Mar. 03, 2023
This article is the first in a series of profile stories about the amazing depth and breadth of programming offered at CBE schools. We are #ProudtobeCBE!
When you walk into Lester B. Pearson High School (LBP) in Calgary’s northeast, you can just feel energy and excitement.
Home to more than 1,500 students in Grades 10-12, the school is a community that celebrates diversity, with students coming from a variety of backgrounds and 59 languages spoken.
“We have created a community here that is focused on making sure every student feels welcome and known. We want students to know that the work they do here is meaningful and worthwhile and that they feel hope for their future,” says Principal Kenneth Chee.
Grade 12 student Reem A. says that is exactly how she feels at the school. “It’s so important for people who are older than we are to see the light inside of us. At this school, the light inside me is getting brighter every day.”
On Pink Shirt Day, LBP students were proud to welcome the CBE Board of Trustees to their school, and to introduce them to the students, teachers and staff who are creating this amazing school community.
“Hope is what really drives students to be successful,” said Board Chair Laura Hack. “It is so good to see students who are so passionate about what they are learning.”
During the visit, trustees had the opportunity to meet and speak with students taking Art, IB Animation, IB English Language Arts and Biology. Along the way, they also watched a trio of students practicing their instruments in the band room, danced with students during a movement break in an Adapted Learning Program, and witnessed the unveiling of a very special piece of artwork representing the school’s Acknowledgement of the Land. The display consisted of 100 tiles painted by students and staff to reflect and honour
their commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.
Grade 12 student Besan J. says it’s a school where you can really find yourself. “One of my dreams was to learn how to use a camera, and that photography class led to me to learning more about the history of Calgary. At LBP, you can really excel!”
Art teacher and Learning Leader Gary Toy (who is also a member of LBP’s very first graduating class) says he loves how engaged the students are in their learning. “They just take what they’ve learned and have the confidence to advance it on their own. When they come into the classroom, they just go for it.”
In addition to core curriculum, LBP offers numerous academic, dual credit and off-campus work experience programs, as well as courses in Fine and Performing Arts, English Language Learning, Knowledge and Employability and the Registered Apprenticeship Program.
Learn more about Lester B. Pearson High School and all the opportunities it offers!
