5th Annual Freedom Runners
Students from seven Grand Erie elementary schools participated in the 5th annual Freedom Runners event on Wednesday, June 15, 2016.
Created by Dave Gervais, Principal at Grandview Central, in 2012, the day promotes important educational values and goals that support the development of character in students. Running is used as a vehicle to deliver the program. Students will run a two kilometre distance.
“This isn’t a race,” Gervais told the students. “This is a run for you, to challenge yourself and achieve your goals.”
The run encourages students to achieve one’s personal best, courtesy, perseverance, equity, respect, teamwork, self-discipline and self-control. Through added partnership with Haldimand Norfolk Health Unit, education around tobacco and marketing, stress management, and healthy eating are presented to participants
“Our purpose is to inspire and empower participants and teach them tools to overcome barriers to success,” said Gervais.
The program reaches students aged 4 – 14, and many of the mentors (staff members who work with students) report a sense of accomplishment and meaning.
Schools who participated include J. L. Mitchener Public School, Centennial-Grand Woodlands School, Thompson Creek School, Grandview Central Public School, Rainham Central School, River Heights Elementary, and Fairview Avenue Public School.