Qualicum School District

Happy Spring to All

The weather may have cooled lately, but many of the signs of spring are still becoming apparent. Below are some updates from the district office and schools that we would like to share with you before we head off for our break. Thank you all that you do for the students of the Qualicum School District, and we wish you a safe and restful holiday if you are able to have one.

District Updates:

QSD Graduation Rates Are Up

Great news for the QSD as our graduation rates made another push forward. Improved tracking and support of our students is usually the factor in this key Student Success metric and focus for our QSD Strategic Plan. Well done to all the staff who helped to support these learners, and well done to the students and their families for all of their hard work and persistence. We are proud of you and look forward to what comes next.

New Websites Coming

After well over a decade, it is time to move to another website provider. We look forward to the new look and improved usability that Rally will give our district and school sites when we "go live" later this spring.

QSD Traffic Safety

The QSD Joint Traffic Safety Committee met on March 4 with representatives from the Qualicum School District, Ministry of Transportation, Regional District of Nanaimo, BC Transit, City of Parksville, RCMP, and school community partners.

The group discussed beginning a “Best Routes to School” planning process, based on work from the Comox School District. Work in the Qualicum School District could start with Springwood Elementary before moving on to Ecole Oceanside, then potentially expanding to Qualicum Beach Elementary and other schools over time.

Other safety strategies at SES and EOES were discussed, along with ongoing efforts to potentially improve traffic congestion and student safety across the QSD. Given the permanent move to "Pacific Time" and its impact on morning travel visibility, we have extra motivation to begin this work. The next meeting will take place April 29th.

Budget Season in QSD

Whenever spring break looms, it becomes time to talk about the next year's budget. If you missed the recent public presentation from secretary-treasurer Ron Amos, you can find the link on the right side of the QSD Finance page, along with a number of other financial information topics.

QBES Daycare Build

OBLT Chair Chris Churchley joined QSD Vice-Chair Carol Kellogg and Qualicum First Nation Chief Michael Recalma for the groundbreaking ceremony last month at Qualicum Beach Elementary. Knappett Construction will be on site at the school for about one year until the new daycare is scheduled to complete.

Updates from the Schools:

Celebrating Lunar New Year at EOES

Oceanside joyfully welcomes the Year of the Horse! After learning about traditional Lunar New Year celebrations in China, all students worked in collaborative groups to create beautiful, red and gold lanterns that were proudly displayed in our front foyer.

We wrapped up our week of festivities with a lively Lunar New Year parade through the school, led by our K/1/2 classes.

To everyone in our community who celebrates: Happy New Year! Gung Hei Fat Choi!

Pink Shirt Day at Springwood

The SES Pink T-Shirt Day Assembly focused on belonging, kindness, and the theme Xwiyulastul, meaning “look after each other.” Students learned about the origins of Pink Shirt Day, the importance of being upstanders, and how empathy helps create a caring school community. Through meaningful performances and student leadership, the message was clear: when we choose kindness and stand together, everyone belongs.

QBES Staff Secret Spirit Day

For a fun later winter distraction, staff at QB arranged a week of coordinated dress-up days without telling the kids. Whether they were back in black, lumberjacks and okay, on a tropical cruise, or just chillin' like the kids themselves, it looked like a pretty good time. I bet the guesses would have been worth all the effort!

Brant Festival at QBES

Students and families at Qualicum Beach Elementary School had a fantastic time participating in the Brant Wildlife Children's Festival.

Classes explored local conservation efforts, life cycles, and the fascinating creatures found in nearby ponds. Students rotated through hands-on learning stations and had the chance to ask questions and share their own discoveries. The day highlighted the importance of protecting the habitats and wildlife in our community. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn about and celebrate the remarkable Brant Goose that visits our shores each year.

QSD Job Postings - We Are Hiring

Make a Difference Every Day!

Looking for meaningful work that truly matters? Join our school district team and help create positive, supportive environments for students.

We are Currently Hiring:

Bus Drivers: Start the day off right by safely transporting students and being a welcoming presence on their journey to and from school.

Contact the Parksville Career Centre for eligibility requirements for training through the WorkBC Centre for a Class 2 Driver’s Licence. Link: https://www.workbccentre-parksville.ca/training-support-program

Responsible Adults: Play a role in fostering safe, respectful, and caring school communities. Take this 20-Hour online Responsible Adult course through the YMCA. Link: https://www.gv.ymca.ca/responsible-adult-course

Education Assistants: Support teachers and students in the classroom while helping every learner reach their full potential. Ready to Apply?

View full job descriptions and submit your application through Make a Future. https://sd69-makeafuture.simplication.com/

Have questions? We are happy to help! Contact Human Resources at 250-954-3069 or email hr@sd69.bc.ca

Qualicum School District | 100 Jensen Ave E | Parksville, BC V9P 2G5 CA

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