This project, created for PED 3102: Schooling & Society, examines how hunger impacts students and highlights programs in Canada that aim to address this issue. It aligns with my commitment to equity in education, emphasizing the importance of supporting student’s basic needs to ensure they can fully engage in learning. It explores a critical issue affecting student well-being and academic success. Food insecurity—limited access to adequate food—has significant consequences for students, including poor concentration, lower academic performance, and increased stress. This is a project that demonstrates the broader social factors that influence education.

This artifact highlights how literature can be used to explore themes of culture, identity, and food. By integrating literature with cultural learning, this artifact demonstrates how we can foster inclusivity and representation in the classroom. It provides students with opportunities to learn about diverse backgrounds, traditions, and cuisines while developing literacy and critical thinking skills. The connection to the Arts curriculum further allows for creative, hands-on learning experiences, such as storytelling, visual arts, and even creating cultural recipe books. This assignment was completed for PED 3114: Integrated Language Arts & The Arts at the Junior Level (Grades 4 to 6), involved selecting three books that focus on cooking and culture and connecting them to the Ontario Junior Language (2023) Curriculum and The Arts (2009) Curriculum. This artifact reflects on culturally responsive teaching, using books as a tool to engage students in meaningful discussions about identity, traditions, and global perspectives.

This artifact highlights the importance of creating safe and inclusive learning environments for students with asthma. As part of PED 3120: Teaching at the Junior Division: Part II, I completed an online module focused on Ryan’s Law and PPM 161, which mandate that schools support students with asthma by ensuring access to medication, staff training, and emergency response protocols. By understanding and implementing these policies, educators can help prevent asthma-related emergencies, support student well-being, and create a school culture that prioritizes health and safety. This artifact demonstrates my commitment to health and physical education, student advocacy, and inclusive teaching practices, ensuring that all students—regardless of their medical needs—can participate fully in their learning.