Two Newtonbrook Secondary School students will carry the Olympic torch as it makes its way through Toronto this month.
Andrew Isaacson and Brittany Kolenberg were named among 12 students selected from the Toronto District School Board’s Vision program to act as torchbearers. Eight TDSB Vision program teachers were also named.
“Our students are honoured to be part of something so extraordinary,” said Robin Stewart, specialist teacher of the blind for the Toronto District School Board and one of the selected participant teachers. “These students have dedicated themselves to raising awareness in their school communities and the community at large by educating their peers and teachers about visual impairment, blindness, Braille and their other amazing abilities.”
The TDSB Vision program supports 400 students across the city, with specialized instruction in areas including Braille reading and writing as well as in developing appropriate teaching strategies for visually impaired learners.
“Despite a myriad of logistical obstacles they have come together with the common goal of breaking down the barriers imposed upon them through communication and understanding,” Stewart said. “I am proud and excited to share this experience with them.”
Approximately 12,000 Canadians will carry the torch across the country, travelling 45,000 kilometres over 106 days.
The flame will travel through the Toronto area starting Dec. 17.