HIGHEST SUCCESS RATE: The EMSB now boasts the highest Success Rate in Graduation and Qualification among public school boards in the province of Quebec, based on a seven year cohort at 91.6 percent. These figures were released by the Ministère de l’éducation. While the majority of students graduated after five years, the Ministry allows each cohort to be followed for an additional two years, to ensure that students have every opportunity to graduate or obtain a first qualification. The province-wide Success Rate, which includes both public and private school results, has also increased from 81.8 percent in 2020 to 82.1 percent in 2021. Since the EMSB’s six -year rate is already at 91 percent, the board is poised to surpass this year’s rate, restoring its success to pre-pandemic results. EMSB Director General Nick Katalifos notes that these results are particularly favourable considering that this cohort was affected by the pandemic. Director of Education Services Anna Sanalitro added how it is comforting to know that students have continued to experience academic success as we emerge from these trying times. EMSB Chair Joe Ortona applauded the work of educators who have never had to contend with the kind of challenges that the pandemic brought on. Please see the full press release.
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| The Prime Minister presents Ms. Bernstein with her award. |
TOP TEACHER: Gail Bernstein, a teacher at L.I.N.K.S High School in Ahuntsic, is the only Quebecer to be recognized with the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence. The Prime Minister's National Awards for Teaching Excellence have recognized exceptional elementary and secondary school teachers in all disciplines since 1994, with over 1,700 teachers honoured to date. Teaching Excellence Awards recipients are honoured for their remarkable achievements in education and for their commitment to preparing their students for a digital and innovation-based economy. Ms. Bernstein was nominated by Principal Maria Caldarella for her work and success in integrating students with special needs in the learning process and the community. Ms. Bernstein’s entire teaching career of 35 plus years has been in the field of special education. Ms. Bernstein was in Ottawa October 3 to 6 for a special program for all recipients of the Prime Minister’s Awards For Teaching Excellence. This included a reception with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Ms. Caldarella and Guidance Counsellor Shannen Ciricillo were also be in the nation’s capital for the awards dinner.
See this report on CTV Montreal.
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| A look at the virtual panel. |
ELECTION ACTIVITY: During the provincial election, the EMSB engaged with candidates to bring forward important issues related to public education. As a pedagogical exercise, the EMSB organize a bilingual virtual information session on September 20 that was streamed live into classrooms across the school board. Representatives from each political party were invited to participate. EMSB Chair Joe Ortona and Director General Nick Katalifos gave opening remarks. Mr. Ortona moderated with Lester B. Pearson High School Secondary IV student Liana Wallace from the English Montreal Student Advisory Council (EMSAC). You can watch he broadcast at https://www.youtube.com/c/EnglishMTL/. The participants were: Jennifer Maccarone, incumbent Liberal candidate for Westmount St. Louis; Myrtis Fossey from the Canadian Party of Quebec and a candidate in St. Laurent; Andrea Di Stefano from the Bloc Montreal Party, candidate in Maurice Richard; Chakib Saad of the Conservative Party of Quebec and candidate for Jeanne-Mance/Viger , Jamie D'Souza of the Green Party, candidate in Rosemount and the candidate in D’Arcy McGee; and Sabrina Mercier-Ullhorn,from the Parti Québecois and the candidate for Mercier.
MEETINGS WITH CANDIDATES: Mr. Ortona and members of Council took part in a unprecedented number of meetings with candidates prior to the election, most of them virtually: Bonnie Feigenbaum (D'Arcy McGee), Conservative Party of Quebec; Katya Rossokhata (Westmount-Saint Louis), Conservative Party of Quebec; David Touchette (Westmount-Saint Louis), Québec Solidare; Elisabeth Labelle (Notre-Dame-de-Grâce), Québec Solidare; Chantal Gagnon (Anjou-Louis Riel), Liberal; Vincent Marissal (Rosemont), Québec Solidare; Andrés Fontecilla (Laurier-Dorion), Québec Solidare; Louise Poudrier (Hochelaga-Maisonneuve), Conservative Party of Quebec; Colin Standish (Westmount-Saint Louis), Canadian Party of Quebec; Balarama Holness, Bloc Montreal; Alex Tyrrell, Green Party; Madwa-Nika Cadet (Bourassa-Sauve), Liberal; Filomena Rotiroti, Liberal (Jeanne Mance-Viger) ; Jennifer Maccarone, Liberal (Westmount-St. Louis). The governing CAQ did not make any candidates available while the PQ did have someone participate in the Town Hall.
Mr. Ortona released publicly a list of questions the EMSB asked candidates. You can see them here.
Mr. Ortona had this opinion piece published in The Montreal Gazette.
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| LINKS students vote. |
LINKS VOTING: Prior to the election The WOTP students at LINKS High School familiarized themselves with the different parties, candidates and their platforms. Teachers Anna Gualtieri and Lauren Costello share, “Our students have been researching what each party stands for and how their needs will be met. As students who are neurodiverse, they are looking for a real investment in special education, social services, suitable jobs, community access and of course, health care. Their requirements are very particular and understanding the challenges they and their families face is of utmost importance.” The students are studying the topic of politics and the importance of voting through the materials sent by Éléctions Québec. They have set up mock polling stations so the entire student body can participate in the exercise. The teachers add, “Our students are proud to mentor the younger future voters. They will practice their work skills by taking on various jobs such a door greeter, verifying IDs and security. This will make the experience as authentic as possible.” The votes are counted and sent to Éléctions Québec to be added with other participating high schools.
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| Balarama Holness answers questions. |
EDINBURGH VOTES: Throughout the month of September, students in Grades 5 and 6 at Edinburgh Elementary School in Montreal West have been preparing for an election simulation where they have had the opportunity to hear from and ask questions to candidates running in the area from the PLQ (Desiree McGraw), PCQ (Bonnie Feigenbaum) and Bloc Montreal (Balarama Holness). As part of the program, the teachers have been able to introduce to raise awareness about the importance of voting and civic engagement using activities aligned with the Quebec Education Program.
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| A scene from the 2019 Education and Career Fair. |
EDUCATION AND CAREER FAIR: More than 2,000 Secondary V students will attend the 22nd annual English Montreal School Board Career Fair on Wednesday, October 19 and Thursday, October 20 at St. Pius X Career Centre in Ahuntsic (9955 Papineau). Jack Dym of Pipe and Piling Supplies Ltd is the event’s title sponsor. Several on air personalities from the media will be on hand to talk to students about careers in this field and serve as guest emcees. This will mark the first in-person Education and Career Fair since 2019. The previous two editions were presented virtually. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on October 19, the Education and Career Fair will be open to the community-at-large. Organizers note that this is a good opportunity for parents to attend with their children (Grades 10 and 11) as they look towards post-secondary education options in a one-stop shopping experience. There is no charge and free parking. Mario Argiropoulos from EMSB Adult Education and Vocational Services is the Education and Career Fair chair. The Student Services and AEVS Departments of the EMSB coordinate this program. The main objective is to provide students with an in-depth exposure to the various educational opportunities available to them. All students will take part in a brief general information session in the St. Pius X Career Centre auditorium. Students will then have the chance to visit the various exhibition/information booths staffed by representatives from English vocational training centres, adult education centres, CEGEPS, universities and private colleges.
