Strong partnerships are elevating opportunities for students. Examples of recent work across the District are featured below.
Student Cara Komukai wrote a book while in Grade 7 at Cameron Elementary, after making up stories and developing characters with her Education Assistant. Now in Grade 11 at Burnaby Mountain Secondary, she's visiting elementary classrooms in the District, as part of her pre-employment goals, to read her published book. The author, who has Down Syndrome, included her then EA, Dave Larocque, and his dogs in her storybook. Larocque also instructs a Burnaby Community and Continuing Education class in the summer for students taking an Education Assistant Diploma with the District's adult education program. Cara has presented at the Burnaby CCE class for several years to aspiring EAs, who leave both inspired and with an autographed copy of her book.
As part of their efforts to build community, a group of students from Burnaby North Secondary called the "Uncs," which stands for United for Nurturing Change, have been mentoring boys at Capitol Hill Elementary. Their fall workshops are on Sportsmanship, Leadership and Success in School. Mentorship from the Uncs will continue over the winter and spring.
The Settlement Workers in Schools or SWIS team organized a Dental Clinic for newcomers who lack access to dental benefits. In partnership with the Fraser Health Authority, the free clinic saw 28 children and their parents.
Following work experience and training that began last year out of Alpha Secondary, Zoran has now achieved paid federal employment. He was part of the High School Student Integration Program for Students with Intellectual Disabilities, which is a federally funded program that supports youth with the transition from high school to work.
The Parent Advisory Council at Confederation Park Elementary led an Art Show and Silent Auction Fundraiser. Students created one-of-a-kind art projects available for purchase at the annual event, which celebrates creativity and community. As a school, Confederation Park is also a District Program of Choice, providing Education Through the Arts.
