Submitted by Chair Amanda Amaral
November 8, 2023
November 20 is National Child Day in Canada and World Children’s Day. This day recognizes the human rights of children and the importance of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
To acknowledge the importance of National Child Day I am addressing this letter to each learner in the Sunshine Coast School District learning community and reaffirming my commitment to children’s rights.
Dear Learner,
As we pause to celebrate National Child’s Day, I recommit to working to uphold the UN Convention on Children’s Rights as I make decisions that affect you as they relate to education.
The Convention outlines a variety of rights children have, however, when I think about what this means for our school district and your experience in our schools, these are some that stand out to me:
- You have the right to know about your rights.
- You have the right to a name and a record that identifies you as you.
- You have the right to give your opinion and for others to listen.
- You have the right to choose your own friends and groups as long as it does not harm others.
- You have the right to play and rest.
Check out this child friendly version on the Convention of the Rights of the Child and familiarize yourself with all of your rights!
I will hold close spirit and intention of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and think about the rights I have highlighted above in the comments, decisions and recommendations I make. I will create time for reflection on a child’s experience and incorporate this into my work. And I need you and your voice to make better decisions.
Accept this invitation to write me. Tell me your story or share your experience in our schools. I look forward to hearing from you!
Amanda Amaral
Chair