Environmental Expo Brings Community, Music, and Learning Together
The Environmental Advisory Working Group hosted the second annual Environmental Expo at Salmon Arm Secondary School (SAS) on April 30, 2026. The expo brought together students, educators, community organizations, and local musicians for a day of learning focused on watersheds, climate responsibility, and environmental stewardship.
SAS leadership students played a key role in setting up tables and acting as ambassadors throughout the event, helping orient younger students and community members. Despite disruptions to regular routines, staff and students adapted smoothly to accommodate the large gathering. Vice‑Principal Kris Hryniw was instrumental in coordinating the event within the school.
A highlight of the day was a visit from Luke Wallace, a world‑recognized environmental singer‑songwriter, who entertained students through music at local elementary schools and led songwriting workshops with English classes at both JL Jackson Elementary and SAS. More than 350 attendees were also provided with nutritious snacks supplied by the Shuswap Food Action Society, coordinated by Melanie Bennett. The atmosphere in the atrium was further energized by live performances from local musicians Joan Southworth, Juanita Austin, Jim McConnell, and Norm Sargent, who shared environmentally themed music that engaged audiences of all ages. During the lunch hour, SAS band teacher Brook Roberts led several student ensembles that drew large and enthusiastic crowds.
Educational highlights included interactive learning stations focused on Canada’s watersheds and the role of salmon in local ecosystems. Brenda Melnychuk, working with the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and the Adams River Salmon Society, guided students through these concepts using a six‑by‑eight‑metre walkable map of Canada provided by Canadian Geographic, with special attention given to the Shuswap watershed.
District staff, Directors of Instruction Reid Findlay and Jennifer Findlay, and Education Administrative Assistant Kyla Sherman, supported the event behind the scenes, assisting with logistics, budgeting, and programming. A mock trial organized by students from Danny Hughes’ Law 11 class explored climate accountability, engaging students in real‑world civic issues. Community mentors also contributed their expertise, including Secwepemc Elder Louis Thomas, who shared Indigenous perspectives on land and water stewardship.
SD83 teachers supported students through inquiry‑based learning projects aligned with provincial curriculum goals. Students presented a wide range of environmental topics through colourful and informative displays, demonstrating strong depth of understanding and enthusiasm as they shared their learning with peers and adults.
The event was made possible through financial support from community sponsors, including the Shuswap Community Foundation, Rotary, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and the North Okanagan Teachers’ Association. A special thank you to Wayne Spencer and Kim Fulton for organizing the Environmental Expo.
Organizers say lessons learned from this year’s event will help inform planning for the third annual Environmental Expo. With strong student engagement and broad community support, they believe environmental stewardship is becoming firmly rooted across the Shuswap.
