Premier Award for Accepting Schools

The Premier's Awards for Accepting Schools recognize those teams across the province that have done exceptional and innovative work in creating a safe, inclusive and accepting school environment. This award recognizes schools that have demonstrated initiative, creativity and leadership in promoting a safe, inclusive and accepting school climate. We are very pleased to announce that JLPS was once again recognized for its work in supporting our students well being through our efforts to create a sense of belonging and has been awarded the Premier's Award for Accepting Schools!

Today the Ministry of Education released this information on our school:

When Johnny Lombardi Public School opened in April 2016, it brought 400 students, their families, and staff together to build a school culture that aimed to honour and respect all voices. Students came to the school from four feeder schools and a new local development, and included staff from a wide range of backgrounds and schools. The school worked to build relationships between people and develop an inclusive environment where everyone felt welcomed and valued. A grand opening was the first of many steps in building that new culture, along with activities that include:

• Students Advocating For Equity (S.A.F.E.): The S.A.F.E. team is made up of students and staff dedicated to promoting and developing a safe and inclusive environment, where all students, staff and families have a voice that is valued and respected. The goal is to support student well-being and learning, with a shared vision of positivity, inclusivity and equity. The team implements initiatives that affect the entire school, including Bullying Awareness Week, Pink Shirt Day and Purple Day.
• Fostering Inclusive Learning Environments: The school offers a variety of professional and student resources to encourage learning about different cultures, mindfulness and mental health. These resources are used to address mental health issues and encourage discussion. They contribute to better understanding of mental illness and help reduce stigma. School-wide “Mindful Moments” are held daily, where students and staff stop and listen to calming music, a thoughtful poem or an inspiring quote.
• Fostering a Sense of Belonging: The school yard is home to a “Buddy Bench,” which supports students who are lonely, and fosters friendship and inclusion. A conflict resolution circle addresses conflicts and explores ways to help students solve problems. Students are trained by the public health nurse to take a leadership role at recess and support younger students. Students in the Johnny Cares Club donate food and clothing to local charities.

Parent participation at Johnny Lombardi is strong and clearly demonstrates a sense of community. A school climate survey showed very high levels of respect for diversity and feelings of safety at school.

Once again, thank-you to the whole JLPS community for their ongoing support and helping to make JLPS an amazing place.