AGP Executive Report

Education & Youth Sports: Reece Wilson, a Brandon volleyball coach and University of the Fraser Valley grad, makes his Team Canada debut as assistant coach for the U-21 national team. Student Pathways & Skills: Port Alberni forestry workers are being retrained into steadier manufacturing jobs through a housing startup–college partnership, showing how local colleges can help displaced workers transition. Higher Ed & Research: Vanderbilt and the University of Ottawa are partnering to preserve Indigenous history using community-led digital approaches via uOttawa’s Mobile History Lab and Vanderbilt’s digital preservation work. Labour & Care Work: CUPE accuses a Winnipeg retirement home of union-busting after mass layoff notices were issued the same day workers received official representation. Policy & Public Services: Canada’s CPI rose 3.2% in May, with gasoline driving the increase—another pressure point for families and school budgets. Health & Safety: A study warns chronic wasting disease prions can spread from deer that look healthy, complicating wildlife management and public risk.

School Safety & Security: Montreal police responded to an armed attack in Côte-des-Neiges targeting Jewish businesses; at least two officers and a civilian were injured, with one suspect confirmed neutralized and reports of additional deaths and possible hostage situation. Restorative Justice in Education: Weyburn’s Dr. Krystal Glowatski blends restorative justice and art, sharing how her community roots and research are shaping new approaches to accountability. Early Learning Policy (Ontario): A look at Ontario’s updated kindergarten curriculum for September clarifies what’s changed (more explicit literacy expectations and a tiered support model) and what stays the same (play-based learning and inquiry). International Students & Federal Influence: Research argues IRCC is increasingly shaping higher-education policy for international students through regulations, including the 2024 enrolment cap. Student Wellbeing (Ontario): A Grade 10 survey in Haldimand-Norfolk finds most students feel safe and cared for, but many—especially girls—rate their mental health as less than good. Higher Ed & Skills: York University launches a course-based professional Master of Engineering in Sustainable Energy Systems aimed at leadership in Canada’s energy transition. Funding & Access: The federal government announced $5.4B in additional funding for the $10-a-day child-care plan, citing gains in mothers’ labour-force participation and GDP impact.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Canada: Prime Minister Mark Carney joined celebrations in Nanaimo, touring the Nanaimo Museum with Snuneymuxw First Nation leaders and highlighting a future where First Nations, Inuit and Métis children can grow up connected to language and culture. Student learning in Saskatchewan: Estevan students got hands-on agriculture lessons at the Estevan Exhibition through Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan, including a canola “crush” activity that shows how crops become everyday products. Summer literacy + STEM: Estevan’s Area Literacy Group is bringing back its Nature Smarts program (ages 4–12) with free outdoor, play-based reading and STEM activities running July and August. University leadership legacy: USask marked the 40th anniversary of Sylvia Fedoruk becoming the first woman elected chancellor in 1986, celebrating her research and campus leadership. Health alert for families: Peel Public Health warned of possible measles exposure at Pearson Airport and on two flights, urging anyone at sites to check MMR status. Indigenous education milestone: First Nations University of Canada held convocation in Regina during its 50th anniversary year, with graduates celebrating on National Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day Coverage: Canada marked the 30th National Indigenous Peoples’ Day with events nationwide, including Ottawa ceremonies tied to the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument and messages from federal leaders highlighting culturally relevant education and other priorities. Student Reading & Community Learning: In Ontario’s Rainbow District School Board, the City of Lakes IODE chapter donated copies of the award-winning children’s book T is for Terry: An ABC of Courage to elementary libraries. Northern Research Funding: The federal government announced $10 million through the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s Northern Fund, backing two major projects in Nunavut—community health research and an Indigenous knowledge app for community-led work. Education & Youth Policy Context: A U.S. story on new safeguards for child social-media influencers echoes broader concerns about monetizing young people online, with Canada educators and families watching closely as digital-age protections expand. School Safety/Wellbeing: Windsor police investigated multiple attempted vehicle thefts in East Windsor, seeking dashcam and surveillance footage—another reminder of the safety pressures communities face around schools and youth activities.

