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Thomas Haney Secondary School

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You are here: Home / Announcements / April Newsletter (2026)

April 2, 2026

April Newsletter (2026)

Principal’s Message – Student-Led Conferences (April 23rd)

Dear THSS Families,

As we move into the final stretch of the school year, I would like to invite all families to attend our Student-Led Conferences on April 23rd.

These conferences are an important opportunity to connect, reflect, and plan for success. They provide valuable time for parents and caregivers to hear directly from teachers about your child’s progress; celebrating their strengths, identifying areas for growth, and discussing next steps as we work toward a strong finish to the year. In our self-directed learning model, these conversations are especially meaningful, as they help ensure students are using their time effectively, staying on track, and continuing to build the skills of independence, responsibility, and self-management.

Equally important, these conferences are an opportunity for us to hear from you. We will be inviting parents to share feedback on your experience with our self-directed learning model at Thomas Haney. Your perspective is incredibly valuable as we continue to reflect, refine, and strengthen the supports we provide for our students.

We strongly encourage all families to take part in this important evening. These conversations make a difference, and your involvement plays a key role in your child’s success.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Together, we really do make good things happen here every day.

Warm regards,

Darren Rowell
Principal, Thomas Haney Secondary

________

March Highlights

March was another outstanding month at Thomas Haney, filled with creativity, innovation, and powerful demonstrations of student learning across a wide range of experiences.

Pi Day Carnival (Math Department)
One of the highlights of the month was our Pi Day Carnival, where the Math Great Hall was transformed into a lively, horror-themed celebration of numeracy. With 13 interactive stations, student-led games, and contests ranging from Pi memorization to hula hoop challenges, the event brought energy, laughter, and meaningful math engagement to life. A huge thank you to Ms. Sarai and the many student volunteers who created such a memorable Math & Numeracy learning experience.

Connections 11 – Forensics Reveal
March also featured one of our most anticipated traditions—the annual Connections 11 Forensics Investigation reveal. For the past month, students collaboratively worked through an incredibly detailed fictitious murder case designed by Mr. Biggar and Mr. Goodman. With seven staff suspects, over 100 files, tens of thousands of words of evidence, and a range of forensic tools including DNA analysis, chemical testing, fingerprinting, and lock-breaking, students took on the role of investigators. After weeks of collaboration, analysis, and debate, the case was solved…and the guilty staff member was Chef Smith was charged. The final presentations were a highlight, with students showcasing their findings through creative formats such as reenactments and true-crime style podcasts. Beyond the excitement of the reveal, this project exemplifies the depth of learning at THSS which is real-life, hands-on, collaborative, and deeply engaging.

Grade 8 Inquiry Showcase
The Grade 8 Inquiry Showcase was an awesome celebration of curiosity and critical thinking with the rotunda transformed into a dynamic learning space filled with engaging, student-created projects that both staff and students toured and heard engaging student presentations..

Students explored a wide range of meaningful topics driven by their own questions and interests. From examining water pollution in British Columbia and its impact on local ecosystems like salmon, to investigating how sports influence physical and mental health, each project reflected thoughtful research, real-world connections, and a commitment to understanding complex issues.

What stood out most was the variety of ways students shared their learning. Displays combined scientific analysis, written explanations, visuals, and interactive elements; ranging from data and environmental impacts to experiments, models, and even digital presentations. Students confidently communicated their findings, answered questions, and engaged peers and staff in rich conversations about their topics.

Beyond the content itself, the showcase highlighted the core of our learning model: students taking ownership of their learning, pursuing topics with purpose, and developing the skills to think critically, collaborate, and communicate effectively.

It was an impressive demonstration of what happens when students are given the time, support, and flexibility to dive deeply into their learning; it was a truly inspiring reminder that great things happen when curiosity leads the way.

Sightlines Theatre – The Play That Goes Wrong
Our theatre program took center stage with an outstanding run of The Play That Goes Wrong. After two weeks of matinee and evening performances, students wrapped up their final show with energy, precision, and plenty of laughter. A special shout-out to Mrs. Brema for her continued leadership and dedication in supporting another exceptional student production. The performances were filled with standout moments, as students brought humour and excitement to the stage in truly memorable ways.

The final evening also included a meaningful and emotional recognition of our senior performers, a moment that resonated deeply with students, families, and friends in attendance. With over 40 students involved both on stage and behind the scenes, this production once again highlighted the power of mentorship and the professionalism of our theatre program. We are already looking forward to what’s next—The Little Mermaid!

ThunderTech Robotics
Our ThunderTech Robotics team delivered an outstanding performance at the FIRST Robotics Pacific Regional Championships, competing against teams from across Canada, the United States, South America, and Asia. The event is an intense and demanding experience, with students putting in 12+ hour days from Thursday through Saturday. Our students rose to the challenge in every way; demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and innovation throughout the competition.

We are incredibly proud to share that our team finished in the Top 10 out of 44 teams and advanced to the Final Rounds, competing for a spot at the World Championships in Houston. It was an incredible achievement and a powerful learning experience that reflects the dedication and passion of our students and mentors.

Senior Road Trip to Banff and Revelstoke
Our Grade 12 students recently returned from an unforgettable Senior Road Trip to Banff and Revelstoke, making the most of winter before spring break. Fifty-two THSS seniors hit the road with energy and enthusiasm, embracing opportunities to ski, snowboard, and even try new experiences like playing hockey on a frozen lake; many for the very first time. The trip was filled with laughter, challenge, and connection. With memories carved into both the mountains and their experiences together, it was a road trip that will not soon be forgotten.

