Administrative Professionals Day is April 26. Thanks to all of our staff who fulfil these positions
BILL 96 CONFERENCE ON THURSDAY: The English Montreal School Board will host a by invitation only conference on the impact of Bill 96 on Thursday, April 27 ( 7 pm to 9 pm). This will be broadcast live for the public at this link.
A focus for discussion will be Bill 96 vis-a-vis our education system and competitiveness. One panel will focus on the impact on our English elementary and secondary schools while another will look at the impact on CEGEPs, businesses and the community. Mark Power, whose firm is representing the EMSB in a court case against the law, will speak, as will EMSB Chair Joe Ortona; Nancy Beattie, Campus Director, Champlain College; Russell Copeman, Executive Director, Quebec English School Boards Association; Lloyd M. Segal, President and CEO of Repare Therapeutics; Christopher Shannon, Head Master of LCC and Chair of the Advocacy Committee of the Quebec Independent Schools Association; and Beryl Wajsman, Editor-in-chief, The Suburban Newspaper.
“It has been about 10 months since Bill 96 was adopted, and its impact is being felt throughout our education system as well as our community,” stated Mr. Ortona. “This conference is an opportunity to begin assessing the situation and planning for what lies ahead.”
 |
| Bowser and Blue |
PARENT CONFERENCE: The 2023 EMSB Parents Conference will take place on Sunday, May 28 (9 am to Noon) at Rosemount High School (3737 Beaubien Street East). The comedy duo of Bowser and Blue will peform. It will be followed up by five days of lunch and learn video capsules from May 29 to June 2. Here are details. Please register here today.
 |
| Frank and Laura Marra, Tim Sargeant, Debbie Fox, Nick Katalifos, Natalie Sztych , Joe Ortona and Simon Chang. |
HONOURING VOLUNTEERS: On the occasion of National Volunteer Week, which was marked April 16 to 23 at schools and centres, the EMSB held a special reception and ceremony to honour four Volunteers of Distinction and an Ambassador of the Year.
Held at the St. Pius X Career Centre in Ahuntsic on April 25, the honourees, their families, EMSB commissioners and management and Parents Committee executive members were treated to a delicious buffet dinner catered by the culinary students followed by an awards ceremony, which was live streamed and can be seen here. Tim Sargeant from Global Montreal served as the emcee. The Volunteers of Distinction were Debbie Fox and Natalie Sztych from St. Gabriel Elementary School in Pointe St. Charles and Laura and Frank Marra from Rosemount High School. Legendary fashion designer Simon Chang was honoured as the Ambassador of the Year. Thanks to our sponsor Beneva Insurance. You can see the complete press release here.
FABRIC FOR SCHOOLS: Fabrics, fabrics and more fabrics! Once again, Simon Chang has fabric to donate to our schools. Do you have a special art project - whether it is sewing, murals, decorations, card making, puppets or any other creative idea- and are in need of fabric to make it happen? Simon has a multitude of different fabrics and trimmings that he is eager to donate to our EMSB schools. Contact Faye at admin@simonchanggroup.com to see if they have fabrics that will fit with your project needs. Once arranged, the fabrics can be picked up on Chabanel Street.
 |
| Shayne Armstrong is congratulated by Principal Jim Daskalakis, teacher Laura Dextrase, Joe Ortona and Nick Katalifos. |
STUDENT OF THE MONTH: The EMSB is proud to recognize Shayne Armstrong from St. Gabriel as Student of the Month for April. A consistent uplifting presence at school, Grade v5 teacher Laura Dextrase nominated Shayne as he is a great example of a student who leads with positivity and inclusivity. Recently, Shayne was instrumental during February to conceptualize various activities for his class to recognize Black History Month. Shayne worked with his teacher to organize a team of students who took the time during their lunches and recesses to create activity centres related to Black history. These centres included a reading and research wall, Black history bingo and a historical figure graffiti art/colouring station. For Laura and all whom know Shayne, they agree that his leadership qualities and demeanor reflect the best of St. Gabriel School. Shayne was recognized at the April 25 Council meeting.
