R.H. Cornish P.S. Strengthens School Community Through “Words Have Weight” Initiative

Related Photos

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  Keynote - Patrick de Belen
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  Claire – Gr. 7 – R. H. Cornish
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  Principal – Lisa Hill

R.H. Cornish Public School is celebrating the success of its school-wide Words Have Weight initiative, a year-long effort focused on helping students understand the impact of their words and the power they hold to build, uplift, and connect.

The initiative grew from the observations of staff who noticed that some students were attempting humour without fully recognizing its effect on peers. In response, the school’s Positive School Climate and Well-Being Committee launched an initiative that combined student voice, hands-on learning, and meaningful mentorship to deepen understanding and strengthen the school’s culture of empathy. 

As part of this work, the school welcomed spoken word artist and educator Patrick de Belen, who delivered a powerful presentation titled Every Word Matters to intermediate students. Drawing from his own lived experiences with harmful language, belonging, and resilience, Patrick illustrated how words can influence identity and shape community. His message resonated deeply, inspiring students to reflect on their own language choices and explore poetry as a way to express their stories. Several students bravely shared their own original spoken word pieces with peers, demonstrating leadership, courage, and authenticity. 

To further reinforce the message, the school hosted a Sewing Studio Week in November involving all students from kindergarten to Grade 8. While students learned sewing basics and completed creative projects, the experience also provided real-time opportunities to practice encouraging, supportive communication. Classrooms became collaborative, positive spaces where students helped one another, offered kind words, and celebrated one another’s success. 

“This initiative has shown our students that words are powerful tools,” said Sarah Keys, Teacher Librarian and member of the Positive School Climate and Well-Being Committee. “Whether through poetry or hands-on activities like sewing, students are learning that their words can build confidence, strengthen relationships, and create a sense of belonging.” 

The Sewing Studio also supported the school’s achievement plan by enhancing student confidence, persistence, emotional regulation, and sense of accomplishment. Together, the spoken word workshop and hands-on sewing experience created a consistent message that kindness, empathy, and mindful communication are central to a safe and inclusive learning environment. 

R.H. Cornish Public School is proud of the growth shown by students and the commitment of staff to foster a positive school climate. The school’s Words Have Weight initiative serves as an inspiring example of how intentional learning experiences can empower students, strengthen relationships, and create lasting changes across a school community.