Editor: Michael J. Cohen
Translation: Manon Bourassa
Copy Editor: Alessandra Nardolillo
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| Regional Director Pela Nickoletopoulos, teacher Stella Halaris, LHA Principal Donna Manos, Nathalie Dupont, Lakshmi Roy, Gregory David Libman, Marymount teacher Maya Doughan and Principal James Fequet. |
EMSB IMPACT NIGHT: For the 12th year in a row, the EMSB is continuing its partnership with the Montreal Impact soccer team through its “All the Way with the Impact” program. Members of the Impact have been visiting schools to remind young students about the importance of studying, persevering and building self-confidence in order to succeed. The traditional “EMSB Night” will take place on Tuesday, May 30 (7:30 pm) when the Impact hosts the Vancouver Whitecaps at Saputo Stadium. This is part of the Amway Canadian Championship, which involves the three top professional clubs in Canada, in the race to qualify for the CONCACAF Champions League. That is an international competition between professional clubs from North America, Central America and the Caribbean. More than 2,250 tickets have been sold to EMSB students and staff for the game. Before the game the EMSB’s presence will be recognized and two students will be presented with the Tony Licursi Bursary, valued at $500 each. Mr. Licursi was the team’s statistician and a devoted member of the James Lyng High School Alumni Association. He passed away a number of years ago. The award recognizes excellence in school and sports, preferably soccer. This year’s winners are Christian Weiman from Royal Vale School in NDG and Simona Lombardo Varisco from Leonardo Da Vinci Academy in RDP. See Press Release
ALOUETTES FUNDRAISING OPPORTUNITY: The Montreal Alouettes will play their first regular season game on Thursday, June 22 at Molson Stadium against the Saskatchewan Roughriders and EMSB schools have a special opportunity to purchase tickets and use it as a simple fundraiser at the same time. Every school will be receiving a unique link and promo code. Parents and EMSB staff can print the tickets from their home or office. Anyone who wishes to do this the old fashioned way can call John Di Terlizzi at 514-787-2755 and he will handle the request. Tickets are $16 each, with $3 going back to each school. You can also order individual tickets at the reduced price from our website.
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| Geeta Tewari |
PUBLIC SPEAKING WINNER: Secondary V student Geeta Tewari from LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent was invited to the Rotary Club of Montreal Public Speaking Contest at the St. James Club after winning first place at the EMSB competition. Her speech on mental illness will be published in The Suburban Newspaper.
NEW ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: Anna Maria Borsellino, currently the principal of Carlyle Elementary School, has been appointed Assistant Director of School Organization.She will begin in this new position on July 1, assuming responsibility related to transportation, registration, cafeteria and nutrition services and international students.
ADMINISTRATIVE APPOINTMENTS: A number of administrative appointments have been announced for the 2016-17 academic year. New school principal assignments will be: Sabrina Petrocco, Carlyle (presently vice-principal at Lester B. Pearson High School) and Denise Maroun, St. Monica (presently vice-principal at Mackay Centre/Philip E. Layton Schools). Irini Margentis will be taking a leave of absence from her role as principal at St. Monica. New vice-principal assignments will be: Marilyn Ramlakhan, James Lyng (currently a teacher at LaurenHill Academy); Vito Campbell-Guerriero, John F. Kennedy High School (currently vice-principal at Willingdon); Alexander Kulczyk, LaurenHill Academy (teacher at Focus School, presently interim vice-principal at James Lyng); Anthony Tonin, Lester B. Pearson High School (presently a teacher at John F. Kennedy High School); Amanda Vallelunga, Westmount High School (presently there on an interim basis); Giovanni Iammarrone, Westmount Park (presently there on an interim basis); Steve Spetsieris, Willingdon (currently a teacher at Vincent Massey Collegiate); Vincenzo Timpano, FACE School (currently vice-principal at Royal Vale); Gregory Watson, Mackay Centre School/Philip E. Layton (currently a teacher at Westmount Park); Eugenia Carystios, Royal Vale School (currently a teacher at Roslyn School); Frederic Boudreault, High School of Montreal (currently vice-principal at FACE School); Nadine Pomilio, James Lyng Adult Centre (currently vice-principal at James Lyng High School); Lydia Landori, Marymount Adult Centre (currently vice-principal at Laurier Macdonald Career Centre); Darlene Kehyayan, John F. Kennedy Adult Centre (currently vice-principal at James Lyng Adult Centre); Joan MacMillan, Shadd Business Centre (currently vice-principal at Marymount Adult Centre); JoeAnne Désir, Rosemount Technology Centre (currently vice-principal at High School of Montreal Adult Centre); Marsha Excellent, Laurier Macdonald Career Centre (currently vice-principal at LaurenHill); Jimmy Giannacopoulos, St. Pius X Career Centre (currently interim vice-principal of John F. Kennedy Adult Centre); Maria Caldarella, St. Pius X Career Centre (currently vice-principal at Shadd Business Centre); and Sulaman Khan, new EMSB Welding Centre on des Grandes Prairies Blvd, (currently vice-principal at Rosemount Technology Centre).
EBS COLLECTION FOR FOOD FOR FLOOD VICTIMS: Elizabeth Ballantyne Elementary School Principal Michael Brown sent out a request for donations of non-perishable food items to help the victims of the flooding in the West Island.
AND AT PEARSON: The community at Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North came together recently to help those affected by the flooding in and around Montreal. A team consisting of the Student Council as well as Spiritual and Community Animator Joseph Monachino, Governing Board Chair Benny Bernetti, Home Liaison Titania Greco, CCW Terry Paci and teacher Paul Karpontinis organized a food collection. The team believed that it was so important to come together, set an example, and show support and care for those experiencing hardship.
NEW ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: Anna Maria Borsellino, currently the principal of Carlyle Elementary School, has been appointed Assistant Director of School Organization.She will begin in this new position on July 1, assuming responsibility related to transportation, registration, cafeteria and nutrition services and international students.
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| Denise Maroun |
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| Marsha Excellent |
EBS COLLECTION FOR FOOD FOR FLOOD VICTIMS: Elizabeth Ballantyne Elementary School Principal Michael Brown sent out a request for donations of non-perishable food items to help the victims of the flooding in the West Island.
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| Putting the collection together. |
AND AT PEARSON: The community at Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North came together recently to help those affected by the flooding in and around Montreal. A team consisting of the Student Council as well as Spiritual and Community Animator Joseph Monachino, Governing Board Chair Benny Bernetti, Home Liaison Titania Greco, CCW Terry Paci and teacher Paul Karpontinis organized a food collection. The team believed that it was so important to come together, set an example, and show support and care for those experiencing hardship.
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| Lori Rubin loads her car. |
AND AT HEAD OFFICE: Daphna Leibovici from EMSB Student Services organized a food drive for the victims of the recent floods on the West Island. Her colleague Lori Rubin packed the collection into her car and delivered it to the depot.
ZIPPY`S FRIENDS: A group of about 25 school staff members, representing 14 elementary schools participated in a training workshop for Zippy`s Friends. This is a program that Violence Prevention Consultant Daphna Leibovici introduced in 2011. Originally from the U.K, this evidence based program is designed to promote social emotional learning and the development of social skills in young children aged six and seven. The workshop was facilitated by Loraine Millette from UQAM. Nicolas Bergeron, who works with school boards on this issue, attended the workshop as an observer.
ANIMAL WELFARE AT NESBITT: Some lucky Grade 5/6 students at Nesbitt Elementary School in Rosemount got to participate in an animal welfare program through a new organization available to schools. ENGAGE: Animal Welfare Education is a non-profit organization dedicated to building empathy among youth. Through experiential learning with companion animals, ENGAGE encourages youth to practice the values of respect, cooperation, compassion, responsibility, and civic engagement.
Drawing on research linking animal-assisted programs to the successful development of empathy and pro social behaviour, ENGAGE empowers youth to participate in the creation of a more socially-conscious society – one that reflects our love for animals, and for each other. For more about ENGAGE log on to http://engageanimal.org.
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| Students enjoy their experience. |
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| A Merton student participates in the ceremony. |
VE DAY: The annual Victory in Europe (V-E) Day commemoration took place on May 8 at the Syd Wise Auditorium of the Marymount Adult Education Centre in the City of Côte Saint-Luc. The ceremony highlighted the 72nd anniversary of the liberation of Europe from the armed forces of Nazi Germany, on May 8, 1945. In attendance will be members of the Brigadier Frederick Kisch Branch 97 of the Royal Canadian Legion, Mayor Mitchell Brownstein, the Côte Saint-Luc city council, dignitaries, veterans, residents and this year many students primarily from local elementary schools. Students from the host Marymount Adult Education Centre, John Grant, Merton and Willingdon were on hand.
