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| EMSB Chair Joe Ortona joins teachers Farheen Ahmed, Sabrina Jafralie, Rober Green and some students at Westmount High School. |
EMSB WINS BILL 21 CASE: The EMSB is elated with the Quebec Superior Court’s decision to strike down key provisions of Bill 21, An Act Respecting the Laicity of the State. This decision applies to all English school boards based on Section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. “Our position has always been that Bill 21 conflicted with our values and our mission and with those of all Quebecers as expressed in the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms,” said EMSB Chair Joe Ortona. “Its very adoption was contrary to our societal goal of promoting our peaceful co-existence in a pluralistic and inclusive Quebec.”
The EMSB argued successfully that Section 23 guarantees minority language educational rights to English-speaking minorities in Quebec, including the exclusive right of management and control of minority language schools. “Section 23 has evolved through the years and successive decisions of the Supreme Court of Canada have recognized an exclusive right of management and control accorded to linguistic minority communities across Canada for the operations of their public school systems,” noted Mr Ortona, who did express dismay that the government appealed the ruling and as a result the law remains in place.
Please see our full press release .
Here is the video of the EMSB Zoom press conference..
Media coverage is posted on the EMSB website. Here are some selections
Joe Ortona Live Interview on CTV Montreal
Joe Ortona on CJAD with Aaron Rand and Natasha Hall
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION: The annual EMSB Parent Volunteer Appreciation Evening took place virtually this year during National Volunteer Week, which ran from April 18 to 24, under the theme of “Working Together: Meeting the Challenge.” You can access the full program video right here.
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| Pela Nickoletopoulos congratulates Mary Nitti. |
Jamie Orchard is this year’s Ambassador of the Year. She recently concluded a distinguished 23 year career with Global TV, where she served as senior anchor and news editor for the evening news. She previously covered the news in Montreal for CTV and CBC. Recently she launched The Second Act Project (SAP), a blog that offers a safe space filled with inspiring stories of courage, compassion and kindness. The Volunteer of Distinction for this year is Mary Nitti from Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary School in Rosemount, who for the past 21 years continues to volunteer her time, energy and creative talents to enhance the school. Over the years, Mary has helped students, parents, and staff members. For the 12th consecutive year, La Capitale was the title sponsor for this event. La Capitale Financial Services, which is a member of La Capitale Financial Group, offers a wide range of products and services. As a proud sponsor of our 2021 EMSB Virtual Volunteer Appreciation Evening, Joseph Mantagaris of 21st Century Food would like to say thank you to the entire EMSB teaching community by offering his Gourmet Home Meal Delivery Service at 25 percent off. This year’s Virtual event included recognition of all volunteers, notably those with five years of service or more. There were formal presentations for Jamie Orchard, Mary Nitti, remarks by Mr. Ortona, Interim Director General Pela Nickoletopoulos, Parents Committee Chair Caleigh Saucier and Mikael Alam from La Capitale and some student musical performances from the students at FACE School.
INVITATION TO VICE-PRESIDENT HARRIS: EMSB Chair Joe Ortona has written to Federal Liberal MP for NDG-Westmount and Minister of Foreign Affairs Marc Garneau to raise the possibility of United States Vice-President Kamala Harris visiting Westmount High School as part of the itinerary on any future visit to Canada. Vice-President Harris graduated from the school in 1981. “Vice President Harris’ story has inspired, and continues to inspire, young people around the world and the students of Westmount High are no exception,” said the EMSB Chair. A story was carried by Canadian Press and published in newspapers across the country. See this story.
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| Aaron Derfel, Michael Cohen, Caroline Phaneuf, Dr. Debbie Schwarcz, Dr. Earl Rubin and Daniel Tatone. |
PARENT CONFERENCE: The EMSB Parents Committee held a Virtual Conference for Parents on April 18. Dr. Earl Rubin, Director of The Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, kicked-off the event as the keynote speaker under the theme of “Resilience through the COVID Pandemic.” He spoke about the science, challenges and impact regarding COVID, vaccines for children and more. This was followed by a panel and Q&A composed of Dr. Rubin, Dr. Debbie Schwarcz and Montreal Gazette health reporter Aaron Derfel. All three are EMSB parents. You can view this fascinating session here.
The conference also focused on subjects such as: setting boundaries on screens with your children; building up children to help them bounce back from life’s challenges; early literacy and kindergarten readiness; assistive technology tools for student writing support; discrimination, inclusion and equity; field trips of the future; prevention of weight/size discrimination; vaping- what you need to know ; journaling as a self-care tool; critical media literacy; play and movement for elementary school aged students; Staying active for high school aged students; The Virtual Library; Netiquette; Recognition of acquired competencies (Adult Education and Vocational Sector); STEAM integration and many others.
And still available and launched last fall to celebrate the chorale’s 40th anniversary, the souvenir book entitled Recipes and Memories (pictured) is filled with photos, choir history and delicious recipes from choir members and their families. Cost is $20. Contact Pat Abbott (address above) if you would like to purchase a copy.
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| Joseph Romano with a young student. |
HONORING LOCAL HEROES: As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to define all of our lives, three St. Leonard elementary schools (Honoré Mercier, Pierre de Coubertin and Dante) are coming together to honour the courage, selflessness and dedication of their local heroes. On May 4 at 9:30 am local healthcare workers will join firefighters from Firehouse 21 and SPVM officers from Station 42 to participate in a special assembly at Honoré Mercier Elementary School (8280 Nantes).
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| Sonia Marotta |
In addition to receiving special awards, these frontline workers (who are also parents) will share poignant stories from the past 15 months with the students. “The pandemic has become a defining moment in the lives of our students and we felt that it was important to show them some of the faces of our COVID-19 heroes,” said Sonia Marotta, Principal of Honoré Mercier. “Our frontline workers have gone through so much over the past 15 months and we believe it’s very important that our students not only learn about their lives, but have the opportunity to say thank you for keeping us all safe.”
HIGH SCHOOL HYBRID: The EMSB had no difficulty in adjusting to the latest directives from the Quebec government to return to a hybrid model for students in Secondary III, IV and V as of Monday, April 12. “We have implemented this very model for most of this year,” said EMSB Chair Joe Ortona. “Last week our system was placed under tremendous duress when we were told that we had to send all high school students back on a daily basis.”
