Overview

CityShapers in Schools is a grade specific, classroom-based workshop series focusing on governance, civic engagement, and city planning

Designed to be interdisciplinary and interactive, these workshops encourage students to explore various pathways to civic action while connecting with the people and places that matter to them. The programs are available for grades 5-12 across Metro Vancouver classrooms and are financially accessible for teachers. They align with subject areas such as Social Studies, Social Justice, Urban Studies, Science, and more.

Our Mission

To deliver relevant and hands-on civic education workshops that are specifically adapted to the local context of each school. We prioritize schools in communities facing greater systemic barriers to civic participation and representation in municipal politics, empowering them to amplify their voices.

Current program offerings focus on how cities intersect with issues of climate, housing & affordability, and public space.

Start a Program

Grade 5-8

Grade 9-12

FAQs

We are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to making civic education accessible to public schools by covering the program costs. Our program is offered for free or on a pay-what-you-can basis for public schools. If your school is able to contribute financially to the program, we would greatly appreciate your support!
Yes! CityShapers in Schools focuses on understanding our place and role in the community through the lenses of justice and equity. The sessions feature content and activities that incorporate all Curriculum Core Competencies and are inherently interdisciplinary. They integrate topics such as indigenous reconciliation, design, and sustainability, while engaging students' imaginations and curiosity through dialogue, games, and creative activities.
All programs are led by two facilitators: one trained CityHive staff member (either the CityShapers Program Lead or Program Assistant) and one CityShapers Youth Facilitator volunteer.
- As an organization, we take pride in our youth-to-youth mentorship model, which supports the career development of young participants in our programs. Introducing CityShapers into your elementary or secondary classroom connects students to a community they can engage with, participate in, and seek employment from even after graduating.
After confirming your classroom workshop, you will be sent a folder containing document hand-outs required for the program. Please print these at your school before the start of the program. This email will also contain access to optional pre- and post-program lessons and resources that enhance the learning experience.
Programs are designed to support students as they explore complex civic issues. Therefore, all sessions are necessary to ensure students receive the maximum benefit from the program. This means each booking will include two sessions for grades 5-8 and four sessions for grades 9-12.

Testimonials

"Went beyond expectations - I very much appreciated their inclusion of all voices and global perspectives/alternatives. Would love to continue this collaboration in the future."
Grade 12 Teacher
"The format was really good. It was engaging and gave me a much better understanding of civic action, democracy, and urban planning."
Grade 11 Student
“It was such an enriching experience having the CityShapers program back in my classroom! The content is really engaging and dynamic, there's a great variety of activities and I feel it's a great catalyst for meaningful learning.”
Grade 12 Teacher
“I was so impressed with the rich variety of learning opportunities that Olivia and her team provided for our students. As a staff, we embrace and practice UDL (Universal Designs for Learning) principles and the CityShaper workshops were a perfect fit. The sessions were planned to meet students in the different places that they are at when it comes to learning needs.”
Grade 10 English & Socials Teacher