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| Jessika Neri (top row third from left) is congratulated for her prize. |
HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER WINS WRESTLING HONOUR: Last May Jessika Neri, a popular teacher at Rosemount High School, went public with her alter-ego of female professional wrestler Jessika Black. Ms. Neri had always kept her wrestling career completely separate from her job as a teacher. However, taking a page from her mentor Jacques Rougeau she decided to use her past time as a vehicle to address bullying. Ms. Neri teaches English and History to Secondary III, IV and V students. She has been an EMSB high school teacher for 14 years, the last nine at Rosemount.. As for professional wrestling, she has been in the ring for more than eight years. Recently Ms. Neri was crowned one of four winners of Rougeau’s Wrestling Academy. She received a $5,000 prize and a three month all expenses paid stay at Q.T. Marshall’s Nightmare Factory in Atlanta, one of the best pro wrestling training facilities in the world. Ms. Neri (Jessika Black) will be wrestling in Toronto for All Elite Wrestling’s (AEW) début in Canada October 11 and 12 before 10,000 fans. A Jessika Black wrestling figure will also be produced. Ms. Neri will be formally presented with her prize on September 20 outside of Rosemount High School with staff and students present, as well as Mr. Rougeau.
See the Montreal Gazette Story.
Listen to Radio Canada interview with host Patrick Masbourian
Listen to CBC’s Cross Canada Checkup
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| Students take part in the workshop. |
PEACE WORKSHOP: The International Forum on Peace, Security and Prosperity (IFPSP), a not-for-profit corporation with the mission of educating future generations by promoting world peace, held a workshop at Rosemount High School on September 21 - the United Nations (UN) International Day of Peace.Entitled “End Racism. Build Peace.” the workshop aimed to increase awareness of UN Peace initiatives, explore misinformation and the promotion of racism, and advance resilience among students. Structured as two 60-minute sessions, the workshop presented models for critical thinking and consensus-building, include discussion and conclude with an action plan. The workshop wase facilitated by Ryan McHugh, a 28-year-old volunteer who has worked with the IFPSP since its foundation. “We are grateful to Rosemount High School for their support,” stated Steve Gregory, Founder, IFPSP. “We hope to roll-out similar workshops across the province, country and beyond.”
You can read the full press release here.
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| Volunteers ready for action. |
HELPING IN THE COMMUNITY: Rosemount High School and Perspectives I & II High Schools will officially launch a community action program entitled, “Don’t just stand there. Volunteer!” The program will be led by Spiritual and Community Animator Vince Lacroce. The goal of this community action program is to invite students to be active citizens in their communities, first by learning more about the needs of the community and then by taking action to address community needs through volunteering. Over 100 students have already enrolled in this program which is expected to extend to local senior centres and a multitude of different homeless shelters and soup kitchens across the island of Montreal. The first stop on this program will be at Chez Doris. On October 3rd, Secondary 3 and 4 students from Rosemount High School alongside Spiritual and Community Animator Vince Lacroce helped create a Thanksgiving luncheon for the members of Chez Doris.
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| Jacques Rougeau joins students and staff at Royal Vale. |
TERRY FOX RUNS: Students and staff from the EMSB, and the former Protestant School Board of Greater Montreal, have now raised a total $ 2, 296,152 for The Terry Fox Foundation since 1981. A number of schools have held their events this year. At Royal Vale in NDG, more than $7,000 has been raised under the steady leadership of Physical Education and Health teacher Norman Katz. Jacques Rougeau was a special guest. Besides sharing his championship wrestling belts with students, he spoke about how he lost his life to cancer and the importance of raising money for this special cause. The official sponsor of the even was BioSteel (https://biosteel.com), the official hydration partner of the NHL. Here is the general website for the Terry Fox Foundation.
COMMEMORATIVE INDIGENOUS DAY: Rosemount High School and Nesbitt Elementary, will be part of an exciting collaboration with The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke – Kahnawake called “The Way Forward.” The event will take place on Wednesday, October 19 from 9:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Rosemount High School. The of honour will be Grand Chief Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer, Mohawk Community. Grand Chief Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer became the first woman and first person who identifies as LGBTQ to be elected to the post, replacing former Grand Chief Joe Norton, who died last year. This will be her first-ever visit to the EMSB and she will be accompanied by some members of her community. Chief Harry Rice, responsible for Education Heritage and Community Social Affairs, will also be present. There will be a special performance from the Rosemount High School's Symphonic Winds and Caroline Derome and the Nesbitt Elementary’s School Choir. The latter will perform their winning performance of 'Strawberry Moon (Ode'min Giizis) from CBC ’s Indigenous Languages category contest. Spiritual Community Animator Vince Lacroce is behind this project.
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| Sabrina Mancuso, her students and the car. |
VMC ON WHEELS: At their Open House on September 15, Vincent Massey Collegiate in Rosemount showcased its functional Carbon Free car, the Widowmaker. It is the result of five years of hard work via the Engineering Club and Project Eco Powertrain overseen by teacher Sabrina Mancuso. “What a tremendous accomplishment,” said EMSB Consultant for Secondary Science Consultant Imma Ianero. “The student work here is indeed phenomenal but the dedication and support of VMC teachers, administrators and staff who made this five-year long project a reality is truly commendable. You can see more photos here.
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| Mario Pietrangelo and his daughter. |
A PROUD COMMISSIONER: EMSB Commissioner Mario Pietrangelo had a proud moment last week when he presented his daughter Vanessa Maria with her diploma at the VMC graduation ceremony.
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| Students are recognized for their art projects. |
CARLYLE WINNERS: Congratulations to Nicholas Batchoun, Lucas Ferst and Anthony Minitsios, Grade 6 students at Caryle International School in TMR whose art projects won prizes at this summer’s Festival Imagine in the Laurentians. Their artwork was entered into the festival’s Neurodiverse Student Artwork contest.
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| Alessandro Biello |
BIELLO MAKES AN IMPACT: There is some exciting news to announce from the Sport-études program at Lester B. Pearson High School. Alessandro Biello, a Pearson Sport-études student and member of the CF Montreal Academy, has been selected to the Canadian Men’s U-17 Best-with-Best Training Camp having been held Oct. 2 to 7. The final squad selected will be representing Canada at the FIFA Men’s Under 17 2023 Championship and World Cup Qualifiers that takes place in Guatemala February 11 to 23, 2023. The FIFA Under-17 World Cup will be hosted by Peru in October 2023. Alessandro is the son of former Montreal Impact player and coach Mauro Biello, presently the assistant coach of the national soccer team.
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| It was all smiles as the school received this generous donation. |
ALOUETTES VISIT: Montreal Alouettes players Chandler Worthy and Jake Wieneke visited James Lyng High School in St. Henri on Tuesday, October 4 and shared inspirational messages with students about physical and mental health. Wieneke, who has a degree in physical education, said it is important to surround yourself with good people and persevere. Worthy added that in the face of adversity, “believe in yourself.” His dream post football is to own his own television station. Jenna Chivers and Celeste Blackmore from Storage Vault Canada, which owns companies such as Depodium Mini Entrepot, presented a cheque of $1,500 for the school. Principal Giovanni Iammarone, Vice Principal Andrea Dillon and physical education teacher Mark Pfleeger accepted the donaton. It will be used to purchase new equipment to benefit students.
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| A night at the opera. |
ROYAL WEST AT THE OPERA: Royal West Academy French teacher Caroline Benamron and EMSB French Consultant Marlene Boudreault brought a group of student to the opera. "First of all, let me say that I am an opera fanatic," explains Ms. Beanamrom. "In the 16 years I've been on the school board, I've always taken the students there. Our youth need to be exposed to all genres of music. If we as educators don't expose them to it, they will probably never know what an opera is. This is a unique opportunity for our youth to see masterpieces. The first Opera of the season was very early in September. I had a very short week to organize, prepare the students, and promote this event. The response from the students was overwhelming. I had over 60 Secondaryu IV and V 5 students sign up. Unfortunately, I had ordered 20 tickets, so I couldn't get everyone there. We saw Il Trovatore at Place des Arts. It was a wonderful experience for all the kids. Everyone loved the story, the flamboyant costumes and especially the beautiful voices. I think they wanted to come to know what an opera is, out of curiosity. I gave them a summary of the story before we went and they were all very interested. This season we will be going to see three more operas including the masterpiece Madame Butterfly. Seeing the enthusiasm of the RWA students, it is obvious that I will be ordering many more tickets for future performances."
