About Kanaka PAC

Learn about who we are and what we do for the school community.

Our Mission

The Kanaka Parent Advisory Council exists to support and enhance the educational experience for all students at Kanaka Elementary. We serve as a bridge between families and the school, ensuring that parent voices are heard in decisions that affect our children's education. Through community building, fundraising, and advocacy, we work to create the best possible learning environment.

What We Do

Fundraising

We organize events and campaigns to raise funds for classroom resources, playground improvements, field trips, and school programs that benefit all students.

Advocacy

We represent parent interests at the school and district level, providing input on policies, curriculum, and resource allocation.

Community Building

We host social events throughout the year to bring families together and build a strong, connected school community.

Volunteer Coordination

We coordinate parent volunteers for school events, classroom support, hot lunch programs, and other school initiatives.

Executive Team (2025-2026)

Chairperson

Katie Cowieson

Katie Cowieson is the President of the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) and is passionate about building a strong, welcoming, and connected school community. She is committed to supporting students, families, and staff through collaboration, community events, and parent engagement initiatives that help enrich the school experience for all children.

kcpacpresident@gmail.com

Vice Chair

Aisha Pollard Douglas

Aisha serves as the Vice Chair of the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) and is passionate about supporting a positive and connected school community. She enjoys working collaboratively with families, staff, and fellow PAC members to help organize events, encourage parent involvement, and support initiatives that enrich students’ school experiences. Lindsay is committed to helping create a welcoming environment where all students and families feel included and supported.

Seceretary

Candace Walsh

Candace Walsh serves as the Secretary of the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) and is dedicated to supporting strong communication and collaboration within the school community. She enjoys helping keep families informed, supporting PAC initiatives, and contributing to events and activities that enrich students’ experiences. Candace is passionate about fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where students, staff, and families can thrive together.

Secretary & Hot Lunch Coordinator

Marianna Afanasyvev

Marianna serves as the Secretary of the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) and is dedicated to supporting strong communication and collaboration within the school community. She enjoys helping keep families informed, supporting PAC initiatives, and contributing to events and activities that enrich students’ experiences. Mariana is passionate about fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where students, staff, and families can thrive together.

Monika Choudhary

Treasurer

Monika Choudhary serves as Treasurer with a commitment to financial integrity and transparency. She ensures that every dollar is managed thoughtfully and used to maximize impact for the organization's mission. Monika's dedication to sound stewardship reflects her belief that trust is the foundation of effective fundraising and community support.

kcpactreasurer@gmail.com

Treasurer-2

Gayathri Arukapalli

Gayathri Arukapalli serves as Treasurer with a keen eye for financial stewardship and accountability. She works diligently to ensure resources are managed wisely and directed toward meaningful impact. Gayathri's thoughtful approach to fiscal responsibility demonstrates her deep commitment to building trust and supporting the organization's mission.

Hot Lunch Coordinator

Jessica Lahaie

Jessica serves as Hot Lunch Coordinator, bringing warmth and care to every meal she helps organize. She understands that nourishing the community goes beyond food—it's about creating moments of connection and support.

kcpachotlunch@gmail.com

DPAC Representative, Hot Lunch Coordinator & Fundraising Coordinator

Brigitte Krugar

Brigitte serves as Hot Lunch Coordinator, dedicated to nourishing the community with care and enthusiasm. She believes that sharing a meal is about building connections and creating a welcoming space for everyone. She also serves as DPAC Representative, bridging communication between families and the school community. She is passionate about supporting initiatives that strengthen our schools and create positive experiences for students. Bridgette's dedication to collaboration and advocacy ensures that every voice is heard and valued.

kcpachotlunch@gmail.com

DPAC Representative

Paige Licas

Paige Licas serves as DPAC Representative, committed to fostering strong connections within our school community. She brings enthusiasm and advocacy to every initiative, working to ensure that families have a voice in shaping positive change. Paige's collaborative spirit and dedication make her an invaluable bridge between parents and school programs.

Fundraising Coordinator

Neha Arora

As a Fundraiser Coordinator, She helps plan, organize, and coordinate school fundraising initiatives from start to finish. This includes working with volunteers, coordinating with vendors and families, managing communications, tracking orders and payments, and ensuring fundraising activities run smoothly. My goal is to make fundraising simple, organized, and enjoyable for families, while helping the school community raise funds that directly support students and school programs.

Member-at-Large

Faiza Karim

Faiza is a valued PAC Member-at-Large who supports a variety of school initiatives throughout the year. She coordinates Popcorn Days, helps organize Grade 7 activities, and contributes to many other events that enrich our school community. We appreciate her dedication and enthusiasm in supporting our students and families.

Members At Large

Candace Halliday

Members at Large are an important part of the PAC team, bringing their ideas, perspectives, and support to help strengthen the school community. They participate in PAC discussions, help with events and initiatives, and support projects throughout the school year. They provide a flexible way for parents and guardians to get involved, contribute their skills, and help make a positive difference for students and families.

Members At Large

Caylie Valley

Members at Large are an important part of the PAC team, bringing their ideas, perspectives, and support to help strengthen the school community. They participate in PAC discussions, help with events and initiatives, and support projects throughout the school year. They provide a flexible way for parents and guardians to get involved, contribute their skills, and help make a positive difference for students and families.

Members At Large

Melissa Tomsons

Members at Large are an important part of the PAC team, bringing their ideas, perspectives, and support to help strengthen the school community. They participate in PAC discussions, help with events and initiatives, and support projects throughout the school year. They provide a flexible way for parents and guardians to get involved, contribute their skills, and help make a positive difference for students and families.

Member At Large

Meagan Oslie

Members at Large are an important part of the PAC team, bringing their ideas, perspectives, and support to help strengthen the school community. They participate in PAC discussions, help with events and initiatives, and support projects throughout the school year. They provide a flexible way for parents and guardians to get involved, contribute their skills, and help make a positive difference for students and families.

Member At Large

Jessica Lahaie

Members at Large are an important part of the PAC team, bringing their ideas, perspectives, and support to help strengthen the school community. They participate in PAC discussions, help with events and initiatives, and support projects throughout the school year. They provide a flexible way for parents and guardians to get involved, contribute their skills, and help make a positive difference for students and families.

How to Get Involved

Every parent and guardian of a Kanaka student is automatically a member of the PAC. Here are some ways to participate:

  • Attend monthly PAC meetings (first Wednesday of each month)
  • Volunteer at school events and fundraisers
  • Join a PAC committee (Fundraising, Social, Safety)
  • Run for an executive position at the September AGM
  • Share your ideas and feedback at meetings or via email