 |
| The winning team is congratulated. |
BATTLE OF THE BOOKS: “We read the books.” That was team captain Emma Birlean’s succinct summary of the reason for Royal West Academy’s commanding victory in the EMSB annual Battle of the Books – the first in-person presentation of this event in four years Students from four high schools faced off in a head-to-head battle of their knowledge of 12 young adult books which they read over the course of the school year. The competition was organized by librarians at the schools and EMSB Educational Services. Royal West Academy in Montreal West racked up 105 points in the final competition at the EMSB head office, Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North was second with 80 points, followed by Westmount High School with 74 and Laurier Macdonald High School in St. Leonard with 72. The winners will represent the EMSB in the “Ultimate Battle” on Wednesday, April 26, at the Lester B. Pearson School Board head office (1925 Brookdale Ave.) in Dorval. There, the winning EMSB team will compete for the city-wide title against the winning teams from the Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB) and the Quebec Association of Independent Schools (QAIS). See the full story by Pat Hickey here.
HOLOCAUST EDUCATION: Secondary V students at Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North have been engaged in a learning process where understanding our history, developing both empathy and compassion, as well as empowerment for the future, have been the objectives. This learning path began with a novel study of the memoir Night by Elie Wiesel which was read by LBPHS students in Pangiota Seremetis' Secondary V English classes. The setting for the novel takes place during the Holocaust and follows Eliezer's family`s horrific journey through to Auschwitz. The learning process concluded with a trip to the Montreal Holocaust Museum organized by Spiritual Community Animator Joseph Monachino. The visit and accompanying workshop made the experiences described in Night real for the students and made the novel study even more impactful. Mr. Monachino stresses that this type of learning opportunity truly enables and empowers each of the students, and it is in this way that we can help ensure that events such as the Holocaust never happen again. Please listen to a very special podcast in which the students will impress you.
 |
| Raphaëlla Etienne-Krief |
YOM HASHOAH: Royal West Academy hosted a special Yom Hashoah ceremony, featuring Heidi Berger from the Foundation for Genocide Education. The program was also live streamed into classrooms. Meanwhile, Royal West student Raphaëlla Etienne-Krief participated (interpreting a piece on piano) in the Yom Hashoah Commemoration at the National Holocaust Monument in Ottawa. You can see it here.
Also of note is Eliane Goldstein, co-host of the EMSB Holocaust Education podcast and a Secondary III student at Westmount High School, spoke along with survivor Maxwell Smart at a pre-Holocaust Remembrance Day program at the Sylvan Adams YM-YWHA.
ROSEMOUNT HIGH WINS MUSICAL COMPETITIONS: Rosemount High School Music Department students (L – R) Secondary IV Minchae Choi (Clarinet) and Yumo Li (Flute) and Secondary III students Giacomina Arcuri (Flute) and Hyerin Jo (Oboe) won individual solo first place gold medals for their participation in the 22nd Music Festival Concours Solistes & Petits Ensembles, sponsored by the FHOSQ (Festival des Harmonies et des Orchestres Symphoniques du Quebec). Held in Victoriaville, hundreds of students attended the annual event from all over Quebec, even from as far away as Abitibi-Temiscamingue more than eight hours away.
 |
| A Class Act. |
CLASS ACT: Meanwhile, the school wishes to showcase Class Act, a student music group composed of Secondary IV and V students from the Music Department under the direction of Anthony Cooperwood. All of the students rehearse once per week after school outside of their normal studies. They perform a variety of styles of music from classic Soul from the likes of Wilson Pickett and Al Green to Contemporary Jazz Grover Washington, Jr and Rock & Roll like Guns & Roses. Class Act won first place in the Combo category at the 22nd Music Festival Concours Solistes & Petits Ensembles sponsored by the FHOSQ (Festival des harmonies et orchestres symphoniques du Québec).