Teaching Kitchen and Salt + Sear Catering
In our Culinary program, students experienced a powerful example of real-world learning through a collaboration with our Teaching Kitchen and Salt + Sear Catering. Together, they prepared and served over 700 complimentary fried chicken sliders for students and staff. This partnership provided an authentic, hands-on learning opportunity, allowing students to work alongside professionals while contributing to our school community. It was a delicious day at THSS!!

Vancouver Food Tour
Experiential learning continued off campus as 40 students explored Vancouver with Mr. Williams and Ms. Preddy on a food tour. Beginning with bao buns and steamed buns, students engaged in cultural exploration through food, deepening their understanding of global cuisine while building community together.

Foods 9 Design Challenge
Our Food Studies 9 students wrapped up their design challenge with an impressive display of creativity and skill. Students prepared a wide range of dishes including tiramisu, tempura, Romanian varza, perogies, and more; demonstrating both technical growth and a willingness to take risks in their learning.

ICBC New Driver Presentation
Finally, students in Grades 10–12 had the opportunity to hear from ICBC through a well-attended presentation on new driver safety, providing important real-world learning connected to student life beyond school.

Across all of these experiences, March reflected what makes THSS unique—students learning by doing, exploring their passions, collaborating with others, and taking ownership of their learning. As always, good things are happening here.

Trades, Post-Secondary Paretnership Programs & Volunteering: 

SD42 Trade Programs Applications – Attention Grade 11 students:
SD 42 Trades’ applications are still open. If you are interested in applying for any of the trades or need some information, you can come to the career centre or send a TEAMS’ message to Mrs. Sekhon. 

Field trip Opportunity – Skills Canada at TradeX in Abbotsford
Interested in trades, technology, or creative skills? Join the field trip to the Skills Canada BC Provincial Skills Competition at the TradeX on April 15h and watch some of the top high school competitors from across the province. Events include areas like welding and carpentry, baking, 3D animation, robotics, video production, hairstyling, graphic design, and more. Theres something for everyone! If you are interested in attending, please sign up with Mr. MacAulay as soon as possible. Spots are limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. Sign up and forms need to be submitted by April 10th .

SD42 Partnership Program Opportunity – Nursing OR CADD – Attentions Grade 11 Students:
Dual Credit applications for the 2026/27 school year are now available! Start your post-secondary career while you are still in high school TUTITION FREE. SD 42 has a formed a partnership with KPU for five first year Nursing courses OR five first year CADD courses. All courses are transferrable to all post-secondary institutions throughout the province. Also available is the Emergency Medical Responders Certificate program through Columbia Medical Training. More information about all the Dual Credit opportunities is available in the Career Centre, as well as applications. Applications are due Tuesday, April 7th.

Volunteer Opportunity – Eco-Action News!
Looking to get outside and get volunteer hours? Come check out our upcoming Eco Action/Orchard Club community clean ups, streamside clean ups and playing in the orchard!! Club meetings will begin April 13 th Mondays at lunch in 2140. Everyone is welcome!
Save these dates! 

  • Community clean up dates: Monday March 30, April 13, April 20 during Y block
  • Streamside clean up dates: Wednesday April 29 & Wednesday May 6 in 4 th and 5 th block at Maple Ridge Park
  • Fresh Air Fridays!
    • Every Friday in April, May and June – 2 nd and 3 rd block in the orchard!
  • If interested message Mrs. Van der Pauw or Brady G on TEAMS 

Volunteer Opportunity – Volunteen Info – Attention grade 10 – 12 students:
VolunTEEN information is available in the career centre posted on the kiosk counter. You can connect with Mrs. Sekhon through TEAMS in case you have any questions regarding the application process.

Looking Ahead: Key April Events

  • Friday, April 3 – Good Friday – Schools Closed
  • Monday, April 6 – Easter Monday – Schools Closed
  • Thursday, April 9 – Immunization Q&A with Public Health Nurse (students) – 9:00–11:00 AM
  • Monday, April 13 – Grade 9 Immunizations
  • Monday, April 13 – Grade 10 Career Fair (All morning in the Library)
  • Wednesday, April 15 – Skills Canada Field Trip to TradeX(MacAulay)
  • Wednesday, April 15 – Hawaii Trip Departures – April 15–19 
  • Wednesday, April 22 – PAC Meeting – 7:00 PM (Library)
  • Thursday, April 23 – Student-Led Conferences – No Classes
  • Monday, April 20 – Immunizations for Eligible Students (All Grades)
  • Monday, April 27 – Collaboration Block – 8:30–9:30 AM
  • Tuesday, April 28 – Field Trip – Surrey Pretrial Centre (Connolly & Litt)

Key Contacts

The following list of Counsellors and Administrators and their grades are listed below:

  • Administration
      • Mr. Rowell (Principal – Grade 12s) 
        • Darren_Rowell@sd42.ca
      • Ms. Kania  (Vice Principal – Gr. 8 & 10s)
        • Lisa_Kania@sd42.ca
      • Mr. Kater (Vice Principal – Gr. 9 & 11s) 
        • Steve_Kater@sd42.ca
  • Counsellors
      • Mr. Grill (Counsellor – Gr. 9, 11 & 12s M-Z) 
        • Daniel_Grill@sd42.ca
      • Ms. McPhedran (Counsellor – Gr. 8, 10 & 12s A-L) 
        • Kaley_McPhedran@sd42.ca

Please do not hesitate to email Darren_Rowell@sd42.ca if you need further information or have any questions. 

Thank you for being part of the Thomas Haney community!

Sincerely,
Darren Rowell
Principal, Thomas Haney Secondary School 

Article by Darren Rowell / Announcements, Newsletter

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