Friday Blast
Maple Ridge Elementary
Friday, Feb. 27th, 2026
Staff, students and families came together wearing pink and carrying signs, to spread the importance of kindness throughout our local community.
NEXT WEEK
Monday March 2nd
2:30 pm: After school program: Drama (for those who registered)
3:15 pm – 4:50 pm: Rec Boys Basketball Mini Tournament @ Meadowridge
6:30 pm: PAC Constitution & Bylaws Meeting
Tuesday March 3rd
7:15 am – 8:20 am: Tier 1 basketball practice
12:20 pm – 2:15 pm: Planet Ice (Div. 5 & 6)
2:30 pm: After school program: Coding (for those who registered)
3:00 pm: Rec Girls Basketball home game vs. Albion Elementary
Wednesday March 4th
AM: Author Visit – Eric Walters (Primary & Intermediate Students)
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Tier 1 Basketball away game vs. Kanaka Elementary
Thursday March 5th
7:15 am – 8:20 am: Tier 1 basketball practice
2:30 pm – 2:45 pm: Boys and Girls Rec basketball team wrap up
Friday March 6th
Spirit Day: Western- style!
PAC Treat Day – TCBY
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Mar. 9th– PAC Meeting @ 6:30
Mar. 12th– Dismissal @ 11:30 am for Student Led Conferences
Mar. 13th– Student Led Conferences – school not in session
Mar. 13th – Last day before Spring Break
Mar. 30th – First Day of Term 3
BREAKFAST CLUB CHANGES
Due to the increasing number of students attending breakfast club, we are making some changes to how the program functions.
Beginning next week, Monday March 2nd, breakfast will run from 8:00 am – 8:20 am. Students will be asked to eat their meals in the library. After eating, students will be permitted outside to play. Please note, we do not have supervision on the playground. If you do not want your child to play outside, please remind them to stay inside until breakfast club ends at 8:20 am.
At 8:20 am, all students will be asked to clean up and make their way to their classroom outside door to line up with their peers. If you have a primary aged child you may want to coordinate for them to walk with an older sibling or a group of friends.
Food will still be available for students to take with them to eat in class after 8:20 am, but those options will be limited to “take ‘n’ go” style options such as fruit and yogurt.
Please note that students who will not remain inside the library, will be asked to go outside earlier. During breakfast club we cannot permit students in the hallways, or to go into classes or the gym, as teachers are busy setting up for the day.
We are happy to see so many students accessing our universal breakfast program!
Please feel free to reach out to Mme Lendvoy (chelsea_lendvoy@sd42.ca) or Mme Perry (rachael_perry@sd42.ca) with any questions regarding this program.
PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Happy Friday, MRE families!
CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS MEETING – March 2nd, 6:30pm
NEXT PAC MEETING – March 9, 6:30 pm in the MRE Library. All are welcome! Need childcare? Email pac.mre@gmail.com
NEXT TREAT DAY – March 6 – TCBY – For those who ordered | Questions? Email pac.mre@gmail.com We’re always looking for volunteers to help, even if it’s last minute. Sign up here -> https://signup.com/go/dgsaFVo
PAC BINGO NIGHT – Thank you to all who came out to support our Bingo Night! It was a great success and we look forward to the next one. Huge thanks to our volunteers and donors, we couldn’t have done it without you!
MRE CARNIVAL – It’s almost that time of year again, parents; CARNIVAL DAY! Once again, we’re asking for all hands on deck. Let’s make this year incredible for all the kids. If you’re able to assist with volunteering on the day, taking the lead on games or concession, or doing any behind the scenes work, please email: pac.mre@gmail.com
VOLUNTEERS – PAC is always in need of volunteers, whether it’s book fair, hot lunch or other events..
Sign up here -> https://signup.com/go/dgsaFVo
Questions? Email us at pac.mre@gmail.com or find us on Facebook: Maple Ridge Elementary PAC
NEW FUNDRAISER: MAKE IT SOW – Garden Seeds & Spices!
FEB 9 – FEB 27
Get ready for spring planting season while supporting MRE PAC!
🇨🇦 Order from Make It Sow, a Canadian-owned company with seeds specially acclimated to OUR environment. Perfect for BC gardens!
