Tragedy in Vancouver

Dear Sullivan Heights Community,

As you are likely aware, a significant and tragic incident took place at the Vancouver Lapu Lapu Festival on Saturday night – it is weighing on me, I am sure it is weighing on many of our staff, and, undoubtedly, it will be weighing on members of our student community and their families.   My heartfelt condolences go out to all individuals directly and indirectly affected.

We are working with the District, SafeSchools, and our school counselling department to ensure supports are available as needed for staff and students over the days to come.  If you have any questions or concerns about those supports, please reach out to the school administration.  Additionally, please see the message below from Surrey Schools Superintendent, Mark Pearmain. 

Sincerely,

Nikolas Kirincic

Principal, Sullivan Heights Secondary

Statement from the Superintendent

At Surrey Schools, we are deeply saddened to learn about the tragic events that unfolded at the Lapu-Lapu Festival last night – a celebration that brings together communities from across Metro Vancouver.

In the face of this heartbreaking tragedy, district resource counselors and Safe Schools staff are ready to provide support wherever it is needed. We are extending these supports to our colleagues and partners across the district as well.

Healing from an event like this will take time for our Filipino-Canadian and Surrey community, and the path forward may not be easy. At Surrey Schools, I know we will meet this moment with deep care and compassion.

Sincerely,

Mark Pearmain,

Superintendent, Surrey Schools