Langley School District celebrates diversity and respect across its schools

The Langley School District says it continues to promote diversity, equity and inclusion through work with administrators, teachers and staff. Its efforts include classroom learning and outdoor play spaces such as accessible playgrounds, in keeping with its vision of an “Innovative, Inspiring and Unified Learning Community.”

The work takes place throughout the year and is highlighted during Diversity and Respect Week at the end of February. Established by the Langley Board of Education in 2017, the week coincides with Pink Shirt Day and is intended to promote awareness, acceptance, reconciliation and inclusion in the school community. Students from kindergarten to secondary school participate in a range of activities, while staff and students wear pink on one day in recognition of the anti-bullying initiative that began in 2007.

At Douglas Park Community School, principal Mark Touzeau described Pink Shirt Day as a mission to spread kindness. Last year, classes gave flowers to people at local businesses and senior retirement homes. Nicomekl Elementary students created and displayed pink, heart-decorated “Keys to Kindness” carrying messages such as “Be Kind.”

Superintendent Mal Gill said the district is proud of the collective efforts of students, staff and families to help people feel they belong, while acknowledging that more work is needed and encouraging community members to take part. At Willoughby Elementary, students from kindergarten to Grade 5 made “Who We Are” jars illustrating family members, flags, favourite foods, pets and activities. Principal Karin Muuren said the project helped students connect, reflect on their identities and share their cultures and experiences.

Gordon Greenwood Elementary classes participated in accessibility activities including sitting volleyball and wheelchair basketball. Last year, English-language learners and teachers at James Hill Elementary hosted cultural displays in the gym, with students presenting information and photos about the countries their families come from. The district says residents seeking information about year-round diversity, equity and inclusion events can contact their school principal.