Rodeo of Smiles creates a day of joy for Black Gold students
Smiles, laughter, and a few moments of courage filled the Leduc Recreation Centre last week as students from Black Gold schools and other school divisions gathered for the annual Rodeo of Smiles.
Rodeo of Smiles is an annual event that gives children with complex needs and their families the opportunity to enjoy a day of fun in a welcoming, accessible environment. Held alongside the Black Gold Pro Rodeo in Leduc, the event features games, rides, animals, entertainment, face painting, and more.
Volunteers and community partners helped ensure every child can participate and enjoy the experience.
For Sheila Fraser, Learning Support Teacher at École Horizon Heights School, the event is one of the highlights of the school year.
It is the most looked-forward-to day of the year for a lot of our students because it is a day developed for them, says Fraser. They get to come here and just be themselves.
Fraser says Rodeo of Smiles stands out because accessibility was woven into every part of the day. Quiet spaces, wheelchair access, adaptive equipment, and dedicated volunteers help ensure students of all abilities can take part in activities that might otherwise be difficult to access.
When we take students to other public events, we don't always have access to that extra assistance that's needed for some of our students, she says.
The day also gave families an opportunity to share the experience together. Parents joined students throughout the event, celebrating achievements and enjoying activities side by side.
For Fraser, one moment captured the spirit of the day.
This morning I watched one of our little girls ride a pony. She was deathly afraid before she got on it, but she did it. She came off with a big smile.
Fraser says moments like that show the event is about more than fun. That sense of accomplishment—the feeling that she can say, ‘I did this’—that's amazing, she says.
The annual event has become a cherished tradition for many families, creating opportunities for students to try new activities, build confidence, and connect with others in a welcoming environment.
As students explored activities, met animals, and spent time with their families throughout the day, the focus remained on creating positive experiences and lasting memories.
The joy of the day and the happiness of the day, Fraser says. That’s what I hope they take away from it.