Celebrating the Frances Kelsey Class of 2027
A safe, inclusive, and unforgettable celebration for our graduating class
Land Acknowledgement
We respectfully acknowledge that Frances Kelsey Secondary School and our community events take place on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, specifically the Malahat Nation and the Cowichan Tribes. We are grateful to live, learn, and gather on these lands.
The School & Its Spirit
Frances Kelsey Secondary School (FKSS) is nestled in the beautiful community of Mill Bay, BC, on southern Vancouver Island. Named after Dr. Frances Oldham Kelsey — the Canadian-American pharmacologist and FDA reviewer who courageously blocked the approval of thalidomide in the United States, saving thousands of children from devastating birth defects — our school carries forward her legacy of safety, integrity, and courage in everything we do. Proudly known as the Orcas (Breakers), our students embody strength, teamwork, and resilience both in and out of the classroom.
Our Mission
The FKSS Grad 2027 Dry Grad Committee is a dedicated group of parent volunteers working to provide a safe, inclusive, alcohol-free, and unforgettable graduation celebration for every student in the Class of 2027. Our goal is to ensure that every graduate can celebrate this milestone together in a secure and joyful environment.
Thank You to Our Faculty & Administration
None of this would be possible without the continued support and guidance of the FKSS administration and staff. We are deeply grateful for their partnership in making graduation a memorable and safe experience for every student.
Mr. Kevin van der Linden
Principal
Mr. Steve Brooks
Vice-Principal
Ms. Penny Butler
Vice-Principal
FKSS Parent Advisory Council (PAC)
Financial support, resources, and partnership
And to the entire FKSS teaching staff, support staff, and School District 79 — thank you for everything you do for our students.
Graduation Day — June 12, 2027
Two events. One unforgettable day.
The Red Carpet Walk
Farmers Institute Hall at Cobble Hill
Open to all graduating students, their families, friends, and the wider community. Come cheer on and photograph the Class of 2027 in their formal wear as they walk the red carpet.
The Dinner & Celebration
Undisclosed (following the Red Carpet)
- Strictly graduating students only — no families, friends, dates, or outside guests
- All grads bussed directly from Farmers Institute Hall to the private venue
- Safe, secure, inclusive, alcohol-free environment
- At event conclusion, grads must be picked up by parents/designated guardians
- No return busing; no student self-driving from the venue
Our Community Supporters
We are grateful to the local businesses and families who have generously contributed to making Grad 2027 unforgettable. Every supporter is recognized equally — because every contribution matters.
- Cobble Hill Bakery
- Island Savings Credit Union
- Mill Bay Garden Centre
- Shawnigan Lake General Store
- South Cowichan Community Foundation
- Valley View Veterinary Clinic
- (More supporters will be added as they join!)
How to Support
Financial contributions: Interac E-transfer to treasurer@fkssgrad2027.ca
Gifts-in-kind or prize donations: Contact sponsor@fkssgrad2027.ca
Upcoming Fundraising Events
Every bit helps us create something extraordinary.
Ongoing Bottle Drive
Ongoing
Drop off your refundable bottles and cans at the Mill Bay/Shawnigan Return-It Depot. Use account code "FKSS Grad 2027" to credit our committee. Every bottle counts!
Pub Night & Silent Auction
TBA — Fall 2026 • Local Mill Bay Venue
Join us for an evening of fun, food, and bidding! Tickets and details coming soon. Want to donate a silent auction item? Email sponsor@fkssgrad2027.ca
Purdys Chocolate Fundraiser
Holiday Season 2026
Order delicious Purdys chocolates online and support Grad 2027! Order link and pickup details at FKSS will be announced in the fall.
Dry Grad Wishlist
Help us create an unforgettable night! We're looking for donations of items, services, and volunteer time.
Venue Decor
Balloons, lighting rigs, stage rentals, tablecloths
Food & Beverage
Pizza, snack bars, food trucks, sodas, water
Entertainment
DJ, photobooth, arcade games, inflatables
Prizes & Swag
Gift cards, tech gadgets, custom hoodies, dorm essentials
Volunteers
Parent chaperones, security, set-up and clean-up crews
Can you help? Reach out at info@fkssgrad2027.ca
Get in Touch
Questions, ideas, or want to get involved? We'd love to hear from you.
Committee Board
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Chairperson chair@fkssgrad2027.ca
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Treasurer treasurer@fkssgrad2027.ca
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Sponsorships & Donations sponsor@fkssgrad2027.ca
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Media & Public Relations media@fkssgrad2027.ca
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General Info & Volunteers info@fkssgrad2027.ca