The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) and six regional school districts have signed a Memorandum of Collaboration to create a coordinated K–16 education framework, aiming to support student success from kindergarten through post-secondary graduation.
Recent labour market projections from the B.C. Labour Market Outlook 2025–2035 indicate that 77% of over one million job openings in the next decade will require post-secondary education or specialized training. To address this need, UFV and the school districts of Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Langley, Maple Ridge–Pitt Meadows, Mission, and Fraser-Cascade (Hope to Boston Bar) are working together to build a connected public education system.
Collaborative Framework
The partnership builds on a shared vision developed through the Education Summit and ongoing meetings over the past three years. Representatives from UFV and the districts have engaged in Education Leadership Summits and learning exchanges to identify barriers students and families face in pursuing post-secondary education. The result is a Collaborative K–16 Framework that outlines six priority areas:
- Indigenous Engagement and Reconciliation
- Dual Credit Expansion
- Professional Learning and Pedagogical Exchange
- Future-Ready Skills
- Technology Integration
- Bridging Gaps and Early Engagement
Supporting Student Transitions
The framework aims to provide students with consistent learning experiences, culturally responsive teaching, and opportunities aligned with their identities and ambitions. Dr. James Mandigo, UFV President, noted that the transition from high school to post-secondary can be daunting due to socio-economic barriers, equity issues, and unfamiliar teaching approaches. “This commitment is about recognizing and celebrating the unique gifts each student brings and finding ways to nurture, support, and celebrate those gifts throughout their educational journey,” he said.
The agreement was formally announced at UFV’s ConnectED Teaching and Learning Conference on April 29, 2026. By aligning K-12 and post-secondary systems, the partners hope to improve student success and better prepare graduates for the evolving labour market.