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| Students like these at Laurier Macdonald High School have adapted to the hybrid model. |
Mr. Ortona noted that the previous week the EMSB agreed to send Secondary III students back. As of Tuesday, April 6, this was expanded to 16 other high schools in the system. However, plans called for six other schools, which were programmed with a hybrid model for Secondary IV and V students, to continue to follow that path through the end of the academic year. “We respectfully ask the Quebec government to please retain this hybrid model for the rest of the school year,” said Mr. Ortona.
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MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK: The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week at the EMSB this year, May 3 to 9, 2021, will be COVID Time Capsule: Hope For The Future. It will focus on new things we have learned about ourselves that will make us stronger. One year into the pandemic, there have been many obstacles we have gone through, but we have showed resiliency and we have survived. During this time, many have taught themselves new skills they are proud of (e.g.,playing guitar, baking) and learned several qualities about themselves that made them stronger (e.g., helping parent(s) with chores, sending positive messages to healthcare workers, or organizing a family game night). By recognizing and developing our strengths during the pandemic, we have learned life skills that can help us in the future. Let us take a pause to celebrate these strengths by preserving them. The week will also see the creation of a mental health library with material available for staff and students, the purchase of books specific for our special needs classes that support students with their socio-emotional development. There will also be a newly updated suicide risk protocol for the EMSB with offers from your school psychologist or guidance counsellor to provide training to school staff.
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| Items for the pantry. |
WILLINGDON PANTRY: Full tummies and healthy food are essentials for everyone and in particular for our growing kids. Numerous studies have shown that hunger affects concentration and the ability to learn. In 2017-18, one in eight households in Canada was food insecure, amounting to 4.4 million people, including more than 1.2 million children living in food-insecure households. Of that 4.4 million people only 1.1 million accessed food bank services that same year. With the unprecedented events of the last year, this number has ballooned and many households are struggling to keep food on the table. How can we help? The Willingdon Elementary School Family Support Fund has launched the Community Pantry offering pantry goods, hygiene items, and more. Supported by the school’s bi-weekly "Thoughtful Thursdays," which were already a Willingdon tradition, this program offers both emergency and ongoing support to families. The Pantry, housed at the senior campus, is run by both Home and School volunteers and a very dedicated administration. Partnership with The Food Depot and a generous donation of a fridge has provided the ability to provide some fresh fruit, veggies, homemade muffins, and granola bars, and dairy products! A partnership with St. Raymond's Community Center keeps the school’s families stocked with grocery gift cards for any other needs they may have.
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| Students engage on digital citizenship. |
PUBLIC SPEAKING: The EMSB public speaking competition continues its 90-year legacy, going online this year for three public speaking events. Nine high schools are participating under the themes “The Power of Story” (Cycle I) and “Words to Change the World” (Cycle II). Secondary I and II students started the competition on Wednesday, April 28, followed by Secondary III and IV on Tuesday, May 4. The Secondary V students cap off the event on Wed. May 5. The participating schools are LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent, Marymount Academy International in NDG, Westmount High School, FACE downtown, EMSB Virtual Learning, Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North, Laurier Macdonald High School in St. Leonard, Vincent Massey Collegiate in Rosemount, and high school students from Royal Vale School in NDG. Participants will be introduced only by the name of their speech and will address the audience via videoconference from their classrooms. They are joined by students with EMSB Virtual Learning who will speak from home. A fun, new tweak this year is that the medal will be designed and printed in-house. The challenge for the best medal design was sent out across the EMSB to art teachers, STEAM and science teachers. The medals will be printed on 3-D printers.
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| MarcGarneau presents the flag. |
A NEW FLAG FOR ROSLYN: When Roslyn Elementary School in Westmount was in need of a new Canadian flag, their MP and Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Marc Garneau came to the rescue. Recently, Mr. Garneau stopped by to personally deliver the flag and take a few minutes to speak with some students in the yard and the rest virtually over Microsoft Teams. Pictured with Garneau is Principal Joanna Genovezos, Vice Principal Laura Fundaro and Parent member of Roslyn’s Governing Board Suzanne Wexler.
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| Ioanna Tzima (on screen) and the students with Ms. MacDougall. |
CARLYLE’S INTERNATIONAL GUEST: Christina MacDougall’s Grade 6 class in the International Baccalaureate - Primary Years Programmed (IB-PYP) at Carlyle Elementary School in TMR invited a special guest speaker via Microsoft Teams. Ionna Tzima, 20, is a third year student in political science and international development from Athens, Greece. She purposely stretched her final semester into next fall so she can conclude her studies in person, rather than online. She is the McGill University ambassador for IRL, the leading social network for events that has been helping colleges revamp their social life by helping fund local events. “My students really enjoyed their experience,” said MacDougall,
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| Dino Sisto |
EAST END PODCAST: The EMSB is introducing a new East End Podcast through the remainder of the academic year, hosted by veteran broadcaster Dino Sisto. He began his education at St-Finbar Elementary School in Ville St-Michel in 1967 and graduated from Laurier Macdonald High School in St. Leonard in 1977. Mr. Sisto then studied Social Sciences at Dawson College before moving on to McGill University where he majored in Canadian history and minored in Quebec film. Subsequently he embarked on a media career. Sisto’s two children are EMSB graduates. Sisto and his wife Johanne Proulx have been married for 33 years. Stay tuned for his first East End Podcast on Rosemount High School next week.
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| Students gather with teacher Norman Katz. |
DONATIONS FOR ST. VINCENT: EMSB computer technician Alena Hamlett is starting a collection for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. An eruption of the La Soufriere volcano has caused 60 percent of the island to have to be evacuated. Tens of thousands of persons have been
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| Alena Hamlett |
relocated to neighbouring countries including Grenada, Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda. Industry, agriculture and transport are all affected. Vincentians in Montreal have been collecting non-perishable goods to ship home and fundraising has begun for food relief. She is seeking donations of items to send back to the island to help with the disaster relief and she would like to organize several drop off points at certain schools where people can bring items for pickup. The kind of items needed include: masks and hand sanitizers; bagged rice, peas, beans and macaroni ; bagged cereal, oatmeal, sugar; peanut butter; canned goods; bagged cookies, granola bars, fruit bars; diapers (adult and children), wipes, toilet paper, tampons, pads; solid soap bars, facecloths, Vaseline ; toothpaste, toothbrushes ; and any others people can think about. You can reach her at ahamlett@emsb.qc.ca . There is a drop off box in Room 109, Communications.
