Learn, Share and Grow Blog: Posts https://www.sd44.ca/District/LearnShareGrow/Lists/Posts/AllPosts.aspx RSS feed for the Posts list. Mon, 04 May 2026 04:29:19 GMT Microsoft SharePoint Foundation RSS Generator 60 en-US Learn, Share and Grow Blog: Posts https://www.sd44.ca/District/LearnShareGrow/_layouts/15/images/siteIcon.png https://www.sd44.ca/District/LearnShareGrow/Lists/Posts/AllPosts.aspx MP Jonathan Wilkinson Visits Grade 5 Class at Norgate Xwemélch’stn Community Elementary https://www.sd44.ca/District/LearnShareGrow/Lists/Posts/ViewPost.aspx?ID=884 Body:

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

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​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.

Category: Innovative Instruction; Student-Centred Education
Published: 4/16/2026 12:00 AM
]]> Innovative Instruction; Student-Centred Education Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:05:47 GMT https://www.sd44.ca/District/LearnShareGrow/Lists/Posts/ViewPost.aspx?ID=884 Dancing Through the Year at Handsworth https://www.sd44.ca/District/LearnShareGrow/Lists/Posts/ViewPost.aspx?ID=885 Body:

By Kalla V and Fiona E, Grade 11, Handsworth Secondary

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At Handsworth, the dance program is an integral part of our vibrant school community. Dance provides a space for students to express themselves, perform, and step out of their comfort zone, and is open to all regardless of experience and skill.

Throughout the school year thus far, students in the Handsworth dance program have gathered to perform for the community. During the fall pep rally, they danced in support of our fall sports teams. They were featured performers of the half-time show during the Spirit Game of the annual No Regrets tournament. The dance program also performed an emotionally charged piece as part of the school-wide Remembrance Day Ceremony, honouring the sacrifices families make during times of conflict.

The most recent event that included classical, hip hop, and contemporary performances was the Winter Dance Show. The theme of the show was “Proudly Canadian." All the dances in the show were student-choreographed and were performed to songs by Drake, Tate McRae, Sarah McLachlan, Nelly Furtado, among other Canadian artists. The dancers put in many hours of work to create the choreography and bring the show together. In the end, this show was a raging success!

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Dance is also featured in our annual Handsworth scho​ol play. Every year, we host an original, student-run, and written play – this year's production is titled "Fake." It is a drama with some comedic relief that includes many programs such as dance, drama classes from grades 10–12, musical theatre classes, and singers. "Fake" will be performed Wednesday, April 29 through Saturday, May 2. Tickets are on sale now!

Our last performance of the year will be “Hands Up." This is a final show that provides students a chance to bring their vision of any dance they want to life. It also allows everyone to show off the new skills they have learned throughout the school year.

The dance program at Handsworth Secondary is a community where everyone is welcome and has the opportunity to create connections and memories that last forever.

Category: Student Profiles; Arts Education
Published: 4/30/2026 12:00 AM
]]> Student Profiles; Arts Education Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:37:19 GMT https://www.sd44.ca/District/LearnShareGrow/Lists/Posts/ViewPost.aspx?ID=885