🌿 GARDEN SEEDS: https://makeitsow.com/seeds/shop/
🧂 SPICES: https://makeitsow.com/spices/shop/
Use code: MRES_2026
A portion of every purchase supports our school programs and activities!
Whether you’re planning your vegetable garden, starting herbs on your windowsill, or restocking your spice rack, this is a great way to shop AND support MRE students.
Happy planting! 🌻
SD42 NEWS
REGISTRATION INFO FOR SPRING BREAK PROGRAMS
The following programs are being offered this spring break. All registrations are on a first come, first serve basis and spaces are limited. Registration opens Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at noon and closes March 10 at 11 p.m.
To register, go to schooldistrict42.perfectmind.com. If you are creating an account for the first time, please see the registration instructions below.
For more information, please contact Hannah Macdonald, program manager, community connections and healthy living, at 604.837.2384 or hannah_macdonald@sd42.ca.
Arts On: Creative Arts Camps (Ages 5-12)
Students explore a variety of visual art techniques, learning imaginative conception, visual communication and personal expression skills through drawing, painting, collage and sculpture. Each day introduces a new hands-on making activity in a different medium, and children will bring home their work to share with family and friends. All materials provided. This program is delivered by the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Arts Council with support from Epic Homes.
Dates/time
March 16-20, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Ages 5 – 8
March 16-20, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. | Ages 8 – 12
March 23-27, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Ages 8 – 12
March 23-27, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. | Ages 5 – 8
Location: Edith McDermott Elementary – Gym
Cost: $195
Arts On: Imaginative Play Camps (Ages 5-12)
This camp nurtures creativity and connection through imaginative play and collaborative storytelling. Children engage in interactive communication games, movement activities, and musical exploration that help build teamwork, confidence, empathy, and strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills. In a fun, safe, and supportive environment, campers learn the value of active listening and cooperation as they work together toward shared creative goals. All activities are thoughtfully designed to be inclusive, meeting children at their individual comfort levels while encouraging positive social interaction and self-expression. Families will be invited to a showcase in the final session. This program is delivered by the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Arts Council with support from Epic Homes.
Dates/time
March 16-20, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Ages 8 – 12
March 16-20, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. | Ages 5 – 8
March 23-27, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Ages 5 – 8
Location: Edith McDermott Elementary – Stage
Cost: $170
Arts On: The Art of Magic Camps (Ages 8-12)
In this engaging and imaginative camp, children discover the art of magic and illusion in a supportive, play-based setting. Each day, campers learn a new magic skill — from beginner sleight-of-hand with coins and cards to juggling, storytelling, eye contact, and confident vocal expression — while building important social-emotional skills such as focus, perseverance, communication, collaboration, and self-confidence. Activities are inclusive, curiosity-driven, and designed for all comfort levels—no prior experience needed, just a sense of wonder and a willingness to try. Families will be invited to a showcase in the final session. This program is delivered by the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Arts Council with support from Epic Homes.
Dates/time
March 23-27, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. | Ages 8 – 12
Location: Edith McDermott Elementary – Stage
Cost: $170
Arts On Lunch Hub Supervision Available (12 p.m. – 1 p.m.): Students who are registered in both a morning and afternoon Arts On camp at Edith McDermott Elementary are eligible to register for Lunch Hub supervision on-site from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. for an additional cost. Eligible students will be contacted two weeks prior to the start of camp with more details on how to register.
Born2Grind Basketball Development Camp (Grades 3-7)
This three‑day spring break camp helps young athletes build strong basketball fundamentals through skill‑focused drills, game play, and confidence‑boosting coaching. Designed for players looking to take their game to the next level, the program emphasizes teamwork, coordination, and a love of the game — all in a fun, supportive environment. Focus areas include passing, shooting technique, finishing at the rim, defensive positioning, team offensive concepts, and team defensive concepts
Dates: March 23 – 25, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Golden Ears Elementary – Gym
Cost: $215
Registration Instructions
- Go to https://schooldistrict42.perfectmind.com
- Create an account if you are new to the site
- Login
- Click on the ‘Schedule’ icon at the top left of the screen
- Click on the link to the program location under ‘Program Registration’
- Click on the program name
- Click ‘Reserve’
- Add Family Member (your child) and click ‘Next’
- Complete permission form and click ‘Next’
- Complete payment
SD42 HOMESTAY PROGRAM INFO NIGHT: BECOMING A HOST FAMILY FOR AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT
Are you interested in welcoming an international student into your home? Join us for an online information session on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 7 p.m. Call 604.466.6555, ext. 3, or email inted@sd42.ca to register.
