Student Life

Community Citizens

Being part of a greater community is also part of learning to become a contributing citizen and developing an appreciation for people in all walks of life. All students at DWA participate in our Community Outreach program. New volunteering opportunities are incorporated into the program so that socially responsible participation benefits both active students and growing communities.

The elementary students regularly visit the residents at one of three seniors' homes just a short walk away from the school. The special friendships that have grown strong between these young children and their lively counterparts bring a unique dimension to both parties.

The junior and senior high students have had many diverse experiences learning the value and importance of the volunteer community. From preparing food for local shelters to stuffing care packages at the Red Cross, DWA students have helped many organizations throughout the years. One of the current partnerships involves working with severely disabled teens at our neighbourhood school - Christine Meikle School. This is a particular favourite with our students as they gain amazing insights and appreciation, and the teens at CMS look forward to the camaraderie and "high-fives" with their "regular" friends. It is a very rewarding relationship for students and staff in both schools.

Other community events such as food drives and the annual adoption of two needy families at Christmas, bring the whole school together sharing in the spirit of giving.

Student Government

Student Council is comprised of junior and senior high school students elected by the student body at the beginning of every school year. Under the guidance of a teacher mentor, the council is responsible for new student initiatives, a variety of special events and dialogue with the school administration. Student council members are part of the Parent Advisory Council representing student perspectives on a variety of issues.

Out & About

DWA students spend an enviable amount of time outside of our school building on field trips, outdoor activities, theatre performances and special events. They visit venues in Calgary and in Alberta, and experience the world at large on international excursions. All of these experiences solidify classroom learning and bring the world back into the school. For more information, see Travel the World.

Clubs

A great variety of activities are available to develop personal interests and leadership, build school spirit and initiate involvement in unique projects. Some clubs have a long history at DWA and are offered yearly. Others are established at the request of students and may change annually. Some clubs are multi-aged, while others are just for specific grades. Some of this year's clubs include:

• Yearbook
• Yoga
• Chess & Checkers
• Spanish & French
• Volleyball
• Craft
• Student Council
• Jewelry
• Movie Classics
• Intramurals
• Debate
• Games
• Salsa & Merengue

Special Occasions

At DWA, almost any special occasion during the year brings the students and staff together for fun-filled times. Every student's birthday is celebrated, even in high school. Cake and candles (or Timbits, muffins and cupcakes) at recess time are cool at any age!

Special days such as Hallowe'en, St. Valentine's or St. Patrick's give everyone a chance to dress-up and partake of appropriate goodies. Other special days such as Pajama Day or Backwards Day are great for a lot of laughter and school spirit. The school Christmas party with the Secret Santa Gift Exchange is a perennial favourite.

Bring Your Parent to School Day

A DWA original! Students can bring their parents to school to sit in on their classes, participate in their learning activities and get a feel for the friendly school atmosphere.