The Christmas Concert at Francois Lakes Elementary School, originally scheduled for December 18, was rescheduled to December 19 at the community centre after being cancelled earlier this month. The event was cancelled when the school discovered that it included "religious elements," which raised concerns about adherence to the BC School Act, which mandates that public schools remain non-sectarian.

Principal Marlee Wilson informed families in a letter that the concert preparations had inadvertently incorporated religious content. As a result, the decision was made to cancel the concert due to limited time to make necessary adjustments.

"As a public school it is essential that our events remain non-sectarian in nature and comply with BC School Act," Wilson has said in the letter.

"Given the limited time available to make adjustments, the staff has made the difficult decision to cancel this year's Christmas Concert. We understand this news may be difficult for many families, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,鈥� the statement further read.

Following this the Parent Advisory Committee stepped in to reschedule the concert, which took place at the community hall on December 19.

School District 91 declined to offer further comment on the cancellation or the issue, but Interim Superintendent Mike Skinner issued a statement addressing the situation. Skinner said the decision to cancel the event was made to ensure compliance with the School Act, and noted that the district had been in communication with parents and community members who expressed concerns.

"This decision has sparked conversations among parents and community members, and we value direct communication," Skinner said.

He also added that SD 91 has engaged and held discussions with many individuals who reached out to share their thoughts and concerns and will continue to do so.