The recipient of the Blakeburn PAC Bursary for 2019-2020 is Olivia D'Amici
Please see her letter to the Blakeburn PAC.
“Take care of yourself, take care of others, take care of this place”. The Blakeburn motto is something I find myself adhering to, as I believe it is important to check in with my friends and family, as well as myself. Mental health is something I’ve began focusing on more this year. I’ve implemented strategies to reduce my anxiety and stress by drawing, yoga, dancing and painting.
Throughout my middle and high school years, I have volunteered and participated in many clubs, fundraisers, peer tutoring and classes that have built relationships and memories that will last a lifetime. I am a part of Link Crew, where we are actively involved in the school community and volunteer, while raising money to donate necessities to women’s and homeless shelters. I’m also involved in several other clubs ie. Legacy Club, Student Council, Grad Committee and the Student Leadership Council of SD43. In Legacy, we raise money for the organization 4Ocean, clean drinking water on reserves and building beehives. Student Council is a club where students are able to plan events and school activities, with the help of Mr. Chambers. Lastly, Grad Committee, is where grade 12 students can share their ideas and give input to the teachers who plan grad.
In leadership, we visit Blakeburn every year for little buddies, and it gives me a chance to catch up with past teachers and staff, whether it be a wave in the hallway, or a conversation. It reminds me that my old teachers and friends shaped me into the person I am today.
For the past two years, I’ve been actively involved in peer tutoring, in which I peer tutor the Skill Development Room, where I assist students with disabilities. Being able to build relationships with these students and EA’s is truly rewarding, and I’ve become very close with many of them.
Outside of school, I dance at Encore Dance Academy, where I have been dancing for the past 15 years. I have assisted many teachers and helped teach dance classes throughout the week, as working with kids is a passion of mine. Dance is one of the ways I take care of myself, as I’m able to let go of all my negativity and am able to be myself.m
Throughout volunteering and dancing, I’ve been able to maintain a 90% average throughout my four years at Terry Fox Secondary. I’ve built strong connections with all of my teachers and the staff at my school, and many do count on me for extra tasks and favours to be completed.
Thank you for your consideration for the Blakeburn Elementary School Social Responsibility Bursary.
Olivia D’Amici