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| An authentic learning experience for the students. |
DESIGN 375: As part of the official birthday of the City of Montreal on May 17, CBC brought its cameras to Willingdon School to interview some students for their perspective on the "future of Montreal" Here are some terrific clips from the broadcast.
SPORTS ÉTUDES: Here are a couple of recent athletic success stories of some Lester B. Pearson High School Sport-études students in Montreal North: Tae Kwon Do student Angelo Ciamano was recently crowned the 33 kg Quebec Champion. Next step for Angelo is the Canadian Championships in Calgary in May. Picture below is from when Angelo placed third at the US Open in Las Vegas, Nevada in February. Spartycuss Castaneda placed second in the under 55 kg black belt elite finish in Tae Kwon Do World Open in Mexico City. Jasmine Anes Guerber (third from the left) was recently invited to the Canadian Women’s National Excel U14-17 Identification Camp in Burnaby, British Columbia.
SPORTS CONCENTRATION AT McSHANE: Students at Gerald McShane Elementary School in Montreal North will be able to enroll in a new sports concentration program as of August 2017. As a feeder school to Lester B. Pearson High School, home to the English Montreal School Board’s only Sport-Études program, budding athletes at Gerald McShane Elementary School will be able to hone their skills in advance of entering high school. “Our new sports concentration program will give our students a head start before entering high school,” said Christina Chilelli, Principal of Gerald McShane Elementary School. “The earlier student-athletes begin to develop a balance between athletics and academics, the better they will fare in both areas. We’re thrilled to be able to offer this to our school community beginning next year.”
SPORTS CONCENTRATION AT McSHANE: Students at Gerald McShane Elementary School in Montreal North will be able to enroll in a new sports concentration program as of August 2017. As a feeder school to Lester B. Pearson High School, home to the English Montreal School Board’s only Sport-Études program, budding athletes at Gerald McShane Elementary School will be able to hone their skills in advance of entering high school. “Our new sports concentration program will give our students a head start before entering high school,” said Christina Chilelli, Principal of Gerald McShane Elementary School. “The earlier student-athletes begin to develop a balance between athletics and academics, the better they will fare in both areas. We’re thrilled to be able to offer this to our school community beginning next year.”
LET’S GET PHYSICAL: On Monday, May 29, Leonardo Da Vinci Academy in RDP will be holding its first annual fitness day. The school is working with the community and created 10 fitness stations for the students to experience. From yoga to parcour students will be getting fit all day. Member of the National Assembly Marc Tanguay is scheduled to attend and local police officers will be there as well. Some of the sponsors are Angelo di Bella Karate/Kickboxing, Enfant & Compagnie, CSRDP Soccer, Muzifit and Sanimax.
BUICK PARTNERSHIP: Carlyle Elementary School in TMR has created a partnership with the Buick Gravel Decarie Dealership. Carlyle will get $20 for every test drive with a maximum of $10,000. On Thursday, June 8 all Carlyle parents will be invited to attend a Portfolio and Vernissage evening. The goal is to have a large turnout of parents, family, friends and community in attendance. Everyone will be asked to participate by test driving a Buick. Gravel Décarie will have their employees and cars stationed at Carlyle from Noon to 9 pm to facilitate test driving a vehicle ($20 per test drive with a valid driver’s license).
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| Catherine Roquet at the conference. |
RBC YOUTH FORUM: The EMSB was invited to participate in the Royal Bank of Canada’s Youth Forum held on May 4. This forum regrouped leaders from multiple fields in the youth sector including non-profit, community, educational, and mental health organizations as well as RBC leaders to help the development of their latest community investment strategy. It was announced on March 28 that RBC will invest $500 million over 10 years to help release the potential of youth across the country by focusing on three critical gaps: experience, 21st century competencies and networking. With this investment, their goal is to ensure that youth will acquire the knowledge, skills and self-assurance necessary to prosper in the world of tomorrow. Catherine Roquet, a guidance counsellor at Royal Vale and F.A.C.E. High Schools, was given the privilege to attend this highly fruitful session hosted at Place Ville-Marie and represent the EMSB.
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| MP David Heurtel greets the JFK delegation. |
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| Ready to help Habitat for Humanity. |
ASSISTING A FAMILY IN NEED: Ten EMSB ladies are joining forces with Habitat for Humanity for a family in need in St. Henri. Team members include Royal Vale Principal Nathalie Lacroix-Maillette, Royal Vale teachers and support staff Laurence Elmoznino, Patrizia Battaglia, Yasmine Joseph, Nathalie Malhamé, Megan Gaspar and Tanya Saad, as well as Royal Vale parents Laura Iorio, Darlene Kiley and Vincent Massey Vice-Principal Lisa Ancona. The team is excited to build on June 2. Thanks to many generous donations, over $5,000 has been raised and they are proud to help a family call this new house a home. Info:
http://www.womenbuildquebec.myevent.com/participant/553201
http://www.womenbuildquebec.myevent.com/participant/553201
JUMP ROPE FOR HEART: Royal Vale School ended up raising $20,697 this year at their Jump Rope for Heart event, which again is tops in Quebec schools. Physical Education teacher and organizer Norman Katz says he is very proud of his students and parents who are so generous for such a worthy cause. More than $280,000 has been raised in the last 14 years for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
VIDEOS: Please check out some of our latest in house videos
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| Recognizing the veterans. |
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| Jackie Dare |
LEARNING PARTNERSHIP WINNER: Jackie Dare has been chosen as the recipient of The Learning Partnership’s Welcome to Kindergarten Award for Partnership Excellence 2016/17. Jackie has been a Kindergarten teacher at Parkdale Elementary School in St. Laurent for the past 23 years. She is known for making an effort to build relationships not only with her students, but with the parents as well. In addition, she helps with mentoring new teachers. One of her goals is to teach young children the importance of respect and kindness. Marylène Perron, Parkdale’s Principal said: “She makes parents and students feel special. (Parents come to the school just to have their child in her class…) Every child in her class is hers. Her colleagues admire her…she is a great resource to all.” Throughout her teaching career, Jackie has had many accomplishments. Some of them include her being a big influence for the KINDER-garten program that helps promote anti-bullying. She has also made a project called Books and Breakfast for her students and their parents to promote the importance of reading. Since then, the program has expanded to become Books, Bears, and Blankets night, in which the whole school community is invited to participate in. In addition, she works closely with the inner city school network (AMSFA).With all of her hard work and involvement within the school, it is no surprise that she received the Welcome to Kindergarten Award from the Learning Partnership. The National Awards Selection Committee recognized Jackie with the best honour.
CAMP EXPERIENCE: Some 210 students from across the EMSB’s network of high schools attended the EMSB 19th annual Student Leadership Camp. An exciting change for the camp this year was that it was taking place in a new venue. Camp Papillion, located in Saint-Alphonse de Rodrigues, represents the leadership home for the week. EMSB high schools are united at Camp Papillon this year under the camp theme “The stars shine better when they are together.” The Student Leadership Camp is a unique event that has students from different high schools in the board meeting and working together throughout three days of leadership programming. This year’s camp united Secondary I through V students from James Lyng High School, John F. Kennedy High School, LaurenHill Academy, Laurier Macdonald High School, Lester B. Pearson High School, Marymount Academy International, Rosemount High School, Royal Vale High School, Royal West Academy, Vincent Massey Collegiate and Westmount High School.This year’s keynote speaker was Scott Backovich. As an internationally recognized youth speaker, he has been featured speaker at conferences and schools across North America and has appeared regularly on both television and radio as a teen help advocate.
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| Enjoying the camp experience. |
The EMSB Leadership Camp represents the conclusion of a year-long student-centred leadership program that results in our senior students organizing, developing program content and animating the three-day camp for students in secondary one through four. A select group of student organizers from all attending high schools have been working hard and meeting diligently every Wednesday since January to plan and organize the camp. For the first time this year, organizers have prepared a workshop for the board’s administrators who will gain first-hand insight into the power of leadership experientials for our students. Three days of leadership programming provides EMSB students with opportunities to develop effective communication skills, conflict resolution skills, plan events and cultivate empathy. One of the most special things to witness throughout the three-day camp is how students begin as strangers and through participation in team-building and experiential activities develop life-long bonds. The skills and lessons acquired at camp provide our budding leaders with the tools and connections needed to bloom as successful leaders in their own schools.
