SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 83 (NORTH OKANAGAN-SHUSWAP)
Water Safety Program Presented to Students

This past spring, the RCMSAR returned to SD83 schools with a Water Safety Program for Grade 2 and 3 students.

Bruce Weiker, the RCMSAR water safety program coordinator, collaborated with the Early Years and Elementary Director of Instruction Jennifer Findlay, who surveyed schools and teachers for their interest. Some teachers opted for the video link and resources, while others signed up for the face-to-face presentation. A guide was developed and shared for in-class presentations.

Over the spring:

• 13 schools were visited
• 26 classes received the presentation
• 6 classes chose to do the presentation themselves
• 546 students participated in the face-to-face presentations
• 126 students viewed the on-line presentation
• 676 students in total received the water safety program

Each student, both in-class and online, received a ruler, a pencil, and an activity booklet. Each teacher received a package including a pen, pamphlet, and squeegee.

Thank you to the core presenters involved - Dana Nicholas, Linda Byrnell, Marie Gray and Bruce Weicker - as well as those who stepped in when needed, including Scott Gray, Rob Waldie, and Astri Langford.

Weiker added that the team thoroughly enjoyed doing the presentations and is looking forward to next year. They received positive feedback from teachers who had the RCMSAR present in person.