St. Joseph Catholic School in Corunna has successfully introduced the Playground Activity Leaders in Schools (PALS) program, a student leadership initiative designed to foster inclusion and physical activity among elementary students. With the motto “There’s always room for one more,” the program emphasizes the importance of belonging and active engagement in the schoolyard.

The need for more structured play opportunities at recess was identified to help students develop positive conflict resolution and problem-solving skills. Ms. Alisha White, the school’s Child and Youth Worker spearheaded the introduction of the PALS program. Following specialized training, Ms. White collaborated with volunteer teachers Mrs. Karli Lamourea, Mrs. Maureen Houston, Ms. Jodie Vergunst, and Mrs. Richelle Lockrey to implement the program.

Generous financial support from the St. Clair Foundation 50/50 Fund enabled the purchase of essential items to kickstart the program. This initiative has proved to be a win-win situation, with student leaders gaining valuable leadership skills and younger students, from Kindergarten to Grade 4, enjoying fun and healthy physical activities while building positive peer relationships.

This week, Breann Friesen and Mary Fitchett from Mainstreet Credit Union in Corunna attended St. Joseph’s Good News assembly to present a generous $300 donation to St. Joseph Catholic School, ensuring the sustainability of the PALS program as the school year concludes and planning for September begins. “We feel very blessed to receive this support for this extremely beneficial program,” says Mark Bernard, Principal at St. Joseph. “A huge thank you to Mainstreet Credit Union Corunna!”

The ongoing support from the community has been pivotal in maintaining the momentum of the PALS program, which continues to make a significant impact on the school’s culture by promoting inclusivity and active play.