BHN Cares
BHN Cares plays a critical role in promoting environmental responsibility, leadership, and helping students develop awareness and appreciation for our Earth.
Our Mission
BHN Cares is here to create a learning environment that fosters sustainability, environmental stewardship, and overall well-being for our students, staff, and communities of Brantford, Brant, Haldimand and Norfolk. We envision a future where our educational institutions are beacons of sustainable practices, inspiring generations to become responsible global citizens.
Guided by this mission, we commit to the 17 principles outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
We work along side our educational partners to take these principles and incorporate them in our everyday lives. These consist of the following:
Sustainability Education
We strive to integrate sustainability concepts into our curriculum along with everyday practices board wide; empowering staff and students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to tackle environmental challenges. To us Sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Environmental Stewardship
We take a proactive role in preserving and restoring the natural environment. By reducing our ecological footprint, promoting conservation, and adopting green initiatives within our schools and facilities, we demonstrate a commitment to protect and respect the Earth’s resources for current and future generations.
Holistic Well-being
We recognize the importance of the overall well-being of our students, educators, and staff. Our school board promotes an inclusive and compassionate atmosphere that nurtures mental, emotional, and physical health. We prioritize the creation of safe spaces that embrace diversity and promote a culture of respect and empathy.
Community Engagement
Collaboration with our community is vital to our mission’s success. We actively seek partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and environmental experts to enhance our sustainability initiatives. By involving parents, guardians, and community members, we can create a unified front to address sustainability challenges together.
Innovation and Adaptability
Embracing innovation, we strive to be at the forefront of sustainable practices in education. We commit to continuously reassessing and adapting our policies and practices to align with the latest research and advancements in environmental sustainability and well-being.
Our end goal
To be a model for others. As a school board, we aim to be a model for other educational institutions, inspiring them to embrace sustainability, environmental stewardship, and holistic well-being in their own communities. Through sharing our experiences, challenges, and successes, we hope to spark a broader movement for positive change.
With unwavering dedication to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and overall well-being, we envision our school board as a catalyst for transformative change, shaping a brighter and greener future for all. Together, we will foster knowledge, compassion, and responsibility, cultivating a generation of conscious global citizens who actively contribute to a sustainable and thriving world.
BHN Cares Initiatives
Eco Schools Certification
We currently have 8 schools enrolled in the ECO Schools program which is a nationally recognized framework for K-12 students to provide independent reporting through their environmental certification program. More information can be found in the link below, sign up today and see what you can do to help!
Energy Conservation
- Ontario Regulation 507/18: Energy Reporting and Conservation and Demand Management Plans
- BHNCDSB 5-Year Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (July 2019)
Capital Renewal Projects
- Holy Family & St. Patrick’s Brantford Condensing Boilers & Heating plant upgrade
- Theresa’s Variable Speed Pumping Project
- Leo’s Energy Recovery Unit installation with Air Conditioning
- We continue to add and improve ventilation in our schools following the latest ASHRAE Guidelines
Annual Greenhouse Gases (GHG) Report
Safe & Clean Drinking Water
- Safe Drinking Water Act (2002)
- Ontario Regulation 243/07: Schools, Private Schools, and Child Care Centres
- BHNCDSB Lead in Schools Report