Kamloops-Thompson School District Celebrates Kamloops Pride Week & Parade

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Story provided by Chelsea Isenor, Director of Communications and Board Administration

The Kamloops-Thompson School District was honoured to participate in Kamloops Pride Week to show support for 2SLGBTQIA+ staff, students, and families. The District’s participation in Pride Week events is a testament to our commitment to the Cultural and Identity Priority in the 2022-2027 District Strategic Plan, which strives to ensure that every learner feels safe and can thrive personally.

“It was heartwarming to see teachers, staff, and students from across our District come together to celebrate diversity and support 2SLGBTQIA+ staff and students at the Kamloops Pride Parade. It is important for every student in the Kamloops-Thompson School District to feel safe, welcome, and supported to be who they are both inside and outside of our schools,” shared Superintendent Dr. Rhonda Nixon.

On the afternoon of Wednesday, August 21, 2024, District staff joined a vibrant array of community organizations at the Pride Open House, hosted at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). This event was part of a broader initiative by the City of Kamloops, bringing together various community service agencies to celebrate and raise awareness for Pride Week. Among the participating groups were Kamloops Pride, the Aboriginal Friendship Centre, Kamloops Immigrant Services, Kamloops Crime Prevention, and Kamloops Fire and Rescue/Emergency Service.

The Pride Open House was a joyous celebration of inclusivity and connection. David Thompson Elementary Principal Dyan Gunnlagson and District Principal of Safe and Caring Schools Cory Carmichael engaged with Open House attendees, sharing information about the District and distributing Pride flags and pins. The highlight of the SD73 booth was a custom button maker, where community members could create their own personalized Pride buttons.

“It is about creating a safe, caring, and well connected community where the District is a visible and participating partner who is here to support the success of all Kamloops-Thompson students and families,” shared Cory Carmichael, District Principal Safe & Caring Schools.

Kamloops Pride Week culminated in the annual Pride Parade on Sunday, August 25, 2024. Trustees, staff, teachers, administrators, and students walked together as a unified team to show that every member of our District community is valued and accepted for who they are. Students and families watching the parade excitedly waved to the teachers and school staff marching and many spectators showed their support for educators by calling out “we love teachers!”

“Participating in Pride events is an important way for us as a District to show all students that they are welcome. As we start a new school year, we are excited to continue to support students and schools in creating inclusive environments and educational experiences where everyone can thrive,” shared Michelle Mattes, Assistant Superintendent of Inclusive Education.

Thank you to everyone who joined in the Kamloops Pride activities to celebrate and champion Pride and inclusivity in the Kamloops-Thompson School District.