Henry Larsen Elementary School Shares Messages of Caring, Solidarity and Support

Posted on 06/21/2021

Staff and students at Henry Larsen Elementary School came together virtually in honour, solidarity and support of all those affected by the tragic events in Kamloops, British Columbia and London, Ontario.

The school created a display to honour the lives of the 215 children who were found buried near a residential school in Kamloops and an e-card to support those affected by the horrible attack on a Muslim family in London.

The school entrance displays 215 hearts, in honour of each child in Kamloops who did not return home. The display represents a commitment to ensure the truth of Canada’s residential schools is learned and not forgotten. The principal, Ms. Pruner, spoke about the tragic discovery in the school’s livestream announcements and newsletter.

The school also created an e-card for the Ottawa Muslim Association, a grass-roots, charitable organization that serves Muslims in the Greater Ottawa region. Staff and students expressed their condolences to all those affected by the attacks in London and shared messages of caring for the Muslim community. These messages have also been posted at the school entrance. You can read the e-card below:

For Henry Larsen Elementary School, these caring gestures have been a way to connect their school community and reach out to the local community during a difficult time.

The OCDSB stands with all those affected by these tragic events. Here are some links to resources and supports for students, staff, and families:

Our website has resources to learn more about residential schools along with mental health supports available.
Naseeha Mental Health is a mental health resource for Muslim youth. If you need help, you can call or text 1-866-627-3342 or visit: https://naseeha.org/
MediaSmarts has guidance for parents on how to help children and teens cope with media coverage of war and traumatic events.

Ottawa Carleton District School Board