Celebrating Journeys to Success: SD72 Hosts 2025 VISTA Conference

On October 3 and 4, the Campbell River Board of Education proudly welcomed trustees from across Vancouver Island to the annual Vancouver Island School Trustees’ Association (VISTA) conference, held at Robron Centre. Built around the theme Journeys to Success, the two-day event highlighted some of the many inspiring programs, people, and partnerships that make SD72 a vibrant learning community.

The conference opened Friday afternoon with a welcome to the territory from Will Henderson of the Wei Wai Kum First Nation. As a Kwak’kwa’ka’wakw carver and cultural knowledge keeper, Will’s presence set a meaningful tone for the gathering. His deep ties to the Liǧʷiɫdax̌ʷ people and commitment to cultural preservation through carving, storytelling, and ceremony were a powerful reminder of the importance of Indigenous voices in education.

Superintendent Geoff Manning followed with opening remarks, and District Principal of Alternative Education Rachel Nelson provided trustees with an overview of the alternate programs offered at Robron Centre, highlighting the district’s commitment to inclusive and flexible learning pathways.

Friday’s keynote sessions featured two outstanding educators:

• Natalie Raedwulf Pogue, a learning support teacher at Carihi Secondary, spoke on cultivating inclusive pathways through anti-ableism and disability justice.
• Stephen Joyce, from Timberline Secondary, shared how outdoor education connects students with nature, builds resilience, and opens new doors for learning.

Both Natalie and Stephen were recognized in 2024 with regional certificates of achievement from the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence – awards that honour their dedication to student success and innovation in education.

Following dinner on Friday evening, attendees participated in a panel on how schools can better serve diverse or Indigenous learners moderated by SD72’s new Director of Indigenous Education, Anne Tenning. Panelists included Trustee Jan Gladish of the Heiltsuk First Nation, Chief Chris Roberts of the Wei Wai Kum Nation, and Yakawidi Shawn Decaire of the We Wai Kai Nation. Each shared stories of their personal journeys and reflected on how education and community connections shape opportunities for students.

Saturday’s sessions included branch activities led by newly elected VISTA Chair and SD72 Board Chair Kat Eddy, a presentation on board evaluation and governance from Gordon Li of the BC School Trustees Association, and discussions on motions for the upcoming BCSTA annual general meeting. Trustees explored topics important to Island communities, including ferry transportation and regional collaboration.

The Campbell River Board of Education extends its gratitude to all presenters, panelists, and attendees for making this year’s VISTA conference a meaningful and inspiring event.