Breaking bread and barriers

On October 29, 45 school principals, social workers and administrators from the Toronto Catholic District School Board attended a luncheon served by Centennial College's School of Hospitality students and hosted by Rouge Valley Health System Foundation.

Julie Kish, Manager of the Children and Adolescent Mental Health Program at the Shoniker Clinic discussed mental health issues that are prevalent in our schools. Julie's presentation focused on identifying the resources available in the community and the importance of early detection of the signs and symptoms of students dealing with mental health issues.

Dan Koenig, of TCDSB Curriculum & Accountability Program and the Buy a Bed Committee along with Superintendent Geoff Grant both spoke on their strong support of this collaborative partnership.

Rouge Valley Centenary's Buy a Bed campaign co-chairs Paul and Janet Ainslie spoke about the campaign and gave ideas on how teachers and students can become involved in fundraising for their local hospitals, using fun activities such as bed races and pajama parties.

Finding support for both schools and hospitals reinforces the Board's mandate of creating partnerships for safe, caring, and healthy schools.