Hosting an international student allows you and your family to experience new cultures and connections while making a significant difference in a student’s life. Host families are a valuable part of the Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows International Education program and provide our students with support to help them adjust to living away from home. This support helps students have a positive experience both academically and out of school.
Whether you have hosted in the past or are new to the experience, we have varying program lengths, allowing you to choose which works best for your family.
Learn more at https://inted.sd42.ca/host-a-student/hosting-information/.
IN OUR COMMUNITY
Pitt Meadows Spring Programs Registration Opens March 3
The Pitt Meadows spring program guide is now available online and will be available in print on February 12. The City of Pitt Meadows Parks, Recreation & Culture Guide is packed with a variety of activities, kids basketball, youth disc golf, sewing, sound bathing, core stretch and strength, weight training, there’s programs for all age groups! Registration for opens Tuesday, March 3 at 8 a.m. Visit pittmeadows.ca/programguide for details.
Low-Cost and Free Activities at Pitt Meadows Family Recreation Centre:
Parent & Tot Mini Gym 0-5Y
Looking for an indoor activity? PMFRC offers low-cost Parent & Tot Mini Gym in the gymnasium on Mondays and Wednesdays (10:05-11:45 a.m.) and Saturdays (9-11 a.m.) for only $1 per child.
Value Times at the Fitness Centre
Work out at the fitness centre during our value times. It’s only $1 for youth (13-18Y) and seniors (60Y+) and $2 for adults (19-59Y). Value times are: Tuesday 10-11:30 a.m., Wednesday 8-9 p.m., Thursday 6-7 a.m. and Saturday from 3-6 p.m.
Community Services – Let’s Play (FREE Registered Program)
Let’s Play is a vibrant and inclusive community program for all ages led by Community Services. Families will engage in a variety of play opportunities with their child, such as loose parts, sensory explorations, the wonder of art, music and movement, science discoveries and more. Registration is required. See location, dates and full details, or register at pittfitandfun.ca.
Youth Week in Pitt Meadows – May 1 to 7
Join us for Youth Week! Drop by the Constable Rick O’Brien Youth Lounge from May 1 to 7 for FREE drop-in youth (11-17Y) activities. The Youth Lounge is located in the Pitt Meadows Family Recreation Centre. Learn more: bcyouthweek.com or pittmeadows.ca/youth
FREE Family Lounge Drop-In Program – Sundays from 3-7 p.m.
Drop by the Constable Rick O’Brien Youth Lounge with your family! The Youth Lounge will open Sundays, from 3-7 p.m. for a time of unstructured activities for you and your children. Enjoy a variety of activities including billiards, ping pong, video games, retro arcade and board games. There is also a concession with food and drinks. Our Recreation team will be on hand to supervise, but please remember that this is a parent-led program. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Older siblings (11Y+) are also welcome, but must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. For questions or details about this program contact the Youth Lounge Supervisor at abuckle@pittmeadows.ca or 604.465.2456.
FREE Gardening Workshops (16Y+)
Enjoy one or all of these beginner-friendly garden workshops: Herb Harvest & Garden Tea Gathering, Pollinators & Edible Flowers, Small Space Gardening & Companion Planting, Soil to Seedling. Registration is required. See dates and full details in the spring guide or register at pittfitandfun.ca.
And There’s More:
Youth Ambassadors Wanted!
Do you want to represent and celebrate amazing youth in our community? The City is looking for Youth Ambassadors from Grades 1 to 6. Learn more about this opportunity at pittmeadowsday.ca.
FREE Family Events in Pitt Meadows
The City of Pitt Meadows proudly hosts a number of community events throughout the year. Some upcoming events from April to June 2026 include the Pitt Meadows Dayand Pride. For full details about community events and activities, visit pittmeadows.ca/specialevents.
Personal Training at the Pitt Meadows Family Recreation Centre
From Teen Weight Training to Personal Training, there are a variety of individual and group programs available. See full details in the Spring Guide.
