The Belmont Bulletin

Upcoming Important Dates to remember:

• Oct 1 – Meet the Belmont Music Department – BMD Parent Meeting
• Oct 5- World Teacher Day
• Oct 7- UVIC Humanities and Arts Fair – 9:00-noon in LC
• Oct 7- Leadership Parent Meeting
• Oct 8 – UVIC Presentations LLC 9:30-10:15 in LC
• Oct 9 – Leadership Retreat
• Oct 12 – Thanksgiving – No School in Session
• Oct 13 – PAC Meeting – revised time 5:30 pm
• Oct 15 – Great BC Shakeout

---

Halloween can be a fun and exciting time for many of our students. To ensure that celebrations at school are safe and enjoyable for everyone, we kindly ask for your support in helping children follow the District’s guidelines for costumes.

While the District does not have an official Halloween policy, we ask all families to follow these guidelines to create a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment:

• Students must be identifiable and visible at all times.
• Masks are not permitted. Face makeup is allowed as long as the student remains easily recognizable.
• Scary clown costumes are not permitted.
• Costumes that depict violence, alcohol, or drugs are not appropriate.
• Fake weapons of any kind are not allowed.
• Costumes should be appropriate for the school environment and must not include provocative elements or questionable props.
• Costumes must allow students to move safely through the school and outdoor spaces.

Please keep in mind that even well-intended costumes can sometimes cause others to feel scared, upset, or excluded. Two guiding questions may help when choosing a costume:

• Does the costume depict or perpetuate a stereotype or stigma associated with a particular race, culture, religion, or gender?
• Could the costume be considered offensive to a particular race, ethnicity, religion, or gender?

We encourage students to choose costumes that are creative, fun, and celebrate imagination while ensuring that everyone feels safe and respected. Thank you for helping us make this Halloween a positive and inclusive experience for all students.

---

From the Bulldog Athletics

---

Out in the Community

---

---

---

Scholarships

---

---

---

---

Join us at Spring Break

Important Upcoming dates to remember:

• Sept 16 – Grade 12 Assembly – Bl. B. – Theatre
• Sept 17 – School Photo Day
• Sept 18 – Grade 12 Assembly – Bl. B. Theatre
• Sept 21 – Pro D Day – District Wide School Planning – (no students in session)
• Sept 22-25 – Musical Theatre Auditions
• Sept 22-23 – Grade 10 Assembly – Bl. B Theatre
• Sept 24-25 Grade 11 Assembly – Bl. B Theatre
• Sept 28 – Canadian University Event 1-3pm in LC
• Sept 29 – BMD Truth and Reconciliation Day
• Sept 30 – National Day of Truth and Reconciliation ( no school in session)

---

Welcome belmont families to the 2026-2027 school year

The start of the school year always brings a wonderful sense of energy and excitement to our building. A special thank you to our leadership students for helping to welcome everyone back with such enthusiasm! We have enjoyed connecting with both new and returning students and are delighted to see our school community come together once again. We hope that your family has had a positive start to the year.

Strong partnerships between home and school are an important part of student success. We encourage parents and guardians to connect with their children’s teachers early in the year and to maintain that communication throughout the year. These conversations provide valuable opportunities to celebrate progress, discuss learning goals, and share important information that supports student learning and well-being.

Whether your family is new to our school or returning, we are grateful that you are part of the Belmont community and look forward to a wonderful year of learning and growth.

Belmont Administration Team

---

Photo Day – Sept 17th

We are pleased to welcome Lifetouch Photography to Belmont for Photo Day on September 17. All students are required to have their photo taken, as these photos are used for school records, student identification, and yearbook purposes.  Please note that headwear (except for religious or cultural reasons), makeup that obscures identity, props, and wigs should not be worn for school photos.  We appreciate your support in helping ensure a consistent and professional appearance for student photographs.

---

From the athletic Deptment

Attention badminton players.  Belmont Club Badminton has started.  It runs Monday nights from 7:30-9pm.  Beginner and experienced players are welcome.  Cost is $10 for the 5 months of play.  See Mr. Willing in room B310 for details.

