RICHLAND ACADEMY

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House System

The Richland House System is one that promotes a culture of love, kindness, a commitment to the environment, the championing of important causes, and supporting others, in keeping with the namesakes of our Houses. Each of Richland’s students and faculty belongs to one of 4 Houses, voted on by the student body.

Upon registration at Richland, students are assigned to a House. Siblings will be assigned to the same House. We gather in our Houses throughout the year.

Students require a House Shirt (available here), and can also wear their House t-shirts on Richland’s Spirit Wear days.

House Points: While there are some competitive events, the Richland House System focuses on creating a culture of habitual kindness. There is substantial research on the benefits of teaching kindness.

“Kindness changes the brain by the experience of kindness. Children and adolescents do not learn kindness by only thinking about it and talking about it. Kindness is best learned by feeling it so that they can reproduce it.”

– Patty O’Grady, PhD

Each year, the house that has demonstrated the most kindness, is awarded the Oliveira Cup.

As part of our holistic approach to teaching and learning, it is fundamental that we continue to instill in our students, the importance of thoughtful and meaningful citizenship. The competitive aspects of our house system must serve to bolster the benefits and rewards of kindness, as important elements of success.

We are proud of our enduring program, one built on creating a culture of kindness and respect for all people.

Fox House: Purple

Fox House is named in honor of Terry Fox, a Canadian athlete, humanitarian, and cancer research activist. In 1980, having already lost one leg to cancer, he embarked on a cross-Canada run to raise money and awareness for cancer research. He ran for a remarkable 143 days and 5,373 kilometers.

Fox House is inspired by Terry’s perseverance, generosity, and determination to make a difference in the world.

Suzuki House: Green

Suzuki House is named in honor of David Suzuki, a Canadian academic, science
broadcaster, and environmental activist. He is best known as the host of the science program The Nature of Things. He is also well known for encouraging governments to do more to protect the environment.

Suzuki co-founded the David Suzuki Foundation “to find ways for society to live in balance with the natural world that does sustain us.” Suzuki House is inspired by Mr. Suzuki’s perseverance and commitment to protecting the world.

Webstad House: Orange

Webstad House is named in honor of Phyliss Webstad. Phyllis Webstad is Northern Secwpemc from the First Nation (Canae Creek Indian Band).

She is the Executive Director of the Orange Shirt Society. Her message is that every child matters and to educate people about residential schools and fight racism and bullying.

Wickenheiser House: Yellow

Wick House is named in honor of Hayley Wickenheiser, Ms. Wickenheiser is regarded as one of the best female hockey players in the world. As a decorated Olympian, she has led her team to four gold and one silver medal as well as being named the tournament’s most valuable player in both 2002 and 2006.

Wick House is inspired by Hayley’s sportsmanship, leadership, work ethic, and humility.