On February 20, students in Kami Fasan's Grade 5 class at Norgate Xwemélch'stn Community Elementary experienced a memorable moment in civic learning when The Honourable MP Jonathan Wilkinson, Member of Parliament (MP) visited their classroom after receiving a series of thoughtful letters from the students.

As part of their Grade 5 government curriculum, students wrote and mailed letters to MP Wilkinson addressing issues that matter to them, including immigration, affordability, homelessness, bullying and school resources. The depth and sincerity of their writing left a strong impression on MP Wilkinson, who requested an opportunity to meet the young authors in person.

“I liked when he visited because he answered the questions in our letters. I like that he explained who he was and what he did before he was an MP. I learned that more money was being used for healthcare than education due to an aging population. I liked that he proved that he read our letters by saying something we wrote when he answered our questions." – Ziva P, Grade 5

​During his hour-long visit, MP Wilkinson acknowledged each of the students' letters and answered their questions, engaging them in meaningful conversation about the role of government and the importance of community involvement. Norgate Xwemélch'stn, an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, places strong emphasis on student-led action, inquiry, and community building. The visit served as a powerful example of these values in action, giving students a real-world connection to their learning and reinforcing the impact their perspectives can have.

“We had questions like 'why is it getting so pricey here' and 'will he help make it easier for immigrants to come to Canada?' I asked if he would help the people of Iran feel safe because we are trying our best and we are protesting for freedom. After I heard him talk, I had hope." – Mehrbod S, Grade 5

For many of the Grade 5 students, meeting their Member of Parliament was an inspiring experience—one that highlighted how civic engagement begins with young people who are willing to speak up and participate.