Stories
Middle School launches innovative SPARC program
Wednesday, September 18 was the first day of SPARC, our new program within the Middle School Pillar Years of the Global Leadership Program. Students from Grade 6 to Grade 8 can pursue interests in Design, Technology, Environmental Sustainability, Social Justice & Advocacy and Identity & Community. Throughout the year, students will explore these different themes through experiential learning and collaborate on projects that affect real change in our community.
"Our students are diving into project areas and connecting with community partners. Today was that first day where they started to make those connections and figure out the positive change they're going to make in the world," said Julie Clement, Middle School Director.
Students have already enjoyed guest speakers such as Newmarket Councillor Bob Kwapis, hands-on workshops from Scientists in School, and excursions to historic downtown Newmarket, Blue & Silver Farm, Black Creek Farm, and historic sites in Richmond Hill.
Did you know that an Indigenous woman has never been featured on a Canadian banknote?
The Native Women's Association of Canada hopes to change that through Change The Bill, a call to action promoting reconciliation through art by commissioning Indigenous artists to reimagine the $20 bill to feature heroic Indigenous women.
Inspired by this initiative, Grade 8 students researched the legacies of the women on the recommended bills. Students then created their own $20 bill designs to acknowledge the contributions of lesser-known 19th-century history makers.
Staff, students, parents, and guests took in their exhibition, including MP Tony Van Bynen, who spoke about how currency designs are determined and encouraged students to enact change on this and other issues of importance.
During Middle School's Pillar Week, Grades 6-8 engage in off-timetable learning as part of the school's innovative Global Leadership Program.
Grade 6 focuses on leveraging social media for wellness, with students developing and presenting innovative product pitches to a panel of judges.
Grade 7 delves into Indigenous skills, immersing them in leather and wool mitten-making, lacrosse, fire safety, outdoor cooking, and solar oven creation at PC’s outdoor education property, Blue & Silver Farm.
In Grade 8, it’s all about food, exploring everything from food insecurity to nutrition. The week culminates with students creating culturally fused, budget-conscious smoothie bowls for a food truck fair where they showcase both their culinary and entrepreneurial skills.