Families of Shortreed, 

We hope you have had a great week... especially you Seahawks fans... 12s that are the 2026 Super Bowl Champs!! 

This week is a short week for our students but a full week for our staff. Tomorrow (Monday) is a Professional Development Day in Langley so all staff will be learning either at Odyssey 2026 (a district Pro-D event held at Langley Events Centre, RE Mountain Secondary, and Peter Ewart Middle) or individually/small groups at secondary schools around the district. Friday is a Design and Assessment Day, so elementary and middle school staff in Langley will collaborate and learn together at their individual schools. 

A reminder that February is Black History Month. We will be taking some time to learn about and celebrate the many ways Black Canadians have helped shape our country. For over 400 years, Black people have been an important part of Canada’s history. They have been leaders, artists, athletes, teachers, inventors, and community builders. Their stories remind us of courage, creativity, and perseverance. Black History Month also helps us learn about kindness, fairness, and respect. It is a time to listen, ask questions, and understand that everyone’s story matters. By learning about Black history and culture, we can continue to make our school and community a place where everyone feels they belong. Throughout February, we encourage everyone to learn, celebrate, and show respect—not just this month, but all year long.

Saturday is Valentine's Day and Have a Heart Day. As the last day before this is Thursday, we are having a spirit day of Red/White/Pink Day. Many classes have been learning more about Have a Heart Day and the importance of equity of opportunity for students across Canada, with special note of the inequities that still occur in many Indigenous community schools. 

Our PAC Hot Lunches continue this week with KFC on Wednesday. We also invite you to join our PAC meeting this Thursday at 6:30 in the library. 

We have received some parking concerns from neighbours around the school. Please do not block driveways when parking near the school. A reminder that the Catholic Church generously allows us to use their large gravel parking lot for pick up and drop off, and it is right across from the school. 

Artwork by Bill BedardAt Shortreed, we are honoured to work, learn, and play on the unceded ancestral and traditional lands of the Máthxwi First Nation. We share this not only to acknowledge the lands but also to express our dedication to learning on our journey of truth and reconciliation. Each February 14, we take the time to honour Have a Heart Day. This is a time to reflect on the vast inequities of schools that continue to exist, particularly in many Indigenous community schools across Canada. This movement began in 2012 with the First Nation Caring Society, with the goal of "bringing people all across Canada together to help ensure First Nations children have the services they need to grow up safely at home, get a good education, be healthy, and be proud of who they are". The day was inspired by Shannen's Dream, in memory of Shannen Koostachin, a youth activist from Attawapiskat First Nation who fought for a new school after students at her school faced a poisonous diesel spill, rodent infestations, and a lack of basic resources such as consistent heat and clean water. Many of our classes have been learning about Shannen's Dream, which aims to ensure every child has equitable opportunities at school. Students have been sharing their gratitude for the wonderful opportunities we have at Shortreed and discussing why it is important for all students across the country to have similar experiences at school. 

Note from Mrs. Parsons and Jessica Bedard (former Shortreed teacher) - we have reimagined our Have a Heart Day design for hoodies and t-shirts to honour the young student whose courage sparked this movement. The artwork is done by Haida artist William Bedard and is rooted in First Nations design featuring a young girl representing Shannen alongside the Kuugan - a spirit figure symbolizing her journey into the spirit world. Shannen fought fearlessly for equity and equal opportunities for Indigenous children. By entering her in this design, we celebrate her legacy and keep her spirit, strength, and advocacy alive. Wearing this design is more than a statement - it's a commitment to continue her fight for justice and fairness for Indigenous youth. Join us in spreading the word and making a difference.

Good Thing to Talk About

On Tuesday, our students were treated to incredible drumming and a truly inspiring man named Jack Thomas. Jack grew up playing the drums and guitar; however, when he was 17, he lost his arm in a work accident. This did not stop him from pursuing his dreams as a musician; he continued to drum in bands and even received praise from Howie Mandel during his appearance on Canada's Got Talent. Jack wowed our students with his skills while also sharing a message of determination and kindness. 

We had our first Club Wednesday session this past week. Students left the school with a hop in their step, excited about their experiences in art, music, crafts, sports, and technology. Club Wednesday continues for the next three Wednesdays. A big thank you to our Shortreed Staff for all their extra efforts in planning and organizing this unique opportunity for our students. 

On Monday, our Grade 5 Basketball team continued their strong season with a 24-20 win over Simonds/U-Connect in the Shortreed Gym. The team was down 20-16 with 6 minutes remaining and came back to win in a very tight game. Both teams showed tough defence and hit some clutch baskets throughout the game. The grade 5's travel to Parkside to play the Panthers on Wednesday this week. Please note that due to this game, the grade 3 basketball session has been moved to Thursday. 

Our students were treated to a fun Hot Chocolate Activity from our PAC volunteers on Thursday. Before winter break, we had to postpone this activity because of the power outage. A huge thank you to all the volunteers who made this happen for our kids. We hope you had a "hot chocolate date: with your child(ren) this weekend!

