Dear Parents, Caregivers, and Staff, 

As the 2025-2026 school year comes to a close and students and school staff head into a well-deserved summer break, I want to take a moment to share my deep gratitude to everyone in the Kamloops-Thompson School District. From trustees to staff to students and families, you have made me feel incredibly welcome since I arrived in February. My first five months here have been remarkably invigorating and inspiring. Words can’t fully express how meaningful it has been to learn with and from each of you.  

Reflecting on the past few months, I am filled with pride for the extraordinary work happening across our district. Every day, staff make a positive difference in the lives of students, and families continue to support learning with care and commitment. Together, we bring our district to life in ways that matter deeply. 

Earlier this month, I was honoured to attend the sixth annual District Powwow at the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour. It was a beautiful and energizing gathering, grounded by the First Peoples Principal of Learning and guided by the wisdom of Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community. I am grateful for the learning and inspiration the day provided.

June is Pride Month, and I was proud to join students and staff in the Pride Parade during Kamloops Pride Week. It was a joyful opportunity to affirm our district's value and commitment to Equity and celebrate the diverse identities within our schools and communities.  

June is also a time of celebration and recognition. I’ve had the privilege of attending a number of special events, including commencement ceremonies, the KTTA Retirement Reception, Indigenous Graduation, and the 48th Annual District Honours Reception. Each of these celebrations was a powerful reminder of the dedication, perseverance, and excellence of our students and staff. 

To the graduating class of 2026: congratulations on this significant milestone. Your accomplishments extend far beyond academics. You have contributed to your communities, built relationships, and developed the skills and work ethic that will carry you far in life. As you step forward into your futures, I encourage you to relentlessly be yourselves and use your voices and talents to make a positive difference in the world.   

Graduation, and every school year-end, is a shared community achievement. To parents and caregivers, thank you for choosing public education and for trusting us with the care, well-being, and future of your children. Your partnership is essential, and we are grateful for the role you play every day, and for sharing your children with us.  

As some staff start summer break and others jump into summer projects to help improve our district, I want to express my sincere appreciation for all SD73 staff. The work we do in public education is deeply fulfilling while offering challenges and opportunities from which to learn and grow. I see the care, professionalism, and commitment each of you brings every day, and I am grateful for the difference you make in the lives of students and families.

As you head into the weekend and summer months, I hope each of you finds time to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with family and friends.  

Wishing you a rewarding and rejuvenating summer! 

Warm regards, 

Mike St. John 

Superintendent

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2026 OWL AND BOARD AWARD RECIPIENTS

Owl Award: 

Ashley Lowndes 

This year’s Owl Award for Excellence in Public Education was awarded to educator, coach, and local volleyball community builder, Ashley Lowndes. Read more here. 

Board Award of Recognition: 

Phil Heal 

The third Board Award of Recognition was awarded to 2Westsyde Secondary's long-serving, beloved music educator and inclusive education champion, Phil Heal. Read more here. 

HIGHLIGHTS FROM JUNE 

SD73 Students Earn Silver & Gold Medals at Canada-Wide Science Fair 

Three SD73 students earned national recognition at the 2026 Canada-Wide Science Fair, bringing home silver and bronze medals for innovative projects in artificial intelligence and water quality monitoring. Their achievements highlight the strength of student research and STEM learning across the district, from classroom projects to the national stage. 

Read more here. 

39th Annual Young Artists’ Conference Celebrates Student Creativity 

The 39th Annual Young Artists’ Conference offered Grades 4–7 students the opportunity to showcase their artwork, participate in hands-on workshops with local artists, and present to the Board of Education. The annual event highlights students’ artistic growth while fostering confidence, creative exploration, and a deep appreciation for the arts. 

Read more here. 

UPDATES FROM THE BOARD OF EDUCATION 

To learn more about this week’s Board Meeting, read the latest Board Notes here.