The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is proud to recognize exceptional student leadership through the annual Student Senate Leadership Award. This year's recipients were honoured at the Student Senate General Assembly Meeting for their work in leading projects that promoted belonging, student voice, and meaningful opportunities across their schools.
From Colonel J.E. Farewell Public School, student leader Presley Ross was awarded for her work in envisioning, planning, and leading the Connection Crew, which is an inclusive student club dedicated to fostering positive peer relationships.
Through her leadership, the Connection Crew has created welcoming spaces and activities that encourage kindness, collaboration, and a sense of belonging among students. Ross's project showcased thoughtful planning, creativity, and a strong commitment to ensuring every student feels seen and supported.
Mysha Jeofry of J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate was recognized for creating Together We Belong, a school-wide initiative focused on fostering inclusion and building stronger connections, particularly for students in the Practical Learning Program (PLP).
The project delivered a series of impactful events and ongoing activities, including:
- An all-inclusive Halloween dance, bringing together students from multiple schools for a half-day social event designed to create a safe and welcoming space.
- A unified 3v3 basketball tournament, pairing students in the Practical Learning Program with unified athletes to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a supportive environment.
- Weekly inclusive intramurals, with basketball, bocce, and floorball, offering opportunities for students of all abilities to interact, stay active, and build friendships.
- A cooking club dubbed "Best Chefies", will provide students the opportunity to learn about food preparation and independent living skills.
"We are incredibly proud of these student leaders," said Andrea McAuley, Superintendent of Education, Durham District School Board. "Their dedication to building inclusive and welcoming school environments reflects the very best of what student leadership can achieve."
The Student Senate Leadership Award was developed and supported by the Kettle Family and highlights the power of student-driven initiatives that shape school culture and inspire meaningful change.
