“We have to really try, it’s not good to have 53% of the school not feel safe at school.”

 

 

— Marek, Grade 7, Lawrence Grassi Middle School

This statement from Marek reflects the powerful shift sparked by the Student Wellness Symposium, hosted by Ever Active as part of the Canadian Rockies School Division’s approach to the Everybody Plays Schools initiative.

Marek and his student leadership team left the event inspired and ready to act. They recognized the importance of listening to students who are directly impacted by not feeling safe, and gathering deeper insights. Rather than relying on yes-or-no questions, they have an idea to survey asking students to describe, in three sentences, why they don’t feel safe at school. “Maybe we can gather enough data and make our school better,” Marek shared.

Their efforts led to a school-specific action plan that included Winter House Day, an event rooted in student voice and designed to foster connection and well-being. They leveraged students’ identified need for movement and play outside to create connection and belonging to help kids feel safe at school. Students played a key role in planning and leading activity stations, helping to bring the entire school together.

Everybody Plays Schools is an initiative that spans the entire school year and includes in-school residencies, preparation, and follow-up tailored to each school. This school-level programming gains valuable insights into local contexts and crafts customized program implementation and professional development strategies to reduce barriers to play. Approximately 60 schools participated in Everybody Plays Schools in 2024-25.  

“Having the symposium in October gave students the chance to reflect on peer data and see how it could lead to real change,” one teacher said. “It was the spark that empowered students to bring their ideas to life.”

The symposium launched similar student-led initiatives across the division, demonstrating how student voice can drive action. Grade 8 student Cole said, “Meeting people was the best part, having fun, brainstorming, and turning our ideas into action.”

Grade 12 student Asher was motivated to create new clubs and improve student voice tools. Their goal: “Boost school spirit, create a welcoming environment, and provide a better school experience.”

The 2024-25 school year marked the first time Everybody Plays Schools took a jurisdiction-wide approach, resulting in a coordinated effort across administration, schools, and community partners to elevate student voice and well-being.