BONNYVILLE - ”I couldn’t have picked a better school when it comes to quality of education… It gives everyone equal opportunity to try harder and our teachers are so supportive.”
Those were some of the sentiments shared by students in Grades 9 through 12 during the Student/Board Engagement Session at École Notre Dame High School on February 21.
Supportive teachers, caring atmosphere, unique extra curricular opportunities, and how faith is integrated at their school were some of the highlights shared by participating students.
The topics for discussion were broken down into four categories: Faith Identity, Quality of Education, Social, Emotional and Physical Wellbeing, and Citizenship, Safe, and Caring School Environments.
Faith Identity
One student said, “I like how the school does religion here. With the constant support and acceptance, I was able to find what I believe.”
Attending church in-person, having faith-based speakers present at their school, integrating prayer into their daily announcements, and their social justice projects were some of the positives noted by students.
In terms of growth, students would like to see even more chances to volunteer in the community through their school. in order to “show how people in our community can help others and have an impact.”
Incorporating opportunities for others to share their experiences and stories in religious class would be a reminder that everyone experiences their own faith journey.
Quality of Education
In addition to receiving support from their teachers, students expressed their appreciation for their principal, who they described as always putting their education first.
Students value the wide variety of learning opportunities and feel their teachers encourage and communicate well.
Extracurriculars such as the school’s arts and sports programs, were among the highlights for the students, who appreciate the wide variety offered.
Some areas for growth include consistency in grading and assessment, school-provided transportation to sporting events, and additional resources for French Immersion programming.
Social, Emotional, and Physical Wellbeing
The school’s unique approach to improving mental wellness at the school through school-wide events and having access to s student counsellor when needed were among the positives in the social, emotional, and physical wellbeing category.
“I like how open the teachers are about mental health – they do show that if you need to talk to someone, they’re open,” a student said.
The group also appreciated the opportunity to provide their thoughts and feedback to the Board of Trustees through the engagement session, noting they felt heard.
Students would like to see more engaging presentations in regards to bullying instead of the standard speaker or video in class. Using Dwayne Peace as an example, the group explained how his presentation was personal and impactful because of his approach and his passion for his faith.
“It felt like a small family,” noted one participant.
Citizenship and Safe and Caring School Environments
The cleanliness of their school, clubs held during lunch hour, as well as the quick response by teachers to certain behaviour were among the list of high points, while installing cameras in the school parking lots and more unique presentations were future considerations.
The board’s next Student/Board Engagement Session is scheduled for March 6 at Assumption Jr/Sr High School.