SOUND BITES: Here are some recent radio clips
CBC Radio One: Marymount Academy International Principal Discusses High School Model
CBC Radio One: EMSB's New Director General on CBC Radio One
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| Students mark World Autism Acceptance Day. |
WORLD AUTISM ACCEPTANCE DAY: John Caboto Academy in Ahuntsic celebrated World Autism Acceptance Day on April 1. The official day was April 2, however there was no school on that day. Students in class learned about autism and participated in a school-wide kahoot quiz. Students also wore blue tops and walked around the school community in their respective classroom bubbles with Autism acceptance signs that were made in class. With three specialized classrooms at John Caboto Academy, the school promotes inclusion and integration.
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| Scenes from Empathy Day. |
EMPATHY DAY: Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North held its annual Empathy Day recently, organized by Student Council. The idea is to build compassion and acceptance amongst students. During period one every student found a positive post it note on their desk. During period two they hosted @livediff for a school-wide presentation on empathy with a panel of leadership students. For period three, Student Council held interactive virtual workshops for students in Secondary IV after a keynote address by Spiritual Community Animator Joseph Monachino and during period four some members of Student Council participated in a Girl’s Leadership Symposium on the environment hosted by The Study. The hope was for students to feel even more welcomed at Lester B. Pearson and treat each other with kindness and compassion. Kindness is contagious, but so is negativity, so if you are going to be anything, be kind. #PearsonPride.
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| Allison Engo |
SCIENCE FAIR WINNER: The first Virtual Montreal Regional Science and Technology Fair took place in March. Royal West Academy graduate Allison Engo took first place (Best in Fair) at the Provincials last weekend. Allison had worked on her project while at RWA, but due to the pandemic she was only able to participate in this year’s event as a Marianopolois student. Two other RWA students participated in the MRSTF team of 20 projects at the Provincials - Ava Surette and Siena O’Neil. On April 26 and 27, Quebec’s most brilliant young scientific minds put their talent to the test at the SBC Innovation Summit, a new two-day virtual event featuring the year’s best projects in health sciences, life sciences and biotechnology from across Canada. Allison Engo studied the impact of Acai on fruit flies, analyzing if the berry could be used as a preventative measure or treatment to counteract acute oxidative damage encountered during infections, surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy within humans. SBC (Sanofi Biogenious Canada) is a competition where participants tackle university-level research topics – from cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, to agriculture and the environment.
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| The inaguration of the lounge. |
LINKS INAUGURATION: Staff and students at LINKS High School in Ahuntsic are always innovating and brainstorming new ways to create dynamic spaces within our school. A collaborative approach with students has always brought a unique perspective and after much consultation with the WOTP students, their student lounge project was accepted. This space was going to be designated as a multi-purpose room, divided into mini spaces catering to a variety of interests. It would also cater to those who required extra academic support and for team building exercises. Even more impressive is that the students would be building this themselves. Myriam Farley, the student life coordinator, was instrumental in facilitating, supporting and organizing the whole endeavor. She says, “The students soon learned that a lot goes into a major renovation including designing, budgeting, purchasing, constructing, painting and yes, cleaning up. They are very proud of the results and have already been enjoying each space dedicated to music and relaxation, gaming, art and multimedia which includes a virtual reality device as well as a comfy lounging area to just catch up with their peers.” The lounge has been aptly named in honour of a very special family that has become part of our LINKS family. Ralph Delli Quadri and his wife, Claire Fortin, have continually and generously donated money, clothing, food and delivering holiday baskets to our students in need. They check in regularly to ensure that students have everything they need to stay safe and healthy. The staff wish to thank Principal. Maria Caldarella, who always encourages and appreciates all our ideas and ventures.
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| Enjoying the escape game. |
KRYPTIK: Between April 20 and 22, Cycle 2 and 3 students from Honoré Mercier Elementary School participated in an Educational Escape Room entitled “KRYPTIK.” The activity was created by Spiritual and Community Animator Vince Lacroce. The intent of the educational escape game is to provide students with creative ways to work collaboratively in their respective classroom bubbles towards a common goal. The activity also helped students develop collaborative strategies to illustrate that there are always solutions to every problem we face in life, but it is important to remember that we can count on others for support.
POSTCARDS FOR PALS: Spiritual and Community Animator Rocco Speranza teamed up with Canada Post to send postcards to frontline workers, students, patients, veterans, and seniors in Montreal and across Canada in an effort to keep people connected. As part of their “Postcards for Pals” campaign, Canada Post employee Mr. Vittorio, and his management team provided hundreds of prepaid post cards for students to write their messages on. Mr. Speranza encouraged students in his schools to send messages that will spread respect, hope, smiles, courage, and appreciation or thanks. “A hand written note and a drawing will brighten the day for many,” Speranza noted. Recipients will receive more than one of the six pre-stamped designs with the messages “Wishing I were there/Tu me manques” or “Sending smiles/Je t’embrasse.”
EARTH DAY: On the occasion of Earth Day, the Grade 8 and 9 students at James Lyng High School in St. Henri have been working hard on their “public service announcement” posters to create awareness about keeping our community and planet clean. This project idea was spearheaded by Spiritual Animator Veronica D’Agata, in partnership with art teacher Cynthia Meloche. The influence for their art work not only comes from their own personal beliefs around environmental issues, but also from an inspiring video featuring Greta Thunberg. The hope is that through our creative expression we can raise awareness for the need to protect the Earth’s natural resources for generations to come.
EARTH DAY CLEANUPS: Two elementary schools -East Hill and Edward Murphy - and two high schools -John F Kennedy and LINKS -took part in cleanup efforts in honor of Earth Day. During the week of April 12, The Maskateers Club began for Pre-K, Kindergarten, and Cycle 1 students.
