ARC Foundation created SOGI 123 in BC and in October 2016 and successfully launched the SOGI Educator Network in Alberta in September 2017. This model has proven very successful with over 50 school districts in BC and nine districts in Edmonton.
The work plan for the Calgary SOGI Educator Network aligns with that already delivered in BC. It is based on a very important “bottom-up” grassroots approach that will engage Calgary educators right from the beginning of the program and will ensure that SOGI-inclusive tools resources address actual local needs.
Outside of the Calgary SOGI Educator Network, ARC is working with other local collaboration funders to deliver SOGI 123 in Edmonton and to support Alberta provincial education partners. This work plan is aligned with other deliverables and will leverage the impact of Calgary Foundation support.The project will run from January 2019-June 2020. We will formalize partnerships with Calgary-based school districts and not-for-profit collaborators through spring 2019 and produce educator resources in summer 2019. The Network will run from September 2019-June 2020 with 6-9 Calgary and area school districts. Each district will have a SOGI District Lead and these District Leads will meet every 6-8 weeks to share ideas, problem solve and build a community of practice around SOGI-inclusive education. Participants will have access to a unique toolkit of resources. District Leads will recruit Leads in each school who will provide an important point of contact for students and families. School Leads raise awareness of SOGI in their schools by sharing, implementing and developing SOGI-inclusive practices and initiatives.
This model has proven very successful with over 50 school districts in BC and is based on pioneering work started here in Alberta. ARC has a proven track record of positive collaborations with Alberta-based foundations and looks forward to exploring this new opportunity to strengthen our collective impact and further affect positive change in schools in Calgary and area.We have been overwhelmed by the positive response to SOGI 1 2 3, and all the educators, parents, and community members who have championed this work and contributed their time, skills, and/or financial support.
After many requests, we are now providing an option for online donations for those who feel inspired. Other non-monetary contributions are equally welcome, and your curiosity and openness are all we ask.
Please note that SOGI 1 2 3 is not a registered charity but rather a project of the ARC Foundation. Donations will go to ARC Foundation for direct allocation to SOGI 1 2 3, with tax receipts similarly issued by ARC.