 |
| The EMSB Senior Chorale with the St. Lawrence Choir at Maison symphonique on March 11. Photo: Brenden Friesen, courtesy of the St. Lawrence Choir. |
EMSB CHORALE NEWS: The EMSB Chorale has had an exciting season with many collaborative projects and concerts in some of Montreal’s finest concert venues. The choir will wrap up its regular season with its Spring Gala Concert on Saturday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. at Oscar Peterson Hall. The 75 choristers under the direction of Patricia Abbott and Associate conductor Marie-Ève Arseneau will present works by Jay Althouse, Susan Archibald, Bob Chilcott, Jonathan Larson, Donald Patriquin, Michel Rivard, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Gilles Vigneault, Ruth Watson Henderson and more. Contact Pat Abbott for reservations and tickets: pabbott@emsb.qc.ca. Tickets: Adults $20; students $15 and Children 12 and under $10. A first round of auditions for next year will be held May 31 and June 6. Contact Pat Abbott to book an appointment: pabbott@emsb.qc.ca or 514-483-7200 ext. 7234
 |
Secondary III winners Pasquale Filosa, Ofelia Reinoso Valcourt and Janaya Mohan
|
 |
| The Engo sisters. |
TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE: Five students from Royal West Academy in Montreal West shined at the annual Hydro-Québec Montreal Regional Science and Technology Fair held at Laval Senior Academy. Twin sisters Lauren and Cassidy Engo and their project entitled “Take a Bite Out of CO2” won the Bronze Medal (Senior), Canadian Meteorological and Oceanic Society Award, the Highest Distinction Award, the McGill University - Faculty of Science - Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences Award, the McGill University - Faculty of Science Award and the Super expo-sciences Hydro Québec (SESHQ) Experimentation & Design Award. They qualified for the provincial competition held earlier this week at CEPSUM, the Centre for Physical Education and Sports of the Université de Montréal and won two awards: Mathematic Association of Quebec Award and Sherbrooke University Scholarship of $2,000. On a separate note, in another Science competition, their project won the Regional Canadian Ingenious+ Youth Innovation Award of $1,000. Laura De Angelis and Elisabetta Iorio and their Project Can You Remember ? won the Champlain College, St. Lambert Campus Science Award and the John Abbott College Science Award. Emma Birlean’s project Anxiety for High Achievers won the Dawson College Science Award and the McGill University - Psychology Award.
SPORTS REPORT SPONSOR: The EMSB wishes to welcome Club CDL as a sponsor for Pat Hickey's sports reports for the remainder of the 2022-23 academic year. Locatedi in St. Laurent, Club CDL is considered one of the finest sports facilities in Montreal and features tennis, squash and racquetball courts as well as a full fitness and gym facility. Are you looking for a summer camp? The Club CDL Summer Camp focuses on introducing and improving tennis techniques in an enjoyable group manner for four hours a day. The fun does not stop at just tennis! They also offer one hour of fitness in their outdoor pool, or on indoor soccer field. Their team of coaches prioritize the kids’ safety, joy, and comfort. Your child(ren) will be asking for extra weeks of summer camp! More info here: https://www.clubcdl.com/summercamp
 |
| A card from K students. |
MATHESON VISITS SCHOOL: Montreal Canadiens defenceman Mike Matheson visited St. Gabriel Elementary School in Pointe St. Charles on April 17 to talk to students. He did so as an ambassador of the Champions for Life Foundation, which empowers children to move well and build the skills, confidence, and motivation to be active for a lifetime. Mr. Matheson, who was born and raised in Montreal and joined the Canadiens this season via a trade from Pittsburgh, began with Kindergarten students. He read a Little Champions interACTIVE story, which aims at providing meaningful movement experiences so that children build their physical literacy through storytelling. This was followed by time with the Grades 1 to 6 students in the gymnasium to talk about what it means to be a “Champion for Life” and other topics, such as growing up and having a family. The Champions for Life Program has been running at St. Gabriel Elementary School since 2016, thanks to the generous support of the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation.
