News Update

Tec Voc High School is Manitoba’s fourth Fair Trade School

Posted November 28th 2018

On November 28, 2018 Winnipeg School Division’s Tec Voc High School celebrated its official designation as a Fair Trade School.

The designation recognizes the school’s commitment to make purchases and take actions that support the rights of workers and producers in the Global South.

“We’re very proud of this recognition and encourage all schools to join us in becoming fair trade designated,” said Sarah Dela Cruz, student member of the Tec Voc Fair Trade Committee.

In honour of the recognition, Tec Voc served guests samples of local and fair trade food and drinks. The school cafeteria also put on a “Farm and Fair Trade” lunch special.

“Tec Voc High School will continue to commit to its fair trade initiative each year through the formation of a Fair Trade Committee, consisting of administration, staff and students,” Said Kathleen Mira, business education teacher at Tec Voc. “The committee ensures that fair trade products are offered in our school, both at the school store and the school cafeteria.”

Mira said the committee is also planning to raise awareness through events and by teaching about fair trade in the classroom.

Tec Voc’s school motto is “Think Green! Act Gold! Be a Hornet!” — this motto emphasizes the importance of environmental considerations and of being a good and supportive global citizen. In keeping with this mantra, Tec Voc recognizes that supporting fair trade brings us together as a global community. Even with small everyday purchases, as a collective we can be a catalyst for change.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome the 1300 students and staff of Tec Voc High School to the family of schools that have been fair trade designated. As the 22nd school to be designated, and with a committed steering committee and in-class learning on fair trade issues, Tec Voc shows great dedication to the producers in the Global South who benefit from the movement. This means they can improve their farming practices, their working conditions and their communities. Go Hornets!” — Julie Francoeur, Executive Director, Fairtrade Canada

“We are very excited to welcome Tec Voc into the Fair Trade Schools community. Thanks to the hard work of students, teachers and staff at Tec Voc, more farmers and producers will now benefit from a fair price for their products. Congratulations to all of you!” — Sean McHugh, Executive Director, Canadian Fair Trade Network