---

---

Information for the Careers Department

---

---

---

in and about the community

---

---

---

Important Upcoming Date Reminders:

• June 15-19 – Quiet Week at Belmont
• June 17- Performing Arts Gala 5:00-7:00pm
• June 20 – National Indigenous Day
• June 21 – Fathers Day
• June 22 – Copernican Days – Bl. A & C
• June 23 – Copernican Days- Bl. B & D
• June 24-25 – Completion/Extension Days – students only attend if needing to complete work.
• June 24 – Prom 2026 – Crystal Gardens
• June 25 – Last Day of Classes – report cards published
• June 26 – Year-end Administrative Day

---

As we reflect on this school year, we are incredibly proud of all students and grateful to the hard work of staff and volunteers.  At our commencement ceremony, graduates emphasized themes of supporting one another, building a culture of kindness and connection that defines our school community. To our returning students, this same spirit of kindness and support is what makes Belmont so special. We encourage you to continue lifting one another up, embracing your own journeys, and contributing to the strong sense of community that defines our school.

We congratulate the Class of 2026 and look forward to welcoming back our returning students as we support them in carving their own unique pathways, discovering their passions, making their learning meaningful, and continuing to build our community together.

We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back in September 2026! Families will receive a letter outlining school details in late August. In the meantime, please note the following:

• Please ensure that all materials borrowed from Belmont are returned to the school before the summer break.
• If you are planning for your child to attend a different school next year, please contact the office as soon as possible at belmont@sd62.bc.ca.
• The school year will begin with a half-day on Tuesday, September 8, for Grade 9 students (9:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.), followed by a full day for all students (Grades 9–12) on Wednesday, September 9.
• Draft schedules will be available online during the last week of August. Schedules are created using the course request information students provided in February or at the time of registration. While we do our best to accommodate student requests, some students may need to take alternate courses. Students will be reminded to check their schedules on the morning of their first day of classes, as counsellors will continue to make adjustments up to that time.
• There is no need to purchase school supplies over the summer. Students should bring a binder, paper, and pens on the first day of classes. Teachers will advise if additional supplies are needed.

Sincerely,

Laura Fulton – Principal

Congratulations to the Class of 2026

Last Sunday was a wonderful day of celebration as we honored the achievements of our graduating students. Surrounded by family, friends, staff, and community members, our graduates were recognized for their hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments throughout their years at Belmont.

The graduation ceremony was filled with pride, laughter, heartfelt moments, and excitement for the future. We are incredibly proud of each graduate and grateful to everyone who helped make this special occasion such a memorable success.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! We wish you all the best as you begin the next chapter of your journey. Your Belmont family will be cheering you on every step of the way.

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.”

We are proud of you, Graduates! 🎓✨

---

---

Year End Reminders:

---

---

---

---

---

In and around the community

---

---

Belmont Business Students win Provincial and National Awards in 2026!

Belmont’s business students are leading the province and country this year, with three major honours! Earlier this semester, the team of Tomas, Ali and Abdul from Mr. Archibald’s Marketing 11 class won Junior Achievement’s national student stock market competition, finishing in first place in all of Canada out of over 2,000 teams competing! With some smart research to identify stocks that could be posted to break out, they built a portfolio with the most growth throughout the entire competition!

This month, Mr. Grainger’s Accounting 12 class won CPA BC’s student COIN competition, where students from across BC competed to solve accounting problems and challenges. They came out on top with the highest overall score and have won a $500 classroom grant courtesy of CPA BC as well as the distinction of being one of British Columbia’s top Accounting classes this year! 

And last month, Mr. Grainger was recognized at a Junior Achievement awards ceremony in Vancouver for his work in the classroom by being awarded JABC’s Champion Educator Award for 2026, which is their annual award to recognize dedication to youth and teaching business classes. Congratulations to all!

---

From the Career Department

---

Important Upcoming Dates to Remember:

• June 4 -BMD Year End Concert – 7:00pm
• June 8-10 – Graduation Assessments
• June 8 – Athletic Banquet
• June 11 – Backyard Olympics and BBQ
• June 11 – AVID advantage Study Session, from 4-7 pm in the Learning Commons – Open to all students
• June 11 & 12 – Spring Dance Show 7:00 pm
• June 14 – Grad Commencement Ceremonies at UVIC 11 am & 3 pm
• June 15-19 – Quiet Week
• June 17 – Performing Arts Gala 5:00 -7:30pm
• June 22nd – Recognition Evening 6:00- 9:00pm
• June 22 & 23 – Copernican Days
• June 24 – Prom

---

^{Grad Reminders:}

1. If you have not yet picked up your Cap & Gown, please do so, they are available in the office.
2. Please arrive at UVIC Farquhar Auditorium at least 1/2 hour before, If you are wanting photos etc. we are suggesting one hour, as it is usually very busy with parking on this day.

