Principal’s Message
As we move into May, there is a real sense of momentum across our school. This is a time of year where the work students have been doing all year begins to come together, projects are nearing completion, learning is becoming more refined, and students are starting to see the results of their effort and growth.
One of the most important opportunities this past month was our Student-Led Conferences. These conversations are a key part of our learning model, providing families with a chance to hear directly from teachers about student progress, strengths, and next steps. They also provided an opportunity for us to gather feedback from families; insight that continues to shape and strengthen our self-directed learning model.
As we look ahead to September 2026, there will be some changes to our administrative team. Ms. Kania will be moving to Maple Ridge Secondary as Vice Principal after six outstanding years at THSS. Her leadership, care for students, and commitment to our school community have made a lasting impact, and she will be greatly missed. We are excited to welcome Ms. Rowe, currently Vice Principal at Harry Hooge Elementary, who will be joining THSS in September.
I will also be transitioning to Samuel Robertson Technical Secondary School after four incredible years at Thomas Haney. It has truly been a privilege to be part of this amazing school community. Good things happen here because of our self-directed learning model, our dedicated and passionate staff, our incredible students who contribute so much to our culture, and our families who continue to support and believe in what we do.
While it is not easy to step away from a place that means so much, I know THSS will continue to thrive. Mr. Sharpe, currently Principal at Pitt Meadows Secondary, will be joining the school and will be a great fit for this community.
Good Things Happen Here.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
Warm regards,
Darren Rowell
Principal, Thomas Haney Secondary
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April Highlights
April was another outstanding month at Thomas Haney, filled with creativity, innovation, and powerful demonstrations of student learning across a wide range of experiences.
🌺 Hawaii Field Study – Big Island Adventure
40 THSS students spent five incredible days exploring the Big Island of Hawaii. From walking on lava fields and learning about volcanoes, to visiting coffee plantations, exploring caves, and encountering sea turtles along the beaches, this trip blended adventure, science, and cultural learning into an unforgettable experience.
🚌 Connections 11 – Victoria Trip
Connections students recently took part in their annual three-day learning experience in Victoria, a 20 year tradition in an immersive trip that blends history, culture, ecology, and community connection. Throughout the trip, students explored the Inner Harbour, visited the BC Legislature and met our local MLA Lisa Beare for a special presentation, and engaged with local history through tours and discussions.
A highlight of the experience was time spent with the Stz’uminus First Nation, where students learned about Coast Salish culture, local economic initiatives, and sustainable practices. Students also visited Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, deepening their understanding of Canada’s military and coastal history.
The trip also featured a Connections original, an “Amazing Race”-style challenge, where students worked in teams to explore downtown Victoria and the University of Victoria, combining problem-solving, collaboration, and real-world learning in a fun and dynamic way.
This reimagined experience continues to be a highlight of the Connections program, offering students meaningful opportunities to learn beyond the classroom while building strong connections with peers and the world around them.
⚖️ Law 12 – Real-World Learning at Surrey Pre-Trial Centre
Mr. Litt’s Law 12 students had the opportunity to visit the Surrey Pre-Trial Centre, gaining powerful insight into the justice system. Experiences like this bring classroom learning to life and deepen students’ understanding of real-world systems and careers.
🎤 Grade 10 Career Fair at THSS
Today our library transformed into a hub of real-world learning as students stepped into authentic interview experiences with community professionals. From business leaders to first responders, finance experts to community mentors—our students showed up prepared, thoughtful, and ready to engage.
What stood out most wasn’t just the conversations, it was the confidence, curiosity, and growth happening at every table. Students asked meaningful questions, shared their stories, and gained valuable feedback that will carry forward into future opportunities.
A huge thank you to our incredible community partners for giving their time and insight to support our students. Experiences like this are what make learning real.
🎤 Albion Elementary Public Speaking
Ms. Kania, along with three THSS students, spent the morning at Albion Elementary judging Grade 7 public speaking presentations. A great example of student leadership and connection with our broader school community.
🚧🔧 Skills Canada Showcase – Tradex Field Trip 🔧🚧
50 of our students headed to the Skills Canada BC Provincial Showcase at the Tradex in Abbotsford—and what a day it was! From 🔩 metalwork and 🪵 woodworking to 🍳 culinary arts and 🧁 baking, our students explored hands-on pathways connected to their passions. Watching live competitions and trying out new skills gave them a real glimpse into the world of trades and technology. Most importantly, our students saw how their interests today can turn into meaningful careers tomorrow. At THSS, learning goes beyond the classroom; and experiences like this bring it to life.