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT: In celebration of Better Speech, Language and Hearing Awareness Month in May, the EMSB Department of Student Services wishes to share some exciting updates from its Centre of Excellence for Speech and Language Development A new website has been launched which features relevant to information on speech and language development, lunch and learn sessions to be used by professionals, resources and links to various organizations, a section on technology and much more. You can visit it at http://coesld.ca. Also, please follow our twitter account (EMSB communications) which is sending out daily tweets throughout the month of May regarding speech and language related tips. In addition, a new power point presentation has been created entitled: ”The LLD Student Transitioning to High School: What high school teachers need to know.”
SCHOLARSHIPS TO WASHINGTON AND ISRAEL: The Riva and Thomas O. Hecht Scholarship Program, Teaching of the Holocaust for Educators endeavors to promote Holocaust education for educators in Quebec. This scholarship program is designed to offer professional development opportunities to educators through the Belfer National Conference for Educators at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. This year’s recipients are Lev Berner from Vincent Massey Collegiate in Rosemount of the EMSB; Anne-Marie Jacob of College Jesus-Marie de Sillery in Quebec City; and Stephanie Kessler from College Reine-Marie in Montreal. They will travel to Washington in July. The Hecht’s also wish to congratulate Melanie Philip and Audrée Anne Dupont, teachers at the EMSB`s Mackay Centre School in NDG and Merton Elementary School in Côte Saint-Luc respectively. They have been awarded a Hecht Scholarship to a professional development program in July under the direction of the Faculty of the Yad Vashem Seminars for Educators from Abroad, International School for Holocaust Studies. The goal of this program is to provide professional development activities to teachers for teaching about the Holocaust and anti-Semitism. Upon their return to Montreal, scholarship recipients will be asked to create at least one teaching unit or module developed within the context learned, appropriate for the régime pedagogique. The Belfer National Conference for Educators presents Holocaust education for English Language Arts and Social Studies/History teachers from Grades 6 and up. The goal of this three-day Conference is to give educators the tools for teaching about the Holocaust in their classrooms. Teachers will be introduced to information and teaching strategies using many Museum resources, with a focus on school systems in North America. The Conference will take place from July 19 to 21 for English Language Arts teachers and July 23 to 25 for Social Sciences and History teachers. “The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is America’s national institution for the documentation, study, and interpretation of Holocaust history, and serves as this country’s memorial to the millions of people murdered during the Holocaust.”
HUMAN RIGHTS EVENT: EMSB Chairman Angela Mancini co-moderated the fourth annual Interfaith Celebration for World Peace, organized by Canadians for Coexistence, at the Shaare Zedek Congregation in NDG on May 21. The event was-moderated by Suburban Newspaper editor Beryl Wajsman and sponsored by Definite Image and the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA). Guest speakers included Reverend Darryl Gregory Gray, Bishop Thomas Dowd, Rabbi Reuben Poupko, Rabbi Alan W. Bright and internationally renowned
Raheel Raza. Info: http://interfaithcelebration.ca/index-en.html.
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| These students and their Principal and Vice Principal enjoyed a thrilling experience. |
RECYCLE REUSE: Recycle, Reuse, Reduce - Transforming Recycled Materials into an Artistic Creation was the theme of an event inspired by artists Dale Chihuly, Karen Hurley and Jane Perkins. Edward Murphy School teacher Ida Lento encouraged her students to create an art masterpiece using recycled materials. Solar tubes, chicken wire, cardboard, papers, newspapers, water bottles and buttons were collected to create this Earth Tree. Students from K, Cycles 1 & 2, ASD and LC2 classes helped with collecting and painting the water bottles. Cycle 3 students cut and manipulated painted bottles and recycled papers to create organic forms to mimic tree leaves and flowers. Finally, with the help of VMC students, Miss Ida’s LC1 class assembled all the separate decorations into their completed work, entitled “Earth Tree.” The materials not only highlight a need to address the amount of waste each of us produces, but also that recycled materials can become reinvented artistic inspirations.
WE CARE: Edward Murphy students and staff are implementing the #WeCare approach by using the RULER by Yale and the 4 Pillars (strategies to self-regulation). They created a culture within the school that promotes emotional intelligence to cater to 21st-century learners. This helps everyone think critically, self-regulate emotions independently to better focus on academics. #WeCare was initially a Master’s thesis project by Elizabeth Triassi that became a school-wide climate shift being led by Principal Cristina Celzi and Teacher/Staff Assistant Marie-Lyne Lebel, along with all the dedicated and hard-working staff members. The #WeCare approach was presented at the first annual School Based Mental Health Conference in March. Because communication is key, Edward Murphy created a culture in the school that encourages social emotional learning skills collaboratively by building empathy through program implementation, day-to-day interaction, classroom management, crisis intervention, and communication with parents to foster intellectual and emotional growth. The students and staff at Edward Murphy practice skills by recognizing emotions in self and others, understanding the causes and consequences of emotions, labelling emotions accurately, expressing emotions appropriately and regulating emotions effectively. Edward Murphy has an interactive sensory room called the Harmony room. It is a harmonious environment that reflects the school’s culture while using interactive digital media and other materials to learn self-regulation. Children practice self-regulation skills within the room and everywhere else in the school to help them deal with everyday situations and prepare them to proactively cope life’s challenges.
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| Enthusiastic students from Edward Murphy. |
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| The Spirit Quest team. |
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| Proud Canadians. |
HERE'S MY CANADA: Students and staff from Edward Murphy School and East Hill School in R.D.P. recently took part in the Historica Canada’s Here’s My Canada initiative, asking students to write a few lines reflecting on what Canada means to them in recognition of Canada’s 150th birthday. Students wrote about Canada’s inclusiviness, greenery and respect for the Canadian Forces and veterans.
EARTH FAIR: Westmount High School’s ECHO (Ecological Choices Health and the Outdoors) class put on an Earth Fair on April 28 in the front lobby. The students put a lot of hard work into preparing for the event. They had kale, basil, and two types of tomato plants on presentation, which the students grew themselves. There were three different flavors of Kombucha on display for people to try a sample of it. In addition, there were also items for sale, which included: various flavors of natural lip balm, smoothies, and all dressed kale, apple cinnamon and zucchini chips. Everything that was for sale the students made themselves. A highlight of the Earth Fair was the clothing exchange. The students of the class felt that there are too many clothes being wasted. To help the environment, students brought in clothes they didn’t want anymore and they could exchange it for other clothing items other students brought in. For every article of clothing the students brought in, they received an “ECHO Book,” which is a ticket that they could use to put towards purchasing one of the items the students had on sale.
Bridgette Curetti, a student from the ECHO class who was in charge of the plant display stated: “In ECHO we learn about the environment and we learn about how to reduce environmental impact. Right now, we are learning about how to grow our own food and fruits so we don’t have to buy them at the grocery store. Because at the grocery store, there are a lot of pesticides, growing it ourselves we won’t have any pesticides and it will be organic. Also, there is less packaging so it won’t end up in land fields that will just pollute the earth more. That is why we are doing this and also, you just feel good when you eat your own food.” Jacob Nyveen, another student from the ECHO class who was in charge of the Kombucha sampling, talked about the process of making the fermented drink. “You take some tea and put it in a jar and mix it with some sugar and water,” he said. “Then you put some fruits in there, you can make whatever flavor you want. From there, you let it ferment in a nice warm place and keep it covered with something like a cloth because the light is bad for it. Then you just let it sit for a period of time depending how you want the taste or the amount of fizz in it. After a while, you will have your Kombucha ready to drink.” See our photos.
EMSAC CONCLUDES SUCCESSFUL YEAR The EMSB's Student Advisory Committee held its last meeting of the year at Royal Vale School recently. The EMSAC meets monthly and serves to provide students with a venue to voice their ideas and concerns that are relevant to all students from across our network of schools. Every meeting begins with students representatives from the host school guiding members of the committee through a leadership experiential followed by an agenda of consultation and discussion. This year was an exceptional year of student dialogue and members discussed a wealth of topics. Thus included consultation on the budget building process, the EMSB smoking policy, marketing campaigns, cell phone policies & digital citizenship, standardized testing, the new history program, sex education, improving student retention in our schools, multiculturalism in schools and cafeteria menu options, legalization of marijuana and its implications on our schools and 13 Reasons Why sparked exciting debate and gave us pause to think. Students also worked on blog writing that is featured on the Montreal Suburban’s Student Voices blog section of their website.
In addition to two student representatives from every high school, EMSAC is advised by Pela Nickoletopoulos, EMSB West Regional Director; Tanya Alvares Vice-Principal John Paul 1 High School; David Servello Vice-Principal LaurenHill Academy; and Paul Karpontinis, teacher at Lester B. Pearson High School. Commissioner Bernard Praw contributes to meetings and represents the committee at the Council of Commissioners. Meetings are held in different schools alternating between the Eastern and Western schools in the EMSB family.
