Good Things and the Week Ahead - April 13 - 17
Families of Douglas Park,
It was another great week at Douglas Park Community School! I am always so impressed by how hard our students work each day and the positive energy they bring to their learning. When I visit classrooms, I see students engaged, focused, and proud of what they are doing, and it is wonderful to notice how much they have grown since September—not only in their academics, but also in their independence as learners. Students are becoming more confident with routines, completing tasks on their own, and showing increasing responsibility in their learning, as well as growing in how they express their needs and feelings in respectful and thoughtful ways. It has been amazing to see these skills develop over time, and we are so proud of all of our students and the effort they put in every day!
Learning is a dance that involves seasons of independence, as well as seasons of dependence on the support of others. Sometimes learning comes easily and sometimes learning can feel hard. We are committed to 
supporting our students through all of these seasons and encouraging them to always do their best and keep working hard. When something doesn’t come easily for a student it can feel overwhelming and disheartening for them. When this happens, we sometimes hear kids say things like, “I can’t do it,” but we remind them that they “can’t do it YET.” Our goal is for our kids to build resiliency in their learning, which includes reframing hard activities as areas of growth and things that they are working towards learning instead of things they can’t do. This shift in thinking is called “growth mindset” and it encourages kids to seek opportunities to learn, gain new skills, and enhance their existing skills. Growth Mindset is a concept made popular by Dr. Carol Dweck. If you are interested in learning more about her research around growth mindset, you can watch her Ted Talk HERE. For me, learning about growth mindset was a powerful shift in my thinking and I would highly encourage you to watch Dr. Dweck’s video.
It is great to see our kids working hard at school and it is even more exciting when we see our students apply a growth mindset and work through an activity or learning concept that doesn’t come easily. Regardless of where our students are at on their learning journey, we are proud of each one of them and will always encourage them to work hard and never give up!
Looking forward to another awesome week at Douglas Park!
Mr. Touzeau
Proud Principal
As always, we want to acknowledge that the Langley School District works, learns and plays on the unceded ancestral lands of the Matsqui, Kwantlen, Katzie and Semiahmoo First Nations
Good Things to Talk About
Spring Scavenger Hunt - Ms. Regier’s class went on a fun scavenger hunt to the local duck pond. With clipboards in hand, the students went searching for different signs of spring, like flowers blooming, birds flying, and buds on the trees. They were excited to explore outside and worked together to find and record what they saw. It was an awesome way to enjoy nature and learn more about the changes that happen in spring!
Learning About Matter - Ms. Mackenzie’s class is excited to begin their new unit on matter! To kick things off, the students made a fun “mad scientist punch” using sorbet and soda. As they mixed their ingredients, they explored how solids, liquids, and gases can all be found in one cup. The fizzy bubbles made the experiment extra exciting as they saw the gas in action! The class had so much fun learning through this hands-on activity, and it was a great way to spark their curiosity about science. They are looking forward to discovering even more about how matter works in the world around them!
Spring Sun Catchers - Ms. Lee’s class had lots of fun creating beautiful spring art together! The students worked as a team to make colourful flower sun catchers. They used tissue paper to design and decorate their flowers inside laminating sheets. With the help of adults, they carefully put their creations through the laminator. The finished sun catchers turned out amazing and bright—just like spring, full of flowers and sunshine!
Spuds in Tubs - Ms. Olafson’s class had an exciting day moving their “Spuds in Tubs” outside! The students used their math skills to measure the sprouts and made sure they were at least 15 cm tall. As a class, they also checked the weather app to look at the overnight temperatures and make sure there was no risk of frost. Once everything was ready, they carefully moved the tubs outside and “hilled” the plants by adding more soil to help them grow strong and healthy. What a great day of learning in the sunshine!
Fun with Estimation - Ms. Shaw’s class has been learning all about estimation, and the students are having a great time solving Esti-mysteries! They use math clues to make smart and reasonable guesses about how many items there might be. The students are working hard to explain their thinking, listen to each other’s ideas, and try different strategies. It’s been awesome to see their confidence grow as they practice making good estimates and have fun learning together!
UFLI in Kindergarten - Ms. MacKay’s class was working hard and having fun during their UFLI lesson! The students practiced their letter sounds and then worked on putting letters together to make CVC words. It was awesome to see them trying their best and growing more confident in their reading and writing skills.
Measuring Area - Mr. Lee’s class is having a great time learning how to measure area using non-standard units. They start by making an estimate, then use Unifix cubes to cover a rectangle and find the actual area. After that, students compare their results to their estimates to see how close they were. This hands-on activity helps them build their estimation and measurement skills in a fun and engaging way.
