The stunning island of Grand Bahama provided a living classroom for students interested in environmental stewardship and community responsibility. The focus was on marine ecology, sustainable conch fishing practices, and mangrove forest restoration. Dea S. and Eliana S. reflect on their experience: “That magical sparkle of the sun’s reflection gave me peace in a way I hadn’t felt before. The overwhelming sensation of calmness only intensified once we stepped on the speed boat and headed to the drift snorkel site. Sitting on the boat that seemed to fly across the ocean made me feel at home in a way I haven’t felt at home before. The way the different tones of blue blended together and contrasted the specs of gold that sat on the tips of the waves, all the while being clear enough to see to the bottom, helped my mind to go quiet for a minute. It was the stillness of my mind that solidified my love for those diamond encrusted waves, and earned my gratitude for the island of Grand Bahama and the ocean forever.” The students wrote daily field reports throughout their trip, read more here.

Often called the Land of Ice and Fire, Iceland’s unique landscape, shaped by glaciers and volcanoes, served as a real-world learning experience for studying energy, climate change, and sustainability. Students explored the country's reliance on geothermal power, a testament to its cultural value of environmental conservation. Maia reflected on this experiential learning trip: “Today we went to the fish racks. Although they were super smelly, fish drying became one of Iceland’s first major exports and is one of the ways that Iceland was able to accumulate wealth. We were even able to try some of the packaged fish jerky! After that, we also saw the real world impacts of volcanic eruptions. In the recent eruptions, a growing small town’s development was halted due to 14,000 earthquakes over several months, amounting to about 300 per day, which caused large fissures to damage the infrastructure. After which, molten lava bubbled up to the surface. The town was evacuated and only some civilians have returned, effectively turning it into a ghost town. Although today did have some more somber elements, it is a testament to human resilience and a reminder that what we have learned isn’t just theoretical.”

For the local block, students engaged in a variety of experiential activities right here at home. They visited the McMaster University Planetarium, the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, explored the Little Canada Exhibit, participated in creative arts through pottery classes and enjoyed a high tea. The week culminated in a Future Design School led workshop, a powerful opportunity for all students to consolidate their learning experiences, apply critical thinking, and build relationship skills through collaborative design challenges. 

The Grade 10 Global Citizenship Discovery Program provides real-world learning experiences that allow students to explore their own unique pathways. By exposing students to diverse, challenging, and collaborative environments, SMLS continues to support young women to build the confidence, self-awareness, and resilience required to make a bold, positive impact on a complex global stage.