 |
| Matheson, David Arsenault and the mascot with the kids. |
Among the special guests was Kaizen, the Champions for Life mascot, and EMSB representatives and special guest emcee Tony Marinaro from The Sick Podcast.
 |
| Jim Montgomery |
ROSEMOUNT HIGH GRAD COACHES BRUINS: Boston Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery says the public school system played a key role in his success later in life. “I think my education at Montrose Elementary and Rosemount High prepared me for success at the University of Maine, ” Montgomery said prior to the Bruins’ final regular-season a game against the Canadiens at the Bell Centre April 13. “The teachers were dedicated and held you accountable. If you had a thirst for knowledge, you get it.” While Montgomery hasn’t lived in Montreal for the past 30 years, he has retained with childhood friends. Many of them played minor sports coached by Jim Montgomery Sr., an all-around athlete who boxed for Canada at the 1956 Olympics. About 20 of his friends attended the Bruins’ morning skate at the Bell Centre and Montgomery said he obtained 35 to 40 guest passes for a mini-reunion after the game. You can read Pat Hickey’s story on him here.
 |
| Shaun Simon |
THE GREAT OUTDOORS: Shaun Simon believes in exposing his students to the great outdoors, whether they are ice-fishing and snowshoeing in the Lanaudière or using GPS to locate hidden items on city streets. “The big outing of the year is ice-fishing” said Simon, a physical education teacher at LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent. “We use what we call our down time in the fall to teach them the knots they will need and then went to Rosemount Tech where they have a woodworking program and they helped make the tipping jigs.” The fishing trip was a great success. Students caught 14 trout but their education didn’t stop when they pulled the fish out of the icy waters. Simon showed the youngsters how to clean and cook the fish on an outdoor stove. Many of Simon’s activities have as similar interdisciplinary component as well as life skills. See the full story here
TOUNDRA VISIT: On March 29, Perspectives I and II Alternative High Schools welcomed The Montreal Toundra, a Canadian professional basketball team, for a motivational talk about following one's dreams. The players shared their personal stories of overcoming challenges, pursuing their passions, and achieving success on and off the court. Students listened intently as the players discussed their experiences with dedication, hard work, and perseverance.
 |
| Toundra fever at Perspectives. |
CF MONTREAL NIGHT: EMSB Night with CF Montreal is coming up this May! Join the EMSB Family on Saturday, May 27 when CF Montreal hosts Inter Miami CF. Limited tickets are available at the special price of $22. A portion of the each sale will be donated to Inspirations Newspaper. Buy your tickets by clicking here. No promo code is required. For any issues or for accessible seating, please contact: Fabien Flaman at fabien.flaman@cfmontreal.com or 514-328-5185.
 |
| The Grey Cup arrives at PDC. |
GREY CUP VISIT: The students at Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School in St. Leonard were treated to a very special presentation when they welcomed Mickey Donovan, special teams coordinator with the Grey Cup-winning Toronto Argonauts of the CFL. He stopped by the school to speak to students about the importance of academics, teamwork, and above all perseverance. A highlight was what accompanied him: the real Grey Cup trophy.
VOLLEYBALL INFO SESSION: Lester B. Person High School in Montreal North is proud to announce the addition of volleyball to the Sport-Études lineup for the 2023-24 academic year. Should the sport be of interest to your child, please scan the QR code below and register for the information session on May 2 (7 PM) an/or e-mail coach.vincent.celtique@gmail.com.
 |
| The Royal Vale team. |
GOLD IN BASKETBALL: The Royal Vale Girls Basketball team captured a gold medal representing NDG at the Jeux de Montreal held at LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent.
 |
| Pascal Fleury, students and staff. |
FLEURY VISITS: Edward Murphy Elementary School Cycle 2 and 3 students participated in a basketball game versus staff and special guest Pascal Fleury earlier this week. This event was organized by Spiritual Animator Rocco Speranza. The entire school was invited to cheer on their peers. Physical Education and Health teacher Elisa Giampa prepared the students for this very exciting event. The game ended in a tie! Great job to the students and staff who made this morning lots of fun!