DICTÉE EXPERIENCE: Xavier Maclaren, a Grade 6 student from Edinburgh Elementary School in Montreal West, competed in the International Final for la Dictée Paul Gerin Lajoie (PGL) held in Montreal. There were 80 finalists from around the world including Senegal, Morocco and the United States. "We are very proud of Xavier, who finished first in the French second language category," said Principal Mauro Zampino.
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| Two students from the ECHO class. |
EMSAC CONCLUDES SUCCESSFUL YEAR The EMSB's Student Advisory Committee held its last meeting of the year at Royal Vale School recently. The EMSAC meets monthly and serves to provide students with a venue to voice their ideas and concerns that are relevant to all students from across our network of schools. Every meeting begins with students representatives from the host school guiding members of the committee through a leadership experiential followed by an agenda of consultation and discussion. This year was an exceptional year of student dialogue and members discussed a wealth of topics. Thus included consultation on the budget building process, the EMSB smoking policy, marketing campaigns, cell phone policies & digital citizenship, standardized testing, the new history program, sex education, improving student retention in our schools, multiculturalism in schools and cafeteria menu options, legalization of marijuana and its implications on our schools and 13 Reasons Why sparked exciting debate and gave us pause to think. Students also worked on blog writing that is featured on the Montreal Suburban’s Student Voices blog section of their website.
In addition to two student representatives from every high school, EMSAC is advised by Pela Nickoletopoulos, EMSB West Regional Director; Tanya Alvares Vice-Principal John Paul 1 High School; David Servello Vice-Principal LaurenHill Academy; and Paul Karpontinis, teacher at Lester B. Pearson High School. Commissioner Bernard Praw contributes to meetings and represents the committee at the Council of Commissioners. Meetings are held in different schools alternating between the Eastern and Western schools in the EMSB family.
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| Xavier Maclaren |
DICTÉE EXPERIENCE: Xavier Maclaren, a Grade 6 student from Edinburgh Elementary School in Montreal West, competed in the International Final for la Dictée Paul Gerin Lajoie (PGL) held in Montreal. There were 80 finalists from around the world including Senegal, Morocco and the United States. "We are very proud of Xavier, who finished first in the French second language category," said Principal Mauro Zampino.
INSPIRING EXPERIENCE: Team Inspirations banded together on April 22 and 23 to participate in the Scotia Bank Charity Challenge. Over 35 team members walked 5k, or ran 5, 10 or 21k at Parc Jean Drapeau. The team consisted of members from the EMSB and the Inspirations Newpaper community. They have raised 90 percent of their fundraising goal to date, and excelled at community building and heightening awareness about the work that Inspirations does promoting inclusive communities. Team Inspirations braved the rain and cold to walk and run in their first Scotia Bank Charity Challenge. They boasted participants in each available race, including the children’s run and the stroller event.
Team members ranged in age from six months to 85 years young. Team members came together with enthusiasm and drive to beat their best times and support Inspirations. EMSB Team Co-Captains Katherine Baker, physical education and health consultant, EMSB, and Lori Rubin, behavior management specialist, EMBS, ran the 5k in good time with their colleagues. Sherri MacCallum, special education technician at Lakeside Academy, Lester B. Pearson School Board, represented the West Island. Valentina Basilicata from Laval is a contributor to Inspirations and Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board parent. She participated in the 5k run while her son Zachary ran the children’s race. See the press release.
Here is the latest edition of Inspirations
Here is the latest edition of Inspirations
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| Chef Sergio Mattoscio helps his teammate Haley from St. Monica B.A.S.E. Daycare while a competitor, Sara from Gerald McShane, looks on. |
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| Students produce their books. |
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| Parents become students. |
PARENTS PED DAY: The Central Parents Committee of the EMSB held a special one day workshop on a variety of topics of interest on April 29 at the St. Laurent Adult Education Centre and LaurenHill Academy Junior Campus. Both schools operate under the same roof. This “Parents Ped Day” was open to all parents whose children attend the EMSB. Workshops focused on a broad range of topics included: STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics), digital citizenship, social media, online lives of students, transgender and LBTQ issues, the new sexual education program, physical activity, math programs, literacy skills, getting children on proper bedtime routines, demystifying the Individual Education Plan (IEP), raising a child with special needs, helping children develop strong oral language and early literacy skills, taking the stress out of elementary school, managing anxiety, supporting students with fine motor difficulties, keeping our kids safe in the digital world, the great debate about homework and vocational education. The sessions were facilitated by EMSB professionals who have expertise in these specific areas and other highly qualified professionals. This conference was organized by the CPC, its Chairman Suzanne De Jonge and parent commissioner Norm Gharibian. Please see this TV report. For more photos click here.
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| Congratulating the outstanding teachers. |
See this EMSB video.
See this BT Montreal report.
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| Pela Nickoletopoulos (third from the left) is congratulated. |
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| The Ambassadors of Change group. |
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS: In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week (May 1 to 5), the EMSB Mental Health Resource Centre showcased all of the great work students are doing that helps them connect with nature. This was an opportunity for every EMSB school to share how they connect with nature. The goal was to sensitize students to the important mental health benefits of connecting with nature. Science is providing us more and more evidence that when we connect with nature, by engaging in activities in nature (hiking, gardening, etc.), there is an improvement in our overall mental well-being and there are decreases in the rates of stress, anxiety and depression. Students were urged to create power points, video clips, collages, songs, poems and essays describing how their class, grade, school is connecting with nature . Several classes at James Lyng High School participated in a mindfulness/meditation session while using a Tibetan singing bowl as a tool for concentration. In addition, students then connected to nature with a forest visualization relaxation exercise with background nature sounds. The students felt very relaxed after the session! These activities were led by Spiritual and Community Animator Veronica D’Agata.
AMI-QUEBEC: During Mental Health Awareness Week (May 1-5) at John Paul I Junior High School in St. Léonard, Guidance Counsellor Amanda Lambrinos arranged for Ami-Quebec to give informative sessions to the ERC classes. Some of the topics discussed included what is mental illness and how to help someone who is in need.
AMI-QUEBEC: During Mental Health Awareness Week (May 1-5) at John Paul I Junior High School in St. Léonard, Guidance Counsellor Amanda Lambrinos arranged for Ami-Quebec to give informative sessions to the ERC classes. Some of the topics discussed included what is mental illness and how to help someone who is in need.
13 REASONS WHY: A new Netflix series, “13 Reasons Why” is raising attention internationally and is gaining popularity among our students. The show tells the story of a high school girl who commits suicide and leaves behind audio recordings that recount how 13 people she feels are responsible for her action. The series is based on a book and the series displays the sequence of events including the actual suicide in a very graphic manner. The EMSB Student Services Department wishes to note that many children and youth have watched the series without their parents’ knowledge and many more are likely to watch it. Resource information has been posted on the EMSB website and sent to schools. It is recommended that should students speak openly about the show, guide the conversations towards critical thinking and reinforce the message that when students experience distress, they can seek out help from adults.
YOU BE THE CHEMIST: On May 12, John Paul I High School Science Teacher Sara Di Maulo took two of her students, Santina and Cassandra, to McGill University to participate in the "You be the Chemist" Montreal Region Challenge! "You Be The Chemist Challenge" is an exciting academic competition that will expand a student’s knowledge of the science of chemistry and beyond! Students had an incredible day visiting the McGill downtown campus, making ice cream (and eating it) and seeing different experiments in the labs. What an amazing experience!!!
YOU BE THE CHEMIST: On May 12, John Paul I High School Science Teacher Sara Di Maulo took two of her students, Santina and Cassandra, to McGill University to participate in the "You be the Chemist" Montreal Region Challenge! "You Be The Chemist Challenge" is an exciting academic competition that will expand a student’s knowledge of the science of chemistry and beyond! Students had an incredible day visiting the McGill downtown campus, making ice cream (and eating it) and seeing different experiments in the labs. What an amazing experience!!!
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL LEARNING PROGRAM: Elizabeth Ballantyne School is implementing a program developed by the Institute of Social & Emotional Education. This program is called CS3 – (Core Skills in 3 Domains). It is designed to help teach SEL (Social & Emotional Learning) in a systematic and time-efficient way. There is ever-increasing research to show that development of social and emotional skills is critical to being a good student, citizen and worker.There are FIVE SEL competencies (self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making). The focus is on the application of these components within three domains (self, others and larger community). These competencies are teachable – the best way is through effective classroom[mk1] [mk2] instruction, student engagement in positive activities in and out of the classroom, and with parent and community support.
