Staff within the St. Clair Catholic District School Board are giving students a meaningful gift after a recent campaign raised a record-breaking $10,000 to purchase 43 bikes, helmets, and accompanying safety accessories.
Members of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association (OECTA) organized the fifth annual Dress Down for Wheels campaign during Catholic Education Week, from May 5 to May 9.
In exchange for a donation, staff were allowed to "dress down."
Donations poured in from educators, support staff, administrators, custodians, office staff, and central team members, read a media release. Local unions and associations also contributed to the cause.
“It’s incredible to see staff from every school and worksite step forward. This campaign continues to grow year after year because our entire St. Clair Catholic community believes in it,” said co-organizer Chad Coene.
Co-organizer Brian Breault said for some students, the bike represents freedom, independence, and joy.
“We were completely overwhelmed by the reaction when we gave the bike to one of our students,” said a staff member. “She was in shock, bursting into tears of happiness. Just minutes later, she came running down the hallway, threw her arms around me, and gave me the biggest hug. It was a moment of pure joy—one we’ll all remember forever.”
Director of Education Lisa Demers said she's proud of what was accomplished together as a school community.