2SLGBTQIA+ flags displayed at EIPS Central Services.

Sherwood Park, AB. — From June 3 to June 7, schools throughout Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) are marking the Division’s Pride Week. Organized annually, it’s an opportunity to further the goal of creating and maintaining welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning and working spaces.

“Each student and staff member has their own unique identity,” says Cathy Allen, the Board Chair of EIPS. “This is the same for schools, communities and the Division as a whole. Celebrating what’s different about each of us only brings us closer together in understanding, respect and inclusion. Elk Island Public Schools unequivocally supports the rights of all students, including those of different sexual orientations, gender identities or gender expressions, to have the opportunity to learn and thrive in a welcoming environment free of discrimination.”

Throughout EIPS, Pride Week 2024 gives students a chance to celebrate by organizing respectful and positive activities in their schools. These events, which are voluntary and take place outside of instructional time, are varied and grade appropriate. Some activities organized in the past have included:

• Painting heart-shaped rocks
• Creating posters marking the event
• Wearing colourful pins and buttons
• Posting notes about what Pride Week means to them
• Discussing 2SLGBTQIA+ history and heroes
• Highlighting artwork showcasing inspirational 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals

“At EIPS, we believe diversity is a positive characteristic of our schools and that while ideas may differ, everyone should be made to feel they belong, are cared about and are important,” says Ryan Marshall, Associate Superintendent, Supports for Students. “Pride Week is about respecting differences, honouring all children and families, and making everyone feel safe and welcome at school.”

Pride Week is being also celebrated at different times in June, within several communities EIPS serves:

• Vegreville: June 9 to 15
• Fort Saskatchewan: June 7 to 13
• Strathcona County: Flag raising on June 8

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,750 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