Maggie Moments

Maggie Moments is where we highlight inspiring stories within our school community, showcasing instances that embody principles of AIR: accountability, integrity, and respect. 

Today, we celebrate and recognize Afton Clarke!

At Princess Magaret, it is inspiring to witness students whose actions quietly speak volumes about the values we strive to cultivate.

One such student is Afton, whose dedication to her role in our learning environment embodies the core principles of AIR: Accountability, Integrity, and Respect—qualities that inspire both her peers and teachers alike.

As a peer tutor, Afton is not the type to wait for direction; instead, she takes the initiative and anticipates the needs of both her peers and the teachers she works with. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that our classroom runs smoothly, even when no one asks her to. Whether it's preparing materials ahead of time, offering to help a student who’s struggling, or ensuring that every task is completed to the best of her ability, Afton models what it means to be accountable.

There have been several instances when Afton has taken on the responsibility of assisting a “little buddy” whose regular partners have been absent. Without hesitation, Afton steps in to provide the support the student needs, creating a positive and welcoming environment. Afton understands the importance of integrity—doing what is right even when no one is watching and doing it with kindness and a sense of ownership over her role.

In the art room, Afton is also a leader, unafraid to take risks and dedicated to creating authentic art. Mr. Gibson remembers a moment when he was visibly frustrated, and Afton pulled him aside and asked if he was okay. Empathy is a value he believes passionately in, and in that moment, her kindness lifted him out of his frustration. This is a truly admiral quality of hers.

Perhaps the most remarkable part of Afton’s approach is the respect she demonstrates toward everyone she interacts with. It’s evident in the way she listens, the way she encourages, and the way she makes every person feel like they matter. She treats her peers and teachers with the same level of dignity and consideration, building an atmosphere of trust and camaraderie wherever she goes. Her contributions to our learning community enriches her classrooms and helps to cultivate a culture where AIR thrives.

Maggie Moments is where we highlight inspiring stories within our school community, showcasing instances that embody principles of AIR: accountability, integrity, and respect.

Let’s celebrate and recognize Myka Greenwood!

Mika displays accountability, integrity, and respect—the core values that make our Mustang community shine. In English First Peoples 12, Myka has been a truly compassionate and understanding big buddy. He offers incredible support to his little buddy, who has Autism and sometimes finds it difficult to regulate in a busy classroom environment.

In the classroom, the noise and activity can be overwhelming at times, and this can especially challenge his little buddy. However, Myka consistently shows patience and empathy, remaining calm and ready to do whatever is needed to help his little buddy feel comfortable and included.

One standout moment that perfectly highlights Myka's caring nature occurred during a recent class activity. The class was in the library, working on movie trailers, and the noise from 45 excited students was becoming too much for his little buddy to handle. Instead of leaving his little buddy to manage the situation with the CEA Myka took it upon himself to step in. As soon as he found out, he took him and engaged him in a calming activity with one of his favorite toys—transformers. This simple act of kindness allowed his little buddy to relax, regulate, and, as a result, rejoin the group and participate in the rest of the activity.

Let’s celebrate and recognize Ms. Savoie 

Ms. Savoie embodies warmth, sunshine, kindness, and inclusion. She tirelessly promotes these values at Maggie,

benefiting us all.

She is hardworking, committed, and generous, often the first to volunteer to help others.

Ms. Savoie takes on any task with enthusiasm, builds great relationships, and her kindness draws people in, making them feel important and included. By teaching a variety of courses, she continuously grows as a teacher, reflecting on her practice.

Students appreciate her cheerful early morning approach to life and how willing she is to help others. She runs the GSA club, coaches, drives the bus, works with leaderships students on events, and so much more. In the classroom, Ms. Savoie ensures projects meet students where they are, thinking outside the box to meet their learning needs and interests. She is always willing to go out of her way to help others.

Ms. Savoie works endlessly to promote a positive and inclusive culture at Princess Margaret, and we appreciate all that she does.

