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The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) is proud to announce that two student-led projects from our schools have been recognized as Ingenious+ regional award winners. This nation-wide contest is part of the Rideau Hall Foundation’s Ingenious+ challenge that connects youth with funding and resources to expand and improve their projects. Ontario regional winners from UCDSB schools include:
1. TISS Treasure Chest – Decreasing Barriers to Education: A student-led initiative taking place at Thousand Islands Secondary School (TISS) is working to connect students in need with food, clothing, hygiene products, and more all while ensuring dignity and privacy. Students run donation drives, have partnered with local businesses for monetary donations, and collaborate with the schools’ hospitality class to bring hot, hearty lunches to students once a week. Learn more about the project here.
2. Young Company Student Mentors: For the past two years, Gananoque Secondary School (GSS) has partnered with the Thousand Islands Playhouse to bring a for-credit theatre program to Grade 11 and 12 students. This year, students enrolled in the program welcomed local elementary students to their workshop to introduce them to skills in arts and trades such as painting, sewing, carpentry, and prop making – helping build confidence and sparking interest in potential career pathways.
Regional winners each receive $1,000 and advance to the national competition, where they compete for up to $10,000 and gain access to valuable learning and networking opportunities.
Students at Thousand Islands Secondary School serve up a hot lunch as part of the TISS Treasure Chest initiative. Photo credit: Submitted.
“We are so proud of our Treasure Chest crew for leading such a compassionate and impactful initiative,” says TISS Principal Laura Oliver. “Their commitment to supporting one another with dignity and care has helped our school community to become kinder and more empathetic and deepened our connection to our community partners. Winning this award for innovation is a testament to their creativity, leadership, and the meaningful change they are making every day.”
“I’m so proud of our students for earning this award through their incredible work in the theatre program,” says GSS Principal Christena Harrow. “Bringing the arts and tech together and sharing their skills in areas like painting, sewing, carpentry, and prop making with the younger students is truly inspiring. It’s exciting to see them grow and excel as artists and role models while exploring meaningful career pathways and building positive community connections.”
“We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements and their dedication to making a positive impact. Their success is a testament to the creativity and determination fostered within our schools and we wish them luck at the national competition,” says Chair Jamie Schoular.
National winners will be celebrated in Ottawa during Canadian Innovation Week, May 26-30.
SOURCE: Upper Canada District School Board.