Cleaning Our Community - Each week, our classes take turns helping with garbage cleanup around the school, and this week it was Ms. Lee’s class! The students did a great job working together to help keep our school grounds clean and tidy. They showed great teamwork and responsibility, and it was awesome to see how proud they were to help take care of their school community!
Fire Drill - On Thursday, we had a fire drill, and both students and staff did an excellent job! Everyone followed directions calmly and safely and moved outside quickly and quietly. It was great to see how responsible and prepared everyone was. Practicing drills like this helps keep our school safe, and we can be very proud of how well it went!
Learning in the Sun - Nothing beats sunny learning days! Students have been enjoying time outside reading, exploring nature, and having lots of fun during recess and lunch. The warm weather has brought lots of energy and smiles to the school day. It’s been great to see students learning and playing outdoors together and making the most of these beautiful sunny days!
The Week Ahead
Tuesday
- Vaisakhi
- Lockdown Drill at 9:55 am
- Lunch Time Hockey for Grade 4s
- Reading Link Challenge Regional Finals at Lynn Fripps
Wednesday
- Choir Practice at 2:45 pm
- TeamUp Soccer from 6:00 - 7:30 pm on Back Field
Thursday
- TeamUp Basketball from 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Friday
- School Spirit Day: Dress Like a Book Character Day
- Lunch Time Hockey for Grade 5s
Month at a Glance
April 14th - Vaisakhi
April 14th - Lockdown Drill at 9:55 am
April 17th - School Spirit Day: Dress Like a Book Character Day
April 21st - PAC Meeting at 9:00 am
April 22nd - Earth Day
May 1st - School Spirit Day: Moustache Day
May 4th - School Spirit Day: Star Wars Day
May 5th - Welcome to Kindergarten Event
May 7th - Grade 5 Visit to HD Stafford
May 8th - Informal Learning Update Sent Home
May 11th - Fire Drill at 10:00 am
May 15th - Professional Development Day
May 18th - Victoria Day (School Closed)
May 25th - May 29th - Operation Waterproof for Grade 5 Students
May 27th - Regional Track Meet
June 2nd - Class Pictures
PAC News
Message from the PAC – We are looking for parents to join our Parent Advisory Council (PAC). The purpose of the PAC is to organize activities and events and to encourage parent involvement in the school. PAC meetings are the place to bring ideas for creating social events for fundraising or simply to bring the community together. Meetings are held once a month and you are welcome to bring your little ones to our meetings. Some examples of what the PAC does are:
- Movie Nights
- Hot Lunch
- Popcorn Day
- Chess Tournament
Please join us, we’d love to have some new PAC members and we look forward to meeting you. Upcoming meetings are in the school newsletter!
Upcoming PAC Events
- TBD
Next Meeting Time
- Tuesday, April 21st from 9:00 - 9:45 am in the Staff Room
Messages from the PAC
If you want to help us organize or assist with any event, please shoot us an email at pacdouglaspark@gmail.com.
– Douglas Park PAC
Updates and Reminders
School Community Coordinator - We are excited to share that Ms. Langford, a valued member of our team at Douglas Park Community School, has moved into a new role as School Community Coordinator. We are thrilled to see her step into this position and continue supporting our school community in new and meaningful ways. Please see the poster below for more details!
Summer Session 2026 – Elementary/Middle/Secondary - Are you looking for skill-building or new learning opportunities for your child to keep them engaged during the summer? The District offers a variety of courses as part of Summer Session. Online registration begins on Wednesday, April 22nd for Elementary (Grades 1 to 5), Monday, April 27th for Middle (Grades 6 to 8), and Wednesday, April 29th for Secondary (Grades 9 to 12) at 11:30am each day for Langley School District students. For important dates, times, and courses available to Grade 1-12 students, please visit our webpage here.
Reminder for Families: Electric Scooters - Electric scooters are not allowed on school property. In British Columbia, riders must be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet, and electric kick scooters cannot be used on sidewalks or public roads. The school will not be storing electric scooters for students, to help encourage following these safety rules. We ask that families talk with their children to make sure they understand and follow the age and safety requirements.
Langley City Development Planning - This April, Langley City invites you to learn about Invest Langley City, our community-informed plan to deliver lasting value through practical, smart investments built with everyone in mind. The plan looks beyond our current five-year financial plan and focuses on unfunded facilities and public spaces to advance Langley City’s vision.
As our community continues to grow, we have recognized the need for major capital investments to be guided by community input. These investments include two key facilities that will support the health and wellbeing of our citizens:
- Al Anderson Memorial Pool expansion and possible renovations to the existing facilities to provide year-round leisure, fitness, and expanded recreation programs for all ages.
