Welcome to the 2026-2027 School Year

Dear Parents, Caregivers, and Staff,

Welcome to the 2026-27 school year!  As always, we begin the year with a combination of excitement, nervous energy, anticipation of new experiences, and optimism about the positive pathways and adventures that await.  All of us in the Kamloops-Thompson School District look forward to working with and supporting young learners as they embark on this journey.  

It is also important that we acknowledge that for some families, this summer was very complex and challenging because of the wildfires that directly or indirectly impacted individuals and communities.  In response to the many losses, we were inspired by so many people who stepped up to offer care, shelter, and other supports during an extraordinarily challenging time. Their actions are a life lesson, reminding us of the strength of community and of what is possible when we come together and care for one another.  Our school district has reached out to neighbouring districts offering our support as they prepare for opening day.

A special welcome goes out to families new to our SD73 community.  We hope you will soon experience the quality of a system guided by our core purposes: fostering strong relationships; creating a sense of belonging; and supporting meaningful learning and success for every student. These priorities are deeply interconnected and at the heart of all our work. Parents and educators know that students thrive when they feel safe, seen, heard, valued, and connected. Together, we are working to know each learner: their gifts, interests, dreams, identities, and the unique experiences they bring to our classrooms. This is the foundation upon which we are building our school district - a place where everyone in our learning community belongs and flourishes.

This year marks an exciting milestone for our system as we open Sníne Elementary, the first school built on a new site in our district in more than 25 years. Like all successful ventures, the completion of Sníne involved tremendous commitment, care, expertise, and the collaboration of many departments.  In particular, the Facilities Services and Information Technology teams are to be acknowledged for their thoughtful and thorough work. This beautifully designed building will become a school on September 8, when we welcome more than 300 students to learn and grow with innovative learning spaces, outdoor classrooms, a beautiful library, and an Indigenous garden that reflects our commitment to culture, community, and connection to place. As we are of all of our schools, SD73 is proud of Sníne Elementary and the culture of learning, care and connection that will inspire staff and students to run to school and walk home.   

We are equally excited to celebrate another significant achievement this month: the graduation of the first cohort from our Certified Education Assistant (CEA) In-House Certification program. Through this unique initiative and valued partnership with CUPE, SD73 is enhancing the learning conditions for all students while taking action to address workforce needs and creating new pathways into meaningful careers supporting children. The program has been a remarkable success, with 23 students expected to graduate from the inaugural cohort that began in February 2026. Their dedication and accomplishments represent an important investment in the future of public education in our district.

Public education is built on partnership. I am grateful for the tireless work of the SD73 Board of Trustees and their support and advocacy of students, families, staff, and community members who work together to create welcoming, caring, and inclusive schools.  Collectively, all partners help to create the learning conditions where every student belongs and has every opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed here in SD73 and beyond. 

As students and families prepare for the first day of school on Tuesday, I wish all of you a positive and successful start to the school year. I look forward to celebrating the achievements, growth, and learning that will unfold across our district in the weeks and months ahead.

Sincerely,

Mike St. John

Superintendent

SD73 Welcomes New Assistant Superintendent of Education

The Kamloops-Thompson Board of Education is pleased to welcome James Messenger as SD73's new Assistant Superintendent of Education. Bringing more than 21 years of experience in public education and a strong reputation as a collaborative, student-centred leader, James joins SD73 from Pacific Rim School District, where he served as Assistant Superintendent.

James and his family are looking forward to becoming part of the Kamloops community. 

James Messenger will begin his appointment as Assistant Superintendent this month. Read more. 

UPCOMING Key Dates

• September 8, 2026 – First Day Back to School 
• September 9, 2026 – FASD Awareness Day
• September 9, 2026 – Board of Education Committee of the Whole Meeting
• September 21, 2026 – Non-Intructional Day 
• September 21, 2026 – Board of Education Public Board Meeting 
• September 30, 2026 – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

UPDATES FROM THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

To stay up to date on the work of the Kamloops-Thompson Board of Education, explore brief highlights from the August 24, 2026, Regular Public Board meeting in the latest Board Notes here.