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| Oisin McGann is welcomed to the school. |
OISIN MCGANN VISIT: The students in Rooms 12 and 13 enjoyed a visit from the Irish author and illustrator, Oisin McGann. He was visiting Montreal as a participant in the literary festival "Blue Metropolis," and took an afternoon to share his talents and sense of humour with the two classes. He entertained the students with tales about the challenges of becoming an author, and then answered questions while simultaneously drawing a mysterious character from his most recent book. Storytelling is an art and Oisin McGann was at his best, leaving the students spellbound!
TURCOT INTERCHANGE PROJECT: As the Turcot Interchange celebrates its 50th anniversary and a massive construction project creates a newer version of Quebec’s largest highway interchange, students from James Lyng High School in St. Henri, which is situated in the shadow of the aging infrastructure, have organized and curated a historical and artistic exhibition that explores the enduring impact of the Turcot interchange.The multi-media show, entitled “The Turcot: Highway to History” will create an engaging and informative experience for community members of the South-West, as well as the wider community of Montreal. In preparation for this show students have talked with representatives from government and community groups and have participated in a tour of the Turcot construction site. The exhibition includes fictional and historical writing on the Turcot, a documentary film, video art based on oral histories connected with the area, a map of local street art and an immersive large-scale sculpture of the interchange. The aesthetic design of the exhibition was inspired by Expo '67.The goal of the exhibition is to bring awareness to the community experiences throughout the history of the Turcot through artistic and documentary student work. “The Turcot to me is a very important piece of history for the South-West because it changed communities and modernized Montreal,” says Kayon Hunter, a student organizer of the exhibition from James Lyng’s 15 plus program .A vernissage for the exhibition will take place on June 1 between 3:30 and 5:30 pm and again between 6:30 and 8 pm at the Up Next Gallery at James Lyng High School (5440 rue Notre-Dame O). The event is open to the public. The Up Next Gallery opened at James Lyng High School in December 2015 and is run by the school’s 15 plus program. James Lyng is an “Urban Arts High School” which integrates music, dance and street art into all facets of school life. Media Contacts: Nathan Gage at ngage@emsb.qc.ca or 514-730-7654 and Melissa Proietti at melissa@underpressure.ca or 514-712-0984
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| Neil Janna |
GET YOUR PROMOTIONAL SUPPLIES: Out of the 11 booth sponsors at this year’s Volunteer Appreciation Night, two of them were newcomers to the event. One of them is Fana Sports; the other is Hannah Promotions (www.hannahpromotions.com), which is an agency that specializes in offering promotional products and strategies that help to impact overall growth objectives, with their main focus of contributing towards their clients’ overall profit and sales evolution. It joined veteran sponsors La Capitale, Steve’s Music Store, Green Apple Studios, Loft Uniforms, and The Big Blue Hug, the Montreal Alouettes, KidCon and The Suburban newspaper. At their Volunteer Night booth, representative Neil Janna, who attended LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent when it was known as Sir Winston Churchill High School, impressed the attendees with his display of the wide assortment of products that Hannah Promotions has to offer, from coffee mugs, pens and highlighters, to private and public school team sports and graduating class jerseys, polos, sweatshirts and hoodies. For the past 30 years, Janna has moonlighted as a professional stand-up comic, and has performed in clubs, charity benefit shows and corporate gigs, not to mention numerous times at the Just For Laughs festival and toured around the world with the acclaimed performance troupe The Quiddlers.
PERSPECTIVES WINNER: Congratulations to Ovadia Ohana, a Secondary III student at Perspectives I. Ovadia is the recipient of a $250 bursary from the city of Montreal, in recognition of his commitment to, and perseverance of, his academic studies. He will be honoured at a Gala at The Palais des congrès on May 28. His Perspectives I family is very proud of him!
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| CURE Foundation Executive Director Robyn Dalton, a graduate of Willingdon School, presents a certificate to EMSB represents and staff and students from Willingdon and Royal Vale. |
DENIM DAY: On May 16, Montreal-based CURE Foundation thanked representatives from the EMSB for outstanding contributions over the last 20 years in the fight against Breast Cancer. The EMSB is the largest - and longest-standing institutional participant in National Denim Day, having called on its staff, students and teachers to wear denim on the Tuesdays following Mother’s Day in exchange for $5 donations to CURE for two decades now. The total donated via EMSB initiatives since 1998 is over $400,000; the EMSB, plus 80 schools participated this year; and 24,260 students, teachers, staff were involved. Since its inception in 1996, the CURE Foundation has helped raise over $29 million for breast cancer research, awareness and education as well as providing a financial support for the purchase of breast cancer related equipment. During National Denim Day, hundreds of thousands of Canadians wear denim to work to contribute to the eradication of this devastating disease that affects so many of our Canadian families.
PROM QUEEN CONTEST: The Crown project is an organization located in Montreal. It provides assistance to men, women and millennials. Through various events, The Crown Project will be able to not only help those less fortunate, but also provide innovative ways to empower and uplift recipients and volunteers. The Prom Queen contest will provide a lucky young lady between the ages of 16 and 17 in high school with low income the opportunity to receive their prom dress, shoes, and accessories. While also being supplied services of hairstyling, manicure, pedicure and makeup application. Info: infocrownproject@gmail.com , call (514) 602-0852. For more details log on to this link.
ADULT EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL SERVICES
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| Bravo RTC! |
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| Having fun in Quebec City. |
On May 5, 200 Students from both the S.I.S and CCBE programs at Galileo took a brief moment from their day to meet with police, firemen, army officials, and community groups at Place Henri Bourassa. This was the first time that the Socio- Community held this event. It was important because it introduced everyone to the available social services for students to access in their community. Kiosks were set up and offered information about camps for young children and how to access programs in the community. They also learned how to contact local authorities to assist in their queries about official processes and procedures in order to be informed of their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
PLANETARIUM VISIT: Some 150 English language evening students from Galileo Adult Centre took a trip to Montreal's Planetarium and got a lesson on how life appeared on Earth 13.7 billion years ago. Students got a chance to partake in the interactive digital exhibition Exo learning about the solar system and its many stars. Throughout this captivating quest students were encouraged to learn and practice their English with peers, and utilize what they've learned in a real world situation. The students also visited Upper Canada Village for a lesson in Canadian history, transporting them back in time to the 1860s. A key part of the experience is the authentic buildings that make up the village, the activities that each housed, and of course, the people who lived there. The students learned about the life styles and traditions of Canadian families in the 19th Century, a rich learning experience for both student demographics. Founded in 1961, Upper Canada Village is one of the largest living-history sites in Canada. Featured are over forty historical buildings, many moved here prior to flooding of the “Lost Villages” during the St. Lawrence Seaway development project. These include homes, functioning mills and trades workshops.
BUILDING A BETTER YOU. Vanessa Grimaldi, who taught special needs students at Galileo and made headines for her role on ABC's The Bachelor, was a guest co-host on The Global Morning News recently. Here she talks about a Foundation she is establishing to help fund special education programs: http://globalnews.ca/video/3464065/nobetteryou-empowering-special-needs-students
www.nobetteryou.org
DENIM DAY: The students and staff at the Marymount Adult Education Centre in Côte Saint-Luc are very proud of raising $1,267 for breast cancer research on the occasion of National Denim Day. Principal Jacques Monfette tips his hat to Vice Principal Joan MacMillan for successfully approaching businesses in the community to donate gifts and for special raffles. “This is the fourth year in a row that we have managed to increase our donation,” said Mr. Monfette.
PEOPLE’S POTATO TEAM: In April, the CCBE Pre-Secondary students in Nootan Kumar’s course at the St. Laurent Adult Education Centre, along with Lucy Panetta’s CCBE literacy students at John F. Kennedy Adult Centre, volunteered at the People’s Potato, a soup kitchen and food bank at Concordia University. The People’s Potato is an incredible non-profit organization that is an anti-oppressive, anti-capitalist and inclusive space. Their belief that food is a right, rather than a privilege, is demonstrated by their commitment to offer all services for free, including serving quality vegan meals to approximately 500 people a day for no charge.
“We were welcomed warmly by the People’s Potato team,” said statement from the students. “We greatly enjoyed our time with them, and learned a lot from them. We did a lot of tasks, such as preparing food boxes for the food bank and cooking new dishes. We ate a delicious meal together, while discussing this impressive organization with our classmates and colleagues from the other school on this beautiful evening. While the purpose of this outing may have been to gain volunteering experience and raise awareness about healthy vegan food, perhaps the most important aspect of our experience was the opportunity for us to practice our English outside of school, and to make new friends. We hope to inspire other students across the English Montreal School Board to volunteer at the People’s Potato. We guarantee you will not regret it!”