World Cup Travel & Performance: A Teesside University study warns that long-distance travel, time-zone changes, and disrupted sleep can hurt soccer players’ performance and recovery—especially with repeated trips and packed schedules ahead of the 2026 World Cup across the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Campus Food Update: Lakehead University is replacing its long-running Starbucks spot in the Agora with Timber and Roast Bistro, aiming for a “more robust” menu and more flexible service for students and the public. Community Meals in Qualicum Beach: St. Stephens Church’s Community Meals program marked 20 years, serving about 180 lunches weekly plus monthly dinners, with expanded outreach for people who are unhoused or isolated. ALS Fundraiser: Thunder Bay’s Walk to End ALS drew walkers despite steady rain, raising over $9,300 toward a $20,000 goal. Track & Field Spotlight: Nicole McKenzie won the women’s 800m at Canada’s Track & Field Championships in Ottawa in an upset, while Ethan Katzberg took the men’s hammer throw title. Indigenous Celebration: Maple Ridge hosted National Indigenous Peoples Day with drumming, dancing, storytelling and community healing tents.

World Refugee Day: Canada marked the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention, with advocates also pushing for stronger protections for 2SLGBTQIA+ refugees and asylum seekers as Pride and displacement concerns collide. Education & Inclusion: A Canadian non-profit is training service providers through the Listening Equity Project to better support people with communication disabilities who get stuck in automated systems. Adult Learning & Newcomers: After 14 years, educator Jaime Friesen-Pankratz reflects on how adult literacy and LINC teaching goes far beyond grammar—helping learners navigate work and everyday life in Canada. School Community Support: Cochrane’s radio station donated $3,200 to boost music programs at three local high schools, backing hands-on learning spaces. Youth Safety & Policy: Canada’s proposed social media rules for kids under 16 are back in the spotlight, with questions about how identity checks and protections would work in practice. Sports as a Learning Hook: Nelson, B.C. is planning World Cup events with free transit and family activities that bring community and local business together.

Student Robotics on the World Stage: Keith Grammar School’s impROVise team is heading to the MATE ROV World Championship in Canada after winning Scottish finals, showing how hands-on engineering is getting students ready for global competitions. Beluga Transport Plan: Canada has endorsed a rescue plan to move 30 belugas from the shuttered Marineland in Niagara Falls to aquariums in Spain and the U.S., raising big practical questions about transporting large marine animals. Housing & Affordability Debate: B.C. experts are pushing back on a federal-provincial plan to buy vacant condos and convert them to affordable housing, calling it a potential developer bail out. Indigenous Education & Healing: Designs are complete for an expansion of the National Indigenous Residential School Museum in Portage la Prairie, adding new cultural spaces, a medicine garden and a monument. Youth Skills & Work Readiness: A national survey finds many Canadians think young adults (18–29) aren’t getting enough support to enter the workforce, alongside Ottawa’s push to train skilled trades workers. Vaccines as a System Issue: Canadian research argues vaccine uptake barriers go beyond personal choice, pointing to access gaps in clinics and everyday health-system realities. Campus Milestone: U of T spring convocation 2026 celebrates more than 17,400 graduates across dozens of ceremonies.

Indigenous Recognition: Saskatchewan is marking the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day and Treaty 6 with community events and renewed reconciliation commitments. Healthcare AI Partnership: Toboggan Labs has joined Mila’s industry partner network to strengthen how healthcare organizations turn AI research into real-world systems. Privacy & Tech Policy: Brock University expert Karen Louise Smith says proposed biometric language in Bill C-36 leaves gaps for risks like deepfakes and surveillance pricing. Student & Community Life: Kingston-area high school students are helping shape United Way youth philanthropy, while Sarnia families continue hosting international students through a homestay program that builds belonging. Equity in Schools: Pride flag vandalism at a Thorold, Ont., school has led to a charge, as police investigate a targeted incident during Pride Month. Food Security Funding: Ottawa launched a new $20M Local Food Infrastructure Fund Community Support Stream to help food banks and community groups distribute nutritious food. Sports & Pathways: MLB’s draft overhaul proposal could reshape how young players enter pro baseball, with major implications for Canadian prospects.

