Making Connections
Story appeared in the 2016 issue of QMS Connections Magazine.
BY LEANNE SCHULTZ, OPERATIONS & HR MANAGER
Living within an international community like a school boarding program is a wonderful opportunity to promote global understanding and broaden our world view.
Yet, in order for our differences to be celebrated to the fullest, a com-mon language of respect and a willingness to open oneself to new experiences is essential. The Residential Life curriculum aims to build character through meaningful experiences embedded in programming. This year’s focus, the cultivation of ongoing and meaningful mentorship opportunities between students, was achieved through the implementation of a Young Boarders Program for Grades 6-8, the creation of eleven multi-grade “Family Groups” lead by our Resident Assistants (RA’s), and the addition of a Junior RA Position. With these new strategies in place, boarding students had more opportunities to connect with each other through formal, informal and impromptu activities. Student feedback has been positive with stu-dent leaders keen to take on even greater responsibility.
In 2016-17, QMS will be introducing a new Residential Life program called Connect. Led by Residence Wellness & Activity Coordinator Stephanie Jean-Paul, this innovative program is designed to include a mix of practical life skills sessions, service opportunities, and events focused on building relationships.
For 14 afternoons throughout the 2016-17 school year, the Connect program will offer residence students activities to enhance life outside of the classroom through a variety of formats. Typically, these could include:
Sessions led by the School’s Nurse and Counsellor offering lessons and strategies on healthy living, such as the importance of sleep, personal hygiene, and nutrition
Workshops to help students understand social media and personal responsibility when using the Internet
Activities to foster friendships and strengthen relationships between Boarding and Day students, such as outings to local activity centres such as paintball, swimming, rock climbing, etc.
Service learning opportunities throughout the Cowichan Valley, such as the Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association, Big Brothers & Big Sisters, etc.
Technology-free connection times, to help students practice disconnecting from their online community and build stronger communities with the people they live with
What is exciting about the new Connect program is how it will complement and enhance the total learning experience at Queen Margaret’s School. It will not only provide students an opportunity to connect with each other, but will serve as a new and exciting way for girls to gain knowledge and under-standing about themselves.