For most Grade 9 students, Take Our Kids to Work Day means spending a day at a parent’s workplace or visiting a family connection. But what if you’re new to Canada and don’t have those connections yet?
At Lester B. Pearson Catholic High School, two teachers and a community partner made sure their multilingual learners wouldn’t miss out. They also invited students from St. Matthew High School to join them, giving even more students the opportunity to take part.
A Different Kind of Workday
ESL teachers Melanie Doucette and Alyssa Kitchen-Blier partnered with the Newcomer Youth Leadership Development (NYLD) team at the YMCA Taggart Community Centre to introduce students to different careers and skilled trades.
The YMCA hosted a day of hands-on activities, with interactive stations where students could ask questions, try new things and learn about jobs they might not have considered before.
And the YMCA didn’t stop there. Transportation, lunch and gift bags with earphones were provided, along with soccer balls, certificates and Career Pathway Passports to help students continue exploring their interests.
A Little Inspiration Along the Way
Students also heard from Manock Lual of Prezdential Basketball, who encouraged them to believe in themselves and think about their futures.
For students adjusting to life in a new country, the day was about more than exploring careers. It was a chance to meet new people, discover their interests and feel part of their new community.
Nourishing New Beginnings
Starting school in a new country means learning much more than a new language. It means finding your place and discovering what opportunities are available to you.
This year’s OCSB Spiritual Theme, Nourish New Beginnings, reminds us of the difference we can make by helping students feel welcome and supported. At Lester B. Pearson, that meant making sure everyone had the chance to experience this important Grade 9 tradition.
A special thank you to the YMCA Taggart Community Centre, the NYLD team and teachers Melanie Doucette and Alyssa Kitchen-Blier for making it happen.
