.JPG "Barb Walt and Colleen Mitchell")
%20(3).png "Spotlight on Bright Futures header")
.JPG "Barb Walt and Colleen Mitchell hold their new book, \"Don't Destroy My Joy.\"")
Barb Walt and Colleen Mitchell hold their new book, Don't Destroy My Joy.
A joyful collaboration:
Picture book teaches students to honour their joy
Stirling Public School's Learning Commons is buzzing with excitement over a new book, Don't Destroy My Joy, written by teacher Barb Walt and illustrated by educational assistant Colleen Mitchell. All copies are signed out, with a growing waiting list.
Don't Destroy My Joy, a story told in rhyme, celebrates the unique qualities of every child. It equips them with tools to honour their joy and advocate for themselves and others. The teacher character in the book is inspired by Barb's mother, who taught Colleen when she was a child. The student characters, while fictional, resonate with young readers. Colleen shared, "I love that the kids see themselves in the characters. The characters were not based on any one child, so it’s absolutely wonderful when they see a character they can relate to, they can say ‘Oh that’s me! Mrs. Mitchell drew me!’"
Barb has dreamed of becoming an author since childhood, and upon discovering Colleen's artistic talents and similar lifelong aspiration to be an illustrator, the two collaborated over the summer to bring Don't Destroy My Joy to life.
Superintendent Ken Dostaler praised their efforts, stating, "Your collaboration is a true inspiration. It beautifully models the power of partnership within our education community. The message you've crafted about finding and protecting joy is so important, especially for our young people as they navigate the complexities of life."
Barb adds that is it crucial to her that the story "lets kids realize that they all have a sparkle and that nobody should be able to dim that sparkle."
Leading by example
Lead hand custodian at Central Hastings School, Lee Parks, is always thinking of others. He is courteous and provides excellent customer service. He inspires others in the school by leading by example. Thanks for making Bright Futures, Lee!
Supporting well-being
Social services worker, Tracey Danford, facilitated summer programming and provided supportive interventions for students during the summer of 2025. She also goes above and beyond as a member of the Mental Health Leadership Team. All of this is in a addition to providing support in her school group. We appreciate your Bright Futures efforts, Tracey!
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