Barrydowne College Eco Code comes to life through art

When Barrydowne College was challenged to create an environmental mission statement, or Eco Code, that demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, the school moved beyond the written word to the language of art. What emerged was an acrylic painting entitled “I am because we are” that provides a visual representation of the Barrydowne College community’s promise to each other and to Shkagamik-Kwe (Mother Earth).

The EcoCode reads: “We, the students and staff of Barrydowne College, promise to steward the gifts of Shkagamik-Kwe: animals, plants, water, air, earth, and fire. United by the heartbeat of the drum, we also promise to care for one another, acknowledging that within the sacred circle of life no one being or entity is greater than another. We honour the gifts of diversity and individuality and endeavour to always walk with intention on a good path.”

Art teacher Sarah Cormier and EcoSchools Lead Natalie Lachance brought the Eco Code to life with the input of students and staff. Under their leadership, the painting was completed by many hands, with Anna Roberts, a student in the Specialist High Skills Major in Arts and Culture, leading the way. Students were encouraged to join in on the creation and were excited to see the painting take shape. The framed artwork, which measures 29 by 40 inches, was officially unveiled on October 19th.

Inspired by the style of Indigenous artists Leland Bell and Blake Debassige, the painting is rich in symbolism and Indigenous learning. It features the four elements (earth, water, wind, fire) and sacred medicines (sage, sweetgrass, cedar and tobacco). The raven, another powerful representation of Indigenous culture, has also been incorporated. Ravens nest on the Cambrian College campus where Barrydowne College is located and students follow their growth each spring.

“Every day, this beautiful piece of art reminds us of our individual and collective responsibility to protect and preserve the planet,” said proud Principal Susan Kett. “The painting acknowledges our place on Robinson Huron Treaty territory with the drum as the heartbeat of the earth. The water and fire keepers are the first people in the artwork.”

“I love the careful attention to details, such as the use of copper paint for the water carrying vessel and the teaching that goes with this,” said Principal Kett. “One of the key ideas was to include people from all continents, given that environmentalism is a global concern.” She added: “We have also been influenced by amazing students who have attended Barrydowne College from Asia, Africa, Europe, South America, and all over the world.”

The title of the painting – I am because we are – comes from an African proverb. In her work around culturally responsive teaching, Zaretta Hammond explains how the proverb perfectly sums up collectivist culture – culture that draws its strength from community and co-operative effort. Culturally responsive teaching helps to create inclusive environments that recognize and celebrate all identities, lived experiences and cultures.

At Barrydowne College, environmental education is embedded in the curriculum and daily practices of the school. For example, students are encouraged to compost and recycle. Course content, meanwhile, includes materials that help students learn about environmental leaders and advocates such as Jane Goodall and Greater Sudbury’s Regreening Advisory Panel.

Aspects of Indigenous culture and language are also woven into the curriculum and school activities. In English and Literacy, for instance, students work with texts that align with an Indigenous worldview wherein humans are stewards of the Earth and keepers of its gifts. Activities centred around aspects of Indigenous culture include environmental conservation, mitten making, and beading.

Creating an Eco Code is an EcoSchools Canada initiative. Barrydowne College most recently obtained a Gold certification in the EcoSchools Canada program. Rainbow District School Board was one of four school boards in Canada to achieve 100 per cent Eco Schools certification in the 2025-2026 school year.

About Barrydowne College
Barrydowne College is a re-engagement school for students ages 18 to 21 located at Cambrian College. Secondary school credit courses are taught by teachers from Rainbow Schools. Dual credit courses are taught by professors at Cambrian College. This combination, along with the alternative learning environment in a college setting, supports students in their goal of graduating. To learn more about Barrydowne College, please call 705.566.2302 or visit barrydowne.rainbowschools.ca. Register online at  tinyurl.com/RegisterRainbowSchools.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217