Ryerson School truly shines

“If students can’t come to us, we’re going out to safely see them.” That is what the teachers at Ryerson Elementary decided when they organized a staff car parade throughout their south Fort Richmond neighbourhood on April 17, 2020.

“Our staff is really missing all of their students, so we wanted to find a way to try to greet them in person and say hi,” shared principal Kathy Bru.

Ryerson teachers drove their colourfully decorated cars past excited students and their families, as part of a wellness activity to wrap up a professional development day. The route was carefully set out to pass the home of every student at Ryerson and social distancing measures were followed. There were smiles, waves and more than just a few tears, as the parade made its way through the community. Many of the cars were even playing a special Ryerson shines playlist.

“It’s so energizing to safely get together and salute our community. We want students to see us having fun. It’s important to assure them we’re still here for them and we’re all looking forward to being together again soon,” said principal Bru.

“Our staff described taking part in the car parade as the absolute highlight of the last three or four weeks and they were so glad we could quickly pull it together.”

The parade caught the attention of local media interested in sharing some good news. Watch CTV’s coverage and read more in the Winnipeg Free Press.