Page 6 - AMDSB DAR 2018-2019

Student Trustee Message
As the Student Senate, it is our goal to represent students; to voice their concerns and ensure that they are getting the most out of their school career so that they are ready for whatever the future may hold. As Malcolm X once said, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” By ensuring that students from Avon Maitland are being heard, considered and respected regarding what should or should not be present in their schools, we are helping to develop an atmosphere that is encouraging and enjoyable for students. With the intention of working towards this ideal school environment for each individual school, here are the things that we worked towards during the 2018-2019 school year.
Our work began early on in the school year by creating initiatives based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Within the various high schools of Avon Maitland, a customized plan was developed to suit each respective school. Some schools focused on decreasing the influence of poverty and hunger in their schools and nearby communities, whether that
was by providing food to students who needed it, or by collecting and donating winter jackets. Other schools worked towards goals like gender equality or good health and well-being.
With much direction, support and assistance from the School Board, we focused largely on improving the mental and physical well-being of students in our schools. We are very fortunate to be apart of a Board that truly cares for its students because our Board supported us with great enthusiasm throughout it all. Some of this work included mentorship days, where younger students would be mentored by older students; mental health days, where students would spend the day relaxing while learning information about how to ensure that they are mentally and physically healthy; therapy dogs, which are great for stress relief, especially near the ends of the semesters; peace rooms, where students could relax, play board games and spend time with their friends; and even creating and selling mental health kits, which included items like bubble wrap, colouring pages, tea, and other activities aimed simply to let students relax.
The Senate is still working on these projects and trying to see what works at each school given their diverse needs. I’m personally looking forward to seeing how much we can improve these areas of need as well as tackling other tasks. I know we will find a way to give students the tools to become the best they can be in the best environment they can be in; which is none other than an Avon Maitland school.
As always, let your voice be heard.
Kristin Vleeming
Student Trustee
AVON MAITLAND DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD | 2018-2019 Director’s Annual Report | 6