EMSB EXPRESS: The spring edition of the EMSB Express Newspaper has been published, with hard copies delivered to schools and centres. A main focus is the recent Être Bilingue, C’est Gagnant! Campaign, with a special section dedicated to this theme. You can also read it online here
 |
| Promoter Rubin Fogel with the EMSB's Nicolas Doyon, Gerald McShane Principal Alex Kulcyk and students from Gerald McShane and Royal Vale. |
LASTING IMPRESSIONS: Some 300 students from two elementary schools, Gerald McShane in Montreal North and Royal Vale in NDG, attended a showing of Lasting Impressions at the Studio-Cabaret / Espace St-Denis complex on April 13 and enjoyed this extraordinary experience watching a massive 75-foot Holographic 3D LED screen that allows viewers to sit with Renoir’s luncheon guests, dance with Degas’ ballerinas, float over Monet’s water lilies and soar into Van Gogh’s starry night. You can spend Sunday in the park with George and move among the famous characters on Seurat’s Isle of La Grande Jatte. And more than just a feast for the eyes, Lasting Impressions is a delight for the ears as well with the masterworks of Debussy, Ravel and other composers, as well as French standards by Piaf, Aznavour and Mouskouri perfectly timed to the art as it comes to life. The students at both screenings were in awe of the entire presentation, clapping repeatedly and with a lot of “oohs” and “aahs” over the 3D special effects. EMSB Arts Consultant Nicolas Doyon, who attended the premiere of the program, last winter coordinated these visits. Due to the overwhelming response to Lasting Impressions, promoters Paul-Dupont Hébert and Rubin Fogel have announced that the event has been extended. The public, which has responded in massive numbers, can now experience this unique 3D Holographic production until the end of June at the “newly minted” Studio-Cabaret. More schools plan to book visits when the presentation returns June 1 to 18.
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK: In recognition of this event the Mental Health Resource Centre (MHRC) is launching the EMSB CONNECTEDNESS TOOLKIT (Connectedness toolkit) that will be shared electronically to every school. Connectedness is how we relate to others individually or in a group or community; it is a fundamental element in mental health wellbeing. The benefits of connectedness include better longevity, a better ability to manage stress, and overall mental health. The EMSB CONNECTEDNESS TOOLKIT includes an introduction that defines and outlines the benefits of feeling connected. This information may be used as a starting point for teaching connectedness in the classroom. “As such, we have a section dedicated to books and movies, appropriate for different age/grade levels with lesson plans that can be used by teachers,” said EMSB Psychologist Despina Vassilou, coordinator of the MHRC.
 |
| Ryan Silkey is welcomed to Edinburgh. |
RESTAURATEUR RETURNS: Ryan Silkey returned to his former elementary school, Edinburgh in Montreal West, to talk to students about his career as a professional chef and now the owner of his own restaurant on nearby Westminister Avenue called Randy’s Bistro. It is named after his late father. Ryan was able to persuade his friend Tyler Casey to come aboard as the chef. He most recently ran the kitchen at Sumac in Old Montreal. Ryan worked in a number of restaurants. Most recently he was the chef at Le Bird Bar in Griffintown. He had perfected his skills at cooking school. At the age of 38, opening his own dining establishment, seemed like a logical move. It is hard work and long hours. The restaurant is open from noon to 10 pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays and from Noon to 11 pm Thursdays to Saturdays. On Mondays, Ryan and Tyler do inventory, purchase food and undertake prep work.Everything here is made from fresh ingredients Randy’s Bistro is located at 45 Westminster North. Delivery is available via Uber Eats and DoorDash. For more information call (514) 481-7731 or log on to https://randysbistro.wixsite.com/my-site
MINI-MED AT JFK: On April 1, five students in Secondary IV and V from John F. Kennedy High School in St. Michel participated in the 2023 SAGES Mini Med School Bootcamp and Interactive Experience. This was a fun filled day where students from across Canada and the US were able to experience various activities related to surgical training. Guided by their Science teacher Ms. Nathalie Cloutier, the students had the opportunity to experience the wonderful world of medicine and minimally invasive surgery.
