Around the district is a monthly update that includes a collection of stories from Richmond schools. These stories highlight Richmond's vibrant learning community which fosters student engagement, creativity, and well-being in inclusive learning environments.
A Year in Review - Celebrating Education and Engagement in the Richmond School District
Join us on a journey through the past year in the Richmond School District. Experience how our schools foster a deep sense of community and belonging by nurturing connections with the natural environment and local culture. Discover how we create inclusive and welcoming learning environments that celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusivity, ensuring that every student feels valued and empowered. Together, let's celebrate the achievements and milestones of the past year, and look forward to an even brighter future.
Empowering Student Voices: Richmond's Inaugural Student Voice Forum
The Richmond School District hosted its first-ever Student Voice Forum, an important occasion that brought together approximately 170 students from all 10 secondary schools and alternate programs. The event garnered tremendous support with nearly 50 staff members joining the students in their quest for open dialogue and active participation.
Spanning the entire day, the forum buzzed with energy as students immersed themselves in captivating table activities, eagerly exchanging their personal stories and insights. This momentous occasion served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that arises from amplifying the voices of our students.
National Indigenous History Month
June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to reflect on the history, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Richmond schools are actively honoring Indigenous history and fostering cultural understanding through various initiatives.
At Spul'u'kwuks Elementary, students and staff explored their school's land, which was once a Musqueam fishing settlement thousands of years ago. They created prominent displays to showcase their learning and acknowledge Indigenous History Month.
General Currie Elementary's Grade 6 student leaders visited primary classes, sharing information and answering questions about National Indigenous History Month. Their initiative aimed to raise awareness and promote understanding among young learners.
Hugh Boyd Secondary School organized a gallery walk titled "21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act" on June 21. This event invited students to learn and reflect on the deep-rooted racism embedded in the Indian Act and its ongoing impact on Indigenous peoples.
Talmey Elementary welcomed Indigenous storyteller and children's book author Roberta Kennedy. She shared traditional legends and personal stories, including her clan's survival of the smallpox epidemic, providing valuable insights into Indigenous culture and resilience.
These initiatives within the Richmond School District foster respect, understanding, and the celebration of Indigenous cultures during National Indigenous History Month.
Embracing Indigenous Achievements: Honoring Graduates in a Cultural Celebration
The Richmond School District celebrated the many achievements of Grade 7 and Grade 12 Indigenous students with a special graduation ceremony. This event brought together a diverse community of staff, students, and families, all united in their admiration for the students' accomplishments. Musqueam Nation Members and our dedicated Indigenous Success Team played an integral role in guiding the students through a culturally immersive graduation ceremony that honored their heritage.
The evening included a vibrant display of cultural dance performances, melodious singing, and culturally significant drumming, which fostered a profound appreciation for the richness and beauty of Indigenous traditions.
Pride Season Celebration
June marks Pride Season, a nationwide tribute to the LGBTQ2S+ community, highlighting their history, struggles, and achievements. It serves as a platform to promote inclusivity, acceptance, and equal rights for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Pride Month encourages education, dialogue, and raising awareness about discrimination and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ2S+ community and other equity-seeking groups.
At McRoberts Secondary, the school has organized weekly themes throughout June. These themes cover a range of topics, including the history of Pride, the significance of the Pride flag, ways to be an ally, and how to support and participate in Pride events. These initiatives provide opportunities for students to learn, engage, and promote inclusivity within their school community.
Spul'u'kwuks Elementary's SOGI club dedicated their efforts to researching different Pride flags, showcasing the evolving history and diversity of Pride symbols. Additionally, students read the book "We are all Dots: A Big Plan for a Better World," which emphasizes the power of collaboration in achieving remarkable things. To visually express their learning, the school community came together to create a rainbow fingerprint display, with each student selecting an animal, plant, or person represented by a rainbow of colors.
These activities and initiatives demonstrate the Richmond School District’s commitment to promoting understanding, acceptance, and a sense of unity during Pride Season. Let's celebrate diversity and work together to build an inclusive and supportive school environment for all.
Currie Elementary's Unforgettable Sports Day Celebration
Students and staff at Currie Elementary School proudly reflected on the success of their first sports day since 2019. This occasion united students, staff, and families, and fostered a strong sense of community and excitement throughout the school. The day began with a spirited bike parade, where cheers of support filled the air as friends showcased their impressive skills on wheels. Student leaders took the initiative to guide younger participants through various activity stations. Their exceptional guidance showcased their qualities as leaders. The students also demonstrated remarkable respect for the environment by actively participating in the cleanup of the school grounds at the conclusion of the event. They embodied the motto of "Currie Cares" by not only caring for themselves but also for others.
Celebrating Student Talents: Outdoor Music Event at Ferris Elementary
Ferris Elementary gathered on the school field for a memorable outdoor music celebration. The event showcased performances from a diverse range of musical genres. From timeless classical masterpieces like Beethoven's 9th to beloved rock classics such as "Smoke on the Water" and the iconic Star Wars theme, the audience was taken on a delightful musical journey.
This remarkable outdoor event highlighted the exceptional talents and dedication of our students. Their performances radiated confidence and pride, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present. As families, staff, and community members gathered to enjoy the music, the atmosphere brimmed with positive energy that fostered a deep sense of pride and appreciation within the school community.
Inclusive Education: Raising Deafblindness Awareness in the Richmond School District
More than 460,000 individuals in Canada face the challenges of deafblindness, accounting for approximately 1 in every 3000 people. Recognizing the existing service gaps nationwide, our district actively participates in the "Making a Wave from Coast to Coast" campaign throughout the month of June, dedicated to increasing awareness of deafblindness and its profound impact on individuals' lives.
As a demonstration of our commitment to inclusive education, the Richmond School District proudly hosts the Provincial Outreach Program for Students with Deafblindness (POPDB) within our schools. Through collaborative partnerships and specialized training, our educators receive the necessary support to effectively work with K-12 students who experience deafblindness.
The highly dedicated teachers from POPDB play a vital role by providing crucial consultation services to school teams. They deliver customized courses in deafblind intervention and offer professional development opportunities to educators. By nurturing a profound understanding of the unique needs of students with deafblindness, our district strives to ensure their equitable access to education, effective communication, and a nurturing learning environment.