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| Earth Day cleanups. |
Before students began their Earth Day clean-ups, they received a workshop from SCA Speranza on the importance of recycling, what can be recycled, and how to respect and be kind to our planet. Students will also be planting seedlings and plants throughout the end of April and into the first weeks of May.
THE THREE MASKATEERS: Thanks to Mayor Fumagalli of Villeray, Saint Michel, and Parc Extension, Mr. Speranza connected with two community “masketeers” (armed with trash pickers) from the borough, Alcina Lopes and Elizabeth Barbosa, to help spread their message and encourage community members to pick up discarded masks. Speranza, his family, and students have begun collecting the masks that litter the streets of his school’s neighborhoods. JFK has had a recycling program in place since masks were made mandatory in schools. Together, the trio - or the three maskateers – are working on encouraging students to recycle their masks and not leave them to litter our environment, through classroom visits. They are planning to team up with a local company. Look out for the trio in your neighborhood and lend a helping hand. If you would like join the efforts, please contact rsperanza@emsb.qc.ca. One for all and all for one (our planet)!
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| MNA Benjamin is welcomed to JFK. |
EARTH WEEK: On April 16, Liberal MNA for Viau Frantz Benjamin helped launch Earth Week at JFK High School by spending time with secondary two students and staff. The school partnered with Mr. Frantz and aided with the launch of his program “ON Marche Avec MNA Frantz.” MNA Frantz, SCA Speranza, Phys. Ed. Teacher Ms. Murray and Student Teacher Jonathan walked with the students in order to promote going green, walking as an environmentally friendly means to get around one’s neighborhood, and other ways to care for the environment and the Earth. During his visit SCA Speranza and MNA Frantz spoke about Frédéric-Back Park, and the importance of getting outdoors, enjoying nature, and taking care of Nature as it takes care of us.
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| Celebrating a children's book. |
ALL BASED ON A POEM: Shanice Nicole, a local poet, visited Phoebe Phua's and Vanessa Secondo's Grade 2 classes virtually at St. Monica Elementary School in NDG on April 13, to read her children's book, Dear Black Girls. The latter is a letter to all Black girls based on a poem Shanice wrote in 2015. Illustrations by Kezna Dalz support the book’s message that no two Black girls are the same but they are all special—that to be a Black girl is a true gift. In this celebratory poem, Kezna and Shanice remind young readers that despite differences, they all deserve to be loved just the way they are. During a Q&A portion, students asked what inspired Shanice to write the book, what her favorite part of the book was, and how she felt about the final product. Many students expressed their appreciation to Shanice for writing a book about Black Girls as it made them feel loved and seen. Others said thank you for writing a book about their friends and cousin. A final question was more of a request: Shanice, will you write more books about Black Girls?
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| Perspectives I and II students are feeling healthy. |
NURTURE & NUTRITION: Perspectives I & II Alternative High Schools in St. Michel will be launching a new healthy initiative called “NURTURE & NUTRITION.” This eight-week program will run from March until the early May. The intent of the program is to establish healthy eating habits and a supportive environment for physical activity in the school. It will be created by various community partners who will be joining together to improve the overall success and well-being of these students. The program will be overseen by a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Riccardo Simanella, CAMP Lift Co-Director Jonathan Sbrollini and Spiritual Community Animator, Vince Lacroce. “We are extremely excited to embark on this initiative,” says Mr. Lacroce. “The program will stress the importance of eating nutritious food, maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, and eating a well-balanced diet, and include yoga, meditation, and in class workshops.” Perspectives I & II staff members will work with the students and follow their progress over their two month journey.
BODY IMAGE PROGRAM: On April 30, Rosemount High School, Perspectives I & II Alternative High Schools, Honore Mercier Elementary and Nesbitt Elementary will be launching a new Body Image program called “Perfectly Imperfect.” The program, spearheaded by Mr. Lacroce, will discuss healthy eating habits, body image concerns, misinformation about nutrition and fad diets, the influence of media on body image and self-esteem, eating disorders, and the importance of loving yourself. EMSB Alumni, Francesca Di Massimo, Certified Crossfit and Poliquin Personal Trainer, will be joining Mr. Lacroce to discuss the importance of a healthy lifestyle and its positive connection with mental health. The schools will also be launching a new health segment on our social media posts called “Awake with a Shake” and “Splendid Snacks”, where the school community will be provided with weekly healthy shake and snack alternatives. These will not be your average shakes; they will emphasize combining ingredients such as spinach, kale, flaxseed, and fruits in order for students to boost their daily intake of fruits and vegetables.
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| A picture from implementation of the program at Nesbitt. |
SUPPORT FOR SEXUALITY EDUCATION: In April, the Spiritual and Community Animation Service developed a Healthy Relationships Unit to support the theme of Emotional and Romantic Life in the Sexuality Education Program. Grade-level units include a PowerPoint presentation and worksheets for both elementary and secondary schools. Units address the elements and importance of healthy relationships, self-esteem, communication, personal boundaries, consent, love and attraction. This offering is part of an effort to develop implementable units to provide direct support for teachers and schools. It is available for implementation by all SCAs. Thanks to the SCAs who contributed to these units (Gladys Batten, Linda Luca, Samantha Smith, Vince Lacroce and Elizabeth Pellicone) and to Jamie Quinn for her feedback and suggestions to ensure alignment with curricular standards.
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| A look at the Worry Dolls. |
WORRY DOLLS: Pre-Kindergarten, kindergarten, Grade 1 and 2 classes at FACE and Bancroft Elementary Schools, made their own "worry dolls" with Spiritual and Community Animator Elizabeth Pellicone to be taken home. Students tell their worry doll their worries, allowing the students to put their worries somewhere safe so they can sleep peacefully. The craft idea comes from Central American societies, such as Guatemala. Each worry doll went home with this message to be read with parents: "When worries pop into your head, I will always listen. I am right here next to you, tell me how you're feeling. No need to be blue. Tell me your secrets and let me comfort you. When nighttime comes, then sleep will take you through.".