---

^{Finishing 2025/26 Successfully}

• Students should have a clear understanding of their strengths, areas for growth, and current progress in each course. Students and Parents/Guardians are encouraged to continue communicating with their teachers to ensure they finish the semester in the best possible standing.

• Lunch will be extended on Thursday, June 11 to accommodate our school-wide BBQ and games day.  

9 – 10:17 : B Block  

10:23 – 11:40: A Block  

11:40 – 12:40: Lunch  

12:40 – 1:57: D Block  

2:03 – 3:20: C Block   

• Monday, June 22, and Tuesday June 23 will run on a ‘Copernican’ schedule to support learning that benefits from longer blocks. These are regular instructional days, attendance is required.  

Monday, June 22  

9:00-11:50 – A Block  

12:30-3:20 – C Block  

Tuesday, June 23  

9:00-11:50 – B Block  

12:30-3:20 – D Block  

• Wednesday, June 24 and Thursday, June 25 are Completion Days. Attendance is by appointment at the request of the student or teacher.
  
  These days provide an opportunity for students to complete outstanding work or demonstrate improvement in their learning. However, submitting a large number of assignments at the end of the semester is not acceptable. Learning is a process that occurs over time, and students are expected to attend classes regularly and engage in their learning throughout the term.
•  
• Please ensure that all materials borrowed from Belmont are returned before the summer break.

^{Reminders for 2026-2027}

• If you are planning for your child to attend a different school next year, please contact the office as soon as possible.
• School District 62 Calendars for 2026/27 can be found here.
• The school year will begin with a half-day on Tuesday, September 8, for Grade 9 students (9:00 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.), followed by a full day for all students (Grades 9–12) on Wednesday, September 9.
• Our bell schedule for 2026/27 will be posted on the website Please be reminded that we will shift to a static block order (A, B, C, D).
• Draft schedules will be available online during the last week of August. Schedules are created using the course request information students provided in February or at the time of registration. While we strive to accommodate student choices, some students may be assigned alternate courses. Students should check their schedules on the morning of the first day of classes, as counsellors will continue to make adjustments up to that time.
• There is no need to purchase school supplies over the summer. Students should bring a binder, paper, and pens on the first day of classes. Teachers will advise if additional supplies are needed.
• A letter with additional details about the 2026/27 school year will be sent to students and families during the last week of August.

---

Messaging from the Community

---

---

^{Marine Science Cohort: Field Studies in Action}

The Marine Biology & Aquatic Chemistry 11 students have continued to explore water systems from sky to stream to sea through hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom science to the real world. From studying freshwater and marine ecosystems to investigating ocean chemistry and biodiversity along the coastlines of the Salish Sea, students are developing practical scientific skills while discovering how interconnected aquatic systems shape life in our region.

Field experiences have continued throughout the spring. Students recently visited Whiffin Spit at low tide to complete a transect study of intertidal biodiversity, observing a wide variety of organisms that are normally hidden beneath the water’s surface. They also explored the exhibits at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, providing a closer look at marine life and habitats that are difficult to access in the wild.

At Pearson College, students conducted plankton tows, completed a plankton survey lab in the floating Marine Science Centre, and toured Race Rocks Ecological Reserve by boat, learning about marine conservation and stewardship while observing seals, sea lions, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Students also attended the Canadian Coast Guard Open House, where they learned about careers in ocean science and explored some of the advanced technology used to monitor and protect Canada’s marine environments.

Marine Biology

As the school year winds down, students are now working on projects that share their learning with the community and celebrate World Oceans Day on June 8. While we’ve already had an incredible field season, there are still more hands-on opportunities in the weeks ahead.

Students interested in marine science, aquatic chemistry, environmental stewardship, and hands-on field learning are encouraged to consider the Marine Science Cohort for next year. A few spaces are still available for next year, and course requests for the 2026–2027 school year are still being accepted. Interested students or families are encouraged to contact Ms. Bondurant (mbondurant@sd62.bc.ca), Ms. Mitchell (kmitchell@sd62.bc.ca), or their school counsellor as soon as possible for more information about enrollment opportunities.

