Introducing a New Non-Instructional Day Focused on Indigenous Learning

Comox Valley Schools is amending the district calendar to include a new annual non-instructional day focused on Indigenous learning. This day will be dedicated to deepening understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, and ways of knowing.

The Province of British Columbia amended the School Calendar Regulation in July 2025, requiring all boards of education to schedule at least one non-instructional day each year focused on enhancing Indigenous student achievement and integrating Indigenous worldviews and perspectives into learning environments.

In response to this provincial direction, the District Calendar Committee has recommended Friday, May 15, 2026, as the Indigenous Learning Non-Instructional Day. On this day, all staff will take part in professional learning opportunities while students will remain at home.

The Calendar Committee includes representatives from Senior Leadership, the Comox Valley Principals and Vice-Principals Association (CVPVPA), the Comox District Teachers’ Association (CDTA), CUPE, the District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC), and a Trustee representative. With minor adjustments to school daily schedules and a Letter of Agreement from the CDTA, this amendment will have minimal impact on instructional time or overall school operations.

This initiative reflects the district’s Truth and Reconciliation Commitment and aligns with Design Principles in our Strategic Plan. These principles strengthen our collective responsibility to ensure Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing are meaningfully reflected throughout our schools.

The proposed amendment will be posted for public feedback and presented to the Board of Education for approval at its November 25, 2025 meeting. Once finalized, updated calendars will be shared with staff and families.

Please send all feedback to  communiations@sd71.bc.ca

You can see the updated proposed calendar here: Comox Valley School District ~ School Calendar 2025 – 2026

Thank you,

Craig Sorochan

Manager of Communications

Comox Valley Schools

250-334-5500