World Cup & Student Sport: Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar turned into a painful moment when midfielder Ismaël Koné suffered a gruesome leg injury after a red-card tackle, with the match’s biggest headlines landing on the pitch and in the stands. Indigenous Learning & Culture: Treaty Days are underway at Fort McKay First Nation, with a children’s discovery zone and cultural teachings running June 18–21. Reading Support for Schools: Saskatchewan’s St. Louis School received a $10,000 Indigo Love of Reading grant to refresh library collections and expand maker-style learning. Youth Online Safety: Proposed federal rules would bar kids under 16 from creating social media accounts, with exemptions tied to limiting specific harmful content. Education Pathways & Wellbeing: Knowledge Network marked Indigenous History Month with a curated slate of films and series, while a separate piece highlights how campus life support can shape higher-ed success. School Community Milestones: Cornwall Alternative School celebrated its first Grade 12 graduating class, emphasizing Indigenous-focused curriculum and student hope. Sports Talent Pipeline: Skills Canada and student-athlete wins popped up alongside major draft and league updates, underscoring how training and competitions feed future careers.

World Cup Heat Rules: FIFA’s new mandatory three-minute hydration breaks in every match have drawn debate in Canada and beyond, with critics warning about disrupted rhythm and coaches’ influence, while experts say the goal is to reduce heat-stress medical risks for elite players. Quebec Childcare Access: After a Supreme Court ruling, Quebec says subsidized daycare will prioritize families who live and work in the province, while asylum seekers and others get remaining spots. Indigenous Education Month Picks: A guide for Indigenous History Month spotlights Indigenous films that centre joy and community, not just trauma. University Spotlight: University of Saskatchewan lands in the QS World University Rankings’ upper tier, with strong marks in sustainability and research-related indicators. Student Health Tech: Western University researchers are working on 3D-printed thumb arthritis splints to expand access beyond in-person specialist clinics. School Support Advocacy: A Saskatchewan mother is pushing for a province-wide Type 1 diabetes school care standard. Education Leadership: St. Mary’s University appoints Dr. Elisé Saraceni as Dean of Education.

World Cup & Student Life: Canada’s Alphonso Davies is expected to be available for the home match vs Qatar, with coach Jesse Marsch saying he’s “ready,” while Canada’s players talk “swagger” as they chase a first-ever World Cup win. Education Policy (Edmonton): Edmonton Public Schools approved a locally developed Arabic language and culture course from elementary through high school, with board members noting it supports mother-tongue learning and cultural understanding. Youth Safety & AI: Two Edmonton junior high students face child sexual exploitation charges after allegedly using AI to create sexualized images of classmates. Human Trafficking Education: BC RCMP launched “I Dare You to See,” a campaign aimed at helping the public and hospitality workers spot and report trafficking signs. Campus Sport: U Sports will add women’s flag football as a pilot sport for 2027-28, moving it toward varsity status. Military Training: Airbus delivered the first H135 trainer to the Royal Canadian Air Force for the CT-153 Juno under the Future Aircrew Training program.

AI & Student Safety: Alberta police charged two 14-year-old Edmonton students for allegedly using AI to create child sexual exploitation images of classmates, after a teacher reported complaints from students. Post-Secondary Costs & Family Law: A B.C. explainer warns separated parents that child support may continue after high school if a child is still in post-secondary, since “child” can include those over 19 who haven’t withdrawn. U Sports Women’s Flag Football: Football Canada and U Sports launched a women’s flag football pilot for 2027-28, aiming to grow participation before possible full-sport status. STEM & Robotics: UBC Okanagan’s golf teams chase national titles at the Canadian University/College Championships, while a Sharon High School robotics team earned international recognition at the Canada Cup of Robotics. Youth Crime Supports: Saskatchewan NDP says new Statistics Canada figures show youth victims of crime face high rates of later police contact as accused persons, calling for stronger supports. Food Security & Schools: HelloFresh and No Kid Hungry announced a summer hunger initiative, and Sysco Canada marked a 26-year Second Harvest partnership with a $50,000 donation. Indigenous Education & Community: Melfort’s museum hosts a free National Indigenous Peoples Day event with treaty education and family activities.

