The first weeks of the 2026-27 school year have been marked by more than schedules and classroom routines.
From leadership students helping incoming peers feel at home to orientations for international students, community-building events, athletic tryouts, and school spirit activities, schools have been focused on a strong start and sense of belonging, which supports learning.
Leadership students, including those from Burnaby North and Alpha Secondary, gathered in the final days of summer break to help peers get settled, call incoming Grade 8s, and plan events. Students who are part of the International Education program were greeted and supported at special orientations across the District.
The Class of 2039 was welcomed by schools, such as Lakeview Elementary, as they started Kindergarten this month. At the other end of their school experience, many youth in this year’s grad class are taking time to honour the moments of their final year of public school, such as this “last first day” at Burnaby North for Grade 12s.
The new school year began with gatherings and welcomes, such as these at Kitchener and Brentwood Park Elementary. At Confederation Park Elementary, children played during an afternoon of community building that was supported by the City of Burnaby’s Parks and Recreation department.
Student athletes jumped right into fall sports, including at Moscrop and Burnaby South Secondary, with many high school team tryouts beginning the first week of school. Competition is already underway for several teams.
At Cariboo Hill and Alpha Secondary, student leaders organized an event for Grade 8s to help them build school connection and meet their peers through games and activities. At Byrne Creek Community School, Student Government organized a school Spirit Week, including Jersey and Twin Days, setting the tone for the year ahead.
Posted September 2026