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| Students participate in the People's Potato. |
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| Honour roll students. |
SUCCESSFUL HONOUR ROLL: On May 2, the St. Laurent Adult Centre recognized all students who obtained an average of 85 percent or higher, in the winter session that runs from December 5 to March 27, 2017. This is an honour and distinction that students should be proud of, as the St-Laurent Adult Centre enrolls over 400 Academic students per session. At the event, student’s walked proudly down the red carpet, with a smile on their face, to be congratulated by Principal Daniela. Lattanzio and Vice Principal Maria Savignano. “At the St-Laurent Adult Centre, we feel that hard work deserves recognition,” said Ms. Lattanzio. “The reception of the honour roll certificate not only signifies great academy achievement, but more deeply, recognizes the opportunity our students are given to complete their high school diploma in a traditional classroom setting – and have excelled! As such, the honour roll assembly highlights the dedication and strong will of the students.
HELPING OTHERS: On May 11 and 12, CCBE day students at St. Laurent Adult Centre raised close to $800 in fundraising for the flood victims in the West Island. We thank the students from Suzanne Lanthier’s class for their time and effort. The students raised awareness in the centre by creating posters, writing memos to teachers and by going class to class to explain the flooding crisis. The students at SLAC (St. Laurent Adult Centre) come from many different countries. Some of these countries have been ravaged by war, poverty and natural disasters. They are able to relate very well to people in need and have always shown compassion and empathy.
HELPING OTHERS: On May 11 and 12, CCBE day students at St. Laurent Adult Centre raised close to $800 in fundraising for the flood victims in the West Island. We thank the students from Suzanne Lanthier’s class for their time and effort. The students raised awareness in the centre by creating posters, writing memos to teachers and by going class to class to explain the flooding crisis. The students at SLAC (St. Laurent Adult Centre) come from many different countries. Some of these countries have been ravaged by war, poverty and natural disasters. They are able to relate very well to people in need and have always shown compassion and empathy.
ÉDITION DU 25 MAI 2017 / BULLETIN DE LA CSEM
JOUR DE LA VICTOIRE EN EUROPE: La commémoration annuelle du Jour de la victoire en Europe (VE Day) a eu lieu le 8 mai dans l’enceinte de l’auditorium Syd Wise du Centre d’éducation des adultes Marymount situé à Côte-Saint-Luc. La cérémonie visait à souligner le 72e anniversaire de la libération de l’Europe des forces armées de l’Allemagne nazie, le 8 mai 1945. Étaient présents à cette cérémonie des membres de la filiale Brigadier Frederick Kisch 97 de la Légion royale canadienne, le maire Mitchell Brownstein, les membres du conseil municipal de Côte-Saint-Luc, ainsi que des dignitaires, anciens combattants, résidants et, cette année, un grand nombre d’élèves provenant principalement des écoles primaires locales. Les élèves du Centre d’éducation des adultes Marymount, de John Grant, Merton et Willingdon étaient également sur place.
SPORTS-ÉTUDES: Voici quelques exploits athlétiques récemment enregistrés par des élèves du programme Sports-études de l’école secondaire Lester B. Pearson à Montréal-Nord. Angelo Ciamano a dernièrement été couronné champion québécois dans la catégorie 33 kg en taekwondo. Il participera aux Championnats canadiens à Calgary ce mois-ci. La photo ci-dessous a été prise lorsqu’Angelo s’est classé 3e à la compétition US Open qui s’est tenue à Las Vegas au Nevada en février dernier. Par ailleurs, Spartycuss Castaneda a remporté la deuxième place dans la catégorie moins de 55 kg (ceinture noire élite) dans le cadre de la compétition taekwondo World Open qui s’est déroulée à Mexico. Pour sa part, Jasmine Anes Guerber (troisième à partir de la gauche) a récemment été invitée au camp de sélection national Excel pour joueuses canadiennes de soccer U14-17 qui se déroulera à Burnaby, en Colombie-Britannique.
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REMISE DE MÉDAILLES: Des élèves de la CSEM ont récemment reçu des Médailles du Lieutenant-gouverneur pour la jeunesse. Le Lieutenant-gouverneur J. Michel Doyon a décerné ces honneurs à Gregory David Libman de l’école Royal Vale, Nathalie Dupont de l’Académie LaurenHill et Lakshmi Roy de l’Académie internationale Marymount. La cérémonie s’est tenue au Collège Ahuntsic. Les Médailles du Lieutenant-gouverneur visent à souligner l’engagement, la détermination et les efforts constants de Québécois qui ont, ou ont eu, une influence positive au sein de leur communauté ou de la nation québécoise. La médaille de bronze pour la jeunesse est décernée aux élèves qui, de par leur engagement, ont démontré une action bénévole soutenue aux niveaux social et communautaire, ou qui ont présenté une attitude inspirante et un rayonnement positif dans un groupe ou la communauté. Le Lieutenant-gouverneur a également procédé à la remise de médailles pour les aînés et de médailles pour mérite exceptionnel. L’éminent pharmacien Jean Coutu a été honoré pour son action philanthropique et ses contributions à la société québécoise.
HABITAT POUR L’HUMANITÉ: Dix représentantes de la gente féminine de la CSEM s’unissent à l’organisme Habitat pour l’humanité afin de venir en aide à une famille de Saint-Henri. L’équipe de la CSEM sera composée de la directrice de l’école Royal Vale Nathalie Lacroix-Maillette, de Laurence Elmoznino, Patrizia Battaglia, Yasmine Joseph, Nathalie Malhamé, Megan Gaspar et Tanya Saad, enseignantes et membres du personnel de Royal Vale, de même que Laura Iorio et Darlene Kiley, parents d’élèves de Royal Vale, et la directrice adjointe du Collège Vincent Massey Lisa Ancona. Elles sont impatientes de mettre la main à la pâte le 2 juin. Grâce à de généreux dons, elles sont parvenues à amasser plus de 5 000 $. Elles sont fières de pouvoir aider une famille à élire domicile dans cette nouvelle maison.
http://www.womenbuildquebec.myevent.com/participant/553201
SAUTONS EN CŒUR: L’école Royal Vale à NDG a amassé 20 697 $ cette année lors de l’activité Sautons en cœur qui, encore une fois, est fort populaire dans les écoles du Québec. Norman Katz, enseignant d’éducation physique et organisateur de cet événement, est immensément fier des élèves et parents qui font preuve de tant de générosité pour cette grande cause. Plus de 280 000 $ ont été amassés au cours des 14 dernières années au profit de la Fondation des maladies du cœur.
LAURÉATE D’UN PRIX DÉCERNÉ PAR PARTENARIAT EN ÉDUCATION: Jackie Dare a reçu le Prix d’excellence Bienvenue à la maternelle 2016-2017 décerné par Partenariat en éducation. Jackie enseigne à la maternelle depuis 23 ans à l’école primaire Parkdale de Saint-Laurent. Elle est reconnue pour les liens qu’elle crée non seulement avec ses élèves, mais aussi avec les parents. Elle joue également le rôle de mentor auprès des nouveaux enseignants. L’un de ses objectifs vise à enseigner aux jeunes l’importance du respect et de la bonté. « Elle a cette facilité de faire en sorte que parents et élèves se sentent uniques. Certains choisissent notre école parce qu’ils veulent que leur enfant soit dans sa classe… Elle traite tous ses élèves comme ses propres enfants. Ses collègues lui vouent une grande admiration. Elle est d’une aide précieuse pour tous », a déclaré Marylène Perron, directrice de l’école Parkdale. Jackie a cumulé bon nombre de réalisations tout au long de sa carrière d’enseignante. Mentionnons notamment sa grande influence sur le programme KINDER-garten qui a pour but de promouvoir l’intimidation. Elle a également mis sur pied un projet intitulé Books and Breakfast pour ses élèves et leurs parents afin de promouvoir l’importance de la lecture. Depuis, le programme a pris de l’ampleur et est devenu la soirée Books, Bears, and Blankets à laquelle toute la communauté de l’école est invitée à participer. De plus, elle travaille en étroite collaboration avec le réseau des écoles en milieu défavorisé (AMSFA). Compte tenu de son travail acharné et de son engagement au sein de l’école, il n’est pas étonnant que Partenariat en éducation lui ait décerné le prix d’excellence Bienvenue à la maternelle. Le comité de sélection des prix nationaux lui a rendu le plus bel hommage qui soit.
