Spotlight64 | Salt Spring Elementary: Grounded in Belonging and Purpose

This month, the Board of Education visited Salt Spring Elementary (SSE), the largest elementary school in Gulf Islands School District and a vibrant hub of learning in the heart of Salt Spring Island. With approximately 230 students and shared leadership from Principal Amy Dearden and Vice-Principal Katharine Byers, SSE has built a cohesive, joyful, and deeply intentional school culture.

What makes SSE special is a clear, school-wide commitment to both literacy and well-being. Staff are strengthening social-emotional learning for all students while implementing evidence-based literacy instruction to ensure every child becomes a proficient reader. Their work is guided by the “Eight Magic Keys” — concrete, consistency, repetition, routine, simplicity, supervision, structure, and specific approaches that create predictable and supportive classrooms where students can thrive.

The visit began in a good way with students sharing their own land acknowledgement, setting a tone of respect and reflection. Student voice is nurtured through leadership opportunities, buddy classes – there’s even a suggestion box that recently inspired a spirited wild and wacky Hair Day. Morning announcements are student-led, featuring Hul’q’umi’num language and daily reflections.

SSE SSE Grade 7 Leadershipbelieves that '"space is the third teacher.” Former storage rooms have been transformed into purposeful breakout areas, the gym stage has been restored for performances, and dynamic learning spaces have been introduced — including soon-to-arrive desk exercise bikes that will support focus and regulation. Hallways celebrate identity and inclusion through Pride displays, Black History Month learning, and Indigenous language boards.

A free morning snack program made possible through an Adopt a School grant has strengthened both well-being and on-time attendance, reinforcing the school’s strong culture of care.

Salt Spring Elementary is a school where learning is intentional, relationships are central, and students are encouraged to know themselves, use their voices, and grow together. The Board extends its sincere thanks to the students, staff, and leadership team for the warm welcome and meaningful work happening each day at SSE.