Ms. Savoie is an amazing asset in our school community, constantly demonstrating the values of AIR.

Today, let’s celebrate and recognize Ms. Tank 

Ms. Tank is a positive member of the Maggie community. Known for her kindness and caring nature, she dedicates time each day to connect with both students and staff, ensuring everyone feels valued and supported. Her compassion shines through in her interactions, as she makes it a point to check in on anyone having a tough day, offering a listening ear and a comforting presence.

For Evan, the student she works closely with, Ms. Tank is like family. She treats him with the same warmth and consideration one would offer a loved one, even going so far as to buy him a Christmas gift each year. Her nurturing support for Evan is both enthusiastic and caring, making a significant impact on his life.

Ms. Tank's commitment to others doesn’t end there. Her nurturing extends beyond the classroom; for the past eighteen years, she has provided respite care, engaging in activities and offering support to families in need. Most days after school, she keeps busy by cutting hair, providing yet another service to her community. Her dedication and diverse talents are a source of admiration for many, including Evan, who is particularly impressed by her participation in the annual polar bear swim.

Through her actions, Ms. Tank exemplifies what it means to be a truly caring and dedicated member of the community, always going above and beyond to make a positive impact on those around her.

We truly appreciate her contributions to our school community and her amazing modelling of Maggie AIR.

Today, let’s celebrate and recognize Jordan Green!  

Jordan has endless energy and enthusiasm for all things related to music and tech at Maggie.  He balances rugby, robotics, tech crew, and music with a smile.  He is always willing to lend a hand, with his diverse skill set that he often

puts to use in the service of our Princess Margaret community, whether it is setting up sound systems, lights, stages, bleachers, or organizing the common area for various events.

In classroom activities, Jordan consistently engages in class discussions with a positive attitude. His helpful and respectful nature extends to everyone within our Maggie community, fostering a culture of kindness and acceptance.

In band class, Jordan is driven by a desire to elevate his understanding, achievements, and skill development to a high standard. He actively pursues mastery while approaching challenges with a positive mindset and a readiness to take risks with his learning. In one scenario, in band class, a peers’ music stand malfunctioned and hit the floor, causing his sheet music to fly in every direction. Jordan, along with Emma Goncalves, took the initiative and helped their peer clean up and organize his music.

Moreover, Jordan demonstrates genuine interest in the success of any group he is a part of. He is helpful in any way that makes a better experience for all the students in the group. Through his actions and dedication to Princess Margaret, Jordan embodies the principles of AIR: accountability, integrity, and respect. Jordan continues to be an amazing asset to our school environment.

Maggi Moments celebrates and recognizes our AbEd Duo, Ms. Hall and Mrs. Poetsch!  

The indigenous team, Ms. Hall and Mrs. Poetsch have done so much for students. They go above and beyond to make people included and supported. One student reflects, “As I sit down and express my gratitude, the students at Princess Margaret are filled with sense of appreciation and warmth for the profound impact the indigenous team had on the students.” They ensure that we have genuine connections to the school and that we are cared for.

Moreover, this amazing duo lead the charge in promoting cultural awareness in our school. They achieve this through a variety of displays inside and outside the cultural room, by painting the front steps of our school orange to raise awareness, organizing the events like the Indigenous Grad, and so much more!

Every late start they come a little bit earlier to make waffles for everyone who wants one, everything they do is out of kindness in their heart. We truly appreciate everything they do for the school and students. Their small gestures of kindness speak volumes about their kindness and compassion.

If anyone needed help with anything they would go above and beyond to try to help and speak up on their behalf. They are honest, kind, and have a great sense of humour.

Thank you hardly seems enough for the dedication and passion they bring to the school, the unwavering commitment to education and the students is truly inspiring. Their patience and understanding have made a significant difference to the students at Princess Margaret.

On April 19, 2024, Maggie Moments celebrates and recognizes Evan!   

