LIBRARY NEWSLETTER - OCTOBER 2025
LIBRARY NEWSLETTER - OCTOBER 2025
Éy swáyel
Strathcona Elementary School's library and those who use it are proud to live, work, play and read on the Stó:lō unceded traditional territory of the Pilalt tribe.
My journey towards reconciliation involves broadening my own knowledge and understanding of the Halq'emeylem language, incorporating local Stó:lō stories into library time, introducing traditional language to students, and elevating the visibility and accessibility of indigenous books in the library collection.
My educational philosophy is deeply rooted in the Constructivist Learning Theory, believing that students build knowledge through experiences and reflection. I also attempt to foster a growth mindset and nurture curiosity when I am designing library programming. I prioritize hands-on learning experiences, allowing children to explore, discover, and construct their own understanding.
I embrace a “freedom to read” attitude, encouraging students to explore a diverse range of books that ignite their passion for reading, rather than limiting choice based on reading ability. This approach helps cultivate a genuine love for reading and lifelong learning. Our library is a place where students can discover books that reflect their own experiences and open windows to new perspectives. Strathcona's school library is committed to offering a collection representing diverse perspectives, that includes voices from all backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences, ensuring that every student can find something that resonates with them. This exposure nurtures empathy, understanding, and a global outlook.
Finally, I envision our Library Learning Commons as a vibrant hub of creativity, play, storytelling, and innovation - a space where students feel empowered to explore ideas, collaborate with peers, and develop critical thinking skills. By providing a rich, diverse, and inclusive environment, I aim to inspire learners to become confident, independent thinkers who are well-equipped to navigate an ever-changing world.
OCTOBER SPOTLIGHTS
(This section highlights important events, social justice moments, and cultural celebrations,
ensuring they are recognized and appreciated.)
DIWALI
Monday, October 20th
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major Hindu festival celebrated with vibrant lights, decorations, and fireworks. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Families celebrate by lighting oil lamps, sharing sweets, and spending time together.
This year, the we will be celebrating Diwali as a school on Friday October 17th.
LITERACY TALK
Is Your Child in Grade 4 or 5? Ask Them About the Reading Link Challenge!
Strathcona Elementary is once again participating in the Reading Link Challenge, a fun and engaging reading competition designed for students in grades 4 and 5. Teams work together to read selected books and answer trivia-style questions in a friendly challenge that promotes teamwork and a love of reading. If your child enjoys reading and working with others, this could be a great opportunity for them!
Students will need to listen for school announcements in October to find out when meetings will take place. Please ask your child if they’re interested in joining a team!
Grade 1 Initiative
We’re excited to launch Family Book-a-Day, a new literacy initiative inspired by the “Classroom Book-a-Day” movement.
Each participating Grade One family will receive a crate containing 7 picture books—one for each day of the week—to enjoy together. Crates are picked up on Friday (or Monday) and returned the following week for a fresh set.
Why join?
Daily reading helps build vocabulary, comprehension, and confidence. Sharing stories as a family strengthens connections, sparks curiosity, and encourages lifelong reading habits. Picture books are short and can be enjoyed together in just 15 minutes a day.
We’re starting with 10 families. If you’d like to participate and are in Grade 1, please fill out the form below. We’ll select the first 10 families who sign up.
Let’s build a joyful community of readers—at home and at school!
There are different ways to read a book:
Read The Pictures – Immerse yourself in vibrant illustrations, where images tell their own tale, adding depth and emotion to the narrative.
Retell The Story – Relish the joy of retelling. Share the story with others, infusing it with your unique perspective and enthusiasm, creating a bond between you and the narrative.
Read The Words – Dive into the written words, where sentences paint vivid pictures and characters spring to life within your imagination.
Listen To Reading – Enjoy the magic of storytelling through listening. Whether it's a teacher, parent, peer, or audiobook, hearing a story read aloud builds comprehension, vocabulary, and a love for language.
These four ways to read a book guarantee an adventure filled with wonder and endless possibilities. Happy reading!
LISTEN TO READING OPTIONS
What is Sora?
Sora is a free reading app that gives students instant access to thousands of ebooks and audiobooks from our school library. Think of it as carrying the entire library in your child's pocket!
How it works:
Students can browse, borrow, and read books directly on their phone, tablet, or computer—anytime, anywhere. Books automatically return when due, so there are no late fees to worry about. Your child can even download titles to read offline during car trips or when internet isn't available.
Why parents love it:
Safe, ad-free environment designed specifically for students
Supports reluctant readers with audiobook options
Helps build independent reading habits
Free access to popular titles and new releases
Getting started:
Click on the link above and sign in using your child's SD33 login credentials: studentnumber@sd33online.ca and their password. If you don't have your child's account information, please contact their teacher or the school librarian.
What is Libby?
Libby is an easy-to-use app that connects your family to our public library's digital collection. With your library card, you can borrow ebooks and audiobooks for free—no trips to the library required!
How it works:
Simply download the Libby app, sign in with your library card number, and start browsing thousands of titles. Borrow books with one tap, read or listen on your device, and they'll automatically return when your lending period ends.
Why families love it:
Access books 24/7 from home
No overdue fines—books return themselves
Great for bedtime reading or listening together
Perfect for vacations and travel
Getting started:
Download Libby from your app store and have your library card handy. Don't have a card yet? Visit your local public library or their website to sign up online!
The library is hosting an after-school 3D printer/robotics club for 8 sessions from 2:20-3:30 PM on Tuesdays starting Oct 14th.
If your child is interested in signing up, please complete the form below.
There are 16 spots available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/r/yKTtjd4asi
Note - Priority will be given to those who did not attend last year.
