​Dear SD43 families,

I wish to extend a warm welcome to both new and returning students and their families. I hope your vacation was enjoyable and that you are looking forward to the 2023–2024 academic year. We await with pleasure the many achievements and accomplishments of our students over the course of the new school year.

This September we opened Coast Salish Elementary School in Coquitlam. We will be continuing construction of the Moody Elementary seismic replacement school in addition to the new Burke Mountain Middle/Secondary School. Several other improvement and maintenance projects continue at schools around the district in our ongoing efforts to provide suitable facilities for student learning.

A district-wide focus this year will be on the Ministry of Education and Child Care's Anti-Racism Action Plan. While SD43 schools have always valued diversity and inclusion, and work in this area has been ongoing for many years, our intention is to increase our efforts to ensure that every student has a place of welcome and security within our schools. We are pleased to welcome Wendy Yu to the new leadership role of District Principal of Diversity and Anti-Racism.  District Principal Yu will establish an advisory committee, provide training to all staff in SD43, and engage us all in strengthening our anti-racism stance.  This is an ongoing process that will require the efforts of all members of our communities.

The Province's new Feeding Futures funding will make a positive impact on food security for children in our school district as we increase access to healthy meals and snacks at school. Existing local programs and partnerships will be expanded to reach those students requiring support due to rising financial pressures at home. Access to healthy food has been proven to increase student achievement and well-being and we are excited to support children and families. New funding will allow us to expand or programs and make a difference in our communities.

In closing, I would like to encourage everyone to get involved in their child's education and forge a closer relationship with their school community through volunteering and participation in school activities. School Parent Advisory Council (PAC) initiatives, events, assemblies, clubs, the arts and sports enrich educational opportunities for children and parent participation contributes to student success.

I wish you all an enjoyable and fulfilling school year.

Sincerely,

Patricia Gartland
Superintendent & CEO
School District No.43 (Coquitlam)​