UNE EXPÉRIENCE ENRICHISSANTE: Quelque 210 élèves du réseau des écoles secondaires de la CSEM ont pris part à la 19e édition annuelle du Student Leadership Camp. Fait à noter cette année, un nouvel emplacement a été choisi pour la tenue de cette activité. Situé à Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez, le Camp Papillon accueille les élèves toute la semaine. Les écoles secondaires de la CSEM se sont réunies cette année sous le thème The stars shine better when they are together. Ce camp de leadership est un événement unique regroupant des élèves de diverses écoles secondaires qui, pendant trois jours, collaborent à des activités axées sur le leadership. Cette année, les élèves de la 1re à la 5e secondaires des écoles suivantes ont participé au camp : l’école secondaire James Lyng, l’école secondaire John F. Kennedy, l’Académie LaurenHill, l’école secondaire Laurier Macdonald, l’école secondaire Lester B. Pearson, l’Académie internationale Marymount, l’école secondaire Rosemont, l’école secondaire Royal Vale, l’Académie Royal West, le Collège Vincent Massey et l’école secondaire Westmount. Scott Backovich a agi à titre de conférencier d’honneur. Porte-parole des jeunes reconnu à l’échelle internationale, il a été invité à prendre la parole lors de conférences et dans des écoles partout en Amérique du Nord. On peut également le voir régulièrement à la télé et à la radio où il se fait le défenseur des adolescents.
RECYCLER ET RÉUTILISER: Recycler, réutiliser, réduire – Transformer des matières recyclables en une création artistique. Inspirée par les artistes Dale Chihuly, Karen Hurley et Jane Perkins, l’enseignante Ida Lento de l’école Edward Murphy a incité ses élèves à créer un chef-d’œuvre à partir de matières recyclables. Des tubes solaires, du grillage à poule, du carton, du papier, des journaux, des bouteilles d’eau et des boutons ont été recueillis pour créer cet arbre de la Terre (Earth Tree). Les élèves de la maternelle, des 1er et 2e cycles, des classes TSA et du centre d’apprentissage LC2 ont participé à la collecte de bouteilles d’eau et les ont peintes. Les élèves du 3e cycle ont coupé et manipulé les bouteilles peintes ainsi que le papier recyclé afin de créer des formes organiques qui imitent les feuilles d’arbres et les fleurs. Enfin, avec l’aide des élèves du Collège Vincent Massey, la classe du centre d’apprentissage LC1 de madame Ida a procédé à l’assemblage de toutes les décorations individuelles afin de concrétiser leur œuvre d’art qu’ils ont baptisée « L’arbre de la Terre » (Earth Tree). Les matières utilisées mettent l’accent non seulement sur la nécessité de se pencher sur la quantité de déchets produite par chacun d’entre nous, mais aussi de prendre conscience que les matières recyclables peuvent être transformées en inspirations artistiques réinventées.
L’APPROCHE WE CARE: Les élèves et le personnel de l’école Edward Murphy sont à mettre en œuvre l’approche #WeCare en utilisant le principe RULER de Yale et les 4 piliers (stratégies d’autorégulation). Ils ont créé à l’école une culture qui préconise l’intelligence émotionnelle pour répondre aux besoins des apprenants du 21e siècle. Cette approche permet à chacun d’exercer un esprit critique, d’autoréguler ses émotions de façon autonome afin de mieux se concentrer sur ses études. L’approche #WeCare, qui à l’origine était le projet de thèse de maîtrise d’Elizabeth Triassi, a engendré un changement au niveau du climat à la grandeur de l’école, mené par la directrice Cristina Celzi et l’enseignante/stagiaire Marie-Lyne Lebel, de même que tous les membres du personnel dévoués et travaillants. L’approche #WeCare a été présentée lors de la première conférence annuelle sur la santé mentale en milieu scolaire, qui a eu lieu en mars. Compte tenu que la communication est essentielle, une culture a vu le jour à l’école Edward Murphy afin d’encourager l’acquisition d’habiletés d’apprentissage sur les plans social et émotif en créant de l’empathie par l’entremise de la mise en œuvre du programme, une interaction quotidienne, un gestion de classe, un protocole d’intervention en cas de crise et une communication avec les parents dans le but de favoriser une croissance intellectuelle et émotionnelle. Les élèves et le personnel de l’école Edward Murphy mettent ces habiletés en pratique en sachant reconnaître leurs propres émotions et celles des autres, en saisissant les causes et les conséquences des émotions, en identifiant correctement les émotions et en les régulant efficacement. L’école Edward Murphy est dotée d’une salle sensorielle interactive appelée la salle Harmonie. Elle offre un environnement harmonieux qui reflète la culture de l’école tout en utilisant des médias numériques interactifs et d’autres outils pour apprendre l’autorégulation. Les élèves mettent en pratique leurs habiletés d’autorégulation dans cette salle et à la grandeur de l’école pour les aider à gérer des situations quotidiennes et les préparer à faire face aux défis auxquels ils seront confrontés au cours de leur vie.
UNE EXPÉRIENCE INSPIRANTE: Les membres de l’équipe Inspirations ont pu tisser des liens les 22 et 23 avril dans le cadre du Défi caritatif Banque Scotia. Plus de 35 membres de l’équipe ont marché 5 km ou couru 5, 10 ou 21 km au Parc Jean-Drapeau. L’équipe était composée de membres du personnel de la Commission scolaire English-Montréal (CSEM) et de la communauté du périodique Inspirations. À ce jour, ils ont atteint 90 pour cent de leur objectif de financement, sont parvenus à accroître le renforcement communautaire et à mieux faire connaître le travail qu’accompli Inspirations pour promouvoir les communautés inclusives. L’équipe Inspirations a bravé la pluie et le froid pour marcher et courir à l’occasion de sa première participation au Défi caritatif Banque Scotia. Des participants ont pris part à chacune des courses, y compris la course des enfants et celle des poussettes. L’âge des participants variait de 6 mois à 85 ans. C’est avec enthousiasme et motivation que les participants ont tenté de battre leur record personnel tout en appuyant Inspirations. Les co-capitaines de l’équipe de la CSEM, Katherine Baker, conseillère en éducation physique et en santé, et Lori Rubin, spécialiste en gestion du comportement, ont couru le 5 km en compagnie de leurs collègues. Sherri MacCallum, technicienne en adaptation scolaire à l’Académie Lakeside de la Commission scolaire Lester-B.-Pearson, a représenté la Banlieue Ouest. Valentina Basilicata de Laval est une précieuse collaboratrice à la publication Inspirations et parent d’un enfant qui fréquente une école de la Commission scolaire Sir-Wilfrid-Laurier. Elle a couru le 5 km tandis que son fils Zachary a pris part à la course des enfants.
JOURNÉE PÉDAGOGIQUE POUR LES PARENTS: Le Comité central de parents de la Commission scolaire English-Montréal a organisé une conférence spéciale d’une journée portant sur divers sujets d’intérêt le 29 avril dernier au Centre d’éducation des adultes Saint-Laurent et à l’Académie LaurenHill (campus junior). Ces deux écoles sont sous le même toit. Cette « Journée pédagogique pour les parents » s’adressait à tous les parents dont les enfants fréquentent une école de la CSEM. Les thèmes suivants ont été abordés : le programme STIAM (Sciences, Technologies, Ingénierie, Arts et Mathématiques), la citoyenneté numérique, les médias sociaux, la vie des élèves en ligne, les enjeux entourant les transsexuels et la communauté LGBT, le nouveau programme d’éducation sexuelle, l’activité physique, les programmes de mathématiques, les compétences en littératie, la mise en place de routines appropriées pour les jeunes à l’heure du coucher, la démystification du plan d’intervention personnalisé (PIP), élever un enfant ayant des besoins particuliers, aider les jeunes à développer de solides habiletés en communication orale et des compétences précoces en littératie, éliminer le stress dans les écoles primaires, gérer l’anxiété, soutenir les élèves ayant des troubles de motricité fine, protéger les jeunes dans l’univers numérique, le grand débat entourant les devoirs et la formation professionnelle. Les séances ont été animées par des professionnels de la CSEM spécialisés dans ces domaines ainsi que d’autres professionnels hautement qualifiés. Cette conférence a été organisée par le Comité central de parents de la CSEM, sa présidente Suzanne De Jonge et Norm Gharibian, commissaire-parent.
JOURNÉE NATIONALE DES ENSEIGNANTES ET ENSEIGNANTS: La CSEM a honoré trois enseignants en leur décernant des prix sous forme de cartes-cadeaux chez P.F. Chang’s et La Cage Brasserie sportive à l’occasion de la Journée nationale des enseignantes et enseignants. La cérémonie a eu lieu le 26 avril à l’école primaire Roslyn et était co-parrainée par Breakfast Television de City. La CSEM a reçu une foule de mises en candidature dans les trois catégories suivantes : secteur des jeunes, secteur de l’éducation des adultes et secteur de l’éducation physique et de la santé. Tyffany Coryn, directrice de l’accueil chez P.F. Chang’s à Montréal, a remis des cartes-cadeaux d’une valeur de 100 $ à Nancy Latulippe, enseignante à la maternelle à l’école Roslyn, et à Stuart Chappell, enseignant d’anglais au Centre d’éducation des adultes John F. Kennnedy à Saint-Michel, de même qu’une carte-cadeau de 100 $ chez La Cage décernée à Michael Creamer, enseignant d’éducation physique et de santé à l’école primaire Hampstead.
