Grades 6 and 8 students at Lakeland Ridge explored many human rights topics with the Be an Upstander project, a learning initiative developed by the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

Sherwood Park, AB. — Lakeland Ridge students in grades 6 and 8 took part in the Be an Upstander project, a learning initiative developed by the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR). Students created thoughtful projects that explored themes of human rights, equity, empathy and advocacy. “My Upstander project was about boys’ mental health,” says Ethan Putnam, a Grade 6 student at the school. “I chose this topic because so many people carry silent struggles every day, and I wanted to shine a light for those who feel stuck or alone. Being an upstander isn’t just about talking. It's about taking action, listening and being someone others can lean on. Even the smallest act of kindness can change someone’s life.”

Guided by the Manager of Educational Outreach at the CMHR, the initiative finished with a school-wide showcase, where students in grades 5-9, along with family members and community guests, visited student displays and heard powerful messages about the importance of standing up against injustice.

Throughout the program, students examined real-world issues, such as discrimination, racism, gender inequality and more. “For my Be an Upstander project, I chose the Ukraine-Russian War because I wanted to bring awareness to the people struggling through this terrible event,” says Taylor Lakusta-Gilbert, a Grade 8 student at Lakeland Ridge. “I think there was a lot of media coverage about the Russian invasion of Ukraine when it first happened a couple of years ago. However, it seems the conversations have slowed down, and I wanted to keep everyone informed of the injustices still happening to the people of Ukraine. This project gave us the voice to speak up for those facing serious human rights violations.”

Students also learned how to collaborate with peers and communicate their ideas in meaningful and creative ways. “It’s incredibly important for students to explore human rights topics at this age,” says Sydney Munsterman, a teacher at Lakeland Ridge. “Not only does it empower them to recognize injustice in the world around them, but it also gives them the tools to respond with compassion, courage and action. Through their projects, students learned how to research important issues, use their voices for change, and connect their learning to their own lives and communities. The Be an Upstander project helped students see they’re never too young to make a difference.”

Lakeland Ridge students developed skills in critical thinking, public speaking and civic engagement that will serve them inside and outside the classroom. A key priority for Elk Island Public Schools, opportunities like the Be an Upstander project encourage students to become responsible, respectful and engaged citizens.

To learn more about educational programs focused on human rights, visit the CMHR website.

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,950 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

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For more information, media can contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902