Our Grade 7 Social Studies students experienced this vision firsthand through an in-depth study of British Columbia’s provincial government.
As part of their learning, students explored all 93 electoral ridings in British Columbia, researching each riding’s MLA, political party, and the issues they are passionate about. Students then created individual information cards that were displayed on a large map of B.C., helping them better understand the scope and diversity of our province.
Building on this research, students wrote thoughtful letters to MLAs across the province. In their letters, they asked meaningful questions about leadership, governance, and the responsibilities of serving the people of British Columbia. They also shared about their upcoming visit to the Parliament Buildings in Victoria and invited MLAs to connect with them during their visit.
The experience became even more meaningful as several students received written responses from MLAs, and some had the opportunity to personally meet the representatives they had contacted. Students were encouraged to see how approachable and invested many leaders were in hearing from young people.
During their visit to Victoria, students toured the Parliament Buildings and had the unique opportunity to meet Premier David Eby. Students respectfully asked questions about leadership, decision-making, and the challenges of public service. Before leaving, students prayed for the Premier, demonstrating care and compassion for those in positions of leadership.
One of the highlights of the project was seeing students recognize that political leaders are not simply public officials, but people created in the image of God. Throughout the experience, students practiced engaging respectfully with differing perspectives while learning the importance of thoughtful citizenship and servant leadership.
Students reflected on how the project deepened their understanding of government and helped them appreciate the responsibilities carried by elected leaders. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences and to witness democracy in action.
Mrs. Gaythorpe shared that the experience helped students better understand the workings of government in a meaningful and memorable way. By observing proceedings in the Legislature and engaging directly with MLAs, students were able to connect their classroom studies with the realities of leadership and public service.
This learning opportunity beautifully reflected the heart of Christian education at Vernon Christian School: developing students who think critically, serve faithfully, and treat others with dignity and respect as image-bearers of Christ.
Link to Vernon Morning Star news story
