Leaders making it happen…
The fog on the west coast is a friend I know well. While cold, wet, and unyielding, it nevertheless adds an alluring sense of beauty and mystery to any setting. This was the scene when I landed in the salmon fishing capital of Canada this past week.
School District 72 (Campbell River) is situated on a vast and stunning landscape on Vancouver Island, and serves approximately 6,000 students with 700 staff. Campbell River and Quadra Island schools, along with the district board office, are located on the traditional territory of the Liǧʷiɫdax̌ʷ people. School District 72 also encompasses the traditional territories of the Klahoose (Cortes), K’ómoks (Sayward), and χʷɛmaɬkʷu (Bute Inlet) First Nations.
The landscape demands flexibility from its educators, as they work not only in the district but also on surrounding islands, including Quadra Island (a 10-minute ferry ride away) and Read Island, which has no public transportation. Read Island is home to Surge Narrows Elementary, a K-7 school that serves as a vital community hub, offering both education and a gathering place for local events. Lorill Vining is the Principal of both Surge Narrows Elementary and Quadra Island Elementary. With boat license in hand, she navigates the churning waters of Discovery Passage, ensuring equitable and inclusive learning opportunities for students while also supporting staff in their roles.
The first stop of the day was Pinecrest Elementary to meet Principal Tina Gordon. After a brief chat, we headed to the district board office, where we met with Superintendent Geoff Manning. Geoff is in his second year in the district, having recently come from the Comox Valley. Our conversation was rich and thoughtful, focusing on the recently released BCPVPA Leadership Competencies. Aligning professional growth plans with both school plans and the district’s strategic plan provides a strong foundation for developing and growing leaders in any district.
Following this visit, we made our way to Carihi Secondary, the site of a fire earlier this school year. In November, Principal Sean McLaughlin was alerted at 2:00 a.m. that a fire had broken out at his school. As he arrived in the dark hours of the morning, he watched as the fire took over the gym area, the culinary arts kitchen, and a section of the ‘B Wing’. Within six days, and after endless hours of planning, Sean, his VP team – Deanna Brennan and Karly Stones – and the district team reopened the school with minimal impact on student learning. Several campuses throughout the district are being used to support student programs. On the day I arrived at Carihi, Sean was busy, clipboard in hand, helping students board buses to their satellite campuses for programs such as Band and PE.
I was unable to meet Karly Stones, who is in her first year as Vice-Principal. She is currently based at Oyster River School, which has been reopened to accommodate students from Carihi during the rebuilding phase. The way the entire community has come together to ensure students continue to receive top tier learning opportunities is an inspiration, reflecting the kindness, care, and resilience of this community.
I was disappointed to miss my visit to Cedar Elementary, where I had hoped to meet Principal James Zlatanov and learn more about the recent Culture Club event held in the gym. Cedar Elementary is slated for replacement, and leading a school under construction is a significant undertaking. I was eager to hear James’ thoughts on how the process might unfold and how we can support it.
Upon arriving at Ripple Rock Elementary – a First Nations School of Choice with a unique Kwak’wala Immersion program – I was immediately struck by the impressive physical structure of the building. Ripple Rock Elementary is the newest elementary school in the area and serves approximately 310 students from kindergarten to Grade 5. The building, a beautiful wood-frame structure, incorporates extensive use of local timbers and concrete. Central to its design is a common area that anchors the school. In April 2024, the school expanded its facilities with a new childcare centre, adding 30 new school-age childcare spaces. Ripple Rock’s motto reflects its commitment to fostering “a caring and respectful community that values communication, celebrates diversity, and builds nurturing relationships”.
The final stop of the day was at École Phoenix Middle School, a dual-track French Immersion school. This school stands as a beacon of learning in Campbell River, a place where curiosity takes flight and students are encouraged to rise, much like the legendary bird the school is named after. École Phoenix Middle School was also the site of a fire many years ago. On the evening of August 25, 1976, a devastating fire engulfed the original building, completely destroying the school. In the aftermath, students attended classes in shifts at Carihi Secondary School for two and a half years while a new facility was constructed. The rebuilt school officially reopened on January 19, 1979, aptly renamed "Phoenix" to symbolize its rebirth from the ashes.
At the helm of this vibrant community is Principal Rachel Nelson, a dedicated leader who inspires students and staff alike. She is supported by Vice-Principals Brian Smyth and Carly Stevens, both of whom bring a blend of passion and expertise to guide students through these formative years.
As I reflected on my visit to School District 72, I was struck by the resilience, dedication, and sense of community that permeates every school. From navigating challenging landscapes to overcoming adversity with unwavering determination, the educators and leaders here are committed to fostering excellence and inclusivity. The spirit of collaboration and innovation that defines this district is truly inspiring, and I leave with a deep appreciation for the work being done to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.