Two senior students from John McGregor Secondary School (JMSS), Emily Poole and Makenna Mifflin, have achieved a rare double success by being selected for the 2026 Youth in P-art-liament Program. This provincial initiative showcases the creative talents of young people at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, putting the Chatham-based school on a prestigious, province-wide platform. […]
Two senior students from John McGregor Secondary School (JMSS), Emily Poole and Makenna Mifflin, have achieved a rare double success by being selected for the 2026 Youth in P-art-liament Program. This provincial initiative showcases the creative talents of young people at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, putting the Chatham-based school on a prestigious, province-wide platform.
The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) students will have their artwork displayed at Queen’s Park throughout the year. Emily’s piece, titled The Room That Listens, and Makenna’s painting, Togetherness Blooms, were chosen from submissions across Ontario.
For Emily Poole, a Grade 12 student, the news was a significant moment of validation. "When I got the email, I was actually in my art class," she said. "I read it and said, ‘Oh my gosh!’ Then I showed Mrs. McQuade and she got really excited and hugged me. She told the class and they clapped and were all so excited for me. This accomplishment has been really validating for me as a young artist."
Emily credited the supportive environment and dedicated teachers at JMSS for her success. She singled out Mrs. McQuade for "relighting my creative side and always pushing me to be a better artist," alongside Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Pollard, Mrs. Clark, and Mrs. Mulder. Makenna Mifflin shared similar gratitude for the encouragement she received. She thanked her teacher for encouraging them to submit, stating, "I thank her for pushing us to get our work out there because it’s always worth trying."
Both students have benefitted from JMSS’s active arts culture, which includes initiatives like Art After Hours and the creation of community murals. The school has developed partnerships with local businesses and galleries to give students professional experience.
Projects such as JMSS RetroFest, where students painted portraits of vintage cars for downtown displays, have given young artists the chance to be seen as professionals in the community. Makenna described this unique community engagement experience as "incredibly validating and a huge motivator."
The achievement is a highlight for the school's program. "Emily and Makenna represent everything we strive for in our arts program – creativity, resilience, and a willingness to engage with the community," said Jenn McQuade, JMSS Art Teacher.
Looking to the future, Emily plans to pursue a career as an art therapist. Makenna is focused on becoming a professional interior designer, combining creativity with practical functionality in commercial and residential settings. John McGregor Secondary School is located in Chatham.
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