Letter to Families Regarding Safety Procedures in Schools

February 13, 2026

Dear Parents/Guardians/Caregivers,

This has been a particularly challenging and difficult week across our province, our school district, and our school communities. As we continue to process the tragic events that occurred in Tumbler Ridge, it is important to acknowledge both the emotional impact such events can have and to reassure you that students are safe in our schools.

The safety and well-being of students is our highest priority. Our schools have established comprehensive safety procedures and protocols that have been in place for many years, which are followed carefully and consistently. These measures are designed to both prevent and respond effectively to any situation that may arise. Some of the key practices that support student safety include:

• Members of our school teams are trained to respond promptly and effectively to critical incidents.
• Our schools conduct regular emergency drills, including fire drills, lockdowns, and secure-and-hold procedures.
• Students and families can report safety concerns anonymously using the ERASE Report It Tool available on our school websites.
• Our schools work in partnership with Safer Schools Together (SST), an international organization that collaborates with the Ministry of Education and Child Care and school districts across British Columbia. SST provides expertise in threat assessment, worrisome online behaviour reporting, and consultation services to support school safety.
• Each year, families receive a Fair Notice Letter outlining the procedures followed when threats are made.
• All visitors are required to report to the main office to sign in, ensuring that staff are aware of who is in their building and what the purpose of their visit is.
• All volunteers in our schools are required to complete a Criminal Record Check.
• Our administrative teams works closely with school-based and district counsellors to support students who may be experiencing mental health challenges.
• Our schools have access to a District Vice-Principal of Wellness who assists with responding to and supporting worrisome behaviours.

In addition, the following safety measures have been reinforced since the events in Tumbler Ridge:

• All exterior doors remain locked during the school day, with a single point of entry limited to the main entrance.
• Increased visibility of the RCMP in the vicinity of our schools, at the request of the District.

The District will be working alongside the RCMP to provide principals and vice-principals with additional situational learning related to threatening situations. This collaborative learning will further strengthen our collective ability to respond effectively and keep students and staff safe.

We recognize that events such as these can raise understandable concerns and emotions. Please know that we are committed to maintaining a safe, caring, and supportive learning environment where every child can feel secure and valued. We encourage families to speak with their children, to reach out to your school if support is needed, and to connect with your school whenever questions arise. You may refer to the Letter to Families dated February 11, 2026, for strategies and resources to help guide your conversations.

Thank you for your continued partnership with the District and your school community. Your trust, communication, and support are deeply appreciated. Together, we will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of every student. While this has been a difficult time, we remain hopeful and confident in the strength of our community. By working together with care, vigilance, and compassion, we will move forward — and better days are ahead.

Sincerely,

Donna Kriger
Superintendent of Schools

 To download a copy of this letter, click HERE