EMMA HONOURED: Chairman Joe Ortona, Assistant Director Generals Pela Nickoletopoulos & Jack H. Chadirdjian, along with Regional Director Demetrios Giannacopoulos and Principal Rosana Caplan had the honour of presenting Emma Ryann Corbett, a Grade 4 student from Merton School with her certificate as EMSB Student of the Month for September. While Emma suffers from respiratory issues caused by her congenital scoliosis, this did not prevent her from raising over $30,000 dollars for the Shriners Hospital and in turn, helping countless children in their time of need!
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| John Caboto staff work on a project. |
In the two and a half-hour workshop, daycare staff learned about different emotional regulation models, including the Zones of Regulation and RULER. After Jacqueline’s presentation, the daycare staff participated in two hands-on activities led by B.A.S.E. Project Development Officer, Jennifer De Freitas. In the first activity—ZONES VISUAL—the daycare teams had to create a fun and engaging visual to inform the students about different emotions and which colour zone (Blue, Green, Yellow, Red) they fall into. The daycare staff got really excited and competitive during the second activity—ZONES BINGO. After 10 rounds of emotion pictograms being shown on screen, 26 daycares claimed “BINGO!” The challenge didn’t end there—the daycare staff then had to identify which emotion the four pictograms were depicting and which zones the emotions belonged to. There were five winning daycares: Dante, Dunrae Gardens, Gardenview, Hampstead and Michelangleo International. Each daycare received an Amazon gift card. There were other winners throughout the workshop—including the first person to answer which zone they were in and the first two daycares to show their Zones visual.
OPEN HOUSES: Both elementary and high schools across the English Montreal School Board continue to hold in-person Open Houses this fall. This marks the first time since 2019 that parents and students have been allowed to tour schools in-person. Furthermore, in addition to in-person visits, some schools will continue to hold virtual sessions to ensure that all prospective parents and students have the opportunity to learn about each school and have their questions answered. For a full list of EMSB Open Houses, please visit: www.emsbopenhouses.com.
HIGH SCHOOL GUIDE: Have you seen our high school guide? Please take a look at it here. It includes profiles on our mainstream high schools and open house dates.
HOLOCAUST EDUCATION PROJECT: The EMSB Holocaust Education Program, made possible thanks to support from the Jewish Community Foundation of Montreal’s Nova Grants, is well underway for the 2022-23 academic year.
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| Eliane Goldstein, Mark Bergman, Kathy Assayag from the JCF and some Nesbitt students at the Museum. |
On September 19, the first of many visits by schools to the Montreal Holocaust Museum took place, with 39 Grade 5 students from Nesbitt Elementary School in Rosemount receiving guided tours, followed by a pedagogical workshop. They were joined by teachers Ellen Riggerbach and Nicolas Murray and Spiritual Community Animator Vince Lacroce. Later in the month, Grade 5 students at Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School in St. Leonard visited.
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| Pierre de Coubertin students touch an artifact. |
The students were able to ask questions, see the extraordinary exhibit and hear from a Holocaust survivor virtually. You can see here what the tours consist of: https://museeholocauste.ca/en/guided-tour-testimony/#GuidedTour
Kathy Assayag, President and CEO of the JCF Montreal, joined the students for the beginning of a lecture as did Mark Bergman and Eliane Goldstein, who are the co-hosts of a special podcast related to this project.
Go to www.HolocaustEducationMtl.ca for more details about the project.
Listen to our latest podcast, hosted by Mark Bergman and Eliane Goldstein
SENSITIZATION: Students from Perspectives I & II High Schools and Rosemount High School will also visit. They, along with Nesbitt and Pierre de Coubertin, are involved in an incredible sensitization program about the Holocaust and Jewish tradition. The program is being coordinated by Mr. Lacroce. The goal of this cross-curricular project is to bridge the gap between cultures and people and to address the rise of religious intolerance in the world and the importance of spreading world peace and promoting acceptance and understanding. The program will include multiple visits to the Montreal Holocaust Museum, testimonials from Holocaust survivors, and visits to sacred spaces. Over 250 students will take part in the program.
Truth and Reconciliation Marked at EMSB
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| Students lock hands. |
A MATTER OF UNDERSTANDING: Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It honours the children who never returned home, the survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. In order to learn, connect, understand, and heal, students and staff from East Hill School, LINKS, Edward Murphy, Sinclair Laird and St. Raphael each received interactive educational presentations from their Spiritual and Community Animator, Rocco Speranza and honored guest, Kawisente (Ms. Carol) from Kahnawake that addressed the topic of Truth and Reconciliation for Orange Shirt Day. Kawisente shared her experience in residential school (Day School) in addition to sharing about Indigenous culture, history, traditional songs, and games with students.
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| Part of the show and tell at Dunrae Gardens. |
WORKSHOPS AND ASSEMBLIES: During the month of September, Dunrae Gardens and Mackay Centre/Philip Layton received class visits, workshops and assemblies on Indigenous history and culture leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Dunrae Gardens hosted past chief and elder of Kahnawake, Kawisente brought a wide array of sacred items to display for a “show and feel” for the students, and taught students a fun rabbit dance. She returned to the school as a guest of honor for their Truth and Reconciliation assembly. At the assembly, over 300 students wore their orange shirts, and two students prepared and shared their reflections about the experiences of Indigenous students and the impacts on Indigenous families and communities of the Residential Schools. Spiritual and Community Animator, Puynung Choy noted that during the presentation, “Kawisente nearly teared up. She said she was touched by the experience - an acknowledgement dedicated to Indigenous families.” In addition, Dunrae students, led by the school's family association, raised funds to be donated to Native Montreal. MacKay Centre and Philip Layton also welcomed Kawisente, and who set up her display for a “show and feel” sensory experience for students. This was followed by a performance from multidisciplinary and two-time award-winning artist, Moe Clarke, who mesmerized students and staff with her looping tunnel performance, by singing in many layers alternating with a spoken word performance about peace and animating a fun First Nations mini-language lesson! Moe’s performance, complimented by four student performances, highlighted the importance of peace and the value in the union of families. “There was a consensus in the crowd - that grievances are real, and that apologizing is only one of many steps, in the path of peace" said Ms. Choy.
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| A display of cultural items. |
CYCLE ASSEMBLIES: For Coronation's recognition of National Truth and Reconciliation Day, they had three cycle assemblies in an engaging in a show and tell format, with elder and past chief of Kahnawake, and a former actress in Canadian and American films, Kawisente who set up an impressive display of sacred cultural items. This left the students in awe. They were in disbelief that every item was real and natural. Students were moved and wowed by listening to the cultural wisdom that Kawisente shared and learning the fun rabbit dance; they were really struck by the deep connections to the natural and animal world in the stories that she shared. Ms. Choy noted, "they were hypnotized in amazement that the turtle shell and animal skin was real. This experience will ultimately mark a memory for their school year."
