SD72 Highlights Inclusion, Diversity, and Numeracy on Pro-D Day
On January 17, 2025, Campbell River’s local education community took a significant step towards enhancing educational experiences by emphasizing inclusion, diversity, and numeracy on a Professional Development (Pro-D) Day. School District 72 (SD72) organized this event with workshops led by experts Shelley Moore and Carole Fullerton, designed to align with the district’s strategic priorities.
Focus on Strategic Educational Goals
SD72 Superintendent, Geoff Manning, highlighted the importance of this Pro-D Day in advancing the district’s core educational goals. Manning underscored the necessity of improving numeracy, citing current Foundation Skills Assessment results and the Framework for Enhanced Student Learning report. According to him, numeracy is crucial in equipping students with life skills necessary in a rapidly changing world.
“Ensuring our students excel in numeracy is not just about passing exams; it’s about preparing them for real-world challenges,” Manning stated, emphasizing the district’s commitment to educational excellence.
Shelley Moore, known for her work on inclusion and diversity, and Carole Fullerton, an expert in numeracy, led interactive sessions focused on integrating best practices into the classroom environment. Their contributions are expected to foster a more inclusive, engaging, and competent educational system, fulfilling SD72’s strategic vision.
Immediate and Future Community Benefits
The Pro-D Day event was not only a learning opportunity for educators but also a substantive move towards improving the educational landscape for approximately 5,500 students within SD72. By focusing on inclusion and diversity, the district aims to create a more welcoming atmosphere for students from varied backgrounds, encouraging their full participation and success.
Local resident and parent, Lisa Taylor, expressed her appreciation for the district’s emphasis on inclusion. “It’s heartening to see that our schools are prioritizing environments where all students, regardless of their background, can thrive and belong,” she mentioned.
Manning also announced progress on another pressing issue – the rapid recovery of Carihi Secondary following a fire incident. The reconstruction of the B-wing classrooms is expected to be completed soon, allowing educational activities to resume in full swing.
Community Engagement and Current Affairs
Adding a lighter note to the Pro-D Day discussions, a letter from an elementary student advocating for nap time gained attention, showcasing the district’s engagement with students’ perspectives. This incident reflects the district’s openness to dialogue, fostering a culture where student voices contribute to shaping educational policies.
The Pro-D Day coincides with various local news stories that impact Campbell River and its surroundings. Of note is the ongoing investigation by the BC Ombudsperson into student exclusions from the public school system, which raises significant concerns about educational equity across the region.
Moreover, the K’ómoks First Nation’s recent election of a new Chief and Council, potential impacts of U.S. tariff threats analyzed by BC’s government, and economic recovery signs such as new job openings from Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours and increased passenger growth at Comox Valley Airport present a broader context of change and growth within which educational reforms are taking place.
Future Implications for Campbell River
The emphasis on inclusion, diversity, and numeracy during this Pro-D Day not only strengthens current educational practices but is a step towards long-term community development. As educators equip students with necessary skills and mindset, the ripple effect will be felt across the local community, potentially inspiring further initiatives that enhance quality of life for all residents.
The broader response to these educational priorities will be instrumental in shaping Campbell River’s future. This approach aligns with other initiatives, such as cultural integration efforts highlighted in CKCC The Raven 100.7’s program “Keeping Our Word,” which explores significant local First Nations languages and heritage.
Through unity in community interest, reinforced educational practices, and sustained local engagement, Campbell River is positioning itself as a proactive community aiming for comprehensive growth.
Get Involved and Stay Informed
Residents interested in contributing to ongoing discussions about educational policies or seeking more information on these exciting developments are encouraged to contact SD72 or participate in upcoming community meetings. Current information and events can be accessed via The Raven’s platforms, including FM radio, mobile, and online streaming.
For further queries, SD72 can be reached through their official communication channels, and additional updates on local issues are available at CKCC The Raven 100.7 FM, Campbell River’s only locally owned and operated radio station dedicated to providing diverse content and community news.
In conclusion, as Campbell River progresses in its journey towards enhanced educational experiences, initiatives like this Pro-D Day underscore the district’s commitment to an enriched learning environment. This dedication not only benefits students but also strengthens the overall fabric of the community.
