As the new school year is about to get underway, Suzanne Hoffman, superintendent of schools at the Vancouver School District continues her weekly video updates. 

Hoffman is thankful for the perspectives, thoughts and ideas shared by many in the District’s school community as plans for the 2020-2021 school year were developed. She expresses appreciation for the patience and feedback about plans for this September shared by students, their families and staff. She also acknowledges the hard work and dedication of staff to develop those plans, reflecting that feedback.  

In this latest video message, Hoffman outlines what next week will look like. Staff will return to schools September 8 and 9 for health and safety orientations and to finalize details of student timetables and class organization. Students are set to be back for health and safety orientation sessions on September 10 and 11. The first day of kindergarten gradual entry and of in-class learning for all students attending is September 14. Elementary students whose families selected the Learn from Home Transition option will begin to receive learn from home support the week of September 21. 

“I am optimistic that the year will unfold, that children will learn and that things will work out for families as we planned or intend them to,” she says.

She is also confident that all students will continue to receive the support they need from their schools - including those with diverse learning needs, those who access Indigenous education supports, newcomers to Canada, and English language learners. Everyone in Vancouver schools remains dedicated to students’ learning journeys.  

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