CULTURE AND LITERATURE: Spiritual and Community Animator Veronica D’Agata, visited elementary classes at John Caboto Academy, Michelangelo International, and Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary to discuss the theme of “Indigenous Culture and Literature,” in connection with Orange Shirt Day. The presentation focused primarily on learning about Indigenous peoples and some of their cultural traditions (Regalia, Powwow, etc), as well as how these traditions were forcibly removed from their identity through residential schooling. In addition, a beautiful Haida storybook was read to the older students with a message of how each and every one of us are unique and special. At Vincent Massey Collegiate, a weekly trivia quiz (Kahoot) created by Ms. D’Agata, was given throughout the month of September, to test each homeroom on their knowledge of Indigenous culture as well as on the theme and process of reconciliation. A video and moment of reflection was given about Orange Shirt Day, as students try to understand the intergenerational trauma that the residential school system left behind. In addition to wearing orange shirts, each student was given a custom made “Every Child Matters” sticker and bracelet to help commemorate the day. We, Canadians, cannot erase what happened in the past, but we can honor the survivors and foster reconciliation and healing on the foundation of truth telling.
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| John Grant students. |
JOHN GRANT’S EXPERIENCE: The students at John Grant High School in Côte Saint-Luc learned the truth about residential schools through the reading of The Orange Shirt Story by Phyllis Webstad and came together to create a school-wide art project to display at their assembly for Truth and Reconciliation on September 26 At the end of the assembly, every student made a personal commitment to action and funds were raised on Friday, September 30 for Water First - one of the top charitable organizations in Canada addressing water challenges in Indigenous communities through education, training and meaningful collaboration.
BURPEE CHALLENGE: Options High School in Ville Émard did an Orange Shirt Day Burpee Challenge. The Burpee, a squat thrust with an additional stand between repetitions, is a full body exercise used in strength training. Teacher Jason Gannon headed this initiative. See the video.
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| Students take part in their Peace Walk. |
BOOK DISPLAYS AND MORE: Royal West Academy students have been engaging with the theme of Truth and Reconciliation in a variety of ways with their teachers and Spiritual and Community Animator, Jag Trehin. Activities included book displays, Indigenous fun facts in the daily bulletin, mindful moments, and lastly student-made orange t-shirts with messages of hope, peace, and reconciliation. A big thank you to our ELA teachers who delved into the topic further with their students exploring a variety of texts, articles, films, and thought-provoking discussions. The school foyer is now lined with bright orange t-shirts with messages expressing our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. On September 30 numerous staff, students, and admin also participated in an Orange Shirt Day Peace Walk, a solemn walk around our school community, in an effort to raise awareness and offer positive thoughts of peace, comfort and love for all.
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| A display at Edinburgh. |
INDIGENOUS TRADITIONS: In preparation for National Truth and Reconciliation Week and Orange Shirt Day, students at Edinburgh Elementary explored Indigenous traditions with Ms. Trehin. Cycle 1 and 2 students researched Indigenous authors and engaged in discussion around storybooks such as When I was Eight, Stolen Words, and My Heart Fills with Happiness. Cycle 2 students received presentations highlighting Indigenous customs related to dance, while Cycle 3 learned about the beginnings of Orange Shirt Day with the story of its founder Phyllis Webstad. Grade 6 students were involved in discussions about their commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, and now bright orange t-shirts made by students line the school foyer as a reminder of this commitment. Ms. Trehin has been leading mindful meditations for all classes with a focus on land recognition with an appreciation for and connection with nature.
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| At the McCord Museum. |
SPECIAL EXHIBIT: On September 26 Focus High School Grade 7 students visited the McCord Steward Museum and received a guided tour of the Indigenous Voices of Today: Knowledge, Trauma, Resilience, exhibition. Students started the Truth and Reconciliation theme the week prior to their visit, with their Spiritual and Community Animator, Ibrahim Abou Arab. Students were able to see many objects, each connected to an aspect of Indigenous history, including a cradleboard from the Kanien’kehá:ka Nation, an Anishinaabe bandolier bag, and snowshoes from the Eeyou First Nation. Students also attended the Tell me a Legend: Learn, Create and Share a Living Story workshop at the museum, which was developed in collaboration with Innu storytellers. Our takeaway message and commitment is to continue to learn about Indigenous cultures throughout the entire year and not only during the week of Truth and Reconciliation.
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| MIND and Bancroft come together. |
MIND AND BANCROFT CELEBRATE TOGETHER: When like "minds" come together incredible things can happen. On Friday September 23, MIND High School celebrated First Nations, Inuit and Metis Culture at the 21st Annual McGill Pow Wow. It was a spectacular day filled with fun, learning and culture. To follow up MIND and Bancroft came together to tie Ribbons for Reconciliation. The high school and elementary school joined forces to tie ribbons at the school, each representing an action they will take towards healing relationships.
A LEARNING EXPERIENCE: Under the guidance of the administration team at Nesbitt Elementary, students participated in a Truth and Reconciliation sensitization program conducted by Spiritual and Community Animator Vince Lacroce. Students learned about Indigenous communities and how over 150,000 children were taken away from their families to endure abuse and neglect in residential schools. On September 30, to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, students of Nesbitt Elementary were encouraged to wear an orange shirt or accessory and walked around the school in silence. The walk provided an opportunity to reflect on the intergenerational trauma and legacy of the residential school system that continues to impact Indigenous families and communities today, and to bring students together in the spirit of reconciliation. The school flew its flags at half-mast until the end of the day to mourn the discovery of over 1,500 unmarked graves across Canada. A special thank you to Phys Ed teachers Alexander Seiya Do Rio and Antonio Farinaccio and Sandra Lanni, Head Teacher at Nesbitt Elementary.
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| Royal Vale students make a pledge. |
ROYAL VALE REMEMBERS: During this year’s Truth and Reconciliation Week at Royal Vale School in NDG, staff members and students came together to sign the following pledge: “The Royal Vale community, in solidarity with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, agrees that Canadians schools should integrate Indigenous culture and the history of Residential Schools into classroom learning. We are committed to achieving this goal because every child matters.” The pledge was posted in both French and English in the main lobby of the school. The RVS community also welcomed guest speaker Manon Tremblay, Senior Director, Indigenous Directions at Concordia University to discuss the importance of truth and reconciliation. An “ Every Child Matters” flag was hoisted on the school grounds; the community was encouraged to wear an orange t-shirt and teachers incorporated elements of indigenous culture in their curriculum whether by exploring an indigenous artist's artwork or by reading stories by indigenous authors.
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| Peter McKelvie and Francine Cousineau. |
DONATION OF MATERIALS: Last week the EMSB Marketing and Communications Department got a call from Francine Cousineau, an NDG resident who owned a company called Dessie Inc. that was sold in 2001. They carried lines of graphic and fine arts material at a downtown store. While cleaning her garage she came across 40 boxes of material. Peter McKelvie, the Principal of St. Monica Elementary School around the corner from her house, went and picked up the boxes In addition to his school, he will share the items with other schools.
The items included: 290 small compass dividers; 150 compasses; 575 giant bow pencil compasses; 265 giant bow compasses; 700 sets of three small mini-French curves; and 550 Geo-tech Triangular scale engineer imperials.
QPAT: Those who attend the Quebec Provincial Association of Teachers (QPAT) convention at Hotel Bonaventure October 13 and 14 are invited to come visit EMSB Information table number 4.
ESSAY CONTEST: Students are being invited to take part in the Second National Essay Contest by Korean Spirit and Culture Promotion Project (“KSCPP”), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in the U.S. This year, the essay will be on the subject of King Sejong the Great, who invented the Korean alphabet and demonstrated the highest ideals of leadership during his reign. Sejong’s example of leadership in the 15th century offers many lessons for today. It also provides an important reference point for young people as they navigate the challenges of the 21st century. The contest is open to all students from Grade 6 upwards, and they will hold two separate competitions for students in Grades 6 to 8, and Grades to 12 respectively. Prizes for winners will be awarded as an e-gift card (1st prize: $500), and the winning essays will be published on their website at www.kscpp.net.
