June 19, 2026 (Cornwall, ON) – A powerful student-led learning journey came full circle on June 18 as Grade 6 students at Eamer’s Corners Public School unveiled a new Veteran Crosswalk at the intersection of Second Avenue and Bedford Street in Cornwall, in front of Legion Memorial Park and the city’s cenotaph.
Developed in partnership with Royal Canadian Legion Branch 297 and the City of Cornwall, the crosswalk stands as a lasting tribute to local veterans in a place already deeply rooted in remembrance.
What began as a classroom responsibility to host the school’s Remembrance Day ceremony evolved into a meaningful, months-long inquiry into Canada’s military history—driven by student curiosity, compassion, and initiative.
With support from teacher Jennifer Tyo, students explored the human stories behind military service through experiential learning. They connected virtually with a retired Afghanistan veteran, spoke with UCDSB secondary students who travelled to France, and conducted extensive research using soldier files and war diaries.
Each of the 26 students was assigned a First World War soldier with ties to Cornwall. They wrote first-person biographies in both English and French, recorded podcasts, and created a visual exhibit—complete with QR codes linking to their work—that will be on display at the Legion later this month.
Motivated to further honour the veterans they had come to know, students proposed the idea of a Veteran Crosswalk. They welcomed Legion members into their classroom to discuss the idea, wrote advocacy letters to the mayor and council, and presented at a City Council meeting, where they received unanimous support.
Students also led multiple fundraising efforts, including a widely supported community car wash, school-based sales, and participation in local events such as Cornwall Armed Forces Day. The City of Cornwall committed funding through reserve funds, while partners, including the Cornwall Rotary Club, also contributed to the project and future veteran initiatives.
“I’m so proud of them. They wanted to create something lasting that would teach others about what veterans have done for Canada and thank them for their service,” said Tyo.
“To see the finished crosswalk shows that our hard work paid off,” said student James Russell. “Anyone can make a difference in their community, no matter how old they are.”
Throughout the project, students took part in additional acts of remembrance, including creating memory rocks for Silver Cross Park and hand-stamping dog tags with their soldier’s name as a keepsake.
“Every single person has put in so much hard work,” said student Charlotte Stevenson. “It means so much to everyone. Just look at the people here—our project paid off.”
The project was carried out in close collaboration with Legion member Mavis Williamson, whose guidance helped shape the students’ vision. Her passing in May was deeply felt, and the unveiling also served as a tribute to her.
“What these kids have done is amazing,” said Legion Branch 297 President Marvin Plumadore. “They’re raising awareness in the community, and I hope other schools will follow their lead to help keep the memory of veterans alive. We can never forget what they’ve done.”
The unveiling, attended by students, staff, Legion members, and community partners, stands as a powerful symbol of respect—and a testament to the impact of student voice through authentic, hands-on learning.
Students raised $3,900 as part of a combined $7,020 in community and partner support for the crosswalk and future initiatives honouring veterans in the community.
Thanks to YourTV Cornwall for capturing the full ceremony, which you can watch below:
For more information or inquiries, please contact:
April Scott-Clarke
Manager of Communications
Upper Canada District School Board
[email protected]