PCHS a Finalist in Province-wide Anti-bullying Competition, Ensemble Contre l’Intimidation
by Julie Liebman
Congratulations to PCHS which was one of 9 finalists for the 2022 Ensemble contre l’intimidation prize, organized by the Ministry of Education. The contest recognizes educational institutions that exhibit a strong commitment to preventing bullying and cyberbullying.
PCHS’ Annual Student Assembly Against Gender-Based Violence addresses the prevention of gender-based violence. It is an annual event that took place on December 6, on Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
These assemblies were launched following a tragic gender-based crime that occurred to a PCHS student who was in an abusive relationship in November 2013.
To honour the victim’s memory, English teacher Peter Oland took the initiative to organize annual assemblies to promote and educate students about what it means to be in a healthy relationship.
“I hope that this recognition serves to further our message that through education and empowerment we can raise our level of awareness of gender-based violence issues and support our youth as they define for themselves the kinds of relationships they want in their lives,” says Mr. Oland.
Several of his colleagues joined him in implementing this unique initiative which consists of assemblies that are held with the voluntary participation of students who act as peer mediators and emcees. Throughout the session, students are educated about the different concepts of a safe environment and the characteristics of a healthy relationship which are based on caring, consent, and personal boundaries. At the end of each assembly, students are invited to take the pledge against violence and bullying.
Since 2014, more than 2,500 students have had the opportunity to participate in an assembly and take the pledge. Congratulations to the PCHS team for their leadership and for making such a big difference in educating youth about healthy relationships!