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| Left to right: Principal - Cristina Celzi, Vice-Principal Véronique Carrié, Miracle Montreal representative and LMAC grad Divya Aery, SCA-Joseph Monachino and IB Coordinator - Valerie Barnabé. |
MIRACLE MONTREAL: Laurier Macdonald High School joined forces with Miraclemontreal.org in order to help them with their mission to collect food for the needy in our communities. This year will mark the city’s second Miracle Food Drive, a citywide initiative to bring as much non-perishable food as possible to those in hunger and need during these difficult times. Laurier Macdonald High School is proud to support this initiative as former LMAC graduate, Divya Aery, is actively involved in this cause. At Laurier Macdonald High School, Mr. Monachino, and Valerie Barnabé, I.B. Coordinator, helped to collect the food brought by students to school. The Lester B. Pearson High School and Pierre de Coubertin school communities also contributed to the event with donations made by parents for pickup by the organization directly from their homes. Congratulations to all those who donated and made a difference to this worthwhile cause.
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| Reflecting on the victims of COVID-19. |
COVID-19 REFLECTIONS: On March 11, Laurier Macdonald High School, Lester B. Pearson High School and Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School, engaged in a special reflection and held a moment of silence to pay tribute to the victims of COVID 19, as well as to honour their family and friends. The reflection, provided to all three schools by Mr. Monachino and read by members of the school community at LBPHS and PDC and Mr. Monachino himself at LMAC, also included heartfelt wishes that strength, healing, and hope are on the horizon. The communities of all three schools felt it was important to stand with the Quebec population on this special day in remembrance of those lost. At Laurier Macdonald, in addition to leading the reflection, Mr. Monachino organized a memorial table and a remembrance canvas where students were invited to sign their names and share a message in the memory of loved ones lost.
ADULT EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL SERVICES
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| Students at LMAC Career Centre. |
VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE: Laurier Macdonald Career Centre in St. Léonard is happy to announce their first virtual online open house on Tuesday, May 4. You can join the team from 1 pm to 2 pm; 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm or 7 pm to 8 pm. Registration is ongoing for day and evening classes. You can see the video here..
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| Hairdressing students in action. |
TRIMS FOR A CURE: The Laurier Macdonald Career Center Hairdressing and Aesthetics Departments (LMACCC) teamed up with Mr. Speranza in order to promote the second annual Trims for a Cure Event benefiting the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program (AYAOP) at the Jewish General Hospital. Qualified students and teachers were trimming, cutting, blowing drying and manicuring for this great cause during the main day on April 12, 2021. The goal was to raise $5,000 If anyone wants to support the cause they can email rsperanza@emsb.qc.ca or trimsforacuremtl@outlook.com for a $10 voucher.
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| Galileo students at their workshop. |
MOSAIC PROJECT: Throughout an entire month, Atelier Nayan worked closely with Galileo Adult Education Centre students and staff to create a mural that incorporated the nature and culture of the school; sense of family, lots of support to reach and attain one’s goals, guidance, encouragement, and sense of life was captured in the artwork! Artists Nelson and Annie listened to the students’ needs, empowering them through their process, while also adapting the process to everyone’s needs as they were creating in the studio! Social Integration Services (SIS) and Social Vocational Integration Students (SVIS) were welcomed into the studio space, where they were introduced to develop a participatory public piece of art. This mural incorporated the use of different recycled materials, therefore showing students how art can come alive not only through new
FILM FESTIVAL: The students and staff at Galileo preoduced their very own Film Festival. It premiered online to a select EMSB audience on April 15 and gained rave reviews. The Social Integration Services (SIS) adult education class was the only one Quebec to have participated in this project, which is featured on the Learn Quebec website and SIS Stories newsletter. You can view the films here.
ÉDITION DU 28 AVRIL / BULLETIN DE LA CSEM
LOI 21 – GAIN DE CAUSE POUR LA CSEM: La CSEM se réjouit de la décision de la Cour supérieure du Québec d’annuler certaines dispositions clés de la loi 21, la Loi sur la laïcité de l’État. Cette décision, qui vise toutes les commissions scolaires anglophones, se fonde sur l’article 23 de la Charte canadienne des droits et libertés. « Notre position reste inchangée, c’est-à-dire que la loi 21 va à l’encontre de nos valeurs et de notre mission, de même qu’à l’encontre des valeurs de l’ensemble des Québécois et des Québécoises, exprimées dans la Charte québécoise des droits et libertés de la personne, a déclaré le président de la CSEM, M. Joe Ortona. L’adoption de cette loi s’inscrivait en faux contre notre objectif sociétal, soit de faire la promotion de la coexistence pacifique au sein d’un Québec pluraliste et inclusif. »
La CSEM a fait valoir, avec raison, que l’article 23 garantit aux minorités anglophones du Québec des droits en matière d’éducation, y compris le droit exclusif de gérer et de contrôler leurs écoles. « L’article 23 a évolué au fil des ans, et les décisions successives de la Cour suprême du Canada ont reconnu l’existence d’un droit exclusif, accordé aux minorités linguistiques de l’ensemble du Canada, de gérer et de contrôler les activités de leur système scolaire public, a fait remarquer M. Ortona. C’est pour cette raison que nous exhortons le gouvernement du Québec à s’abstenir d’interjeter appel de la décision de la Cour supérieure. »
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Pour visionner la vidéo de la conférence de presse de la CSEM sur Zoom
EMBAUCHE D’ENSEIGNANTS: Dès le 21 avril, soit au lendemain du jugement rendu sur la loi 21, le Service des ressources humaines de la CSEM a commencé à réaliser des entrevues et à embaucher des enseignants qui portent des signes religieux. Il a également été demandé aux directions d'école de transmettre immédiatement aux Ressources humaines toutes les candidatures qu’elles pourraient avoir reçues.
RECONNAISSANCE DES BÉNÉVOLES: La Soirée annuelle de reconnaissance des parents bénévoles de la CSEM a eu lieu en mode virtuel cette année dans le cadre de la Semaine nationale de l’action bénévole, du 18 au 24 avril, sous le thème « Bénévoles… tous ensemble pour relever le défi ». Pour consulter le programme .
