February 19, 2026
Letter to Families About the Proposed Police Partnership Program
Dear Families:
At New Westminster Schools, we are committed to cultivating inclusive spaces where every student feels safe and experiences a true sense of belonging. To further this commitment to secure and supportive learning environments, the Board of Education and the district are developing Policy 28, which outlines a formal partnership with the New Westminster Police Department.
The Police Partnership Program (PPP) is a transparent, relationship-focused initiative dedicated to enhancing school safety and student well-being. Rooted in human rights principles, the PPP integrates civilian supports, restorative practices, and inclusive education. Key elements of the PPP include:
- Staff-led discipline where schools retain full responsibility for managing student conduct that is not in line with codes and expectations.
- Collaboration where staff and community officers work side-by-side to foster a positive school climate.
- Strict supervision through two new administrative procedures (AP192 and AP193). These APs establish specific roles, responsibilities, oversight mechanisms, and outline rigorous information-sharing protocols that provide clear direction on when, how, and by whom personal information may be shared with the police.
We believe this policy and these administrative procedures are of such significance that they must be shaped by our community. In alignment with our commitment to public participation and in line with principles of International Association of Public Participation (IAP2), we are requesting feedback on Policy 28 and Administrative Procedures 192 and 193.
The proposed timeline is as follows:
- February 24 – The proposed policy and administrative procedures are introduced at the open board meeting for discussion.
- February 19 to March 3 – We invite you to review the draft policy and procedures. Your insights are vital to ensuring this partnership reflects the values and needs of our families. Once the community input period has closed, we will review all feedback to ensure the final policy and administrative procedures reflect a balanced, community-focused approach prior to coming before the Board.
- March 10 – The proposed policy, along with AP192 and AP193, will be presented to the Board of Education for consideration.
Drafts of the policy and administrative procedures are available for review:
- Draft Administrative Procedure 192 – Police Partnership Program
- Draft Administrative Procedure 193 – Information Sharing with Law Enforcement
- Draft Policy 28 – Police Partnership Program
Provide your feedback through our online form:
Thank you for your continued partnership and for your dedication to the success of our students.
Cheryl Sluis
Chair, Board of Education
Mark Davidson
Superintendent of Schools