This week the students of MSS were given great opportunities. On Thursday, 125-150 MSS students and staff walked to the annual KTEI Fall Harvest in M’Chigeeng. From food samples to culture and even just learning in general, the students had a great time at the harvest and would definitely love to go again. Marshall Maciuk, a Grade 9 student, said, “The fall harvest was an excellent opportunity to learn about nature and local aboriginal culture. My favourite part was getting to try all the great foods.” Students walked around the powwow grounds and got the chance to try beading, go on a medicine walk, receive a free pine tree, watch scone baking, learn about animal trapping, and enjoy a hot chocolate or tea.
There was an assembly on Friday to kick off the magazine drive, which is one of the biggest fundraisers for the school. There were students crowding the benches, visiting, and happy to be out of class, when an incentive video played on the giant screen. Students who sell magazines can win tons of prizes, including a Best Buy gift card, an Action Cam, and iPod Shuffle and an Android tablet. Students seemed particularly excited to win megaphones (teachers were not particularly excited).
Last year, Manitoulin Secondary School sold the second most magazines in the Rainbow District School Board (over $17,000), and this year the goal is $18,000. If we manage to reach this goal, the Students’ Council will book a hypnotist show. There are already students selling their magazines online. All magazine orders are due by October 13. During the magazine kick off assembly, students’ council showed the video they created to inspire the student body: The Magazine Avengers.
On Wednesday, four students including Emily Hnatyshen, Victoria MacDonald, Rebecca Dawson and myself, along with Ms. Bauer, will travel to Toronto for the 2015 Free the Children We Day event. There will be speakers, including Spencer West and Marc and Craig Kielburger. There will be musical performances by Demi Lovato, Hozier, and Nick Jonas.
Victoria MacDonald says, “It’s going to be a great experience. We’ll get to hear about some people’s experiences and inspirations, and I’ll get to meet some people from Sandi’s trip.”
Emily Hnatyshen agreed. “I’m very excited about the chance to network. It’s my hope that I’ll be able to connect with other young people and gain a better understanding of how they’re making change, and of what can be done in our community.”
The directors of the MSS musical have just announced the name of the production for February 2016. Drum roll please…Broadway hit ‘Once Upon A Mattress.’ Auditions will be announced soon.
Between learning about aboriginal culture, selling magazines and preparing for the musical, the students and staff have had a great week. ‘Til next time, stay golden, Mustangs.