ADULT EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL SERVICES
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| Commissioners Agostino Cannavino (Vice-Chair), Mario Pieterangelo, Mario Bentrovato, Chair Joe Ortona and Director General Nick Katalifos. |
LMAC CAREER CENTRE OPEN HOUSE: Laurier Macdonald Career Centre held an Open House and barbeque at their Des Grandes Prairies Campus on Friday September 23. Both old-fashioned and newer car models, offered by teachers, industry partners and local collectors, were on display around the school grounds. One of the cars opened up into a barbecue, offering guests sausage sandwiches and pizza free of charge. Prior to enjoying the cars, all visitors were invited inside to tour the spacious des Grand-Prairies campus, which is home to the vocational centre’s Automobile Mechanics, Welding & Fitting, and Mechanics of Electric Vehicles programs. Representatives from the school’s Aesthetics, Hair Removal and Hairdressing programs, offered out of the Centre’s Jean Talon campus, were also on hand.
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| Visitors learn more about the classes taught. |
Dino Buontempo, an automechanics teacher at Laurier Macdonald Career Centre in St. Leonard, joined Elias Makos on CJAD Radio to talk about the school, its open house/car show set and how much in demand his students are in the industry. Listen here: https://soundcloud.com/englishmtl/cjad-segment-on-lmac-career-centre-open-house-car-show
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| EMSB officials join LMAC personnel and students at the event. |
“We pride ourselves as a leader in the Automotive, Welding and Beauty industry thanks, in large part, by our team of dedicated and experienced faculty of industry specialists,” said Principal Anna Maria Borsellino. “All of our programs lead to a Diploma of Vocational Studies or Attestation of Vocational Specialization issued by the Quebec Ministry of Education. We are committed to providing relevant, cutting-edge courses and programs and ensuring a hands-on, accessible, and supporting environment for all of our students.”
COMEDY BENEFIT: The Galileo Adult Education Centre and Friends4Cause are organizing a comedy night with host Franco Taddeo and comedians Pino Pirillo and Frank Spadone to raise funds for Autism Awareness. Guests will get to unwind, laugh and contribute to a great fundraising cause, all at the same time. It will take place on Sat. Oct. 22 (8 pm) at the Laurier Macdonald High School Auditorium (7355, blvd. Viau) in Saint Leonard. Tickets are $35. Contact Vito (514) 777-7570 or www.friends4cause.com.
BOWLING BENEFIT: “Friends 4 Cause” is once again organizing a fun evening of bowling on Saturday, November 12 ( 7 pm) at 3115 Boul. L’Assomption to raise funds for both Galileo Adult Centre and The Lighthouse. To date, F4C has donated $25,000 towards Galileo’s floor kitchen renovation, in which all students will have access to. Due to the high cost in construction , more funds are needed for the renovation. There will also be a raffle taking place with many prizes to be won, and all players will receive a lunch box (tomato pizza, sandwiches and dessert) . The cost is $30 per person ($15 for kids under 12 years old).
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| A big welcome for the ping-pong table. |
PING-PONG TABLE SURPRISE: Galileo Adult Centre’s special needs students were gifted a new ping-pong table by Canadian Tire Rivière-des-Prairies. Alain Bazinet, Philippe Bazinet and Stéphane Diamond from Canadian Tire not only delivered the table, but assembled it for the Centre. Students were invited into the gymnasium for the surprise reveal. Guesses were made as to what the surprise could be, and roars of excitement and cheer could be heard down to the end of the hallway once the ping pong table was revealed. The Canadian Tire representatives were surprised that the entire student body was there for the reveal and were moved as the cheering roared on. Students inaugurated the table with its first friendly match against no other than Philippe Bazinet, Director General of the Canadian Tire location,
NEW PODCAST: The John F. Kennedy Adult Education Centre has introduced its own podcast called JFKonversations. Host Dwight Walton, a student supervisor at the school and a commentator at TSN 690, serves as the host. His first guest was Simon Chausse, a professional tutor at the school and a trained opera singer. The theme of the episode was “Making Community Connections.” Said Princi^^a; Elizabeth Lagodich : “This initiative is truly a community-driven project. Making Community Connection is critical to the success of our students . Our centers are filled with unsung heroes that deserve recognition for their contribution to the school community. Here is the link to the first podcast.
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| Principal Ann Marie Matheson and her team at HSM. |
HSM AND TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION: Basic English and French students at HSM Adult Education Centre wore orange to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. “Our teachers explained the history and reason for this national day to their students who come from many different countries, backgrounds, cultures and religions,” said Principal Ann Marie Matheson. “Students learned both vocabulary and history and as new immigrants, our students joined the larger Canadian society ‘to listen’ - but mostly, to help reconcile. Our students were very both pleased and proud to take part in Orange Shirt Day.
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| Teacher Louise Panet-Raymond and her students enjoyed the game. |
EMSB EXPRESS WINNERS SEE ALS PLAY: Wagar Adult Education Centre students Branden Lee, Jared Horovitch and Enrico Ali won free tickets via an EMSB Express Newspaper contest to see the Montreal Alouettes host the Ottawa Red Blacks on October 10 at McGill Stadium. Teacher Louise Panet-Raymond accompanied them to the game.
ÉDITION DU MOIS D’OCTOBRE 2022 / BULLETIN DE LA CSEM
MEILLEUR TAUX DE RÉUSSITE: La CSEM affiche le taux de diplomation et de qualification le plus élevé, soit 91,6 %, parmi les commissions scolaires publiques de la province de Québec, basé sur une cohorte de sept ans, comme en témoignent les données publiées par le ministère de l’Éducation. Bien que la majorité des élèves aient obtenu leur diplôme au bout de cinq ans, le Ministère autorise le suivi de chaque cohorte pendant deux années supplémentaires afin de s’assurer que les élèves ont toutes les chances d'obtenir un diplôme ou une première qualification. Le taux de réussite à l'échelle de la province, qui tient compte à la fois des résultats des écoles publiques et privées, a également augmenté, passant de 81,8 % en 2020 à 82,1 % en 2021. Étant donné que le taux de réussite de la CSEM sur six ans s’établit déjà à 91 %, nous sommes en voie de nous surpasser cette année et de renouer avec nos résultats prépandémie. Le directeur général de la CSEM, Nick Katalifos, souligne que ces résultats sont particulièrement positifs si l'on considère que cette cohorte a été touchée par la pandémie. La directrice des Services éducatifs, Anna Sanalitro, a ajouté qu'il est réconfortant de voir que, malgré ces temps difficiles auxquels nous avons été confrontés, la réussite scolaire n’a pas cessé d’être au rendez-vous. Le président de la CSEM, Joe Ortona, a quant à lui salué le travail du personnel enseignant qui n'a jamais eu à faire face à des défis de la taille de ceux posés par la pandémie.
ENSEIGNANTE D’EXCEPTION: Gail Bernstein, enseignante à l'école secondaire L.I.N.K.S. d'Ahuntsic, est la seule Québécoise à avoir reçu le Prix du Premier ministre pour l'excellence dans l'enseignement. Depuis 1994, les Prix du Premier ministre pour l'excellence dans l'enseignement soulignent l’excellence du personnel enseignant des niveaux primaire et secondaire dans toutes les disciplines. À ce jour, plus de 1 700 enseignantes et enseignants ont été honorés pour leurs réalisations exceptionnelles en éducation et pour leur engagement à préparer les élèves à une économie numérique et innovante. La directrice Maria Caldarella a soumis la candidature de Mme Bernstein pour son travail et sa réussite à intégrer les élèves ayant des besoins particuliers dans le processus d'apprentissage et au sein de la communauté. Mme Bernstein a consacré l'ensemble de sa carrière d'enseignante, soit plus de 35 ans, à l'éducation spécialisée. Mme Bernstein était à Ottawa du 3 au 6 octobre à l'occasion des festivités spéciales en l'honneur des lauréates et des lauréats des Prix du Premier ministre pour l'excellence dans l'enseignement, notamment une réception avec le Premier ministre Justin Trudeau. Mme Caldarella et la conseillère d'orientation Shannen Ciricillo se sont également déplacées dans la capitale nationale pour assister au souper de remise des prix.