---

Bulldog Athletics

---

---

It’s June!!!!

We are at the end of the athletics season. The 2026 version of the JV and Varsity Football team is nearing the end of their spring camp, the track and field all stars are heading to provincials, and the Athletic Banquet is on Monday night!

The Latest from the Dawg Pound

Provincials Results

• The Senior Girls won the BRONZE medal!!!
• The Sr Boys finished 4th!
• We have 5 members of the track team heading to Vancouver for the provincials.

---

Spencer Middle School Presents

We will be holding an informational meeting in the new future!  Watch for the date, we would love to see you then!

The NIE Department in partnership with Spencer Middle School and Hulitan will be offering a dinner, Laval and movie night next Thursday.

We would love if you could promote the event on your school communications by posting the attached poster/link on school websites and including in school newsletters. All staff and students are invited.  Attendees must get tickets. 

See poster below

HÍSWKE

ƛecko ƛecko

---

---

Important Upcoming Dates to Remember:

• May 21 – Evening of Jazz
• May & 22 – Marketing 110 Dual Credit Exam Bl. B & D
• May 23 – Dry Grad
• May 25 – Camosun registration 101 in LLC 11:50-12:30pm
• May 26-29 – Cultural week
• May 26-30 – Senior Drama Performs – “A Wrinkle in Time”
• May 27 – Grad Rehearsals at UVIC
• May 27 – ICBC Road Safety
• May 28 – Accounting 110 Dual Credit exam 12:30-3:20pm
• June 1-5 – Spirit Week
• June 8 – Athletic Banquet

---

Upcoming School Events

---

---

Important Grad Information

Have you purchased your Dry Grad Tickets yet, they can be purchased on School Cash online or in the front office.

---

In preparation for a successful June 14th Commencement celebration, we will be taking all Grads to UVic for a rehearsal on May 27th. It is really important that all Grads attend, as the theatre has a complicated setup and seating plan that is difficult to learn on the day of the ceremony.

We have booked buses for students to travel from Belmont to UVic. Students cannot drive themselves or take public transit — everyone needs to be on the bus to meet district policy requirements.

11:00 AM Celebration
Your bus leaves Belmont at 9:00 AM and will return by approximately 11:30 AM. Students who are performing at Commencement will also need to take the 9:00 AM bus and will be contacted by the BMD.

3:00 PM Celebration
Your bus leaves Belmont at 10:00 AM and will return by approximately 12:30 PM.

If you have any questions, please contact Cam Smith at crsmith@sd62.bc.ca

We are really looking forward to celebrating this big moment with our graduates on June 14th!

---

Prom is fast approaching for an evening of Dinner and Dance at the Crystal Gardens. Purchase your tickets today on School Cash Online or in the front office. Remember if bringing a guest, a form must be filled out in the front office along with payment.

Bulldog Athletics

---

---

---

---

---

From the Career Centre

---

---

---

---

Garden and Sustainability

A big thank you to all the classes and teachers who have participated in any of the action projects with sustainability: the open house, the garden sale, the pop-up thrift shop, the invasive species removals and soon the ocean bean clean up. The students and I appreciate having classes embrace our ideas and come out.

---

Marine Science Cohort: Field Studies in Action

The Marine Biology & Aquatic Chemistry 11 students are now into our spring field study season, investigating water systems from sky to stream to sea, through hands-on learning experiences that include water quality testing, marine biology labs, shoreline investigations, and ecosystem conservation work.

From collecting freshwater data in local lakes and rivers to investigating tidepools and ocean chemistry along the coastlines of the Salish Sea, students are developing practical science skills while exploring how connected aquatic systems shape life in our region.

This course emphasizes experiential learning, giving students opportunities to use scientific equipment, investigate real environmental questions, and engage with science outside the classroom through authentic field science experiences. Recent activities have included freshwater and marine water testing, microscopy work, shoreline biodiversity studies, and environmental conservation projects. We are only half-way through the field work season, with more activities coming up through May and June.

Students interested in marine science, aquatic chemistry, and hands-on field learning are encouraged to consider the Marine Science cohort for next year. A few spaces are still available for the 2026-2027 school year, and it’s not too late to sign up! Interested students or families are welcome to contact Ms. Bondurant, Ms. Mitchell, or their school counsellor as soon as possible for more information about enrollment opportunities.

---