In our Princess Margaret community, Evan consistently greets all staff with a positive salutation, while sincerely asking questions about their family and activities. During our morning announcements, Evan impresses us with his knowledge of professional and local sports, researching and memorizing facts to share with all of us.

The motto for Maggie is AIR: Accountability, Integrity, and Respect. Evan embodies all these values. At just 2 years old, Evan’s family discovered he had a brain tumor that was leading to the gradual loss of his vision. This marked the beginning of a unique life journey for him.

Evan, a very determined young man, faces challenges with perseverance and kindness. He has participated in 3 Braille Challenges, including a recent one in Vancouver. He has also engaged in various activities such as cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and he even recently tried sit skiing at Big White. Joining our Maggie Golf Team this year, Evan completed his first 18 holes of golf last Monday, which included driving his ball over the water and on to the green on a par 3. His excitement is contagious. Also, his respect and gratitude for the employees of the golf course was so genuine, as he ensured he thanked every employee he spoke to. Evan’s willingness to embrace new opportunities in such a positive manner, despite challenges, is truly inspiring.

Beyond his achievements, Evan also hosts a podcast on CFUZ radio station to raise awareness about blindness and promote respectful treatment of blind individuals. Additionally, every year, he volunteers at McDonald’s on McHappy Day, to give back to the Ronald McDonald House, which supports families during medical appointments.

Evan’s character shines through his caring, thoughtful, and respectful nature. Despite facing daily challenges, he approaches life with grace and a constant smile. His ability to navigate through the world and explore life’s opportunities is an inspiration to everyone around him.

Maggie Moments recognizes Brooklyn. 

Brooklyn's journey is a testament to resilience and determination. She is very helpful around the school and has shown a lot of gratitude when being helped.  Brooklyn’s growth from grade 6 demonstrates her perseverance and maturity over the years. In her current pursuit of a culinary education, she has shown remarkable initiative to achieve her future goals.

A story that highlights Brooklyn’s thoughtfulness occurred during the Europe trip in a little town called Chartres, in France, students stumbled across cool vintage stores that they were exploring and shopping in. Among them, one student bought a unique t-shirt that they loved. Later, another student, impressed by the shirt, approached the owner of the shirt, and asked if they could buy it from them. Feeling perhaps pressured, the owner reluctantly sold the shirt. Brooklyn, attentive to the situation, noticed the seller’s disappointment. Taking it upon herself to fix the situation, Brooklyn remembered a store carrying the identical shirt. With a thoughtful gesture of kindness, Brookly went back to the store and purchased the shirt for the student, using her own initiative and money, to make someone else smile. This act speaks volumes of her thoughtfulness and ability to navigate social dynamics.  

Brooklyn’s journey stands as a testament to resilience and determination to pursue her goals. The future is bright for Brooklynn, we are looking forward to seeing how things go for her at her new adventures.

A huge thank you to Stuart Bisch for his work with our Indigenous students and their grad photos.

Maggie Moments celebrates Sophie!   

Sophie’s recognition is well-deserved, highlighting not only her acts of service, but also her positive, kind attitude and respectful nature. In Leadership, Sophie has taken on countless roles and initiatives. Whether she is planning, organizing, and leading something, or just showing up to support her peers, you can always count on Sophie to put her whole heart into everything she does.

She is also incredibly reliable, and she has proven again and again that you can count on her to make good choices, think of other people’s feelings, and get the job done. For example, Sophie worked with a small crew to plan, organize, and design the Haunted Carnival which ran at the same time as our Haunted House this year. Sophie made sure that the carnival was a welcoming, safe, and enjoyable place for families to spend time while they waited for their Haunted Tour. Not only did she spend a lot of her own time planning it – she also stayed for around 12 hours on opening day to set up and run the carnival with a lot of other amazing people.

Outside of school, Sophie approaches new people, ideas, or opportunities with respect and care. Whether she is working at her job at the Regency Retirement Resort, or volunteering with elders at the Trinity Care Centre, Sophie is invested in making her community a better place by sharing her time and efforts with others. For these reasons, Sophie is a great embodiment of accountability, integrity, and respect and her ability to treat everyone with kindness and patience is truly admirable!

