April comes with many wonderful celebrations of student participation in an array of events. I was delighted to attend several as I know my colleagues did, as well. I would like to highlight just a few to share with you how special and caring the LBPSB is. When I say special, I am thinking of the students, teachers, and support staff, administrators, volunteers – all in our community who contribute and who put in many extra hours in recognition of learning and embracing all that comes with it.

On April 9^th during Adult Learners Week, the LBPSB celebrated with an event in the Board Room. The students demonstrated a range of skills, interests, passions, and desire to take on challenges to shift directions in their lives in meaningful ways. Those selected to speak on behalf of their programs inspired all in attendance, reminding us of why they have taken a chance on a new career at particular pivotal times in their lives. Their stories and journeys are incredible.

We also celebrated the love of books with the Battle of the Books on March 31^st with high school students, and Qui Lira Vaincra with elementary students, who not only take their tasks seriously in sharing their knowledge of the books they have read, but also remind us of the joy and excitement reading can bring to any age.

Our student commissioners will be reporting on the Teen Summit which also took place at the head office on April 17^th, but I would like to congratulate them and the CSC for organizing an exciting day for diverse student leaders from across the school board who clearly demonstrated the LBPSB values of community, inclusion, innovation, integrity and respect for one another.

Just last week during Earth Day week, thanks to the Green Committee’s initiative which was followed through on via Educational Services the buzz here in the board room where 4 elementary schools showcased their work about their love of the environment was passionate and truly motivating, once again reminding us of the respect and shared stewardship we must show to the lands and waters on which we are located as we commit to in our land acknowledgements at the LBPSB.

There have been so many varied end of year events such as talent shows, model UN, volunteer teas, concerts and plays, with almost every single school and centre across the LBPSB taking part in extra activities to enhance learning and the joy of community.

Gratitude, on behalf of the Council of commissioners, is extended to all in our deepest appreciation in all you do for our students.

Our Council work will continue in May with the new government budget numbers, parameters and guidelines to study, and with our committee and policy work, some of which you will learn more about in our reports and resolutions this evening. There is never a quiet month in a school board calendar. And that’s okay. We are always ready to move on to the next topics and issues that come our way and proud to celebrate and support the LBPSB.