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Classroom Champions program open for applications

Langley classrooms could have an Olympic mentor starting in September
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Imagine having an Olympic athlete in the classroom as a virtual mentor for the students? That is a possibility, thanks to the Classroom Champions program.

The program will pair teachers in the Lower Mainland with Canadian Olympians and Paralympians, with the athletes using video lessons and live video chats to engage students and encourage them to recognize their potential, set goals and dream big.

As part of the program, participating classrooms are equipped with the latest technological tools to help teachers incorporate digital engagement into their curriculum.

Canadian Olympic sprinter Akeem Haynes will be the designated mentor for any Langley classrooms who are accepted into the program. Haynes helped Canada win bronze in the 4x100 relay at the 2016 Summer Games.

“As a kid, I didn’t have a mentor growing up,” he said.

“To be able to mentor these classrooms is something that I hold close to my heart, so I can show them that I am here to help them dream big and achieve these goals.”

The program begins in September and is offered through Shaw Communications Inc.

“These passionate Olympic mentors bring important life lessons about fair play, positivity, goal-setting and perseverance,” said Chethan Lakshman, vice-president of communications and public relations for Shaw Communications.

“And we’re pleased this program will provide children … an opportunity to engage and benefit from their experiences.”

The deadline to apply is May 1. Eight Lower Mainland schools will be selected.

To apply, click here.