- Timms Community Centre expansion combined with a Performing Arts and Cultural Centre to provide expanded recreation programs, create a hub for cultural and artistic expression, and attract newcomers and tourists.
Public Engagement Events:
- Timms Community Centre — April 8, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. and April 14, 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
- Al Anderson Memorial Pool — April 18, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
- Earth Day at Douglas Park — April 25, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.
- Online session — April 29, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. (registration required)
Langley City will use community feedback along with technical analysis to ensure every investment delivers high value by confirming priority projects, a budget for each and how each project will be funded. We look forward to your participation.
More information is available online at letschat.langleycity.ca/Invest.
Informal Learning Updates - During the week of May 4, your child will receive a paper record of the second informal learning update as part of the requirements within the Ministry of Education and Childcare's Reporting Order. This informal Learning Update serves as a record of communication, which can include (but is not limited to) past email communication, meeting, digital student portfolio or written communication, to serve as an update to families on student learning progress since the Term 2 Formal Learning Update. Parents/Caregivers will be able to see the method of communication indicated at the top of the paper informal Learning Update. If you have further questions on your child's learning progress, please contact your child's classroom teacher.
TeamUp Soccer - TeamUp is excited to offer a free soccer program for Douglas Park students every Wednesday from 6:00–7:30 pm on the back field. Registration forms were sent home before Spring Break. If you didn’t receive one and would like to sign your child up, they can ask Ms. Di Sabatino for a form, or you can register in person at the field, where TeamUp staff will have extras available. Please see the poster below for more details:
Douglas Park Just Be Four (JB4) Preschool (Registration Open for September 2026) -Langley School District operates a licenced 4 year old preschool program at Douglas Park Elementary. Registration is now open for September 2026-2027. Classes operate on Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays or Tuesdays/Thursdays from 12:45-3:15. Please complete the contact form below and our staff will connect with you regarding securing a space for your child. Please contact Charlene Redekop at credekop@sd35.bc.ca for further information.
The Mane Event - Saturday, May 23, 2026 - If you’re looking for something a little different this spring, The Mane Event is worth a spot on your calendar. Hosted at Thunderbird Show Park, this Kentucky Derby-inspired afternoon brings together community and world-class show jumping, all in support of Langley students. It’s a chance to step away from the everyday and experience something elevated, social, and meaningful. All proceeds support programs that help remove barriers for students, ensuring they have access to the opportunities they deserve.
Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL) Reading Advisor - FVRL Reading Advisor is a free resource for everyone living or studying in communities served by FVRL, including Langley. The Reading Advisor service offers personalized book recommendations for readers of all ages, making it an excellent support for students and staff across the Langley School District. All that is required is to fill out a short form about your reading interests, and trained library staff respond with a customized reading list based on genre, themes, age level, and preferred formats (print, eBook, audiobook, graphic novel, etc.) This is ideal for boosting reading engagement, supporting diverse learning needs, and possibly helping teachers quickly discover high‑quality texts for classroom use. This free community resource extends the capacity of school libraries and connects learners with a broader range of inclusive and accessible materials and would be a great resource to share with students and other staff to help them find some new great reads for over spring break. Happy Reading!
https://www.fvrl.bc.ca/my-reading-adviser
April Health Messaging – Fraser Health (Physical Activity Outdoors (from Fraser Health) - Health, safety, and wellness continue to be a priority in our schools. To help support our students and families, we are sharing important information from our community partner Fraser Health about the importance of physical activity outdoors. Please see below for helpful reminders to support your child.
Get Outside and Play - Physical activity is a necessary requirement for optimal health. Regular physical activity in childhood and adolescence helps to develop cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength, supports positive social connections and improves mental well-being. There are many benefits to unstructured play. These benefits are even greater when engaging in physical activity outdoors. When children and youth spend time outside, they:
- Sit less, move more and play longer - key to cardiovascular health and fitness.
- Have healthier eyes - spending more time outside reduces nearsightedness risks.
- Sleep better - sunlight helps regulate sleep hormones and sleep patterns.
- Enjoy improved mood - physical activity can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Feel more connected to nature - appreciation of the environment and being in nature can support healthy and balanced emotions.
Planning active outings doesn’t have to be challenging or costly. Here are some fun ideas you can try:
- Try a new activity – check out geocaching or attend a local explorer day with NatureKidsBC.
- Unplug and connect – ideas to decrease recreational screen time.
- Go for a scavenger hunt – try this nature scavenger hunt.
- Go for a walk or hike – try these 10 hikes to take your kids on this summer.
- Play in a forest or park – try a new regional park every day for a week.
- Explore a local stream – check these beautiful watershed walks in the region. Learn about water safety for children.
- Swim at the pool, waterpark or beach – check beach safety conditions first or stay cool at a local spray park.
