Building Belonging at NCS: Meet Our Community Coordinator

Learn about Tessa Fuiava's role at NCS and how she's strengthening community through relationships, hospitality, and communication.

At NCS, school is more than just a place for academic growth — it’s a place to belong. That sense of connection doesn’t happen by accident at Nanaimo Christian School. It’s nurtured intentionally. 

Helping to build connection among families is Tessa Fuiava, our community coordinator, who is both a staff member and a parent of two NCS students. She facilitates opportunities for parents and grandparents to engage in life at school – strengthening community through relationship, hospitality, and communication. Here’s how:

Fun community-building events

She helps organize some of the most beloved events of the year that bring our families together — Fun Fair, Grandfriends’ Day, Pastor Appreciation, the Newcomers’ Dinner and Kindergarten Summer Play Date — working alongside parent volunteers to bring them to life. These events aren’t just fun traditions; they’re touchpoints for building community.

Special interest groups

Tessa also helps create interest groups: from casual coffee meetups and hiking groups, to a moms’ night out and dads’ group activities. These groups are led by parents and grandparents — a beautiful reflection of the servant-hearted community we have at NCS.

Volunteer coordination

Tessa oversees volunteer coordination, the Track it Forward volunteer opportunities, announcements in newsletters and parent Facebook group. She also coordinates volunteers and event details for fundraisers including the hot lunch program, annual gala, Giving Tuesday, and Trailblazer Trek. 

Parent cottage connections

A unique aspect of community life on campus is the parent cottage — a dedicated inviting space for parents and grandparents to gather. It’s a hub for parent connections. Parents and grandparents can drop in for a coffee here at drop off/pick up times or join a Muffin Monday Q&A session with senior leadership to share ideas and feedback about their school experience. Special interest groups and event planning committees meet here, too.

Want to connect?

Whether you want to share an idea or get plugged into our community, Tessa is a great channel for listening, discussion, and collaboration. Pop into Tessa’s office in the cottage next to the parent cottage. Or contact her at tessa.fuiava@ncsnanaimo.com. 

We’re building this school community together — and we’re so glad you’re part of it!