Valley Heights hosted incoming class of Bears at recent events

By Madison Brazeau

VHSS Student Reporter

Over the past few months, Valley Heights has been preparing for the incoming class of Grade 9 students for the 2025–2026 school year. There have been many events hosted so that future Bears can get a taste of all the programs that the school has to offer. Most recently the school hosted over 170 Grade 8 students from local elementary schools at their future Grade 9 day on November 18 and many other students at the open house on January 9.

The students got to participate in various activities that Valley Heights offers. The day included welding, making pottery, conducting music, and competing in Jeopardy. They also enjoyed cupcakes in family studies, learned about our French program through some games, played dodgeball, did science experiments, and the favourite of most, eating a delicious spaghetti lunch prepared by the hospitality program. The Grade 12 leaders helped to facilitate tours and lead groups through the school while the Grade 11s helped in classrooms and many other students helped show their Valley pride by demonstrating good behaviour and welcoming students into the school.

The open house hosted on January 9 was facilitated by the wonderful guidance counsellor and the student success team. Tours of the school were provided and lots of information and fun reasons to attend Valley Heights made the night a great success! Highlighting programs like our specialist high skills major (SHSM), as well as dual credit classes, provides even more reason to come to the amazing school! Along with this, we have an amazing environment for learning, helpful teachers, and awesome spaces to learn like the workshop, library, and even an outdoor classroom!

As a Grade 12 student at Valley Heights, I have really enjoyed my experience here. We have welcoming staff and students who are always helpful, a variety of sports teams where great friendships form, and a dedicated students’ council who plans fun events and spirit days to keep the Valley alive.

While we may be a small school this creates a family-like atmosphere where everyone can grow and succeed. As a senior, my advice to a future Grade 9 student is to be kind to everyone, it doesn’t hurt you or anyone else around you to smile or include others because they might be the friendships you cherish most! Some other seniors also provided some encouraging advice:

“Make sure you enjoy the years—they go by fast. Also, don’t worry about trying to find a relationship in high school.” —Anonymous.

“Get out there. Don’t wait until Grade 11 or 12 to try stuff, get involved in sports, clubs, with teachers, and other students. It will change your outlook on your high school career. Focus on managing your time, complete schoolwork, but also find time for fun with friends and family. High school is not just about the work, but make sure you use all the available resources and if you are struggling don’t wait until the last minute to reach out for help.” —Emilie Mole.

“Put yourself out there, especially for sports teams and clubs because that’s how I made the majority of my friends.” —Anonymous.

“Be engaged and active in your school. Set goals for yourself and do your best work always! Ask for help from teachers if you are struggling and make sure you space out your social life with homework.” —Anonymous.

Thanks to the wonderful students and staff that have made plenty of opportunities for future Bears to see what Valley Heights is all about and has to offer! We hope to see you at Valley Heights next year!

Originally printed in The Good News, February 2025.