Students step up as leaders
Students at Queen Elizabeth Public School recently joined with Durham Regional Police officers for a leadership symposium. A friendly game of basketball was one of several activities. (Photo by Dave Flaherty)
By Dave Flaherty/The Oshawa Express
Intermediate students at Queen Elizabeth Public School recently had a chance to put their leadership skills on display.
On April 10, the school hosted a symposium involving Grade 7 and 8 students that featured breakout sessions with members of Durham Regional Police Service.
Officers spoke with students about mental health and wellness, healthy eating, and physical activity.
There were also games of basketball and volleyball.
Later on in the day, the students switched roles and led similar activities with younger classmates in Grades 4 to 6.
Queen Elizabeth Public School vice-principal Melanie Ford said members of the school’s student council and social justice and equity group were the driving force behind the event.
“It’s really been about their voice,” said Ford.
“It’s all about what the kids want,” added teacher Bev Fiddler, who said she was so proud of the work students had put into the event.
For example, several students designed t-shirts for their classmates to wear.
According to Fiddler, the students are at an age when standing up and becoming leaders can be somewhat of a social risk.
She also praised the DRPS members for being involved, as it builds a positive relationship with students.
“The officers taking time out of their schedule is so important,” Fiddler stated.
The leadership symposium coincided with National Anti-Bullying Day.
The initiative began in 2007 when two teenagers distributed pink shirts at a Nova Scotia high school after a Grade 9 student was bullied for wearing one.