Community bonding & leadership skills: Arundel

St-Theresa is a small community school in Blanc-Sablon, Quebec. Our population (now at about 250) and social context have taken their toll on the student population: there are now only 23 students. This small student number, in turn has largely affected school spirit and belonging. Over the last few years, as the school population diminished, students often questioned their stand on many issues such as bullying, belonging, community involvement, community participation, re-cycling, health, etc. The students have made many efforts at keeping their team spirit high through various school and community projects. All their questions led to wonderful changes within the school.
This year, students ventured forth the idea of going somewhere “new and different”... Through discussions amongst themselves, with their educators and parents, the idea of traveling together as a school began to take root. Going to Arundel Nature and Science Center for an educational and cultural experience was suggested because it meshes with many values already implemented in the school -- development of self-esteem, positive leadership, team building, student engagement, physical activity, community belonging, health, etc.