- Ride a bike or scooter – explore the Hope Bike Park or check out these rides along Boundary Bay, Pitt Meadows or Vedder Greenway. Learn more about cycling safety on Fraser Health’s website.
- Visit farms, fish hatcheries and bird sanctuaries – try this local family fun guide for unique ideas.
Find more ideas to keep your kids active through the year on Fraser Health’s Keeping children active page.
International Student Program Homestay Families - Embark on a rewarding journey of cultural exchange! The District is seeking homestay families to host International Student Program (ISP) students for the 2026-2027 school year and beyond. There are many benefits including learning a new culture, sharing your family traditions, and developing life-long friendships. Homestay families are provided $1200 per month to offset costs. Start your journey here: Students & Homestay
Middle School Registration Reminder - Middle school registration has moved to an online system. Families of current Grade 5 students who attend a feeder school (such Douglas Park) do NOT need to complete online registration for Stafford, as their child will transition automatically.
Hot Lunch Program – Here’s the April menu for families interested in participating in the school’s hot lunch program:
Privacy Reminder: Recording Devices in Schools - To protect the privacy and security of all students, staff, and visitors, the Langley School District reminds parents and students that digital recording devices, such as Meta Glasses and AngelSense Trackers, are not permitted at school for staff, students, nor members of the community. If parents have concerns about safety and supervision, please refer to our robust district planning (Student Success Plans, Plans of Supervision), and supervision schedules. If parents still have concerns about supervision, please reach out to your Director for guidance. This policy is in place to ensure compliance with the BC Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and the District’s procedures for responsible information management.
Parking Lot Safety Reminder - Thank you for helping us keep our students safe! A quick reminder that our parking lot is for staff only. The front area is a drop-off/pick-up zone—please stay in your car so traffic can keep flowing smoothly. If you need to park, street parking is available along 205 Street by the back field. Adding a couple of extra minutes to your commute helps ensure a safe and efficient experience for everyone. We appreciate your continued support in putting safety first!
Nut Aware Policy - At our school, the safety of all students is a top priority. While we cannot guarantee a completely nut-free environment, we are a nut-aware school. This means we ask families to avoid sending peanut or tree-nut products (such as peanut butter, Nutella, or almond snacks) to school, as even small traces can cause serious allergic reactions. Any food brought to school for sharing, such as for birthdays or classroom celebrations, must be store-bought with a clear list of ingredients so we can ensure it is safe for all students with allergies. Food from restaurants (such as Tim Hortons) is also allowed as long as ingredients can be confirmed. Please check with your child’s teacher before bringing in treats so we can make sure everyone is included safely. Students are reminded not to share food and to wash their hands after eating to help reduce the risk of accidental exposure. Families of children with life-threatening allergies are asked to provide the school with the necessary medical forms and prescribed EpiPens each year. Staff are trained to recognize and respond to allergic reactions, and emergency procedures are in place. By working together, we can help keep our school community safe and welcoming for everyone.
Breakfast Program – The breakfast program is open Monday – Friday from 7:30 – 8:27 AM. It is located in the Boys & Girls Club Portable. The program is FREE for all Douglas Park students. It is run by volunteers and supported through donations. You do not need to register for this program. Parents/guardians are welcome to join their child(ren). For more information about the breakfast program, please contact the school office.
Strong Start – Douglas Park Strong Start hours are 8:30 - 11:30 am with a first come first served limit of 20 children. To register for the 2025/2026 Strong Start year, please bring a birth certificate to be copied. A registration form can be filled out at your first visit.
Parent Code of Conduct - The Langley School District is committed to fostering safe and caring schools that promote mutual respect, cooperation, social responsibility, and support optimal learning. Trauma Informed Practices and Procedures promote the creation and maintenance of safe, inclusive, equitable, welcoming, and nurturing school environments. Families play an important role in helping students achieve success as well as helping create a compassionate learning community. Just as students are expected to follow the District’s Student Code of Conduct, there is an expectation for parents/guardians to uphold the District’s Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct. The District’s Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct can be viewed on the District’s website here.
Attendance – If your child is going to be away or late please be sure to call the office and leave a message @ 604-533-4491 or email DPCAttendance@sd35.bc.ca.
FaceBook – Be sure to follow us on Facebook for updated information
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Douglasparkcommunityelementary
Bell Schedule
8:42 – Warning Bell
8:47 – Instruction Begins
10:10-10:25 – Recess
11:47-12:20 – Lunch
2:30 – Dismissal
School Calendar 2025/26 – Please click the link below to access our school calendar for the year. It provides general dates about when the school is open and closed.
Douglas Park School Calendar 2025:26.pdf