The following is a summary of board motions carried during the June 9 School District No. 5 (SD5) Southeast Kootenay School Board of Trustees meeting.

Motions Carried

Budget Bylaw

THAT the Bylaw of the Board of Education of School District No. 5 (Southeast Kootenay) (called the “Board”) to adopt the annual budget of the Board for the fiscal year 2026/27 pursuant to section 113 of the School Act, R.S.B.C., 1996, c. 412 as amended from time to time (called the “Act“). Read for a third and final time, passed and adopted June 9, 2026.

CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT

Trustee Elections – Municipal Elections

The BCSTA (British Columbia School Trustees Association) has developed a number of resources to support and inform individuals who may be interested in running for office as a school board trustee in October 2026. As reported last month, helpful resources are available on the https://bcsta.org/elections/, including a recent addition, “Understanding the Role of a School Board Trustee,” which is well worth reviewing.

In preparation for newly elected trustees, recent discussions with BCSTA have focused on developing online in-service opportunities. These are intended to support new trustees in navigating their roles more effectively and to make the initial learning curve more manageable and informed.

From the District

Community Engagement, Graduation, and Articulation

May and June are busy months across the district. Elementary schools provide opportunities to welcome incoming kindergarten students and support the transition of senior students to middle or secondary school. Middle schools in Cranbrook follow a similar approach, welcoming new students while giving Grade 9 students a preview of what to expect in Grade 10.

The final stage of articulation is always a highlight—graduation. Each secondary school prepares its Grade 12 students for this important milestone, recognizing their accomplishments as they move into the next stage of their lives.

Year-End Activities – Field Trips

Amid these transitions, classrooms are also engaged in year-end activities. For some students, this includes field trips and outings that enrich their learning experiences. For others, it may be simpler but equally meaningful activities—such as an afternoon in the gym. A recent example included a Grade 7 class enjoying a spirited game of badminton, which proved to be a memorable experience for all involved.

Board Business

On the business side, the board has passed the third and final reading of the 2026–2027 budget. We extend our thanks to all levels of management, employee groups, and the community for their valuable input throughout the process.

Budget development is a required exercise that involves balancing increasing expectations with limited resources. While compromises are necessary, our collective focus remains on providing equitable outcomes for all students across our communities.

Next week, Trustee Chris Johns will present our district’s concerns to the Select Standing Committee on Finances and Government Services (SSCFGS). This annual opportunity allows districts to contribute to provincial budget discussions. SD5 has consistently advocated for increased funding to support students with diverse needs and for continued investment in the replacement of aging school facilities across the province.

Closing

We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable summer. Over the coming months, the district will focus on preparing for the upcoming trustee elections and ensuring that our schools are ready to welcome students back with renewed energy, creativity and enthusiasm. —Doug McPhee, Board Chair

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