A new mantra is taking hold in Ontario classrooms: reading, writing, and rooting for Team Canada. As the Winter Olympics reach their thrilling climax, Premier Doug Ford has issued a directive to prioritize witnessing history in the making.
The call to action stemmed from the electrifying performances of both the Canadian men’s and women’s hockey teams. Ford, sharing his enthusiasm on social media, wants every student to experience the energy and excitement of the gold medal pursuit.
The initiative aims to allow students to watch the remaining Team Canada hockey games during school hours, beginning with a crucial match on Thursday. It’s a moment to pause, unite, and collectively cheer on national heroes.
Canada’s women’s team is poised for a showdown against the United States, battling for gold just after 1 p.m. ET on Thursday. This follows a dramatic overtime victory for the men’s team against Czechia, propelling them into the semifinals.
The men’s team now faces a formidable opponent in Finland on Friday morning, with the winner securing a coveted spot in the gold medal game. The other semifinal pits Team USA against Slovakia, determining the final two contenders.
Even in defeat, there’s still glory to be won. The losing teams from the semifinals will compete for the bronze medal on Saturday afternoon, culminating in the men’s gold medal game on Sunday morning.
Education Minister Paul Calandra swiftly confirmed the directive, ensuring all school boards will facilitate access to the games. He emphasized that these events transcend mere competition; they are opportunities for national unity and pride.
Calandra’s message resonated with the spirit of the Olympics, highlighting the power of sport to bring people together. It’s a chance to celebrate exceptional athletes and foster a sense of shared Canadian identity.
The decision underscores a belief that witnessing these moments of national significance is a valuable educational experience, fostering a sense of community and inspiring future generations.