AMBASSADEURS DU CHANGEMENT: Quelque 45 élèves de la CSEM se sont rendus à Ottawa le 8 mai afin d’honorer la mémoire de tous ceux et celles qui ont péri durant l’Holocauste, de même que pour accroître la sensibilisation aux valeurs associées à la diversité, la justice et l’inclusion sociale lors de deux événements : le symposium annuel des ambassadeurs du changement et la cérémonie de la Journée nationale dédiée à la mémoire des victimes de l’Holocauste. Accompagnés de membres du personnel de l’école et d’animateurs de vie spirituelle et d’engagement de vie communautaire, les élèves ont représenté l’école secondaire John Grant de Côte-Saint-Luc, l’école secondaire innovatrice Outreach de NDG, l’école secondaire innovatrice Programme Mile End de Côte-des-Neiges et l’Académie LaurenHill de Ville Saint-Laurent. Organisée par la Société canadienne pour Yad Vashem, cette activité d’une journée comportait deux volets. Dans un premier temps, quelque 150 élèves du Québec et de l’Ontario se sont donnés rendez-vous au Centre national des Arts afin de prendre part au symposium annuel des ambassadeurs du changement. Ils ont participé à des discussions encadrées où des groupes de 15 élèves étaient jumelés à un survivant de l’Holocauste. Ce dernier a partagé son expérience personnelle avec son groupe, tandis que les élèves, à l’aide de 15 questions qui leur avaient été fournies, ont dirigé la discussion sur la pertinence des leçons tirées de l’Holocauste dans le monde actuel, de même que sur ce qu’ils peuvent faire pour contribuer à promouvoir un esprit de tolérance et d’inclusion au sein de leurs propres communautés. L’événement s’est poursuivi au Musée canadien de la guerre pour la cérémonie de la Journée nationale dédiée à la mémoire des victimes de l’Holocauste. Les élèves se sont joints à une foule de quelque 600 personnes, notamment des survivants et leurs familles, lors de cette cérémonie qui permet de perpétuer le souvenir de l’Holocauste et des six millions de Juifs qui ont tragiquement péri aux mains des Nazis, et pour inculquer des valeurs de respect à l’égard des droits de l’homme partout dans le monde. Des personnalités et des dignitaires ont assisté à cette cérémonie, notamment le premier ministre Justin Trudeau, le maire d’Ottawa Jim Watson, les chefs des principaux partis politiques fédéraux, les membres du Parlement, les sénateurs, les ambassadeurs, les juges de la Cour suprême du Canada et l’ambassadeur d’Israël au Canada, Nimrod Barkan, qui a prononcé un discours à cette occasion.
SENSIBILISATION À LA SANTÉ MENTALE: Dans le cadre de la Semaine de sensibilisation à la santé mentale (du 1er au 5 mai), le Centre de ressources en santé mentale de la CSEM a souligné l’excellent travail que les élèves accomplissent pour se rapprocher de la nature. Ce fut l’occasion pour toutes les écoles de la CSEM de démontrer de quelle façon elles s’y prennent. L’objectif visait à sensibiliser les élèves aux bienfaits de la nature sur le plan de la santé mentale. La science démontre de plus en plus que lorsqu’on apprivoise la nature, en pratiquant des activités en plein air (randonnée, jardinage, etc.), on en retire un bien-être mental et nos niveaux de stress, d’anxiété et de dépression diminuent. Les élèves ont été invités à préparer des présentations PowerPoint, des vidéoclips, des collages, des chansons, des poèmes et des compositions afin de décrire comment leur classe, leur niveau, leur école se rapprochent de la nature.
13 RAISONS (13 REASONS WHY): La nouvelle série de Netflix « 13 Reasons Why » fait jaser partout dans le monde et gagne en popularité auprès de nos élèves. Cette série raconte l’histoire d’une jeune fille du secondaire qui se suicide et laisse derrière elle des cassettes audio où elle accuse 13 personnes de l’avoir poussée à poser ce geste. Cette série est fondée sur un livre et relate le fil des événements, y compris la scène du suicide on ne peut plus explicite. Les Services aux élèves de la CSEM tiennent à souligner que bon nombre d’enfants et d’adolescents ont visionné cette série à l’insu de leurs parents et qu’il est fort probable que beaucoup d’autres la regarderont. Des documents d’information ont été téléchargés sur le site Web de la CSEM et envoyés aux écoles. Si les élèves parlent ouvertement de cette série, il est suggéré de guider la conversation vers une réflexion critique et de renforcer le message voulant que lorsque des élèves éprouvent de la détresse, ils peuvent demander de l’aide à des adultes.
SERVICES DE L’ÉDUCATION DES ADULTES
ET DE LA FORMATION PROFESSIONNELLE
HABITAT POUR L’HUMANITÉ: Ce printemps, les élèves en ébénisterie du Centre de technologie Rosemont mettent à contribution une fois de plus leurs compétences en menuiserie nouvellement acquises afin de construire une sixième cuisine destinée à un nouveau duplex à Ormstown. Le département et les élèves ont apprécié leur expérience en 2013 et 2015 et ça se poursuit en 2017. « C’est un bel exemple de collaboration entre la communauté, le secteur de l’éducation et l’industrie », a souligné Eliane Kinsley, qui a mis sur pied ce projet.
L’ÉQUIPE PEOPLE’S POTATO: En avril, les élèves du présecondaire du programme de formation de base commune dans le cours de Nootan Kumar au Centre d’éducation des adultes de Saint-Laurent, en compagnie des élèves en littératie du programme de formation de base commune de Lucy Panetta du Centre d’éducation des adultes John F. Kennedy, ont travaillé comme bénévoles à People’s Potato, la soupe populaire et la banque alimentaire de l’Université Concordia. Il s’agit d’un incroyable organisme sans but lucratif qui préconise l’anti-oppression, l’anti-capitalisme et l’inclusivité. La conviction de cet organisme selon laquelle manger est un droit et non un privilège se reflète dans son engagement à offrir gratuitement tous ses services, y compris servir de bons repas végétaliens à quelque 500 personnes par jour, et ce, tout à fait gratuitement.
« Nous avons été accueillis chaleureusement par l’équipe de People’s Potato », ont déclaré les élèves. « Nous avons adoré l’expérience et avons appris grandement. Nous avons accompli plusieurs tâches, par exemple préparer les boîtes à lunch pour les banques alimentaires et cuisiner de nouveaux plats. Durant cette superbe soirée, nous avons partagé ensemble un excellent repas tout en discutant avec nos camarades et les élèves de l’autre école de cet organisme louable. Bien que cette activité avait pour but d’acquérir de l’expérience de bénévolat et de mieux faire connaître la cuisine santé végétalienne, elle nous aura donné l’occasion de pratiquer notre anglais à l’extérieur de l’école et de se faire de nouveaux amis. Nous espérons inspirer d’autres élèves de la Commission scolaire English-Montréal à donner de leur temps à People’s Potato. Vous ne le regretterez pas! ».
TABLEAU D’HONNEUR: Le 2 mai, le Centre d’éducation des adultes de Saint-Laurent a honoré tous les élèves qui ont obtenu une moyenne de 85 % ou plus au cours de la session d’hiver, soit du 5 décembre 2016 au 27 mars 2017. Il s’agit là d’un honneur et d’une mention de distinction dont les élèves devraient être très fiers. Le Centre d’éducation des adultes de Saint-Laurent accueille plus de 400 élèves à chaque session. Les élèves ont fièrement défilé sur le tapis rouge, sourire aux lèvres, pour recevoir les félicitations de la directrice Daniela Lattanzio et de la directrice adjointe Maria Savignano. « Au Centre d’éducation des adultes de Saint-Laurent, nous estimons que les grands efforts méritent d’être soulignés », a déclaré Mme Lattanzio. « Au-delà de la belle réussite sur le plan académique que traduit l’obtention d’un certificat d’excellence, l’occasion est donnée à nos élèves de terminer leurs études secondaires dans des salles de classe traditionnelles. De ce fait, le tableau d’honneur souligne le dévouement et la ferme volonté des élèves. »
The next Focus will be published on June 15. Submissions should be made to Michael J. Cohen preferably by e-mail (mcohen@emsb.qc.ca) by June 9 at Noon.
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