January 30, 2026
Principal’s Message – January 30th
Dear École Herbert Spencer Community,
The rain this week could not dampen our spirits! We had a spectacular week!
Please see the following highlights, reminders, updates and information!
Originz Brings Hip Hop History to Life!
Thursday afternoon, our school community was treated to an incredible performance by Originz—thanks to the generous support of our PAC and the coordinating help of Mme. Ellett!
Originz is an engaging and interactive musical presentation that guides students through the origins of hip hop, tracing its roots from traditional African music to its evolution within African American culture. Performers Ndidi Cascade, Powys HJ, and special guests shared inspiring stories from their own artistic journeys while inviting students to participate in rapping, dancing, beatboxing, and discussion.
This high‑energy experience was the perfect launch as we head into Black History Month, helping students build a strong foundation for upcoming classroom learning and activities. It offered a meaningful and joyful way to honour the contributions and cultural influence of Black communities.
Both staff and students were absolutely thrilled with the performance! Enjoy the highlights!
Story Workshop with Loose Parts
During Tuesday afternoon’s collaboration time, our own Nisha Bagha, Division 12 EFI, led staff in a hands‑on session exploring Loose Parts Story Workshop. Teachers had the opportunity to create, play, and reflect together while engaging with a variety of loose materials used to spark imaginative storytelling.
An important component of our School Learning Plan, the session offered a meaningful look at how Story Workshop can support creativity, oral language development, and student‑led story writing across grade levels. Staff left with fresh ideas and renewed inspiration for bringing this approach into their classrooms.
The school has put together 4 Story Workshop Carts for use by all classes. We can’t wait to get started!
Updates to Student information Systems and Messaging
There are a number of updates coming to our Student Information Systems and School Messenger (how you received the link to this Principal Message).
Please see more information on the updates here AND if you are interested in receiving School Messages through TEXT as well see the following link here on how to enrol.
Basics of Internet Safety for Students K-3 – A Free Online Parent Event with Paul Davis – February 8, 5:30pm
A free 30min online presentation. The basics of Internet Safety for Parents who have kids up to Grade 3
www.socialnetworkingsafety.net
Instagram: @followpauldavis
Facebook: facebook.com/pauldavistips
World Read Aloud Day – February 4th 1PM – 2PM – Check out this Free Online Event!
2025/2026 Grade 4 – Student Learning Survey
An email was sent this week to the families of all Grade 4 Students sharing the link to the Student Learning Survey provided by the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care. Parents and Guardians of Grade 4 students are asked to please complete the survey, open now until May 1st.
Grade 4 students complete a similar survey in school during this same period of time. Your feedback is very important to help us shape our strategic planning and provide feedback on how we are doing. We appreciate your support!
Community Happenings!
Hyack Football Spring Programs – Programs run from April to June for students Aged 5 – 14 – Registration Open Now!
Douglas College Spring Break Youth Camps
Calendar Dates:
Feb 4 PAC Meeting
Feb 6 McDonalds/Sushi Fun Lunch
Feb 11 Early Dismissal/Conferences
Feb 12 Early Dismissal/Conferences
Feb 16 Family Day
Feb 17 Pro D
Feb 20 Pizza Fun Lunch
Feb 25 Fire Drill @11AM
Mar 2, 3 Les Petits Chefs (crepes)
Mar 3 Mike’s Critters – Div 19, 20 and 21
Mar 4 District Ball Hockey Tournament – FRMS (Afternoon and Early Evening)
Mar 6 McDonalds/Sushi Fun Lunch
Mar 9 – 13 Axe Capoeira – Grade 3/4
Mar 13 Axe Capoeira Final Performance 1:30 PM (Open to Grade 3 and 4 Parents)
Mar 12 Second Report Published
Mar 16 – 27 Spring Break
Mar 30 School Reopens
Useful Links:
École Herbert Spencer Website
École Herbert Spencer Parent Advisory Council Website
PAC Events Calendar
École Herbert Spencer 2025-26 School Calendar
School Cash Online Information
Family Portal Instructions for Parents
My Ed BC Parent Portal instructions