École RW Bobby Bend School had a new boss in charge on Jan. 29 — and he took the job seriously.
Grade 4 student Brayden Ballantyne stepped into the role of principal for the day as part of the school’s annual Principal of the Day fundraiser, quickly settling into Principal Pat Williamson-Crockatt’s chair and getting down to business.
Grade 4 student Brayden Ballantyne settles into the principal’s chair — coffee mug in hand — as he takes on the role of Principal for the Day at École RW Bobby Bend School on Jan. 29
Ballantyne kicked off his morning by delivering announcements before heading out on school-wide rounds, visiting every classroom to share information and activities from CancerCare Manitoba focused on sun safety and sunscreen use. Along the way, he made sure students had the materials they needed and stayed informed — a responsibility he took in stride.
His busy schedule didn’t stop there. The interim principal also helped prepare for upcoming spring musical callbacks and pitched in to organize an action-packed dodgeball tournament for his fellow fourth-graders.
A highlight of Ballantyne’s morning came when he filled out and presented a cheque for $9,492.80 to the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation. The foundation supports programs and services that may not be eligible for government funding and helps deliver research, patient care, treatment and support for Manitobans and their families living with cancer.
The fundraiser is held in memory of Hailey Belluk-Hunt, a member of the school’s Parent Advisory Council in 2020 who succumbed to cancer. Students collect pledges for the chance to serve as principal for a day, earning one entry into the draw for every $5 raised.
While Ballantyne won the draw, the top fundraiser honours went to Kindergarten student Ainsley Jones, who raised $1,356.91.
Even principals need a lunch break. Ballantyne wrapped up part of his day by enjoying poutine in the office with his friend Davis — a perk that may have sealed his enthusiasm for the role.