ACTIVITÉ ÉLECTORALE: Pendant la campagne électorale provinciale, la CSEM s'est entretenue avec des candidats afin de soulever d’importants enjeux en lien avec l'instruction publique. Dans le cadre d'un exercice pédagogique, la CSEM a organisé le 20 septembre une séance d'information virtuelle bilingue qui fut diffusée en direct dans les salles de classe de la commission scolaire. Des représentants de chaque formation politique ont été invités à y participer. Le président de la CSEM, Joe Ortona, et le directeur général, Nick Katalifos, ont prononcé l'allocution d'ouverture. M. Ortona a agi à titre de modérateur en compagnie de Lianna Wallace, élève de 4e secondaire à l'école secondaire Lester B. Pearson et membre de l’EMSAC (English Montréal Student Advisory Council).
Au nombre des participants: Jennifer Maccarone, candidate libérale sortante dans Westmount–Saint-Louis; Myrtis Fossey du Parti canadien du Québec et candidate dans Saint-Laurent; Andrea Di Stefano du Parti Bloc Montréal et candidat dans Maurice-Richard; Chakib Saad du Parti conservateur du Québec et candidat dans Jeanne-Mance–Viger; Jamie D'Souza du Parti Vert et candidate dans Rosemont ainsi que Sabrina Mercier-Ullhorn du Parti québécois et candidate dans Mercier.
RENCONTRES AVEC LES CANDIDATS : M. Ortona et les membres du conseil ont participé à un nombre sans précédent de rencontres avec des candidats avant l'élection, en mode virtuel dans la plupart des cas : Bonnie Feigenbaum (D’Arcy-McGee), Parti conservateur du Québec; Katya Rossokhata (Westmount–Saint-Louis), Parti conservateur du Québec; David Touchette (Westmount–Saint-Louis), Québec solidaire; Elisabeth Labelle (Notre-Dame-de-Grâce), Québec solidaire; Chantal Gagnon (Anjou–Louis-Riel), Parti libéral; Vincent Marissal (Rosemont), Québec solidaire; Andrés Fontecilla (Laurier–Dorion), Québec solidaire; Louise Poudrier (Hochelaga-Maisonneuve), Parti conservateur du Québec; Colin Standish (Westmount–Saint-Louis), Parti québécois du Canada; Balarama Holness, Bloc Montréal; Alex Tyrrell, Parti Vert; Madwa-Nika Cadet (Bourassa–Sauvé), Parti libéral; Filomena Rotiroti, Parti libéral (Jeanne-Mance–Viger); Jennifer Maccarone, Parti libéral (Westmount–Saint-Louis). Aucun candidat de la CAQ, parti au pouvoir, n'était disponible pour une rencontre. Quant au Parti québécois, un candidat a pris part à l’assemblée publique.
Liste de questions rendues publiques par M. Ortona et posées aux candidats. Vous pouvez les consulter ici
Article d’opinion de M. Ortona publié dans The Montreal Gazette
FOIRE DE L’ÉDUCATION ET DES CARRIÈRES: Plus de 2 000 élèves de 5e secondaire participeront à la 22e édition annuelle de la Foire de l’éducation et des carrières de la Commission scolaire English-Montréal, les mercredi 19 et jeudi 20 octobre, au Centre de carrières St. Pius X à Ahuntsic (9955, av. Papineau). Jack Dym de Pipe and Piling Supplies Ltd est le commanditaire en titre de l’événement. Plusieurs personnalités des médias seront sur place pour renseigner les élèves sur les carrières dans ce domaine et agiront à titre de maîtres de cérémonie. Il s'agira de la première Foire de l’éducation et des carrières en présentiel depuis 2019, les deux éditions antérieures s’étant déroulées en mode virtuel. La Foire de l’éducation et des carrières sera ouverte au grand public le 19 octobre, de 18 h à 20 h. Les organisateurs tiennent à souligner que c’est une excellente occasion pour parents et élèves (de 4e et 5e secondaire) de se renseigner sur les options postsecondaires. L’admission et le stationnement sont gratuits. Mario Argiropoulos du Service de l'éducation des adultes et de la formation professionnelle (EAFP) de la CSEM présidera la Foire de l’éducation et des carrières. Coordonnée par l’EAFP en collaboration avec les Services aux élèves de la CSEM, cette foire vise principalement à sensibiliser les élèves aux nombreux programmes d’enseignement qui s’offrent à eux. Tous les élèves assisteront à une brève séance d'information générale dans l'auditorium du Centre de carrières St. Pius X. Ils auront ensuite la possibilité de visiter les divers kiosques d'information/d’exposition afin de s’entretenir avec des représentants d’établissements anglophones, notamment des centres de formation professionnelle, des cégeps, des universités et quelques écoles de gestion privées.
UNE ENSEIGNANTE DU SECONDAIRE S’ILLUSTRE EN LUTTE: En mai dernier, Jessika Neri, enseignante populaire à l'école secondaire Rosemont, a dévoilé son alter ego, la lutteuse professionnelle Jessika Black. Mme Neri avait toujours tenu sa carrière de lutteuse à l’écart de sa profession d'enseignante. Or, inspirée par son mentor Jacques Rougeau, elle a décidé d'utiliser son passe-temps pour lutter contre l'intimidation. Mme Neri enseigne l'anglais et l'histoire aux élèves de 3e, 4e et 5e secondaire. Elle enseigne à la CSEM depuis 14 ans, dont les 9 dernières années à Rosemont. Quant à la lutte professionnelle, elle est dans le ring depuis plus de 8 ans. Elle a récemment remporté les honneurs de Lutte Académie Rougeau, en compagnie de trois autres lutteurs. Elle s’est vu remettre une bourse de 5 000 $ et un séjour de trois mois, toutes dépenses payées, au Nightmare Factory de QT Marshall, l'un des meilleurs établissements d'entraînement de lutte professionnelle au monde. Mme Neri (Jessika Black) luttera à Toronto pour les débuts de All Elite Wrestling (AEW) au Canada les 11 et 12 octobre devant 10 000 partisans. Une figurine à l’effigie de Jessika Black sera également produite. Mme Neri recevra officiellement son prix le 20 septembre à l'extérieur de l'école secondaire Rosemont, en présence du personnel et des élèves, ainsi que de M. Rougeau.
Lire l'article publié dans The Montreal Gazette
Visionner le reportage de CBC TV
Écouter l'entrevue réalisée avec l'animateur Patrick Masbourian de Radio Canada
Écouter l'émission Cross Canada Checkup de la CBC
COURSE TERRY FOX: Les élèves et le personnel de la CSEM et de l'ancienne Commission des écoles protestantes du Grand Montréal ont amassé, depuis 1981, 2 296 152 $ au profit de la Fondation Terry Fox. Un certain nombre d’écoles ont organisé une course cette année. À l’école Royal Vale de NDG, plus de 7 000 $ ont été recueillis sous le leadership de Norman Katz, enseignant d'éducation physique et à la santé. Jacques Rougeau a fait une apparition spéciale. En plus de partager ses ceintures de championnat de lutte avec les élèves, il leur a parlé des effets dévastateurs du cancer sur sa vie et de l'importance de recueillir des fonds pour cette grande cause. Le commanditaire officiel de l’événement fut BioSteel (https://biosteel.com), partenaire officiel de la LNH en matière d’hydratation.
