Burnaby schools launch a year of student welcomes and connection-building

The opening weeks of the 2026–27 school year in Burnaby have included more than schedules and classroom routines. Schools are using student-led welcomes, international student orientations, community-building events, athletic tryouts and school-spirit activities to support a strong start and a sense of belonging.

In the final days of summer break, student leaders from schools including Burnaby North and Alpha Secondary gathered to help peers get settled, call incoming Grade 8 students and plan events. Students in the International Education program received welcomes and support at special orientations across the district.

The Class of 2039, beginning kindergarten this month, was welcomed at schools including Lakeview Elementary. At the other end of their public-school experience, many students in this year’s graduating class are marking moments from their final year, including a “last first day” for Grade 12 students at Burnaby North. Schools including Kitchener and Brentwood Park Elementary also began the year with gatherings and welcomes.

At Confederation Park Elementary, children played during an afternoon of community-building supported by the City of Burnaby’s Parks and Recreation department. Students at Moscrop and Burnaby South Secondary moved quickly into fall sports, with many high-school team tryouts beginning in the first week; several teams are already competing.

At Cariboo Hill and Alpha Secondary, student leaders organized games and activities for Grade 8 students to build connections and meet peers. Byrne Creek Community School’s Student Government held a Spirit Week featuring Jersey and Twin Days to set the tone for the year ahead.