OSPCA helps elementary students embrace a love of animals

CTV News anchor and OSPCA volunteer Sarah Freemark engages with Grade 2 students in Barrie, Ont., on Tues., May 27, 2025.

The classroom came to life Tuesday for a group of Grade 2 students in Barrie as they embraced the rewards and responsibilities of having a pet at home.

The Ontario SPCA’s Humane Education volunteers present at elementary schools around the region, speaking to students in Grade 1 through Grade 8. The ‘Animal Smart’ presentations are meant to foster empathy and promote a sense of responsibility within the community, inspiring a connection with animals.

CTV News anchor Sarah Freemark is one of many volunteers, engaging young students about understanding pets and sharing her personal experience, having adopted a cat from the Ottawa SPCA in 2018.

“I love spending time with the students, learning about what animals they have at home and often how to tell when our pets are happy, hyper or may even need a little space,” said Freemark. “With the younger grades, it’s all about how animals make us feel, what a tail wag might mean or what a pet needs to feel safe, comfortable and loved.”

Freemark continued, “Then with the older students, I will ask what they know about the OSPCA, how it helps and the important work the society does. And, of course, no matter the age, what animals the kids are drawn to and what makes them so darn loveable.”

The ‘Animal Smart’ presentations take a student-centred approach, aiming to foster conversations about animals through discussions, videos and activities with curriculum connections.

The OSPCA is always looking for volunteers and more information can be found online.