Site Web de la Fondation Terry Fox : https://terryfox.org/
ATELIER SUR LA PAIX: Le Forum international sur la paix, la sécurité et la prospérité (IFPSP), une société à but non lucratif dont la mission est d'éduquer les générations futures en promouvant la paix dans le monde, a organisé un atelier à l'école secondaire Rosemont le 21 septembre dans le cadre de la Journée internationale de la paix des Nations Unies ayant pour thème « Mettre fin au racisme. Bâtir la paix ». L'atelier visait à sensibiliser les élèves aux initiatives mises de l’avant par l'ONU en faveur de la paix, à examiner la désinformation et la promotion du racisme, et à renforcer la résilience des élèves. Comportant deux volets de 60 minutes, l'atelier a présenté des modèles de pensée critique et de recherche de consensus, a inclus des discussions et s’est conclu par un plan d'action. L'atelier a été animé par Ryan McHugh, un bénévole de 28 ans qui œuvre avec l'IFPSP depuis sa création. « Nous sommes reconnaissants à l'école secondaire Rosemont pour son soutien », a déclaré Steve Gregory, fondateur de l'IFPSP. « Nous espérons déployer des ateliers similaires à la grandeur de la province, d’un bout à l’autre du pays et au-delà de nos frontières. »
Visionner le reportage de Global TV
JOURNÉE DES PEUPLES AUTOCHTONE : L'école primaire Nesbitt et l'école secondaire Rosemont prendront part à un projet captivant en collaboration avec le Conseil mohawk de Kahnawà:ke - Kahnawake, intitulé « The Way Forward ». L'événement aura lieu le mercredi 19 octobre, de 9 h 45 à 11 h, à l'école secondaire Rosemont. La grande cheffe Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer de la communauté mohawk sera l'invitée d'honneur. Elle est devenue la première femme et la première personne LGBTQ à être élue à ce poste, en remplacement de l'ancien grand chef Joe Norton, décédé l'an dernier. Ce sera sa toute première visite à la CSEM et elle sera accompagnée de quelques membres de sa communauté. Le chef Harry Rice, responsable de l'éducation, du patrimoine et des affaires sociales communautaires, sera également présent pour l’occasion. L’Harmonie symphonique de l'école secondaire Rosemont de même que Caroline Derome et la chorale de l'école primaire Nesbitt offriront une prestation spéciale. Ils interpréteront la chanson Strawberry Moon (Ode'min Giizis) qui leur a valu les grands honneurs lors du concours CBC dans la catégorie Langues autochtones.
ÇA ROULE AU CVM : À l’occasion de la journée Portes ouvertes du 15 septembre, le Collège Vincent Massey de Rosemont a présenté la Widowmaker, une voiture sans émission de carbone. Cette voiture est le fruit de cinq années de travail acharné du Club d'ingénierie et du Projet Eco Powertrain supervisé par l'enseignante Sabrina Mancuso. « C’est tout un exploit! », de déclarer Imma Ianero, conseillère en sciences à la CSEM au niveau secondaire. « S’il est vrai que le travail accompli par les élèves est phénoménal, on ne saurait passer sous silence le dévouement et le soutien des enseignants, des administrateurs et du personnel du CVM qui ont contribué à la concrétisation de ce projet échelonné sur cinq ans. »
DES GAGNANTS À CARLYLE: Félicitations à Nicholas Batchoun, Lucas Ferst et Anthony Minitsios, élèves de 6e année de l'école internationale Carlyle de VMR, dont les projets artistiques ont été primés lors du Festival Imagine qui a eu lieu dans les Laurentides au cours de l’été. Leurs œuvres ont été inscrites au concours d'œuvres d'art pour élèves neurodivers.
ALESSANDRO BIELLO SE DÉMARQUE: L'école secondaire Lester-B.-Pearson a d’excellentes nouvelles. En effet, Alessandro Biello, élève du programme Sport-études de l'école et membre de l'Académie CF Montréal, a été sélectionné pour participer au camp d'entraînement Best-with-Best de l'équipe masculine U-17 du Canada, du 2 au 7 octobre. Les joueurs sélectionnés pour former l'équipe finale représenteront le Canada lors du championnat et des qualifications de la Coupe du monde des moins de 17 ans de la FIFA 2023 qui auront lieu au Guatemala du 11 au 23 février 2023. La Coupe du monde des moins de 17 ans de la FIFA se tiendra au Pérou en octobre 2023. Alessandro est le fils de l'ancien joueur et entraîneur de l'Impact de Montréal, Mauro Biello, actuellement entraîneur adjoint de l'équipe nationale de soccer.
JOURNÉES PORTES OUVERTES: Les écoles primaires et secondaires de la Commission scolaire English-Montréal continuent d’organiser des journées Portes ouvertes en présentiel cet automne. C'est la première fois depuis 2019 que parents et élèves sont autorisés à faire la tournée des écoles en personne. Outre les visites en personne, certaines écoles continueront d'offrir des visites virtuelles pour permettre à tous les parents et élèves de se renseigner sur chacune des écoles et d'obtenir des réponses à leurs questions.
Pour la liste complète des journées Portes ouvertes à la CSEM
Visionner notre annonce publicitaire sur CTV
GUIDE DES ÉCOLES SECONDAIRES: Avez-vous pris connaissance de notre guide des écoles secondaires? Nous vous invitons à le consulter. Vous y trouverez le profil de nos écoles secondaires offrant le programme régulier ainsi que les dates des journées Portes ouvertes.
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PROGRAMME D'ÉDUCATION SUR L'HOLOCAUSTE: Le programme d'éducation sur l'Holocauste de la CSEM, rendu possible grâce au soutien et aux subventions Nova de la Fondation communautaire juive de Montréal, est bien amorcé pour l'année scolaire 2022-2023. Le 19 septembre, une première visite – qui sera suivie de plusieurs autres – a eu lieu au musée de l’Holocauste de Montréal à laquelle ont pris part 39 élèves de 5e année de l'école primaire Nesbitt de Rosemont. La visite guidée fut suivie d'un atelier pédagogique. Les élèves étaient accompagnés des enseignants Ellen Riggerbach et Nicolas Murray, de même que de Vince Lacroce, animateur de vie spirituelle et d’engagement communautaire. Plus tard au cours du mois de septembre, ce fut au tour des élèves de 5e année de l'école primaire Pierre de Coubertin de Saint-Léonard de faire cette visite. Les élèves ont eu l’occasion de poser des questions, de voir l'exposition extraordinaire et d’entendre le récit d’un survivant de l'Holocauste raconté en mode virtuel.
Kathy Assayag, présidente et directrice générale de la FCJ Montréal, s'est jointe aux élèves au début de la présentation, tout comme Mark Bergman et Eliane Goldstein, co-animateurs d'un balado spécial qui porte sur ce projet.
