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BCSSA Events

The BCSSA is committed to the advancement of quality education through professional leadership. Coordinated by a professional development committee, the association offers annual conferences and other events to address issues of timely concern and meet the changing needs of school district administrators. These events present opportunities for members to establish professional contacts with others who share similar job responsibilities and interests, and to enhance and develop leadership skills.

The purpose of BCSSA events and activites is to support members in their professional development and growth as members of a principle-centred learning community. The following guiding principles provide direction in the attainment of this purpose.

Professional development activities should:

Our mandate is to build a strong and self-sustaining learning community committed to the advancement of quality education through professional leadership.

Fall Conference and Annual General Meeting
The BCSSA Fall Conference has traditionally been held in Victoria every year, usually in mid to late November. It's the largest and most inclusive of our three major events and members are encouraged to bring diverse district teams, including principles, teachers, trustees and PAC representatives. The two-day program features speakers with a national or global understading of educational issues, and themes focusing on leadership, school effectiveness and improvement. Plenary sessions are either full or half-day in length. The annual general meeting of BCSSA members is held at the same venue immediately following the fall conference.

Spring Forum The spring event focuses on topics closely related to the BCSSA's Dimensions of Practice and features provocative and inspirational speakers exploring innovative, successful models of leadership. The audience is primarily current members who, in their mentorship capacity, are encouraged to invite individuals considering opportunities in district leadership roles to participate with them. The forum is usually held the day after the annual celebration dinner for retiring members.

Summer Leadership Academy Held in the second or third week of August, this summer retreat provides BCSSA members with a "warm-up" for the school year ahead. The format of "by us, for us" encourages the sharing of best practices and focuses on the skills and knowledge needed for the range of roles and responsibilities of district leaders. The program includes a Ministry of Education update on current priorities and projects, and provides ample opportunities to network with colleagues and ministry staff.