students opportunities to connect with others, build friendships across schools and experience success in a setting where they can truly be themselves.”
The event welcomed students and staff from Washington High School, Trinity, Northgate, Keystone Oaks, Elizabeth Forward, TEC and the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children. Together, they joined Canon-McMillan students for a day designed to strengthen relationships across school communities, encourage new connections and social growth.
The carnival featured a wide range of interactive stations, including cornhole, a bounce house, an inflatable obstacle course, yoga, bubbles, face painting, ring toss, frisbee, music and sweet treats.
“ All of the staff who assisted, including the paraprofessionals who work with our students every day, play such an important role in creating this environment,” said Lieb.“ When you see them together, you can really see the mutual respect between students and staff, how much they care for one another and the connections that are evident in their daily interactions.”
Support from community partners helped expand the experience. Western Area Career & Technology Center( WACTC) provided food for students, adding a shared meal component that brought participants together.
Additional community involvement came from the North Strabane Police and Fire Departments, who provided demonstrations and allowed students to explore emergency vehicles firsthand. Organizations such as ARC, Always B Smiling, TEC, Range Resources, Canon-McMillan Student Council, Grandpa Joe’ s Candy Shop, American Global and AHN also contributed interactive stations throughout the event.
“ One of the most rewarding parts of the day was seeing the students connect, smile and support one another,” Lieb added.“ Watching them engage with peers from different schools, simply enjoy being together and loving life; that’ s what makes events like this so powerful.”
The“ Canon McCarnival” also highlighted the power of collaboration and the importance of fostering an inclusive school community focused on educating the whole child.
“ The dedicated staff in our buildings create and foster these relationships and serve as the foundation of our strong programming,” Lieb said.
Lieb credited CMHS special education teachers Kali McFarland and Samantha Barron with bringing the idea to life, saying they created something that exceeded all expectations.
“ We hope this is just the beginning,” Lieb said.“ Our goal is to continue building on this and make it an annual tradition that grows stronger each year, giving students something they can look forward to and take pride in.” anon-Mac CANON-MAC SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
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