🔍 Grade 8 Inquiry Showcase
Our Great Hall was buzzing with curiosity and creativity as Grade 8 students shared their Inquiry projects with our school community. From exploring water pollution in British Columbia and its impact on salmon, to examining how sports influence physical and mental health, students tackled real-world topics with thoughtful research and personal connection. What stood out most was how students brought their learning to life, through visuals, experiments, and digital elements, while confidently sharing their thinking and engaging others in meaningful conversations. A powerful example of student voice, curiosity, and self-directed learning in action.
⚽ Senior Girls Soccer
Our Senior Girls Soccer team wrapped up their regular season with a strong performance against Westview as they prepare for District Playoffs. Best of luck to the team as they head into the postseason!
📸 Legends Academy – Lights, Camera, Confidence
Students had the opportunity to work with professionals from Legends Academy, learning about makeup, hair, and photoshoot preparation. This hands-on experience gave students a behind-the-scenes look at the world of media and styling while building confidence and creativity.
🎻 Métis Kitchen Party Workshop
Students participated in a vibrant Métis Kitchen Party-style workshop featuring live fiddle music, dance, storytelling, and cultural learning. This engaging experience connected students to Métis history, traditions, and community in an authentic and memorable way.
Student Opportunities & School Culture
🥁 Drumline Clinic – Try Something New
Students had the opportunity to explore the energy and rhythm of drumline through a hands-on clinic in the gym. Whether trying it out for the first time or simply observing, it was a great chance to experience something new and creative.
🍴 Black Youth Club – Cooking & Community
The Black Youth Club continues to bring students together through culture and connection. This month, students gathered in the Foods room to make East African sambusas—learning, sharing, and building community through food.
🎭 Sightlines Theatre – The Little Mermaid
Our talented Sightlines Theatre students are excited to present The Little Mermaid! This upcoming production showcases the incredible creativity, dedication, and teamwork of our students both on stage and behind the scenes. From music and choreography to set design and technical production, this show is a true reflection of the vibrant arts culture at THSS.
Let Ariel transport you to “A Whole New World,” where “Under the Sea” characters Flotsam and Jetsam carry out their mistress’s bidding. Watch as Sebastian works to save his charge by convincing Prince Eric to “Kiss the Girl” and fall in love. Don’t be a “Poor Unfortunate Soul” and miss your chance to experience this magical performance—get your ticket soon so you’re “One Step Closer” to an unforgettable evening!
Show Dates:
- May 27 & 30 (Cast Blue)
- June 3 (Cast Blue)
- June 4, 5 & 6 (Cast Purple)
Tickets: Available online at vtix.com
Save the processing fee by purchasing tickets in person at lunch from April 27–30.
For more information: thsssightlinetheatre@gmail.com
Looking Ahead: Key May Events
A we enter the final months of the school year, our focus remains on supporting every student to finish strong. Whether that means completing graduation requirements, refining projects, or continuing to build strong learning habits, this is a time where persistence and connection matter most.
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- Friday, May 1st – Haiku Showdown
- Thursday, May 7th – Movie Night in the Rotunda
- Wednesday, May 13th – Non-Instructional Day (No school for students)
- Thursday, May 14th – District Ab Ed Awards Dinner
- Monday, May 18th – Victoria Day (schools closed)
- Wednesday, May 20th – Grade 7 Day (no school for grade 8s)
- Thursday, May 21st – Grad Breakfast and Rehearsal 7:30am
- Thursday, May 21st – Art Gala 5:00-8:00pm
- May 25th – June 6th THSS Musical Theatre Presents “The Little Mermaid”
- May 29th – Grad Ceremony at Chandos Pattison Auditorium (Pacific Academy – 10238 168 St, Surrey, BC V4N 1Z4)
Key Contacts
The following list of Counsellors and Administrators and their grades are listed below:
- Administration
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- Mr. Rowell (Principal – Grade 12s)
- Ms. Kania (Vice Principal – Gr. 8 & 10s)
- Mr. Kater (Vice Principal – Gr. 9 & 11s)
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- Counsellors
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- Mr. Grill (Counsellor – Gr. 9, 11 & 12s M-Z)
- Ms. McPhedran (Counsellor – Gr. 8, 10 & 12s A-L)
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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