At Cedar Drive Junior Public School, the “Be the Change” initiative is empowering students to lead through empathy, inclusion and meaningful connection. “Be the Change” is a central project, led by TDSB’s Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Services’ team, that provides learning for students around allyship, neurodiversity, sensory systems, different ways of learning and disability pride. Participating students are encouraged to start a project of compassion and connection so they can "Be the Change" they wish to see in their school communities.
Grade 6 students at Cedar Drive have been actively engaging with the Primary Developmental Disabilities (DD) class through shared experiences like a dance workshop and outdoor learning sessions. These interactions are fostering genuine friendships, promoting teamwork and helping students better understand and support one another.
Inspired by these connections, many Grade 6 students have taken on the role of Recess Buddies, volunteering their recess time to engage with and support their younger peers. The Cedar Drive community is proud to see how small, thoughtful actions are making a big difference in the lives of students.
At the end of May, students will be provided an opportunity to share their inclusive initiatives with central staff and other participating schools.