News Stories

Clayburn Middle National Indigenous People's Day Clayburn Middle National Indigenous People's Day
August 25, 2025

Clayburn Middle School Marked National Indigenous Peoples Day with Learning, Games, and Reflection

Clayburn Middle School proudly celebrated National Indigenous Peoples Day in June. It's a day that coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and honours the rich cultures and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. This day is recognized as a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.

Clayburn Middle National Indigenous People's Day Clayburn Middle National Indigenous People's Day
Lisa Burdeyny Lisa Burdeyny
August 13, 2025

Congratulating Lisa Burdeyny - New Assistant Superintendent

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Burdeyny as Assistant Superintendent, effective immediately.

Lisa has been an integral part of the A51 District since 1994, serving in a variety of roles that span both school-based and district-level leadership. Her career has included teaching positions at Abbotsford Middle and Senior Secondary Schools; serving as Vice Principal at Yale and Abbotsford Senior Secondary Schools; Principal at Rick Hansen Secondary School; and, most recently, District Principal, Human Resources.

Lisa Burdeyny Lisa Burdeyny
Peter Neale
August 5, 2025

Peter Neale Appointed New Secretary-Treasurer

We are pleased to announce and welcome Peter Neale as our new Secretary-Treasurer, effective August 1, 2025.

Mr. Neale brings more than two decades of leadership in school district finance and administration, having served as Secretary-Treasurer in several districts across Alberta and British Columbia. A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and Certified School Business Official, he is widely respected for his strategic financial leadership, commitment to transparency, and collaborative approach to governance.

Peter Neale
Hawks Gym Hawks Gym
August 5, 2025

A Vibrant Transformation: W.J. Mouat Gym and Cafeteria

Even when students are away, great things are still happening at W.J. Mouat Secondary.

This summer, two key spaces at the school, the gym and cafeteria, received a bold and inspiring makeover thanks to the work of renowned Abbotsford artist Dean Lauzé. Known for his large-scale murals and public art across British Columbia, Lauzé brought Hawk pride to life with dynamic visuals that now energize these shared spaces.

Hawks Gym Hawks Gym
Literacy Literacy
July 31, 2025

Literacy in Elementary Schools

Literacy is more than reading and writing. It is how students make sense of the world around them. In the A51 District, literacy is viewed as the foundation of all learning. Guided by the district’s Literacy Framework, students are supported at every stage of their educational journey as they grow into confident, capable communicators. 

Literacy Literacy
New Childcare Spaces New Childcare Spaces
July 29, 2025

A51 District Expands Childcare Capacity with 226 New Licensed Spaces

The A51 District is excited to announce the opening of 226 new licensed childcare spaces this September—a major milestone in supporting families and young learners across the community.

Two brand-new childcare centres, both located on school grounds, will open their doors:

New Childcare Spaces New Childcare Spaces
ASIA Stuffies Project ASIA Stuffies Project
July 15, 2025

Shape Monster Project Brings Early Literacy to Life

Students at A51 of Integrated Arts (ASIA) Sumas campus recently embarked on a cross-grade collaboration that brought their creativity and learning to life through the Shape Monster Project.

ASIA Stuffies Project ASIA Stuffies Project
picture of nathan standing to the right nathan ngieng full headshot
July 11, 2025

Nathan Ngieng Appointed as Superintendent of A51 District

The Abbotsford Board of Education has appointed Dr. Nathan Ngieng as Superintendent of Schools, effective July 15th. With more than 25 years of experience in B.C. public education and a proven history of leadership within Abbotsford, Dr. Ngieng is poised to guide the district’s continued commitment to innovation, equity, and student success.

picture of nathan standing to the right nathan ngieng full headshot