Posted: February 9, 2013
Annica Collette, a grade 11 student at Miramichi Valley High School, wants her school-mates to be careful about the words they use! For this she has received significant recognition. She was presented with an award by the New Brunswick Association for Community Living for her efforts in Inclusive Education at MVHS. Annica created a campaign that elicited from many of her fellow students a public pledge to always speak respectfully when referring to those with intellectual disabilities. Not content with this effort she has also established a Best Buddies program in her school. In this program people take on a roll to support fellow students, such as those with Down Syndrome, by creating meaningful friendships and spending time together socially. Annica received her award at a presentation ceremony in Fredericton on Thursday February 7th hosted by the New Brunswick Association for Community Living. On hand to recognize Annica and other award recipients were Lieutenant Governor Graydon Nicholas, NB Minister of Education Jody Carr and Anglophone North School District Superintendent Nancy Boucher. The provincial association made the presentation on behalf of the Canadian Association for Community Living.