VÉRITÉ ET RÉCONCILIATION: Tous les ans, le 30 septembre marque la Journée nationale de la vérité et de la réconciliation. Cette journée est l’occasion de rendre hommage aux enfants qui n’ont jamais pu retourner chez eux et aux survivants des pensionnats ainsi qu’à leurs familles et leurs communautés. À l'école primaire East Hill de RDP, la conférencière invitée Kawisente (Mme Carole) de Kahnawake a partagé son expérience dans les pensionnats avec les élèves du 3e cycle. Quant aux élèves du 2e cycle, ils ont pu se familiariser avec la culture, l'histoire ainsi que des chants et des jeux traditionnels. L'école secondaire Options de Ville-Émard a organisé un défi burpee dans le cadre de la Journée du chandail orange. Le burpee, qui consiste à passer de la position debout puis accroupie, est un exercice que l’on utilise en entraînement musculaire et qui sollicite tout le corps. L'enseignant Jason Gannon a piloté cette initiative.
CONCOURS DE DISSERTATION: Les élèves sont invités à participer à la deuxième édition du concours national de dissertation organisé par le Korean Spirit and Culture Promotion Project (« KSCPP »), un organisme à but non lucratif 501(c)(3) basé aux États-Unis. Cette année, la dissertation portera sur le roi Sejong le Grand, créateur de l'alphabet coréen qui fit preuve des plus grands idéaux de leadership au cours de son règne. Il y a encore aujourd’hui de nombreuses leçons à tirer du leadership démontré par le roi Sejong au 15e siècle. Il constitue également un repère pour les jeunes appelés à relever les défis du 21e siècle. Le concours s’adresse à tous les élèves à partir de la 6e année. Deux concours distincts seront organisés pour les élèves de la 6e à la 8e année et de la 9e à la 12e année respectivement. Les prix seront décernés aux gagnants sous forme de carte-cadeau électronique (1er prix de 500 $), et les dissertations primées seront publiées sur leur site Web : www.kscpp.net.
SERVICES D'ÉDUCATION DES ADULTES ET DE FORMATION PROFESSIONNELLE
JOURNÉE PORTES OUVERTES AU CENTRE DE FORMATION PROFESSIONNELLE LMAC: Le Centre de formation professionnelle Laurier Macdonald a organisé une journée Portes ouvertes/BBQ le vendredi 23 septembre à son campus des Grandes-Prairies. Des voitures de collection et des modèles plus récents, fournis par des enseignants, des partenaires de l’industrie et des collectionneurs locaux, étaient exposés sur le terrain de l'école. L'une des voitures s'ouvrait sur un barbecue, offrant gratuitement aux visiteurs des sandwichs à la saucisse et de la pizza. Avant d’admirer les voitures, tous les visiteurs étaient invités à faire la tournée du spacieux campus des Grand-Prairies, lequel propose des programmes de formation professionnelle en mécanique automobile, en soudage-montage, et en mécanique de véhicules électriques. Des représentants des programmes d'esthétique, d'épilation et de coiffure, offerts au campus du centre formation professionnelle de Jean-Talon, étaient également sur place. Dino Buontempo, enseignant en mécanique automobile au Centre de formation professionnelle Laurier Macdonald de Saint-Léonard, s'est joint à Elias Makos sur les ondes de CJAD Radio pour parler de l'école, de la journée Portes ouvertes, de l’exposition de voitures et de la forte demande pour les élèves de LMAC au sein de l'industrie.
« Nous sommes fiers d'être un chef de file dans l'industrie de l'automobile, de la soudure et de l'esthétique grâce, en grande partie, à notre équipe d’enseignants dévoués et expérimentés qui sont de véritables spécialistes dans leur domaine respectif », a déclaré la directrice Anna Maria Borsellino. « Tous nos programmes mènent à un diplôme d'études professionnelles ou à une attestation de spécialisation professionnelle délivrée par le ministère de l'Éducation du Québec. Nous nous engageons à offrir des cours et des programmes pertinents et d'avant-garde et à assurer un environnement pratique, accessible et propice à l’apprentissage de tous nos élèves. »
SOIRÉE-BÉNÉFICE SOUS LE SIGNE DE LA COMÉDIE: Le Centre d'éducation des adultes Galileo et Friends4Cause s’affairent à organiser une soirée de comédie avec l'animateur Franco Taddeo et les humoristes Pino Pirillo et Frank Spadone dans le but d’amasser des fonds pour la sensibilisation à l'autisme. Les invités pourront se détendre et rire tout en contribuant à une grande cause. L'événement aura lieu le samedi 22 octobre, à 20 h, à l'auditorium de l'école secondaire Laurier Macdonald (7355, boul. Viau) à Saint-Léonard. Le prix des billets est de 35 $. Contacter Vito au 514 777 7570 ou www.friends4cause.com.
JEU DE QUILLES: Friends4Cause planifie de nouveau une soirée de quilles le samedi 12 novembre à 19 h, au 3115, boul. de l'Assomption, afin de recueillir des fonds au profit du Centre des adultes Galileo et The Lighthouse. À ce jour, Friends4Cause a fait don de 25 000 $ pour la rénovation de la cuisine à Galileo, à laquelle tous les élèves auront accès. En raison des coûts élevés dans le domaine de la construction, des fonds supplémentaires sont nécessaires pour la rénovation. Il y aura également un tirage avec de nombreux prix à gagner, et tous les joueurs recevront une boîte à lunch (pizza aux tomates, sandwichs et dessert). Le coût est de 30 $ par personne (15 $ pour les enfants de moins de 12 ans).
TABLE DE PING-PONG: Les élèves à besoins particuliers du Centre des adultes Galileo se sont vu offrir une nouvelle table de ping-pong par le magasin Canadian Tire de Rivière-des-Prairies. Alain Bazinet, Philippe Bazinet et Stéphane Diamond de Canadian Tire ont non seulement livré la table, mais l'ont aussi assemblée sur place. Les élèves ont été invités dans le gymnase pour le dévoilement. Chacun se demandait bien quelle surprise les attendait. Des cris d'excitation et de joie ont retenti jusqu'au bout du corridor lorsque la table de ping-pong a été dévoilée. Les représentants de Canadian Tire ont été étonnés de voir tous les élèves présents pour le dévoilement et ont été émus par les applaudissements. Les élèves ont inauguré la table lors d’un premier match amical disputé contre nul autre que Philippe Bazinet.
JFKAC: Le Centre d'éducation des adultes John F. Kennedy a lancé son propre balado intitulé JFKonversations. L'animateur est Dwight Walton, surveillant d'élèves au Centre et commentateur à TSN 690. Son premier invité fut Simon Chausse, tuteur professionnel au Centre et chanteur d'opéra formé. Ce balado avait pour thème la création de liens avec la communauté. « Il s’agit véritablement d’un projet axé sur la communauté. Nouer des liens avec la communauté est essentiel à la réussite de nos élèves. Nos centres sont remplis de héros méconnus qui méritent d'être reconnus pour leur contribution à la communauté scolaire », s’est exclamée Elizabeth Lagodich.
VÉRITÉ ET RÉCONCILIATION À HSM : Les élèves des programmes d'anglais et de français de base du Centre d'éducation des adultes HSM ont porté de l'orange pour commémorer la Journée nationale de la vérité et de la réconciliation. « Nos enseignants ont expliqué l'histoire et la raison derrière cette journée nationale à leurs élèves issus de divers pays, milieux, cultures et religions », a déclaré la directrice Ann Marie Matheson. Les élèves se sont familiarisés avec le vocabulaire et l'histoire et, en tant que nouveaux immigrants, ils se sont joints à la grande société canadienne « pour écouter », mais surtout pour contribuer à la réconciliation. Nos élèves étaient à la fois heureux et fiers de participer à la Journée du chandail orange.
Le prochain numéro de Pleins feux sur Fielding sera publié le 8 novembre 2022. Prière de soumettre vos articles au plus tard le jeudi 3 novembre à midi. The next edition of the EMSB Focus will be published on November 8, 2022. Deadline for submissions is Thursday, November 3 at Noon.
