Two students with Aboriginal ancestry have been selected by staff at JA Laird Elementary School for an experience that will last a lifetime.

Gavin Murray and Sheldon Clowers will be attending the BC Lions Skills for Life Summit between September 6th to 8th in Vancouver.

“The (program) targets students with Aboriginal ancestry, and students who they feel can bring something back to the school to be leaders,” said Jill Jensen, JA Laird Elementary School principal. “Each school district is given two spots for participation for students between Grade 7 and 9.”

The students will be participating in leadership and team building workshops with the BC Lions athletes to learn about topics including bullying prevention, violence against women, making positive life choices and choosing alternatives to gang involvement.

In addition, Gavin Murray and Sheldon Clowers — along with other students who have been selected to complete the program — will be exploring downtown Vancouver as well as watch a BC Lions game. There will also be an opportunity to participate in dragon boat racing and learn about trades programs.

Upon their return from the trip, Gavin Murray and Sheldon Clowers will be asked to prepare a presentation about the experience for their peers.

“They’ll probably have a few weeks to do it,” said Ms. Jensen about the timeline for the student presentations.

Last year, two students from David Thompson Secondary School (DTSS) attended the BC Lions Skills for Life Summit.

“Our school (JA Laird) was chosen this year to send two students, and Windermere will get to send two students next year, if the (program) continues,” explained Ms. Jensen.