Connections with the community and partners are enriching experiences for students. Below are some recent examples from across the District.
Using the Federal election as a chance to learn, several elementary schools participated in student votes, including Nelson Elementary. Many high schools also held mock votes to support learning, such as Alpha and Moscrop Secondary. The student voting stations were supported by – a non-partisan charity focused on democracy and young people.
Burnaby South Secondary students invited all candidates in the local riding to a forum attended by Grade 8 to 12 Social Studies classes. In addition to organizing the event, student-leaders in the South Youth Forum Club also moderated the question-and-answer session at the All-Party Forum. Nearly 600 students had the chance to learn about the democratic process and hear firsthand from potential political leaders about issues that matter most to students.
Ten students from the District were among those at the event, learning about everything from framing to ironworking. BCIT’s annual event includes industry professionals and is for students who identify as female or may be gender diverse. Fifteen high school students had the chance to participate in a Firefighter Academy. The career exploration opportunity, put on in partnership with Burnaby Firefighters, gave youth hands-on experience as they consider their futures.
A similar academy was also held recently in partnership with the Burnaby RCMP. Nearly 30 students from across the District came together at Burnaby Central Secondary to explore aspects of policing, as they contemplate a possible career in law enforcement. Following an invitation by the Settlement Workers in Schools or team, Burnaby RCMP were guest speakers about safety at a monthly parent group meeting at Byrne Creek Community School. The meetings are designed to help newcomers build awareness of local supports.
Posted April 2025