickboxing Session
Naghtaneqed Elementary/Junior
Students enjoyed kickboxing workshops twice a week. Lots of exercise, drills and kickboxing skills with Audrey Shepherd.
Sharing Knowledge on Website Updates
Skyline/Storefront Alternate
Principal Heather Lamorie gaining knowledge on updating Naghtaneqed School District website from Amanda Doherty clerical at Skyline.
Childcare Resource and Referral Fall Conference
A collaboration success when SD27 Early Learning Coordinator, joined as a presenter for the Childcare Resource and Referral Fall Conference. Sharing knowledge with Early Childhood Educators on ways to utilize wet felted story mats in early learning settings and guiding educators through the process
Making Mathematicians at 100 Mile
100 Mile Elementary
All grade 3/4 and 6/7 teachers on our staff were joined by teachers from other schools as well as the helping teachers to engage two learning rounds with Carole Fullerton.
Nesika Focuses on WILD Teaching
Nesika Elementary
Nesika school is in our final year of the HCTF WILD Schools program. Every year as part of our commitment, teachers participate in an HCTF professional development workshop. Teacher leaders at Nesika have been learning alongside students each time - actively engaging with the learning.
Learning About Collecting Pitch and the Tsilhqot'in World View About the Natural World Through Pro‑D
Alexis Creek Elementary/Secondary
District Pro-D enabled principals and teachers the opportunity to learn about the Tsilhqot'in's world view of the natural world while making medicine from pitch.
Carole Fullerton Shares Her Numeracy Prowess with 100 Mile Elementary Staff and Students
100 Mile Elementary
Carole Fullerton engaged Mrs. Helmer's grade 6/7 class in a lesson about multiplication concepts; she provided multiple methods to reach a diverse group of learners and everyone had fun participating.
New Teacher Support Program with CCTA
We are very excited about the work done with the Cariboo-Chilcotin Teachers Association (CCTA) to create a comprehensive program of support for new teachers.
First Class Professional Learning Series
The District and CCTA partner on providing an absolutely first-class professional learning series. We have exceptional BC, Canadian, and global educational leaders bringing their expertise to our staff through professional development days, classroom learning rounds, and other opportunities for
Bryan Gidinski Works With Horse Lake Staff and Students
Horse Lake Elementary
Horse Lake Elementary was fortunate to play host to Literacy Consultant Bryan Gidinski this week, as he worked alongside teachers and with students in several intermediate classrooms throughout the day.
WILD School Lesson Planning
150 Mile Elementary
All the classroom teachers at 150 Mile Elementary came together in the afternoon of the September Pro-D day to learn abut lesson planning for outdoor learning activities. Focus areas for lesson development included migration, habitat, plant identification and food chains but also many more.