(Picture is an art piece Sophie made)

Our next recognition for Maggie Moments is Mr. MacDonald!  

Mr. MacDonald makes a concerted effort to create an environment that builds community within our school. It takes significant dedication; being able to create an activity that connects nearly every member of our community is something very special. This year, Mr. MacDonald has developed a special activity that you may have come across on your travels. After buying several plastic ducks, Mr. MacDonald put them in special locations throughout the school. Students and staff have been able to find little ducks hiding in all sorts of locations around the school. Mr. MacDonald's actions have created a special activity that has made it a fun activity for each of us to participate in.

Additionally, Mr. MacDonald exemplifies versatility and adaptability within the Princess Margaret community. His expertise in baking benefits many of our culinary students, while his exceptional dodgeball and chess skills are also quite remarkable. We are grateful for his active involvement and ability to foster connections among both our staff and students.

Maggie Moments Recognition for March 23

During our celebration of kindness week, we were delighted to extend our appreciation to one of the most compassionate individuals at Princess Margaret – Ms. Julie Nienaber. Ms. Nienaber radiates warmth and kindness at our breakfast counter every morning, greeting and serving everyone with her sunny and friendly demeanor. Her warm and caring personality is so inviting that even students who don't need breakfast stop by just to bask in her sunshine.

Beyond her role at the breakfast counter, Ms. Nienaber actively supports students in their community jobs. It is evident that she truly cares for each student she collaborates with, consistently engaging with them as she guides them through their activities.

Moreover, Ms. Nienaber regularly engages in spontaneous acts of kindness for her fellow Mustangs. Whether she is checking on staff and students to ensure they are having a good day, purchasing a favourite tea for a younger student awaiting a bus transfer, or bringing in dog treats for our Maggie dog guests, she consistently goes out of her way to make us feel seen and appreciated. We are sincerely thankful to have Ms. Nienaber’s authentic kindness enhancing our school community!

For our second Maggie Moments recognition, we celebrate Andrei. 

Andrei, a student known for his continuous acts of kindness, has become an invaluable addition to the Maggie community this year.

While Andrei initially joined the Culinary Arts program during semester 1, his dedication and helpful nature were evident throughout his time in class. He consistently went above and beyond, willingly helping and dedicating extra time to support his peers and staff. Even after transitioning out of Culinary Arts for semester 2, Andrei remains committed to lending a hand in the cafeteria during lunch, showcasing his genuine kindness to everyone that walks through the doors.

Beyond the classroom, Andrei extends his generosity by volunteering countless hours to assist the theatre group with their stage and props. Additionally, Andrei has been known for his random acts of kindness throughout the school.

Through his actions, Andrei exemplifies kindness and dedication. Andrie is new to the Maggie community this year, and he has been an amazing asset to our school environment.

Thank you Andrei for being you!

At PMSS we are excited to start a new initiative called Maggie Moments. Maggie Moments is where we will be highlighting inspiring stories within our school community, showcasing instances that embody the principles of AIR: Accountability, Integrity, and Respect.

Our first school community member recognized is Chanelle.

Chanelle’s compassion and inclusivity shine brightly through her actions. Her proactive approach to supporting her peers, whether it is ensuring they are not left behind academically or making sure everyone feels included in group activities, demonstrates her remarkable kindness and leadership.

During the first semester, when a classmate was absent due to illness, Chanelle took the initiative to support him. Each day of her own accord, without him asking, Chanelle collected assignments for him and took notes on everything they did in class. Then, every day, she sent him the notes and information so that he wouldn’t feel lost or behind when he returned to school.

Not only did she help this student, but anytime her class had an activity where they needed a partner, she would look around and make sure that everyone had someone to work with and if she noticed someone was left out, she would invite them to join her group. She always includes her peers in her groups and is encouraging and accepting. Chanelle sets a wonderful example of empathy and citizenship within our school community.