Jan. 28, 2026
Last month, students came together from across the city to “create through connection” at the annual High School and Middle School Well-Being Symposiums on Dec. 2 and 8-9, respectively.
Eight student representatives from each high school and middle school attended, many from their Student Well-Being Action teams, bringing together hundreds of students each day.
The day started with Blackfoot teachings of ani to pisi with Elder Roy Bear and Elder Hayden Melting Tallow, followed by a day of reflection, collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Students had dedicated working time to delve into their student survey data and discover areas of celebration and areas of growth. The conversations around the data led to students drafting their School Well-Being Action Plans within their school teams, addressing the topic creating belonging, safety and inclusion through connection, before collaborating with other schools to share their learnings.
Shaurya, a high school student from Lester B. Pearson shared that his school has created a sense of belonging through hosting a “Wellness World Cafe” to share ideas and perspectives.
“Students feel seen, heard and understood through our Wellness World Cafe, and I think that’s what students need right now.”
June, a middle school student is proud of what the School Well-Being Action Team Willow Park School has accomplished: “I’m proud of all of us coming together to make our school a better and safer place to be every day.”
To hear more from students: watch interviews with
High School and
Middle School Well-Being Symposium attendees.
The day ended with reflection on what had been accomplished, and learnings they could bring back to their schools.
