When we talk about belonging with UA families and students, it isn’t just a core value; it’s what we want everyone to feel when they enter the doors at 466 Rousseau Street every day. We believe it is important that when they look around, they see others who have different skin colours, languages, learning styles, family structures, cultures and religions. Differences are celebrated, and what we are most proud of at UA is that all students feel like they belong here. We hear over and over again from student and family feedback that valuing our diversity is a shared welcome sentiment.
UA has valued belonging from the start, because we believe that a truly vibrant learning environment is one where every student, staff member, and family feels welcome, seen, valued, and safe to show up as their authentic selves. When we build an inclusive community, we provide our students the platform and perspective that allows them to explore, grow, and thrive in society.
With that spirit of togetherness and belonging in mind, we are looking forward to celebrating Pride on Monday, June 8. While this day is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of students, staff and families in our school, we want to emphasize that acceptance through inclusive education for all as we ensure a safe space for members of the LGBTQ2S+ community is an everyday commitment at UA.
This day is a wonderful opportunity for our school community to put our values into action. Throughout the day, students will participate in age-appropriate activities, storytelling, and discussions centred around safety, acceptance, kindness and the beautiful diversity that makes our world and our school so special.
We invite all students and staff to dress in a coloured shirt representing the rainbow along with their UA bottoms on Monday to show their support for an inclusive community. At home, we encourage you to chat with your children about what belonging means to them and how small acts of inclusion can make a big difference in someone’s day.
Thank you in advance for your partnership in fostering a school culture rooted in empathy, respect, and mutual support. Together we ensure that Urban Academy is always a warm, welcoming home for every learner.
Ms. Dadar, Ms. Manifold & Mr. Twaites
UA Principal Team