September 30th, 2015

Today, Edna Staebler Public School staff and students are participating in Orange Shirt Day.

With the release of the National Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report, September 30 has been declared Orange Shirt Day, as an annual day or recognition. It is to remember the harm the residential school system did to its students’ self-esteem and well-being; to honour the survivors and those who did not, and to affirm our commitment to ensure that every person is of value. The annual event started three years ago in western Canada and has since gained international attention.

Edna Staebler PS began educating its students with assemblies to explain, in an age appropriate way, some of the challenges of attending a residential school. Nicole Robinson, the WRDSB equity and inclusion officer with an Aboriginal focus, spoke to Grade 1-8 students and shared her family’s story.

The WRDSB is asking its school community to wear orange every September 30 to remember our history, and as a reminder of our responsibility to make sure that the people around us feel like they matter.

“Every child matters.”

 

Staff shirts.

The shirts Edna Staebler PS will wear.