To many, a backpack is something ordinary slung over shoulders, tossed into cars or onto the living room floor without a second thought. But for many K–12 students, a backpack can represent something far greater: confidence, belonging, and the potential for a brighter future.
On October 3, students, faculty, staff, and alumni at St. Mary’s University came together for Pack to School—an inspiring initiative led by the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) Education Students’ Association to provide 100 backpacks filled with school supplies for students in our partner public and Catholic schools across Calgary.
Second-year B.Ed student Hannah Eeles, who spearheaded the project, understands the challenges some families face when it comes to affording school supplies. Her vision for Pack to School was simple but powerful: to help more students succeed by giving back and championing education in the community.
“As future teachers, we understand how important it is for every child to feel equipped and supported when they walk into a classroom,” said Hannah Eeles, Events & Fundraising Officer for the Education Students’ Association. “This event was a chance to come together as a community, have fun, and make a real difference for kids who need it.”
This initiative united the entire university community—from the Education Students’ Association to faculty and staff leaders like Indigenous Relations and Initiatives Coordinator Angela Bear Chief, the Dean of Education Dr. Laurie Carlson Berg, Assistant Professor of Literacy Education Dr. Harrison Campbell, and the External Relations team, led by Lisa Laskowski, who supported with fundraising and marketing. The items inside the backpacks even included sensory items provided by the Woitas Centre for Inclusive Education.
“This work undertaken by our Education Students’ Association marks our largest and farthest-reaching charitable initiative to date,” said Dr. Harrison Campbell, Faculty Representative for the Association. “Hannah and the entire student executive team are to be commended for their outstanding efforts in supporting students and our school partners. The Faculty of Education is deeply proud of their commitment to service and community.”
The Pack to School initiative is a shining example of the heart and dedication that St. Mary’s B.Ed students bring to their work—proof that the future of education is in good, conscientious hands.
