Over three decades, there are countless moments I could choose. One that still sits near the top, especially this month, is February 2010, when Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics and we welcomed the world to our city.

 

Three things made that moment unforgettable.

 

First, it showed who we are as a school. We have always aimed to be progressive, nimble, and creative. That year, we treated the Olympics as a once in a lifetime event. We adjusted the school calendar by shifting time from the Christmas break and professional development days so we could close for the two Olympic weeks. The message was simple. This matters. Be present for it.

 

Second, the lead-up brought our culture to life. We formed a WPGA Olympic Committee with parents, staff, and students. They built events, activities, and House competitions that created real school pride and real national pride. The PVG gifted everyone matching Canadian mittens and toques, and you could spot Grey Wolves out in the city at Olympic events. The peak was a full school assembly on the main field. An actual Olympic torch was lit and jogged in, passed from parents to teachers to students, and finally carried to centre field by our school captain to light a large ceremonial cauldron. It was electric. It felt like the whole community was breathing in sync.

 

Third, that same month delivered an entirely different kind of gold medal. Canada’s National Debate Team competed at the World Schools Debating Championships in Doha, Qatar. Three of the five students were from WPGA, and the national coach was our own debate coach. Canada beat 54 other countries then defeated England in the final to win the championship. When the team came home, local news hosts joked that their gold should count as Canada’s 15th Olympic gold.

 

That month captured something I still hold onto. When WPGA decides something matters, we show up fully. Together.

One value I carry with me is simple. Be open minded and optimistic. Start by asking what might be possible.

 

At WPGA, I learned to lead with yes. Not yes to everything, but yes to curiosity, to exploration, to new ideas, and to the belief that a good plan can become a great one if you stay focused and keep moving. It is a practical habit. It changes what you notice. It changes how you listen. It changes what you build with other people