November 14, 2024
Administrative Announcement 2024-11-14
To the Education Community of the Gulf Islands School District,
On behalf of the Board of Education for School District 64 (Gulf Islands), I wish to make the following announcement:
At its regular meeting in public on November 13, 2024, the Board of Education passed a motion to halt operations of the Gulf Islands International Program (GIIP) effective June 30th, 2025. This decision, although difficult, was made due to the program’s projected viability challenges including declining enrollment, rising costs, and ongoing pressures related to homestay availability.
The program will continue its operations for the remainder of the 2024-2025 school year.
For 25 years, the International Program has been a cornerstone of pride in our District, fostering dynamic and diverse learning environments and enhancing cultural awareness. As this program concludes, we celebrate its enduring legacy of cultural exchange, lifelong friendships, and global understanding, which will continue to inspire us to broaden our worldviews and perspectives.
The Board extends its heartfelt appreciation to all GIIP staff for their invaluable contributions to the program’s success over the years. A special thank you goes to Program Manager Sheri Wakefield for her unwavering dedication and service to Gulf Islands students and families, both locally and internationally. We also extend our deep gratitude to the families who provided essential homestays, without whom the program could not have thrived.
Sincerely,
Jill Jensen
Superintendent of Schools/CEO