Over the past several years, Port Guichon Elementary School has experienced several leadership transitions. Through it all, the school community has remained resilient, embracing new ideas while staying focused on what matters most: creating a supportive environment where every student can thrive.
During the 2025/26 school year, under the leadership of Principal Maggie Callander, the school renewed its focus on three key goals: connection and community involvement, student engagement, and literacy. Staff and students worked together to bring these priorities to life, resulting in positive changes in the classroom, playground and wider community.
"We started by asking, How can we make this school the best possible environment for students?'" said Anita Grannary, Teacher-Librarian at Port Guichon. "We know there has been a lot of change in recent years, and that may have affected trust within the community. It's important that families know our teachers and support staff genuinely care about every student and are committed to helping them succeed."
For Lauren Hutton, the school's Child and Youth Care Worker, building connection was central to that work. "We want students to feel safe, connected and excited to come to school," Ms. Hutton explained. "We believe it is important to give students voice and choice, so we asked them directly: What do you want to see at Port Guichon?"
"We were overwhelmed by their response," said Ms. Callander. "Students submitted thoughtful proposals, complete with purpose statements, for a range of clubs. We know how important it is for students to meet others who share their interests. When children feel connected and engaged, it can help boost attendance, confidence and, ultimately, their learning success."
The clubs quickly became an important part of school life. The Makers Club and Builders Club met weekly in the library at lunchtime, drawing nearly 80 students, almost half the school's population. The clubs created opportunities for students to connect, collaborate and learn from one another in a safe and welcoming environment. Members of Port Guichon's Choir Club were invited by students at Delta Secondary to join them after school for joint singing sessions. These experiences helped younger students feel more confident about the transition to high school while providing meaningful leadership and volunteer opportunities for secondary students.
"There was a real buzz in the school," said Ms. Callander. "Students loved having opportunities to connect across grade levels. As a result, we saw increased student engagement and a stronger sense of belonging."
With the arrival of new Principal Josh Campbell this September, the school hopes to continue leaning into student voice and choice, by exploring ways to build student engagement, community connection, and school initiatives.
Strengthening connections with families was another key focus throughout the year. The school hosted two Community Breakfasts, welcoming families into the school before classes began. More than 90 families attended each event, filling the gym to enjoy muffins, sandwiches, fruit and yogurt prepared by students in Delta Secondary's Food Program.
"Our goal was to build trust and strengthen partnerships with families," said Ms. Grannary. "We wanted to create an informal space where families could connect with staff outside of a traditional parent-teacher meeting. Parents could see how happy and comfortable their children are at school, and I think many left feeling reassured that Port Guichon is a caring place where their children are known, valued and supported."
At the same time, staff focused on creating learning environments that were accessible and inviting for students.
Hallways, courtyards and shared spaces were decluttered and refreshed. Bulletin boards were updated, windows were brightened, and spaces throughout the school were reorganized to feel more comfortable and student-centred.
"We looked at ways to de-institutionalize the school environment by creating welcoming spaces," said Ms. Hutton. "We added comfortable chairs, cushions, artwork, kitchen tables and curtains, often using items sourced from local thrift stores. We've found that students naturally gravitate toward these spaces, whether they need a place to regulate their emotions, connect with others or engage in learning."
"Since we've made these changes, we're beginning to notice a real shift in how the school feels, and we don't think that's by chance. Physical environments play a huge role in how students learn, feel and behave," said Ms. Callander. "When students feel they belong, they are more likely to want to come to school and, as a result, experience more success in learning."
This article was published in the Delta Optimist. View it here .
