Local politicians sit down with students from Stanley P.S. to discuss environmental issues, plans for the future

BY: Jasleen Kambo

On January 24, 2023, Member of Provincial Parliament for Humber River-Black Creek Tom Rakocevic, as well as Ward 4 Toronto District School Board Trustee Matias de Dovitiis sat down with local Grade 5 students at Stanley Public School to discuss the future of Ontario’s environmentally protected areas.

The meeting arose after a few civically engaged students wrote thoughtful letters to their local MPP, when they heard that the Ontario Greenbelt was in danger of being developed over due to Bill 123, the More Homes Built Faster Act, as well as in response to other environmental concerns.

When MPP Rakocevic read these letters, he knew he wanted to connect with the students on a deeper level and teach them how decisions are made in local politics. Being impressed by the students’ initiative, he wanted to discuss their concerns.

“Your letters matter.” said Rakocevic to students. “We win by working together…to convince the government not to develop on the greenbelt.” 

Local Toronto District School Board Trustee, Matias de Dovitiis, was happy to attend the meeting as well to engage with the curious students.

“Very intelligent, well written, and eloquent letters.” de Dovitiis complimented the students. “Be environmentally conscious. Think about where your food comes from and how its grown. Think about where your clothes come from, where the materials come from, and how your clothes are made.” 

Trustee de Dovitiis also expressed the importance of writing letters to the government, citing how one of the first anti-slavery movements occurred through writing letters to the government in the name of abolitionism. 

Through the letters as well as at the meeting, students shared their thoughts, hopes and worries. The discussion was lively, and students were able to ask questions directly to their elected officials.

Grade 5 student Kim’s letter was researched, detailed, and thoughtfully written. 

“This issue concerns me as the Greenbelt is a valuable part of our society and the removal of 7,400 square acres of it will affect our country greatly. Even if the Provincial Government will add another 9,000 square aces to the Greenbelt, it won’t be that simple. If the Provincial Government could just “add more” to the Greenbelt, why don’t they just build more housing there?” Posited Kim.

The students demonstrated critical thinking, logical reasoning, and perhaps most importantly, the capacity to create solutions—something increasingly being demanded of the next generation who will inherit many social and environmental challenges.

Grade 5 Student Andrea expressed a more local concern. 

“I have been noticing more trash lately when I go for walks, there are many cigarette butts and coffee or soft drink cups. I went online to read news articles about pollution because of this, and as a result, I now know that pollution has been rising in the riding I live in. I would prefer it if Toronto had less pollution because it is already located in a region with a higher level of pollution than most.” Wrote Andrea.

The environmental issues were tackled from many angles. Additionally, Grade 5 Student Akshaya shared her concern for the human element of the impending development, as well as for local wildlife. 

“As we start building on the Greenbelt I am worried about the farmers losing their farmlands and leading up to quitting and us losing more opportunities to get fruits and vegetables in our local community.” Opined Akshaya. “I am concerned about the animals losing their habitat and being frightened by the construction machines.” 

TDSB Teacher Maria Grossi was happy to facilitate this engaging dialogue between students and their elected officials. She expressed a deep pride for their empathy, and willingness to try to make change. 

Unfortunately, Mrs. Grossi informed the local representatives that she did receive a response from the office of the Premier which thanked the class for their letters but informed them that they were moving ahead with their plans to develop the greenbelt.  

Despite the saddening news, Mrs. Grossi was inspired by the work and creativity that went into her students’ letters.

“I’m so proud of them, they really took to the issue on their own and I’m so proud of how socially aware they are, especially on such an important issue like this one. It’s a great opportunity for them to speak out on such a pressing issue.” Shared Grossi. 

In closing, students appreciated being given the direct opportunity to connect with their civic representatives, and while the answer from the government of the day may not have been what they had hoped for, they at least understood that their voices were heard. 

“If I want you to remember anything from today, it’s not that your MPP or Trustee visited your classroom, but how you felt when you wrote your letters.” MPP Tom imparted upon the class. “I hope the motivation to care about the environment, and about social issues stays with you forever.”