KÌ“wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™ecw School District 83 will likely keep its Japanese twin, despite financial challenges. 

At the Dec. 17 school board meeting, chair Corryn Grayston provided an update on the Salmon Arm-Inashiki Twinning cultural exchange program that started as part of their sister city agreement. The parties involved have been contemplating the future of the program given funding challenges, but are committed to seeing it continue, even if it's in a modified capacity. 

During a recent Zoom meeting between the group, the mayor of Inashiki admitted said they're facing hardship with the declining value of the Yen, but would like to see the program reinstated for 2026. He suggested, however, having a smaller group of students participate, maybe five to 10. 

Salmon Arm Mayor Alan Harrison appreciated the idea of smaller groups, but also suggested spacing out the exchanges to every three years, such as having one in the 2026/27 year, then not again until 2030/31.

Grayston expressed SD83's support and appreciation of the program, but explained that after funding shortfalls over the last few years, the board is unable to financially support it and would like to explore other funding options. 

The Twinning Committee agreed to determine estimated expenses of the program with five to 10 students, and to look at a revised itinerary to further reduce costs.