This year, Sun Peaks Education Society (SPES) marked its 15th anniversary, celebrating a journey that began in 2010 with just 19 students and has now grown to over 160 learners across multiple campuses. The milestone coincided with SPES’s 2025 annual general meeting, a moment to reflect on achievements, elect a new board and highlight new initiatives, including the school’s rebranding to Sun Peaks Mountain Academy.
Karen Fahey, vice president of SPES, opened the meeting by reading a report from outgoing president Maria Cannon, highlighting the society’s growth.
“The SPES operates the Sun Peaks Secondary Academy and strives to provide excellent academic programming in partnership with SD73’s program. Our students are deeply involved in educational activities, volunteering and sports within the community,” Cannon wrote.
Over the years, the society’s programs have combined traditional academics with extracurricular opportunities such as alpine fitness, science labs, themed events and field trips. Five students graduated in June 2025, celebrating with a ceremony at the top of the mountain, a parade through the village and speeches that reflected the tight-knit community spirit.
During the meeting the society’s financial health was addressed. While treasurer Melissa McKenzie was absent, her report was read aloud.
“It has been such a journey over these past 15 years,” she wrote. “Everyone should be very proud of what we have accomplished as a community and through dedicated parents and volunteers.”
SPES maintains a healthy bank balance and continues careful financial planning to ensure sustainability. Fundraising efforts, including the TELUS Nancy Greene Alpine Classic, have contributed significantly to operational costs, programming and expansion plans.
Rebranding and the Mountain Academy
This year, SPES announced the school’s rebrand from Sun Peaks Secondary Academy to Sun Peaks Mountain Academy, reflecting the society’s expanded focus on academic flexibility and outdoor athletic programs.
“ It’s about inclusion and making sure every student can thrive,” board memeber Kupferschmidt Linder said.
A new logo has also been finalized and will be unveiled publicly in the coming weeks.
Long-time parents have played a crucial role in SPES’ growth, contributing to close connections.
“It’s amazing that we started with 19 students and now we’re over 160. The kids have had opportunities to volunteer, participate in community activities and explore their passions. Seeing graduates come back and volunteer shows we’ve done something right,” Linder said.
Parent reflections highlighted the integration of outdoor education and community involvement as defining features of the Sun Peaks school experience.
The society also invited alumni Korina Linder to reflect on their time at the school.
“Going to school on the ski hill and skiing at lunchtime was a unique experience,” she said. “The online learning component allowed me to study at school or home, which was really helpful for students involved in sports. It gave me a head start in university since I was already familiar with online courses.”
She emphasized that the combination of flexible academics and hands-on community involvement gave her a strong foundation for both university and life beyond Sun Peaks.
As SPES moves forward, sustainability remains a key priority. The society plans to continue combining innovative educational programming, athletic opportunities and community engagement while ensuring sound financial management.
From its modest beginnings to its current status as a community hub for learning and extracurricular activities, SPES continues to embody the spirit of collaboration and opportunity that has defined it for 15 years.
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