Clearpoint’s First-Ever SEDAC: A Day of Student Empowerment
submitted by Iliana Mahfouz,
Grade 4 Teacher / Resource Teacher,
Clearpoint Elementary School
Clearpoint Elementary recently made history by hosting its first-ever SEDAC event: Student Empowerment Day at Clearpoint! The day was filled with energy, excitement, and inspiration as students from Grades 4, 5, and 6 came together to celebrate leadership, confidence, and collaboration.
This special event marked two important milestones: the 10th anniversary of GIMAC (Girls in Motion at Clearpoint) and the 3rd anniversary of Boyz R Us, a program focused on leadership and growth for boys. These initiatives have been instrumental in promoting empowerment, and with SEDAC, all upper-grade students had the opportunity to engage in a day dedicated to growth and self-discovery.
Our inspiring guest speaker, Mr. Chris Blanchard, shared his adventurous journey—starting with biking, skiing, and sailing as a child. By age 10, he had completed the Canadian Ski Marathon and won multiple medals by age 14. He even competed in the 1998 Winter Olympics in Japan. His story reminded students that anything is possible with determination and courage.
Throughout the day, students participated in engaging workshops designed to build skills and confidence. Girls created vision boards with Ms. Kassia Amato, dreaming up future travel adventures, or joined the John Rennie Leadership group with Ms. Mylean Natcheva and Ms. Sara Birk, practicing trust and teamwork. Boys took part in martial arts sessions with Sensei Meghan Greig and her team from Tsuyose Martial Arts School, which emphasizes strength of body, mind, and character. They also joined debate workshops led by Mr. Vaughn and Mr. Eric, developing communication and collaboration skills. All students came together for a shared robotics workshop with Mr. Brent Callahan and his team from Beaconsfield High School.
Throughout the day, students participated in engaging workshops designed to build skills and confidence. Girls created vision boards with Ms. Kassia Amato, dreaming up future travel adventures, or joined the John Rennie Leadership group with Ms. Mylean Natcheva and Ms. Sara Birk, practicing trust and teamwork. Boys took part in martial arts sessions with Sensei Meghan Greig and her team from Tsuyose Martial Arts School, which emphasizes strength of body, mind, and character. They also joined debate workshops led by Mr. Vaughn and Mr. Eric, developing communication and collaboration skills. All students came together for a shared robotics workshop with Mr. Brent Callahan and his team from Beaconsfield High School.
The day was brought to life by our amazing SEDAC student executive committee, made up of passionate Grades 4 to 6 leaders: Thomas, Annamaria, Emma, Juliet, Olivia, Chloe, Evalee, Patrick, Lucas, Aria, Clara, Noah, Tiago, Mila, Grant, and Benjamin. Their creativity, commitment, and teamwork made this event possible. Special thanks go out to the dedicated staff who supported them every step of the way: Mrs. Pan, Mr. Eric, Mr. Vaughn, Mme. Iliana, Ms. Kelsey, and Ms. Ashley.
To close the event, students competed in an exciting Amazing Race, using their SEDAC passports to answer questions throughout the school.
Finally, a heartfelt shout-out to the heart and soul behind it all: Ms. Louise. Her vision, persistence, and leadership over the years made every part of this event possible. Thank you, Ms. Louise, for inspiring and empowering generations of Clearpoint students.
It was a powerful reminder of what happens when student voices are uplifted, ideas are shared, and a community comes together. We can’t wait to see how SEDAC continues to grow!
