5 young students with a teacher.

At St. Barbara Catholic School, we proudly foster student voice, leadership, and active citizenship through engaging, faith-filled learning aligned with the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB). Under the leadership of Principal Yeaher, these experiences reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence in Catholic education.

In Ms. Apelo’s Grade 5 class, students brought civic learning to life through a dynamic mock election. Taking on the roles of candidates and voters, five students ran for Prime Minister, crafting and delivering campaign speeches and engaging in a respectful class debate.

This hands-on experience supports the Grade 5 Social Studies strand People and Environments: The Role of Government and Responsible Citizenship, while also fostering responsible citizenship and collaboration through meaningful dialogue and critical thinking.

Most importantly, students discovered the power of their voice and their ability to make a difference.

“I learned that even as a student, my ideas matter—and I can help make change happen.” – Daniel E., one of the candidates

Student Voice in Action at St. Barbara Through Grade 5 Democracy Experience