With deep gratitude and respect, we are honoured to be learning and unlearning on the ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil‑Waututh Nation).

šxʷəxʷaʔəs (s‑hwu‑hwa'us) Thunderbird Elementary is a designated Enhanced Services school located on the northeast side of the city. For the 2025–2026 school year, we are proud to serve approximately 170 students whose families represent diverse cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds. Approximately 50% of our learners are English Language Learners, and 15% meet Ministry criteria for requiring specialized learning support. To meet the needs of all students within the regular classroom setting, we offer a wide range of supports, including a fully equipped sensory room, a fine‑motor development space, a collaborative learning area, the Learning Lab, and an All Nations space.

šxʷəxʷaʔəs Thunderbird is supported by a full‑time Youth and Family Worker, a Neighbourhood Assistant, and a Curriculum Enhancement Teacher. We also have a full‑time, on‑site food services coordinator. Our breakfast and lunch programs provide daily access to nutritious meals, and we offer a variety of healthy snacks to all learners. The hot breakfast program regularly serves more than 20% of our students, while the hot lunch program reaches approximately 70%. Our Strong Start program extends early learning opportunities to families with preschool‑aged children.

Thunderbird shares its site with the Thunderbird Community Centre and works closely with Centre staff to coordinate after‑school programs, day camps during extended breaks, and programming on professional development days. The community centre also provides before‑ and after‑school care, as well as a preschool program. We continue to collaborate with the Community Schools Team and maintain strong partnerships with community groups and agencies, including the Society Promoting Environmental Conservation (SPEC) and the Sarah McLachlan School of Music.

Students benefit from presentations on environmental issues from the City of Vancouver and work alongside an Artist in Residence to explore shared experiences, celebrate differences, and deepen their sense of belonging through reflection on identity and community. Leadership opportunities are offered through Student Council, PA announcers, playground leaders, and equipment monitors. Our sports program is also thriving, with many opportunities for students to participate in both team and individual activities at the district level.