Jamie Orchard a été couronnée Ambassadrice de l’année. Sa brillante carrière de 23 ans à Global TV en tant que chef d’antenne principale et rédactrice en chef pour les bulletins de nouvelles en soirée a pris fin récemment. Elle avait auparavant couvert l’actualité montréalaise à CTV et CBC. Elle a lancé dernièrement le blogue The Second Act Project (SAP), qui regorge d’histoires inspirantes de courage, de compassion et de bonté. Pour le découvrir : www.thesecondactproject.ca. Nous sommes heureux d’honorer cette année la bénévole émérite Mary Nitti de l’école primaire Pierre Elliott Trudeau à Rosemont qui, depuis 21 ans, fait don de son temps, son énergie et ses talents créatifs au profit de l’école. Loyale, dévouée et pleine d’ardeur, Mary est au cœur de l’école. Au fil des ans, elle a apporté son aide aux élèves, aux parents ainsi qu’aux membres du personnel. Pour la 12e année consécutive, les Services financiers La Capitale (www.lacapitale.com) a agi à titre de commanditaire principal à l’occasion de cet événement. Membre du Groupe financier La Capitale, elle offre une vaste gamme de produits et services. En tant que fier commanditaire de la Soirée virtuelle de reconnaissance des bénévoles de la CSEM en 2021, Joseph Mantagaris de 21st Century Food souhaite remercier l’ensemble des enseignants de la CSEM en leur offrant une réduction de 25 pour cent sur le service de livraison de repas gourmet à domicile. Cette année, dans le cadre de l’événement virtuel, la CSEM a rendu hommage à tous ses bénévoles, en particulier ceux qui comptent cinq années de service ou plus. Jamie Orchard et Mary Nitti ont toutes deux eu droit à des présentations officielles. M. Ortona, la directrice générale par intérim Pela Nickoletopoulos, la présidente du comité de parents Caleigh Saucier et Mikael Alam de La Capitale ont pris la parole, tandis que les élèves de l’école F.A.C.E. ont offert des prestations musicales.
INVITATION À LA VICE-PRÉSIDENTE HARRIS: Le président de la CSEM, Joe Ortona, a écrit au député libéral fédéral de NDG-Westmount et ministre des Affaires étrangères, Marc Garneau, pour évoquer la possibilité que dans le cadre d’une future visite au Canada, la vice-présidente des États-Unis, Kamala Harris, puisse, si son itinéraire le lui permet, rendre visite à l'école secondaire Westmount où elle a obtenu son diplôme en 1981. « L’histoire de la vice-présidente Harris a inspiré, et continue d’inspirer, les jeunes du monde entier et les élèves de l’école secondaire Westmount ne font pas exception », a déclaré le président de la CSEM. Un article paru dans la Presse canadienne a été publié dans des journaux partout au pays.
CONFÉRENCE À L’INTENTION DES PARENTS: Le comité de parents de la CSEM a tenu une conférence virtuelle à l’intention des parents le 18 avril. Dr Earl Rubin, directeur de la Division des maladies infectieuses pédiatriques à l’Hôpital de Montréal pour enfants et invité d’honneur dans le cadre de cette conférence, a donné le coup d’envoi sous le thème « Résilience en temps de pandémie de COVID ». Il a abordé le volet scientifique, les défis et les répercussions de la COVID, ainsi que les enfants et la vaccination. La présentation fut suivie d’une période de questions auxquelles ont répondu les membres d’un panel formé du Dr Rubin, de la Dre Debbie Schwarcz et d’Aaron Derfel, journaliste spécialisé en santé du quotidien The Montreal Gazette. Tous trois sont parents d’élèves qui fréquentent des écoles de la CSEM. Vous pouvez visionner cet événement fort éclairant à : https://youtu.be/9V4N4GWh2fY.
La conférence a également porté sur des thèmes tels que : fixer des limites de temps d’écran avec ses enfants; accroître la résilience des enfants face aux défis de la vie; la littératie précoce et la préparation à la maternelle; les outils technologiques d’aide à l’écriture pour les élèves; la discrimination, l’inclusion et l’équité; les sorties éducatives de demain; la prévention de la discrimination liée au poids/à la taille; le vapotage – ce qu’il faut savoir; tenir un journal intime en guise d’outil d’autosoins; l’éducation critique aux médias; le jeu et le mouvement au primaire; l’activité physique et les élèves du secondaire; la bibliothèque virtuelle, l’étiquette à suivre sur Internet; la reconnaissance des acquis et des compétences (secteur de l’éducation des adultes et de la formation professionnelle), l’intégration de STIAM, et bien plus encore.
DES NOUVELLES DE LA CHORALE DE LA CSEM: En attendant impatiemment de pouvoir recommencer à répéter en personne, la chorale de la CSEM n’a pas ménagé les efforts tout au long de l’année pour entretenir les voix et apprendre un répertoire en prévision des futurs concerts. La chorale travaille aussi actuellement sur un projet d’enregistrement pour la fin de la saison, qui sera présenté lors de son banquet virtuel de remise des prix à la fin mai. Par ailleurs, une première séance d’audition pour la saison 2021-2022 aura lieu le mardi 11 mai, de 18 h à 20 h. À moins d’un changement radical, les auditions se tiendront en ligne. Veuillez contacter la chef d’orchestre Pat Abbott à pabbott@emsb.qc.ca pour prendre rendez-vous. La chorale de la CSEM accueille les élèves de la 4e année à la 5e secondaire doués pour la musique, qui souhaitent développer leurs compétences vocales et musicales et qui sont motivés à participer aux répétitions hebdomadaires. Il sera également possible d’auditionner au début de la prochaine année scolaire.
Rappelons qu’il reste encore des exemplaires du livre souvenir Recipes and Memories (Recettes et souvenirs) lancé à l’automne dernier à l’occasion du 40e anniversaire de la chorale. Ce livre renferme l’histoire et des souvenirs de la chorale, ainsi que de délicieuses recettes des membres de la chorale et leurs familles. Veuillez communiquer avec Pat Abbott (adresse ci-dessus) pour vous procurer votre exemplaire au coût de 20 $.
