November 7, 2025
Principal’s Message – November 7
Dear École Herbert Spencer Community,
Please see the important information, updates, reminders and highlights of the week!
Pumpkin Discovery in Div 20!
Students in Kindergarten – Division 20 Ms Marthold’s class are developing hands on Math and Science skills with … PUMPKINS! Rumour has it there will be roasted seeds to count and EAT on Monday!
Reading Link Challenge!
The annual Reading Link Challenge kicked off today with Alicia Dobbs, a Librarian from the NWPL. Alicia provides a book talk for each of the novels to generate enthusiasm and Ms Thomas will explain all the details of the Reading Link Challenge to student’s in Library Classes next week. The PAC is generously supporting the program again this year, which allows us to purchase many more copies of each of the titles and satisfy the insatiable reading appetites of our Intermediate Readers! Check out the Reading Link Challenge Website here.
Photo Retakes
We’d love to hear your feedback on our School Photos this year. Please email Mr. Manville directly at pmanville@sd40.bc.ca with any feedback you have.
Retakes are ready!
Students and families will be able to scan their QR codes to view their photos and order, or enter their access code on our website: View and Order. All orders placed within 7 days of retake day will be shipped to our school free of charge.
Don’t Have your Access Code? If you do not have your QR code please fill out this form here: Don’t Have Your Access Code?
Missed both Photo Day and Retake Day or who would like another retake? Artona is hosting and In-Studio Retake Day at our main studio in Vancouver on November 15, 2025. All images taken will be for personal orders only – we will not be reproducing additional services like ID cards or pictorials. There is no cost to have photos taken and families can book a time slot online: Artona In Studio Retake Day
PAC Fundraisers!
The PAC has what you need this FALL! Two active Fundraisers – Neufeld Farms and Purdys!
Neufeld Farms – More Info Here!
Stock up on all your Neufeld Farms favourites – from ready to bake treats to hearty family meals – and help support the school!
Orders Due: Monday, November 17th
Pick-Up Date at the School: Wednesday, November 26th at 7 PM
Purdys – More Info Here!
Just in time for the holiday season! Stock up on all your sweet gifts and support our school at the same time!
Supporter Deadline: November 26, 2025
Pickup at the School from 6:00 to 6:30PM: December 10, 2025
Contact for more information: Renee at reneenixdorf@gmail.com
Please follow this link to stay up to date on all our current PAC Fundraisers and Events.
Thank you for your support!
New West Schools Family Math Night – December 10, 2025
New Westminster Schools invites K–8 students and their families to an evening of hands-on math games and activities that support the BC curriculum. More info HERE!
Wednesday, December 10
NWSS (Highschool) Atrium
5:30–7:30 p.m.
Free to attend. Students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
RSVP by Friday, December 5 to jangiola@sd40.bc.ca
Learn more: jrmf.org
Be Heard New West!
The New Westminster Public Library is preparing a Facilities Master Plan to guide the future of our community’s library spaces over the next 25 years. This plan will look at how libraries in New West are used today, how community needs are changing, and how the library can continue to provide welcoming, flexible, and accessible spaces for everyone for years to come.
Complete the short survey at the link below to share your family’s priorities for library spaces and services!
https://www.beheardnewwest.ca/en-CA/projects/library-master-plan
Herbert Spencer 2025-26 School Spirit Wear!
Spirit Wear will be available for order from November 1st through November 14th. Available are Hoodies (Pullover and Full Zip) and Short Sleeve T-Shirts in GREY or NAVY BLUE. The logo will be our school crest below, placed on the left chest.
Sample sizes are available in the school office until Friday, November 14th, 2025. Parents of primary students (K-3) must accompany their children to try on samples to ensure correct sizing.
Place your orders through School Cash Online!
Upcoming Dates
Nov 10 Remembrance Day Assembly 11AM
Nov 11 Remembrance Day – School is Closed
Nov 14 McDonald’s Fun Lunch
Nov 22 Holiday Craft Fair
Nov 27 First Light (Evening Lighting of our Christmas Tree)
Nov 28 Pizza Fun Day
Community Happenings!
Thrive Parents and Halloween on the Quay!
Burnaby New West Ringette
Try Rugby!
Douglas College Fall Programs
Calendar Dates:
Nov 10 Remembrance Day Assembly 11AM
Nov 11 Remembrance Day – School is Closed
Nov 14 McDonald’s Fun Lunch
Nov 22 Holiday Craft Fair
Nov 27 First Light (Evening Lighting of our Christmas Tree)
Nov 28 Pizza Fun Day
Dec 11 First Report Published
Dec 12 McDonald’s Fun Lunch
Dec 19 PAC Gift Treat Day
Dec 22 – Jan 2 Winter Vacation
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