News Release
6/27/2017
Aurora, ON – Black River P.S. in Sutton was one of 10 schools across the province recognized this week for creating safe and accepting learning environments
The Premier’s Awards for Accepting Schools celebrate school teams that have shown leadership and innovation in creating safe, inclusive and accepting schools.
Black River P.S. received the award for their work to address the needs of their school population by setting high standards for character and inclusivity, and creating safe spaces in the school. This includes:
- Infusing the BEAR Spirit: Be Excellent and Respectful throughout the school through assemblies, spirit days, and events and fundraisers that support the local community.
- Encouraging acceptance, setting high expectations and providing opportunities for all students to succeed and get involved in school activities.
- Providing “the Zone” space where students can find a quiet spot to concentrate or calm down, solve problems, have conversations and participate in activities that promote well-being.
- Teaching students strategies for self-regulation.
“At Black River, we make it a priority to make sure all of our students feel welcome and know that they are an important part of our school community,” said George Vellathottam, Principal, Black River P.S. “It is such an honour for all of us – students, staff and our families – to be recognized for being a part of this important work.”
“Creating safe, accepting and inclusive learning environments is a priority for our Board, and it’s wonderful to see the Black River Public School community being recognized for their efforts and commitment” said Loralea Carruthers, Chair of the Board.
“We continue to place great importance on supporting student well-being and ensuring all of our students feel welcome and valued in the school. This is a great example of how our students benefit when we work together with our school communities to achieve this,” said Kathryn Wallace, Interim Director of Education.
Black River P.S. is the fifth school in York Region District School Board to receive the Premier’s Award for Safe and Accepting Schools in the last four years. Other schools include:
- Fairwood P.S. (2015-2016)
- Aldergrove P.S. (2014-2015)
- James Robinson P.S. (2014-2015)
- Dr. G.W. Williams S.S. (2013-2014)
York Region District School Board is the third largest school district in Ontario with over 123,000 students in 176 elementary schools and 32 secondary schools. York Region students consistently perform above average in provincial testing and the Board is one of the top achievers in Ontario. For more information about the York Region District School Board, please visit the Board website and follow @YRDSB on Twitter.
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