HOMMAGE AUX HÉROS LOCAUX: Alors que la pandémie de COVID-19 continue à dicter nos vies, trois écoles primaires de Saint-Léonard – soit Honoré Mercier, Pierre de Coubertin et Dante – unissent leurs efforts afin d’honorer le courage, l’altruisme et le dévouement de leurs héros locaux. Ainsi, le 4 mai prochain à 9 h 30, les travailleurs de la santé de cette localité se joindront aux pompiers de la caserne 21 et aux agents du SPVM du poste 42 dans le cadre d’un événement spécial qui se tiendra à l’école primaire Honoré Mercier (8280, rue Nantes). En plus de recevoir des récompenses spéciales, ces travailleurs de première ligne partageront avec les élèves des histoires touchantes qui ont marqué les 15 derniers mois. « La pandémie est devenue un moment déterminant dans la vie de nos élèves et nous avons pensé qu’il était important de mettre un visage sur certains de nos héros de la COVID-19 », a indiqué Sonia Marotta, directrice à l’école primaire Honoré Mercier. Nos travailleurs de première ligne ont traversé tellement d’épreuves au cours des 15 derniers mois. Nous croyons qu’il est très important que nos élèves aient non seulement la chance d’en apprendre plus sur leur réalité, mais qu’ils aient aussi l’occasion de les remercier d’assurer notre sécurité. »
ENSEIGNEMENT HYBRIDE AU SECONDAIRE: La CSEM n’a eu aucune difficulté à s’adapter aux récentes directives du gouvernement du Québec de revenir, dès le 12 avril, à la formule en alternance pour les élèves de 3e, 4e, et 5e secondaire. « C’est le modèle que nous avons mis en place pendant la plus grande partie de la présente année », a déclaré le président de la CSEM, Joe Ortona. « La semaine dernière, notre système a été soumis à d’énormes contraintes lorsqu’il fut annoncé que tous les élèves du secondaire devaient retourner à l’école en présentiel sur une base quotidienne. »
M. Ortona a souligné que la semaine précédente, la CSEM avait accepté que les élèves de 3e secondaire soient de retour en classe. Le mardi 6 avril, seize autres écoles secondaires du système avaient emboîté le pas. Toutefois, il avait été précisé que six écoles, qui dès la rentrée avaient privilégié le modèle hybride pour les élèves de 4e et 5e secondaire, maintiendraient cette formule jusqu’à la fin de l’année scolaire. « Nous demandons respectueusement au gouvernement du Québec de maintenir ce modèle en alternance jusqu’à la fin des classes », a imploré M. Ortona.
SEMAINE DE LA SANTÉ MENTALE : Cette année, la Semaine de la santé mentale à la CSEM se tiendra du 3 au 9 mai 2021 sous le thème COVID Time Capsule: Hope For The Future (Capsule COVID : De l’espoir face à l’avenir). Nous mettrons l’accent sur ce que nous avons appris sur nous-mêmes afin d’être mieux outillés.
GARDE-MANGER COMMUNAUTAIRE À WILLINGDON: Il est essentiel pour tous, en particulier pour les enfants en pleine croissance, de pouvoir manger à sa faim et d’avoir accès à des aliments sains. De nombreuses études ont démontré que la faim nuit à la concentration et à la capacité d’apprendre. En 2017-2018, un ménage sur huit au Canada était en situation d’insécurité alimentaire, soit 4,4 millions de personnes, dont plus de 1,2 million d’enfants. Parmi ces 4,4 millions d’habitants, seulement 1,1 million ont fait appel aux banques alimentaires cette même année. Dans le contexte sans précédent de l’an dernier, ce nombre a grimpé en flèche si bien que de nombreux ménages ont de la difficulté à mettre de la nourriture sur la table. Comment pouvons-nous leur venir en aide?
Le fonds de soutien aux familles de l’école primaire Willingdon a lancé l’initiative Community Pantry afin d’offrir des denrées alimentaires, des articles d’hygiène personnelle, et plus encore. Appuyé par les traditionnels Thoughtful Thursdays à Willingdon, ce programme offre un soutien d’urgence et continu aux familles. Le garde-manger, situé sur le campus senior, est géré par des bénévoles de l’association foyer-école et par les membres de la direction très dévoués. Grâce à un partenariat avec le Dépôt alimentaire et au généreux don d’un réfrigérateur, nous sommes en mesure de fournir des fruits et légumes frais, des muffins faits maison, des barres tendres ainsi que des produits laitiers! Un autre partenariat conclu avec le Centre communautaire Saint-Raymond permet aux familles de l’école de recevoir des cartes-cadeaux de supermarchés pour combler tout autre besoin.
CITOYENNETÉ NUMÉRIQUE : Une campagne de sensibilisation à la citoyenneté numérique est en cours à l’école Willingdon. Cette initiative qui, à la base, visait à éduquer et à protéger les élèves a pris la forme d’un véritable mouvement élargi. Les élèves de 6e année ont pris part à des ateliers éducatifs, alors que les parents et les membres du personnel ont été encouragés à en faire autant par l’entremise d’une programmation en ligne. Dans le but de mieux promouvoir cette initiative, l’équipe-école a également développé une nouvelle section sur le site Web de l’école réservée à la citoyenneté numérique. Ce nouvel onglet renferme des ressources et des outils pour mieux soutenir et protéger à la fois les parents et les élèves en général. En guise de suivi, les élèves senior créeront leurs propres ateliers qu’ils partageront ensuite avec tous les élèves de Willingdon. Quelle belle initiative qui contribue non seulement à guider les élèves mais aussi à les responsabiliser.
