{"id":16625,"date":"2026-05-01T04:42:37","date_gmt":"2026-05-01T04:42:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/secondary.sd42.ca\/thss\/?p=16625"},"modified":"2026-05-01T04:42:37","modified_gmt":"2026-05-01T04:42:37","slug":"may-newsletter-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/secondary.sd42.ca\/thss\/may-newsletter-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"May Newsletter (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Principal\u2019s Message<\/b><\/h2>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Good Things Happen Here.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.<\/span><\/p>\n

Warm regards,<\/span><\/p>\n

Darren Rowell<\/span>
\n<\/span>Principal, Thomas Haney Secondary<\/span><\/p>\n

________<\/p>\n

April Highlights<\/b><\/b><\/h2>\n

A<\/span>pril was another outstanding month at Thomas Haney, filled with creativity, innovation, and powerful demonstrations of student learning across a wide range of experiences.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"\ud83c\udf3a Hawaii Field Study \u2013 Big Island Adventure<\/b><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\ud83d\ude8c Connections 11 \u2013 Victoria Trip<\/strong>
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.<\/p>\n

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\u2019s military and coastal history.<\/p>\n

The trip also featured a Connections original, an \u201cAmazing Race\u201d-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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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\u2696\ufe0f Law 12 \u2013 Real-World Learning at Surrey Pre-Trial Centre<\/b><\/p>\n

Mr. Litt\u2019s 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\u2019 understanding of real-world systems and careers.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udfa4 Grade 10 Career Fair at THSS<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2014our students showed up prepared, thoughtful, and ready to engage.<\/p>\n

What stood out most wasn\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\ud83c\udfa4 Albion Elementary Public Speaking<\/b><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udea7\ud83d\udd27 Skills Canada Showcase \u2013 Tradex Field Trip<\/strong> \ud83d\udd27\ud83d\udea7<\/p>\n

50 of our students headed to the Skills Canada BC Provincial Showcase at the Tradex in Abbotsford<\/span><\/span>\u2014and what a day it was! From \ud83d\udd29 metalwork and \ud83e\udeb5 woodworking to \ud83c\udf73 culinary arts and \ud83e\uddc1 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.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n

\ud83d\udd0d Grade 8 Inquiry Showcase<\/strong><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\u26bd Senior Girls Soccer<\/b><\/p>\n

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!<\/span><\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udcf8 Legends Academy \u2013 Lights, Camera, Confidence<\/b><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

\ud83c\udfbb M\u00e9tis Kitchen Party Workshop<\/b><\/p>\n

Students participated in a vibrant M\u00e9tis Kitchen Party-style workshop featuring live fiddle music, dance, storytelling, and cultural learning. This engaging experience connected students to M\u00e9tis history, traditions, and community in an authentic and memorable way.
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Student Opportunities & School Culture<\/b><\/h2>\n

\ud83e\udd41 Drumline Clinic \u2013 Try Something New<\/b><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

\ud83c\udf74 Black Youth Club \u2013 Cooking & Community<\/b><\/p>\n

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\u2014learning, sharing, and building community through food.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"\ud83c\udfad Sightlines Theatre \u2013 The Little Mermaid<\/em><\/strong>
Our talented Sightlines Theatre students are excited to present The Little Mermaid<\/em>! 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.<\/p>\n

Let Ariel transport you to \u201cA Whole New World,\u201d where \u201cUnder the Sea\u201d characters Flotsam and Jetsam carry out their mistress\u2019s bidding. Watch as Sebastian works to save his charge by convincing Prince Eric to \u201cKiss the Girl\u201d and fall in love. Don\u2019t be a \u201cPoor Unfortunate Soul\u201d and miss your chance to experience this magical performance\u2014get your ticket soon so you\u2019re \u201cOne Step Closer\u201d to an unforgettable evening!<\/p>\n

Show Dates:<\/strong><\/p>\n