There are many opportunities throughout the school year to enrich learning, foster connection, and celebrate together. Here are some recent examples from across the District.
Students at Burnaby Central Secondary came together for their annual Cultural Appreciation Week, dedicating each day to a continent. With the school community representing more than 71 countries and 59 languages, the week is an opportunity to honour the unique identities and diversity at the school. The fun festivities culminated in a cultural fashion show.
Students and staff at Edmonds Community School gathered for an event called Breads Around the World. The children learned about different cultures by experiencing Himbasha bread from Eritrea, Khubz from Lebanon, Naan from Afghanistan, and Sangak from Iran. Staff from the Settlement Workers in Schools or SWIS team helped organize parents to make the food. They also shared information about the breads’ cultural significance. The event was put on in partnership with the Long Table Society as a celebratory community meal to support connection and cultural appreciation.
SWIS staff led a gathering for Eid al-Fitr at Edmonds, with a feast to mark the end of the Muslim holy month. At the high school level, another Eid celebration was held at Burnaby South Secondary in collaboration with the SWIS team. The festivities for youth and school staff honouring the end of Ramadan included joyful dancing.
The SWIS-sponsored Universal Friendship Club for newcomer students at Moscrop Secondary held celebrations for Easter. Youth played pass the egg and other classic games. Primary students at Buckingham Elementary celebrated the season with Easter-themed art.
Read about more opportunities in Burnaby Schools to celebrate culture, strengthen and support diversity:
Honouring Significant Days with Sharing and Connection – March 2025
Learning Through Indigenous Teachings and Honouring Culture – Multiple Stories
A Journey Through Time: Exploring Black History Month – February 2025
Learning About Culture and Celebrating Lunar New Year – February 2025
Thousands Across BC Join District-Hosted Black Excellence Day Event – January 2025
Illuminating Connection Through Culture and Community – November 2024
Deaf Awareness Flags Flown for First Time at Schools – October 2024
Unique Experiences Support Students Who are New to Canada – June 2024
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Showcase Draws Record Numbers – May 2024
Learning About Cultures and the Strength in Our Differences – April 2024
Celebrating Black History Month and Beyond – February 2024
Student Voice Elevated at District-led Black Excellence Day Event – January 2024
Celebrating the Strengths in our Differences and Working to Dismantle Racism – December 2023
Students’ Post-Secondary Horizons Ignited in Black Futures Program – May 2023
Cultural Traditions and Practices Honoured – May 2023
Sharing Culture and Celebrating Expressions of Who We Are – March 2023
Celebrating and Reflecting During Black History Month – February 2023
Students Presenting at Black Excellence Day Event for Thousands – January 2023
Celebrating Black Excellence Beyond Black History Month – October 2022
Next Steps Coming: Action on Racism – September 2022
Anti-Racism Lead Nominated for Premier’s Award for Work in District – September 2022
Raising Diverse Student Voices and Opportunities – May 2022
Honouring Community Traditions and Practices – May 2022
Honouring and Learning About Black History – February 2022
District Hosting Black Excellence Day for Thousands – January 2022
Dismantling Racism: Invitation to Engagement Process – May 2021
Asian Heritage Month: Honouring, Celebrating and Taking Action – May 2021
Black History Month: Celebrating & Learning – February 2021
Supporting Black Shirt Day – January 2021
Continuing Our Journey: Supporting Anti-Racism – October 2020
Action on Racism: Burnaby Board of Education – June 2020
Celebrating Black History Month in Burnaby Schools – February 2019
Posted May 2025