Educational Pedagogical Perspectives section of the newsletter offers a diverse range of viewpoints on education, schools, and learning. It will offer insights from experts in the field, including teachers, researchers, and policymakers. The section aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding education and to encourage critical thinking about the future of learning.
This month, I'd like to share a podcast from Teach Wonder podcast titled, Risky Play: What We Can Learn from Early Childhood.
Ashley and Julie are hear talking about what Risky Play has to do with Curiosity in the classroom. They highlight the need for educators to shift from replication to genuine learning, valuing respectful relationships and deeper skills. Ashley reflects on her experience with a homeschool group, noting the challenge of balancing student agency with personal expectations.
A small sample of new books added to the collection this month. See the full collection here.
~ BOOK CARE: ELEMENTS ~
Books and other library materials all have archenemies. One of those just happens to be the mighty elements themselves. How you ask? Well, just watch this video. And remember, book care, it's good for everyone!
It is crucial to store and transport these books within a protective 'second skin,' such as a book bag (available for purchase at the library for just $1 while stocks last) or a similar water-resistant bag.
We are thrilled to continue our "Books for Babies" program again this year. This heartwarming initiative is designed to celebrate the arrival of new additions to our Strathcona School community, whether through birth or adoption. When a new baby joins our Strathcona family, we will be gifting a special package that includes a cherished book. We believe that fostering a love for reading from the very beginning is a wonderful way to celebrate the joy of learning and strengthen our community bonds. We look forward to sharing the magic of books with our newest members and hope this program will be a source of delight and inspiration for all.
Welcome to Strathcona, where reading is not just a passion; it's a tradition!
If you know a Strathcona family that qualifies for the Books for Babies package, then please contact the library.
INVITATION TO STORYTELLERS
Share Your Story on the Positive Podcast!
Everyone has a story to tell – including you!
Storytelling is a huge part of our curriculum, and we believe that stories don't just come from books on shelves. They come from real people with real experiences. That's why we're inviting you to be a guest on our Positive Podcast.
We're not looking for superstar storytellers or perfect performances. We're looking for authentic voices and genuine stories. Maybe you have a memory from your childhood, a family tradition, a lesson you learned, or just something that made you laugh. Whatever it is, we want to hear it.
When you share your story with our students, you help normalize storytelling. You show them that everyone has something worth sharing – and that includes them, too.
We welcome all kinds of stories: funny ones, thoughtful ones, short ones, long ones. There's room for every voice.
Want to share your story? Email Mr. Lister at christopher_lister@sd33.bc.ca for more information.
Your story matters. We hope to hear from you soon!
THE SCHOOL LIBRARY IS FOR GROWN UPS TOO
Besides serving as an invaluable resource for students, the school library extends its welcoming doors to adults as well. Should you intend to frequent the library, I can create an account for you, much like the process at a public library. Our library has an excellent selection of chapter books suitable for family read-alouds, as well as a diverse assortment of picture books perfect for nightly bedtime stories with your children.
🎃 Mini-Pumpkins & Squash in the Library! 🎃
October is bursting with creativity at Strathcona Elementary!
Students from Kindergarten to Grade 5 are invited to take part in a festive fall celebration by decorating mini-pumpkins or squash at home and bringing them to the school library to be proudly displayed.
✨ Whether it’s spooky, silly, sparkly, or sweet—every creation is welcome!
📚 Everyone who brings in a decorated pumpkin or squash will be entered into a draw to win 1 of 10 FREE books!
Event runs until October 31st, so get decorating and help fill the library with autumn magic!
Unspookable is a family friendly look at the histories and mysteries behind your favorite scary stories, myths and urban legends. Each week host Elise Parisian digs into the history, brain science, and power dynamics behind such topics as Bloody Mary, Charlie Charlie, and Ouija Boards to find the stories behind the scares.
View other podcast recommendations here
Pocket Bear
(by Katherine Applegate
Type: Chapter Book
Grades: grade 3+
Pages: 272
Published: 2025
Meet Pocket, a tiny stuffed bear with a big job! Created over a century ago as a good luck charm for a soldier, Pocket is now the unofficial mayor of the Second Chances Home for the Tossed and Treasured, a refuge for discarded toys.
When an ancient, valuable bear arrives, Pocket and his quick-witted cat friend, Zephyrina, must embark on a daring mission to save their community from greedy collectors.
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author Katherine Applegate (The One and Only Ivan), this heartwarming and adventurous tale is all about loyalty, bravery, and the magic of second chances.
Nadiya turns her attention to bread, but instead of making a simple loaf she goes all out with a cheeky pepperoni pull-apart, a brilliantly creative recipe that has all the flavours of pizza and is so much fun to tear and share.
BOOK DONATIONS
The school library will gladly take any children's books you would like to donate only if they are in excellent used condition.
Feeling philanthropic? The school library would love to receive any hardcover book on this list.
The Book Man, our very own family-run locally-owned used bookstore in downtown Chilliwack, would be more than happy to help you purchase books on this list. You can find their contact information here.
If the Book Man cannot find a copy then you can find it on the school library's Amazon Wish List
Thank you for the recent donation!
We are actively looking for Grade 5 students to participate in season 4 of the The Positivity Podcast. In anticipation of the new season please feel free to check out our first three seasons wherever you get your podcasts.
POSITIVITY - INSPIRATION - JOY - INQUIRY - INFORMATION
There’s an oft-repeated question, a conversational game of sorts, that asks, “If you could go back in time and change one thing in the history of the world, what would you change?” We sometimes forget that one thing can be done right now to positively impact the future.
How do mongoose mothers protect their babies?
Banded mongoose mothers can synchronize their births to the exact same day. When the alpha female has her babies, other pregnant mothers in her troop have their babies, too. “It’s a strategic move,” this BBC’s Animal Super Parents reports from Uganda.