“We Miss You" was emblazoned in hand-painted letters along the side of a bright yellow school bus making its way through Gitlaxt'aamiks earlier this month. Teachers and staff from Nisga'a Elementary Secondary School wanted to make sure their students knew that their absence is felt during the COVID-19 closure.
With physical distancing measures in place, they had to get creative to get their message across. That's what prompted the teachers and staff to come up with the idea for an education-inspired parade through the community. The school bus was in the lead, followed by school staff honking their horns and waving.
Staff safely handed out care packages to students to keep them engaged in learning during the pandemic. Luckily though, no homework was involved.
Each care package included pencils, books and art supplies, as well as a personalized note for each student from their teacher. Staff wore masks and gloves as they put together the packages for students. Two staff members got measuring and demonstrated physical distancing protocols.
“For us to reach out back into community to maintain continuity of learning is important to us to stay connected," shared Vice-Principal Peter McKay. “Our overall message is to 'Stay Well.' Coming from an education standpoint, keeping your brain healthy is staying well too."
In total, the parade included 5 vehicles. The initiative is certainly going to be one of Nisga'a Elementary Secondary School students' memories from this COVID-19 period.
If you have a wellness story you'd like to share, use the hashtag: #GoodMedicineFNHA or email us at Wellness@fnha.ca.
