At the Ottawa Catholic School Board, fostering compassion, respect, and empathy is central to our mission. This year, inspiring stories from our elementary schools showcased these values in action, where students are learning that kindness begins with small actions that ripple out into their communities.
St. Marguerite d’Youville School: Cultivating Kindness from Within
At St. Marguerite d’Youville School, a Grade 1 Deep Learning project focused on kindness and friendship is making a meaningful impact. Observing the power of empathy and positive social interactions, teachers launched an initiative to instill these values in students from an early age. This project began as a response to occasional unkind behaviours, providing students with ways to foster kindness and compassion through discussions, collaborative projects, and even pen-pal exchanges with nearby schools.
A memorable highlight of the project was a field trip to the Ottawa Humane Society, where students practiced kindness beyond the classroom by caring for animals, reinforcing that empathy knows no boundaries. Parents have noticed the difference too, reporting positive changes in their children’s social interactions. With nature walks, teamwork exercises, and a new buddy bench, students are learning to manage emotions and actively look for opportunities to show kindness.
Our Lady of Victory: Character Building Through Buddy Days
Our Lady of Victory School has created a beloved tradition with monthly Buddy Days, a series of gatherings where students focus on character values like respect, empathy, and teamwork. Buddy Days bring together students from different grades, encouraging mentorship and collaboration. Each month, activities such as letter-writing, poster-making, and shared projects inspire students to live out values that contribute to a culture of kindness and reflection.
Buddy Days allow students to see the real impact of their actions, as they connect with peers across grades and build lasting friendships. This program has become a cornerstone of character development at Our Lady of Victory, empowering students to shape a school environment rooted in mutual respect and compassion.
Building a Culture of Kindness and Responsibility
These initiatives at St. Marguerite d’Youville and Our Lady of Victory embody our commitment to cultivating kind, socially responsible individuals who contribute positively to their communities. Rooted in the Catholic Graduate Expectations, these programs help students develop compassion and empathy that extend well beyond the classroom—creating a foundation for a more caring, connected future for all.