The Week Ahead

• Monday, February 9 - Pro-D Day (no school for students)
• Tuesday, February 10 - Gr. 5 Basketball 7:45
• Wednesday, February 11 - Gr. 5 Basketball game at Parkside 3:00; PAC Hot Lunch Day KFC, Club Wednesday Session #2
• Thursday, February 12 - Spirit Day - Red/White/Pink Day!; Gr. 3 basketball 2:45-4:15; PAC Meeting 6:30; Grade 4 Basketball 4:00; Have a Heart Day
• Friday, February 13 - Design/Assessment Day (no school for students)

Upcoming Dates and Events:

• Monday, February 16 - Family Day - schools closed
• Tuesday, February 17 - Lunar New Year; Gr. 5 Basketball practice at 7:45 and game vs Douglas Park 3:00
• Wednesday, February 18 - Gr. 3 Basketball 2:45-4:15; Club Wednesday Session #3
• Thursday, February 19 - Grade 4 Basketball 4:00; Cutoff for PAC Berry orders
• Friday, February 20 - Earthquake Drill 10:00; Gr. 5 Basketball practice at 7:45; Shortreed Lunar New Year Lion Dance
• Monday-Friday, February 23-27 - Diversity and Respect Week in Langley Schools
• Monday, February 23 - Gr. 5 Basketball vs Nicomekl (home game) 3:00
• Tuesday, February 24 - Gr. 5 Basketball practice 7:45-8:45; PAC Berry orders delivered
• Wednesday, February 25 - Club Wednesday Session #4; Pink Shirt Day; Gr. 5 Basketball at Uplands Elementary 3:00
• Thursday, February 26 - Grade 4 Basketball 4:00
• Friday, February 27 - Gr. 5 Basketball practice 7:45-8:45; School Assembly 1:30
• Monday, March 2 - Gr. 5 Basketball at James Hill 3:00; Start of Term 2 SIC
• Wednesday, March 4 - Early Dismissal at 12:33 for SIC
• Thursday, March 5 - SIC Day (students only attend their SIC if they have one booked); Gr. 4 Basketball 4:00
• Friday, March 6 - Grade 3 Basketball 2:45-4:15; PAC Movie Night
• Monday, March 9 - Grade 5 Basketball playday 3:00-6:00 at ACSS
• Wednesday, March 11 - PAC Treat Day (Cobs Bread)
• Thursday, March 12 - last day of SIC
• Friday, March 13 - last day before Spring Break

You can see our digital calendar here. We encourage you to add our school calendar to your phone/device by clicking here. 

Information and Reminders:

• Our Shortreed Breakfast Program runs each school day from 8:20-8:35. This is free for any students registered, and they must come each day they are in school. To register, click here. 
• We know that illnesses occur and absences can happen. If your child is going to be absent, arriving late, away or leaving early due to an appointment, please notify the school of your child’s absence by doing either of the following:
  • E-mail SCEAttendance@sd35.bc.ca or call 604-856-4167 and follow the prompts for the attendance line, and leave a message with information including:
    • Student First Name and Last Name
    • Grade
    • Division
    • Length of Absence
    • Reason (illness, late, appointment, vacation)

  • Please be aware that if your child is often late, they will miss significant lessons, as much of the literacy and math instruction takes place at the beginning of the day. If your child is ill (flu-like symptoms), please keep them home until they are no longer contagious and can participate in regular school activities. Homework will be provided upon request. Please avoid long absences due to holidays, as this can seriously jeopardize your child’s academic achievement. Homework may not be provided as assignments based on lessons your child missed, as it can be more confusing than helpful. If you will be away for an extended period, please notify the school, as this may impact enrollment. 

  • We STRIVE for FIVE absences or less at Shortreed. We know that children will get sick, but it's important to minimize absences.

• There is no parking or pickup/drop-offs in our school parking lot. Please park along 28th Ave or 273rd Street. The Catholic Church allows us to park there for pickup and drop-off. Do not block the driveways of any residences. 

PAC News

The February PAC Meeting is on Thursday at 6:30 in the library. Agenda is here.

Spring Hot Lunch Orders are now live on 

Please join us for our next PAC Movie Night on Friday, March 6! More details to come...

Have any questions? Email us at shortreedpac@gmail.com. 

Join our Shortreed PAC Facebook Group too!

Community Events

To read about some fantastic family opportunities across Langley, check out the Community Bulletin Board.

Happy New Year from your Community School Coordinator

This year, we continue to have more programs and resources coming your way. We’re always looking for feedback regarding community schools. Please fill out the survey link to help us grow.

Upcoming Program

Valentine’s Paint Night – All Ages

Wed, Feb 11

6:30-8pm

ACSS

$20/person
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1981381715047?aff=oddtdtcreator

https://www.aldergroveminorbaseball.com/

FamilySmart presents two “InTheKnow” events this February, and we’d love to see you!  All our events are free, and parents/caregivers can register for the date that works best using the link below:

https://familysmart.ca/online-events/

Parenting ADHD Children: A Neuro-Affirming Approach

Join FamilySmart and Mary Klovance live online for an evening to learn neurodiversity-affirming communication strategies to reduce power struggles and strengthen connection. Build a deeper understanding of how the ADHD brain works and learn about the strengths and challenges of ADHD. 

Wednesday, February 18, 6:30 pm

A Conversation About Eating Disorders:

Learn about disordered eating, what to be aware of, the importance of connections, and strategies that help support recovery. Join a therapist and educator, a young person and parents with lived experience. 

Thursday, February 19, 6:30 pm

Thursday, February 26, 6:30 pm

Mental Health and Preparing for the Transition to Post-Secondary:

Discover ways we can prepare our youth for school and support their mental health and independence while they are there. 

Tuesday, February 24, 6:30 pm

MediaSmarts has launched a new, free, self-guided workshop to help families develop healthier technology and screen-time habits. Building Better Tech Habits provides practical, research-informed strategies for managing family screen use and addressing common digital challenges at all ages. The workshop can be accessed 24/7 via the link here and completed any time, making it easy to fit into busy schedules.

Healthy Minds BC has provided preventive and early intervention tools and resources to support the mental health of neurodiverse students. Parent Resources can be found here. 

Aldergrove Family Resources