Public Education & Student Life: Alberta’s teachers’ association says immigration referendum questions shouldn’t affect access to publicly funded education, warning schools could be forced into “immigration authority” roles. Labour & Schools: CUPE 2268 ratified a new three-year deal with Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, including an 8% wage increase and stronger health-and-safety language. School Safety & Community: Ottawa’s OCDSB trustee disputes the board’s explanation for cancelling a drag storytime event, while Birmingham schools are pushing strategies to curb World Cup-related truancy. Indigenous Education & Culture: Niagara Foundation and NAIR back four Indigenous artist residencies via a new fellowship, and Mînî Thnî schools’ princess pageant is helping keep Stoney language alive. Post-Secondary & Skills: Canadore College wrapped spring convocation with a new president, and Agri-Business Education Foundation scholarships will support seven students with $2,500 each. Child Care Workforce: Manitoba’s Curbridge Group launched “Directors Desk,” a child care HR toolkit with templates and consultant support. Sports Media: CBC won’t carry “Hockey Night in Canada” NHL broadcasts next season after a Rogers sublicensing deal expired.

Social Media Rules: The U.K. is moving to ban social media for kids under 16, with carve-outs for messaging apps and a separate approach for AI “romantic companion” chatbots—Canada and others are watching closely. International Students: Lakehead University says federal caps have cut its international undergraduate enrolment by 11%, and it’s ramping up recruitment while hoping for policy changes. Student Innovation: An Aberfoyle student won gold at the Canada-Wide Science Fair for an AI tool that helps people judge milk spoilage and cut food waste. French-Language Access in Universities: Quebec struck a deal with English-language universities to boost out-of-province students’ basic French skills by graduation, backed by about $20M a year. School Food Expansion: Canada’s National School Food Program is scaling up, with funding doubling to $140M and more than 10,000 schools offering meals. Student Housing: Georgian College in Barrie is partnering with Sparrow to expand off-campus homestay options for fall 2026. AI Safety at the Top: Anthropic is in talks with U.S. officials after Trump-era AI security disputes led it to restrict access to advanced models. Wildfire Readiness: A Senate report urges stronger federal emergency management support as wildfire seasons strain provincial capacity.

Student Safety & Wellbeing: Camrose Composite High School students protested after disturbing sexual- and gender-based violence threats circulated in an online chat dating back to fall 2025, with organizers calling for action against rape culture and toxic masculinity. School Funding & Access: Ontario announced $34.3M for a new K-12 French-Catholic school in Winchester, expanding French-language education in Dundas County. Youth Screen Time Policy: A psychiatrist says bans on social media for kids under 16 may trigger backlash and won’t work without stronger support from parents and schools, as Canada and other countries face enforcement and pushback challenges. Campus Governance: Laurentian University terminated faculty are again demanding a public inquiry after receiving partial severance, arguing the CCAA process lacked transparency and accountability. Community & Inclusion: A ballet teacher in Port Elgin, Marg Mamo, is retiring after 48 years, with her final recital June 20 celebrating a legacy of kind, supportive dancers. Public Safety Data: An expert says recent police deaths are tragic but not enough to claim policing is less safe than decades ago, citing long-term on-duty death trends. Education & Research Networks: More than 65 universities joined a global interdisciplinary higher-education network, including 20 in Canada/US, aiming to build cross-border research partnerships.

School Food Push: Secretary of State Anna Gainey is set to announce federal support to expand school food programs at Glashan Public School in Ottawa, with media invited for the June 16 event. Youth Online Safety: Britain’s PM Keir Starmer proposes banning social media for kids 16 and under, echoing Australia’s approach and adding pressure on platforms to protect children. World Cup on the Ground: Canada resumes World Cup training ahead of its next match vs Qatar in Vancouver, with the tournament’s Canada base at UBC’s Whitecaps FC centre. Pride Vandalism: Ontario police are investigating after Pride flagpoles were cut down and rainbow flags stolen from multiple schools in Perth County, with school board leaders calling it targeted hate. AI + Health Research: A Canada-linked study across pediatric transplant centres tests an EHR-based marker to flag young liver patients at higher risk of rejection and support better medication use. Higher Ed Spotlight: SSHRC is hosting its Storytellers Challenge showcase in Montréal on June 16, where postsecondary finalists will present how humanities and social sciences research improves lives.