Schools give back to communities

Central Okanagan Public Schools families and staff donated over 16,000 pounds of food, thousands of clothing items, nearly $15,000 in gift cards and donations, 75 food hampers, and over 600 new toys this past holiday season.

In addition to the holiday donations to food banks and individual families, schools also raised significant amounts of food, clothing, and money in the fall for families in neighbouring school districts who were displaced by floods.

“We teach students to see their connection to the world around them, giving them the skills and knowledge so that they understand the power they have to change the world and thrive in it,” said Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools and CEO. “Every year, our learners inspire hope when they embrace opportunities to give back and we are grateful for the generosity of our families.”

Public school students took opportunities over the fall and during the holidays to give back to their community.

Here are just a few examples:

• Central School students planted produce at the KLO Middle modular farm, then distributed the harvest over the holiday break

• Staff and students at École Glenrosa Middle volunteered on a Saturday for the Central Okanagan Food Bank Stuff a Bus Campaign, in addition to food and clothing drives

• Canyon Falls Middle School students gathered hygiene and clothing items for a women’s shelter

• OKM Secondary families “adopted” 26 dogs through Paws It Forward donations

• Watson Road Elementary students gathered new socks in “Socktober” and winter wear in “Snovember”