CityShapers

In Schools

Overview

CityShapers in Schools is a grade specific, classroom-based workshop series focusing on governance, civic engagement, and city planning, examining topics such as climate action, housing affordability, and public space design. Designed to be interdisciplinary and interactive, these workshops encourage students to explore various pathways to civic action while connecting with the people and places that matter to them. The programs are available for grades 5-12 across Metro Vancouver classrooms and are financially accessible for teachers. They align with subject areas such as Social Studies, Social Justice, Urban Studies, Science, and more.

Our Mission

To deliver relevant and hands-on civic education workshops that are specifically adapted to the local context of each school. We prioritize schools in communities facing greater systemic barriers to civic participation and representation in municipal politics, empowering them to amplify their voices.

Start a Program

Program Details

Learn more about our grade-specific programs below.

FAQs

  • We are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to making civic education accessible to public schools by covering the program costs. Our program is offered for free or on a pay-what-you-can basis for public schools. If your school is able to contribute financially to the program, we would greatly appreciate your support!

  • Yes! CityShapers in Schools focuses on understanding our place and role in the community through the lenses of justice and equity. The sessions feature content and activities that incorporate all Curriculum Core Competencies and are inherently interdisciplinary. They integrate topics such as indigenous reconciliation, design, and sustainability, while engaging students' imaginations and curiosity through dialogue, games, and creative activities.

  • All programs are led by two facilitators: one trained CityHive staff member (either the CityShapers Program Lead or Program Assistant) and one CityShapers Youth Facilitator volunteer.

    • As an organization, we take pride in our youth-to-youth mentorship model, which supports the career development of young participants in our programs. Introducing CityShapers into your elementary or secondary classroom connects students to a community they can engage with, participate in, and seek employment from even after graduating.

  • After confirming your classroom workshop, you will be sent a folder containing document hand-outs required for the program. Please print these at your school before the start of the program. This email will also contain access to optional pre- and post-program lessons and resources that enhance the learning experience.

  • Programs are designed to support students as they explore complex civic issues. Therefore, all sessions are necessary to ensure students receive the maximum benefit from the program. This means each booking will include two sessions for grades 5-8 and four sessions for grades 9-12.

Testimonials

Teacher Resources

Are you wondering how our workshops fit within your school curriculums?

Learn about our subject alignment per grade below.

Want to get started?

Olivia Shaw

Olivia is the Team Lead for our CityShapers in Schools program and can assist with getting you started or if you have any questions!

olivia@cityhive.ca

Thank you to our CityShaper Supporters!

Next
Next

CityShapers in Communities