A Winnipeg teacher is hoping to leave a legacy of kindness as he engages his Phys. Ed. class in more than sports.
"Our Phys. Ed. department really believes in the circle of courage," says Tom Nuytten, a Phys. Ed. teacher for grades 9 and 10 at Windsor Park Collegiate in Winnipeg. "It's an Indigenous teaching that talks about the four parts of who a person is. This initiative was done through thinking about generosity."
Nuytten came up with the idea of and 'random act of kindness', which was to rake people's yards this autumn.
"It was 100 per cent supported by the staff who brought in rakes, my Phys. Ed. counterparts who also took it up and brought their classes out into the community as well," says Nuytten.
The class found multiple benefits from helping in the community as part of their gym class.
"It was a great way to get outside, get some moderate to vigorous exercise. We read some articles that showed acts of kindness have a physical effect on our bodies. It releases oxytocin, which dilates our blood vessels which protects our heart and helps us live longer."
Nuytten hopes his class carries this attitude of generosity and kindness throughout the school year.
"What does being kind to each other look like in Phys. Ed. class and what does it look like throughout the school community? I try to bring it up throughout the year."
Members in the Windsor Park community expressed their appreciation.
"We heard back from one individual who was having a rough go of it lately. She took the time to call the school and pass along the message to us, and we passed it along to the students, that it really made her day."
Sat, May 4, 12:30 PM
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