Park Amenity and Grabenhorst Garden Donation Programs
The City of Pitt Meadows offers residents, community groups, businesses and visitors the opportunity to honour a loved one, commemorate a special occasion or give back to the community. From memorial plaques to benches, these programs are designed to create lasting tributes while supporting local spaces and initiatives. Learn more about the Grabenhorst Garden Donation Program and Parks Amenity Program in the Spring Guide.
Experience Art & Culture at the Pitt Meadows Art Gallery
The Pitt Meadows Art Gallery (PMAG) is located on the main floor of the South Bonson Community Centre in Pitt Meadows. PMAG is committed to supporting local and regional artists and artisans and will showcase six exhibitions per year at the main gallery and four exhibitions per year at the pop-up gallery. Admission to the gallery is free and all work is available for sale.
The Pop-Up PMAG can be found in the lobby at City Hall. This satellite gallery showcases smaller collections of work from Lower Mainland artists.
For more information about the gallery and the exhibits visit pittmeadows.ca/pmag.
Discover Trails in Pitt Meadows
Discover the beauty of the outdoors by venturing through the scenic trails and dikes of Pitt Meadows. View the Pitt Meadows Trail Guide online or pick up a printed copy at the Pitt Meadows Family Recreation Centre, the South Bonson Community Centre, City Hall or the Pitt Meadows Library.
Disc Golf Anyone?
Bonson Park is a vibrant, multi-use community space designed for year-round fun and connection, offering amenities for everyone to enjoy. The Bonson Disc Golf Course is open for play and located at 11546 Bonson Road, Pitt Meadows. Keep score when you play and download a printable score card. Drop by today! Learn more at pittmeadows.ca/bonsonpark
Explore and Discover Grabenhorst Garden
Established in 2025, Grabenhorst Garden is a stunning five-acre sanctuary nestled within the Agricultural Land Reserve of Pitt Meadows. This land has a rich story—once a horse pasture in the 1970s, then a Christmas tree farm, and now a flourishing public garden shaped by decades of love and care. As you explore, you’ll discover ornamental gardens, a tranquil pond, accessible pathways, a historic barn, a place of remembrance, a community orchard and edible garden and spaces for environmental education. We hope you enjoy your visit! Open year-round 9 a.m. to dusk, Friday to Monday. Admission is Free. Plan your visit and learn more today: pittmeadows.ca/grabenhorst
Fraser Health Newsletter: Spring Health
The spring season is approaching which means warmer weather and more outdoor activities. It’s also an opportunity to foster new healthy habits for our children. Here are five practical tips for school-aged kids to make the most of this season.
Get active
Warmer weather makes spring the perfect time to get outside and play. Take a walk around your neighbourhood or head to a local park or hiking trail. You can also stay active close to home with jump rope or hopscotch in your neighbourhood.
Think fresh
Springtime often brings up images of fresh fruits and vegetables. Now is a great time to teach children about where food comes from by helping them to start their own home garden. You don’t need a large space to get started. Any bright space indoors or outdoors can be used to grow fresh food. For tips, check out this resource about gardening with kids.
Be sun safe
Sunburns are possible, even in spring. Use a sunscreen that has Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or more. When possible, schedule outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon and early evening. If you and your children are out in the sun during mid-day hours, wear long sleeves, loose-fitting long pants and a hat.
Be prepared for extreme weather
Spring weather can be very unpredictable and can bring heavy rains or heat. Make sure you and your family are ready for possible flooding, heat and indoor air quality issues.
Plan for summer heat by preparing your home early. Find tips on Window safety for children as well as information and resources, including programs to help, at Fraser Health’s Before a heat event page.
Practice road safety
Biking is a great way to exercise and spend quality time with your family. Remember to keep safety top of mind. Protect their heads with a well-fitted helmet and teach them the rules of the road, such as the hand signals for stop, right and left-hand turns. Check out our Fraser Health’s Bike safety for children page.
For tips on all of this and more, check out Fraser Health’s Spring health guide.
The Foundry
The Foundry provides mental health care, substance use services, physical and sexual health care, youth, and family peer supports, and social services to youth aged 12-24 years of age. It provides drop-in counselling as well as various social events that your child can attend. This is a terrific way to build positive connections with others within the Maple Ridge community.