Compassion in Action, How One School’s SPCA Club Inspires a National Model

This past weekend, Ms. Allison Simpson from the BC SPCA and Ms. Gema Chavez, Vice Principal and Grade 3 teacher at Queen of All Saints, had the opportunity to present at the Animal Humane Conference in Whistler, where they showcased the impactful work happening at Queen of All Saints School through their SPCA Club. Their session focused on the power of school-based humane education and the meaningful partnerships that form between schools and community organizations.

This is now Chavez’s fifth year leading the SPCA Club at QAS. What began as a small, school-based initiative rooted in a passion for animal welfare has grown into something much larger than anyone expected. Chavez explains, “Early on, I came across a BC SPCA school guide, which sparked the idea to start the club. Shortly after, I met Allison, and that connection became the turning point in this journey. Our partnership helped expand the vision of what was possible, transforming the club into a collaborative, community-connected program that continues to grow each year.”

Their presentation highlighted multiple perspectives, SPCA staff, school staff, families, and most importantly, students. Through these voices, they shared how the club has grown into more than an extracurricular activity. It has become a space of belonging, leadership, and compassion in action. Students are learning about animal welfare while building empathy, responsibility, and advocacy that extends beyond the classroom and into their homes and community.

Through a Catholic lens, this work is rooted in stewardship, caring for God’s creation with respect, responsibility, and love. The students are learning that stewardship includes recognizing the dignity of all living things and responding with compassion. In this way, the SPCA Club becomes an expression of faith in action, where students live out Gospel values.

Chavez explains, “One of the most powerful takeaways from the conference was the recognition our SPCA Club received from Animal Humane Societies across Canada. There was strong interest in replicating this model, as it reflects a relationship-based approach to education that fosters long-term impact and student voice. At its core, this work is about connection, connection to animals, to one another, and to the broader community. When young people are empowered to care deeply and act with compassion, they become changemakers who carry these values into the world around them.”

The CISVA office extends sincere thanks to Ms. Gema Chavez, Vice Principal and Grade 3 teacher, for her leadership and dedication.