DES DONS POUR SAINT-VINCENT: Alena Hamlett, technicienne en informatique à la CSEM, a lancé une collecte pour les habitants de Saint-Vincent-et-les-Grenadines. L’éruption du volcan La Soufrière a entraîné l’évacuation de soixante pour cent de la population de l’île. Des dizaines de milliers de personnes ont dû être relocalisées dans des pays voisins dont Grenade, Barbade et Antigua-et-Barbuda. Les industries, l’agriculture et les transports ont tous été touchés. La communauté de Saint-Vincent à Montréal recueille des denrées non périssables qui seront acheminées vers les zones affectées. Une collecte de fonds a également été mise sur pied dans le but d’offrir une aide alimentaire. Alena accepte aussi les dons d’articles pour venir en aide aux sinistrés et aimerait organiser plusieurs points de chute dans les écoles afin de permettre aux gens d’y déposer des articles. Parmi les articles recherchés : masques et désinfectants pour les mains, sacs de riz, pois, légumineuses et macaronis, sacs de céréales, avoine, sucre, beurre d’arachides, conserves alimentaires, sacs de biscuits, barres tendres, barres fruitées, couches (adultes et enfants), lingettes, papier hygiénique, tampons et serviettes hygiéniques, pains de savon, débarbouillettes, Vaseline, dentifrice et brosses à dents, etc. Vous pouvez contacter Alena à ahamlett@emsb.qc.ca.
JOURNÉE DE L’EMPATHIE: L’école secondaire Lester B. Pearson de Montréal-Nord a récemment tenu sa Journée annuelle de l’empathie, organisée par le comité des élèves. L’objectif vise à cultiver la compassion et l’acceptation parmi les élèves. Au cours de la 1re période, chacun des élèves a trouvé une note autocollante positive sur son pupitre. Durant la 2e période, un panel d’élèves de leadership a animé une présentation à la grandeur de l’école sur l’empathie @livediff. À la 3e période, le comité des élèves a organisé des ateliers virtuels interactifs à l’intention des élèves de 4e secondaire, précédé d’un exposé de Joseph Monachino, animateur spirituel et communautaire. Et à la 4e période, certains membres du comité d’élèves ont pris part à un symposium du leadership féminin sur l’environnement organisé par The Study. L’idée était de faire en sorte que les élèves se sentent encore mieux accueillis à l’école Lester B. Pearson et qu’ils fassent preuve de gentillesse et de compassion les uns envers les autres. La bonté est contagieuse, mais la négativité l’est tout autant. Alors, affichez votre bienveillance #PearsonPride.
INAUGURATION À L’ÉCOLE L.I.N.K.S. : Le personnel et les élèves de l’école secondaire L.I.N.K.S. à Ahuntsic ne cessent d’innover et de réfléchir à de nouvelles façons de créer des espaces dynamiques au sein de notre établissement. L’approche collaborative avec les élèves a toujours été caractérisée par une perspective unique. Au terme de plusieurs consultations avec les élèves du Parcours de formation axée sur l’emploi (PFAE), le projet de salon étudiant a été approuvé. Cet espace allait devenir une salle polyvalente, divisée en petits espaces pour répondre à plusieurs besoins. Il allait aussi être utilisé pour fournir du soutien académique supplémentaire et pour la tenue d’activités de consolidation d’équipes. Ce qui est encore plus impressionnant, c’est que les élèves allaient se charger eux-mêmes de la construction. Mme Myriam Farley, coordonnatrice à la vie étudiante, a joué un rôle clé pour faciliter, soutenir et organiser l’ensemble du projet. « Les élèves ont tôt fait de réaliser qu’une rénovation majeure comporte plusieurs phases, notamment la conception, l’établissement du budget, l’achat, la construction, la peinture et, bien sûr, le nettoyage. Ils sont très fiers du résultat et ont déjà commencé à profiter des différents espaces dédiés à la musique et à la relaxation, aux jeux, aux arts et au multimédia, qui comprend un dispositif de réalité virtuelle ainsi qu’un coin détente confortable pour se retrouver entre camarades », de dire Mme Farley. Le coin détente a été baptisé en l’honneur d’une famille très spéciale qui fait désormais partie intégrante de la grande famille L.I.N.K.S. M. Ralph Delli Quadri et son épouse, Mme Claire Fortin, continuent de faire preuve d’une grande générosité en donnant de l’argent, des vêtements, de la nourriture et en livrant des paniers de Noël aux familles de nos élèves dans le besoin. Ils s’assurent régulièrement que les élèves ont tout ce dont ils ont besoin pour rester en sécurité et en bonne santé. Merci également à notre directrice, Mme Maria Caldarella, qui encourage et apprécie toujours nos idées et nos projets.
SERVICE DE L’ÉDUCATION DES ADULTES ET DE LA FORMATION PROFESSIONNELLE
ÉVÉNEMENT TRIMS FOR A CURE : Les Départements de coiffure et d’esthétique du Centre de formation professionnelle Laurier Macdonald ont fait équipe avec Rocco Speranza, animateur spirituel et communautaire, pour faire la promotion de la deuxième édition annuelle de l’événement Trims for a Cure au profit du programme d’oncologie pour adolescents et jeunes adultes de l’Hôpital général juif. Des élèves et des enseignants qualifiés ont participé à cette grande cause en offrant des coupes de cheveux, des mises en plis et des soins de manucure le 12 avril 2021. L’objectif était d’amasser 5 000 $.
PROJET DE MOSAÏQUE : Pendant tout un mois, Atelier Nayan a travaillé en étroite collaboration avec les élèves et le personnel de Galileo afin de réaliser une murale qui reflète la nature et la culture de l’école, le sens de la famille, le soutien nécessaire pour l’atteinte des objectifs, l’encadrement, les encouragements et le sens de la vie! Les artistes Nelson et Annie ont su être à l’écoute des besoins des élèves, les ont responsabilisés tout au long de ce processus, tout en adaptant leur approche aux besoins de chacun lors de la création en studio. Les élèves des services d’intégration sociale (SIS) et des services d’intégration socioprofessionnelle (SISP) ont été accueillis dans le studio où ils ont été initiés à la création d’une œuvre d’art publique participative! Diverses matières recyclées ont été utilisées pour la réalisation de cette murale.
Le prochain numéro de Pleins feux sur Fielding sera publié le 26 mai. Prière de soumettre vos articles au plus tard le 20 mai à midi, à mcohen@emsb.qc.ca.
The next edition of the Focus will be on May 26. Deadlines for submissions is May 20 at Noon to mcohen@emsb.qc.ca
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