The recent warming shift in weather made L.V. Rogers high school an anxious place for the nearing arrival of spring break. As the annual break approached, the majority of classes received summarizing tests or project presentations, while there was still plenty of in-school activities.
On February 29 the students and staff of LVR, along with schools nation-wide, participated in an anti-bully awareness campaign by collectively wearing pink clothing. This vibrant afternoon was met with a variety of activities including the opportunity to make pink tie dye T-shirts, which was organized by a group of volunteer students.
While students were gathered in the multi-purpose room, engrossed in their twisting elastics and buckets of pink dye, a very large and very pink crowd began forming in the hallway. These gatherers were a collection of the dance class, rec leadership students, and many other participants, who collectively performed a well- rehearsed flash mob. The dancing and singing soon attracted a growing audience interested by the irregular sound of blaring music in the hallways, and before long the hallways were packed with performers and spectators.
There have been many rising questions regarding the teachers’ strike. The LVR teachers feel that the constant stripping of benefits once provided and the fact that they are close to the lowest paid province in Canada is unjust. The school was closed March 5 to 8 as teachers armed themselves with protest signs and warm clothing, and hit the streets to get their message heard. They occupied outside LVR to start, and then made their way to the provincial building, finishing their proclamation with a defiant march along Baker Street.
The students themselves had the opportunity to support the teachers’ decision by choosing to “walk out” during the last block before the strike. Although the intention was to have a large crowd meet at Queen Elizabeth Park to rally for the cause, many used this chance as a quick escape from school, and the aspired attendance was not met.
Now back from spring break, students are fresh off their time of relaxation. It’s time to get back to work.
Cam Olson is a Grade 12 student at L.V. Rogers