 |
Pictured from left to right are Mohamed Younes, Seif Medjadji, Ilyad Najafi. Ester Udumukwu and Santhia Thurairajasingam. These students proudly represented John F. Kennedy High School and we are thrilled to announce that Seif won first place in the suture competition and Ilyad brought home third place. |
FACE IN OTTAWA: On April 12, the FACE Symphony Orchestra (made up of string students under the direction of EMSB music teacher Theodora Stathopoulos and wind students under the direction of EMSB music teacher Marie-Eve Arseneau) was involved in a daytime outing to Ottawa. The Orchestra was hosted by Canterbury School's music department - a high school with a similar fine arts' program as FACE. During their stay the orchestra took part in an adjudication workshop with the National Art Centre's violinist/violist David Thies Thompson in the afternoon followed by an evening concert at the school's auditorium. Everyone was very excited to resume touring and travel opportunities with our musical ensembles following a hiatus of several years due to the pandemic. Students and teachers alike were particularly thrilled to have both the EMSB Principal Jennifer Harriet and the CSSDM Principal Stephane Abran join them on this trip.
A SCHOOL YARD CLEANUP: In Earth Day preparation, the Grade 1 students at Elizabeth Ballantyne Elementary School in Montreal Wesr cleaned the school yard, by picking up all the garbage. Peter Douglas, a student’s dad and professor at McGill, visited the class with his son to do an Earth Day presentation. The students very interested in learning about our Earth, and ways to protect it.
CLIMATE ACTION: On the eve of Earth Day the EMSB coordinated a virtual presentation on Climate Action on April 21. The speaker, Charlie Patton, traditionally known as Otsi’tsaken:ra (Speckled Flower, Bear Clan), from the Kanien’keha:ka Community of Kahnawake, Canada is a Mohawk “Faith Keeper,” or one who is committed to the “Creator.” During the opening greeting, he reminded participants of his tribe’s truth, “original instructions,” and thanksgiving with which they begin every gathering.
 |
| Kira and Jessie. |
AUTISM AWARENESS: It’s Autism Awareness Month and the EMSB would like to thank #ASISTA for their support in enriching the lives of all the students at Dalkeith Elementary School in Anjou. ASISTA Facility Service Dogs, Kira and Jessie, provide a calming and caring presence for all students. The dogs help the students learn and grow. Their presence has helped to create a more inclusive and accepting environment for all. See this video.
 |
FUN 15 WITH FRIENDS: Autism Awareness Initiative Fun 15 with Friends is back at Edward Murphy Elementary School in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve. Following a pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, the staff and students at Edward Murphy are once again running reverse integration social groups, organized by WINGS teachers Alana Goodings and Pamela D’Adamo, to help educate and support autism awareness and acceptance. Fun 15 with Friends provides an opportunity for students within the closed WINGS classes to integrate and socialize more within the school, develop and support friendships, and to increase awareness and understanding about autism within the school. The program takes place during the lunch recess. WINGS students, alongside student mentors and a staff volunteer spend time together on a fun game or activity! This offers the opportunity for students to build new friendships, understanding and compassion towards each other. Activities started on March 27 and will run for five weeks until the end of April. Over 65 staff and students are participating, with each student assigned one day a week with a teacher volunteer and a couple of student mentors. If you have any questions or would like to replicate Fun 15 with Friends in your school, contact Alana Goodings agoodings@emsb.qc.ca. Pictured are: Violette Williams, Alana Goodings, Mila Lisi, Violette Ramirez, Olivia Askew, and Luca Agnello.
 |
| Jacques Rougeau at Royal Vale earlier this year. |
JACQUES ROUGEAU WANTS TO VISIT SCHOOLS: Legendary professional wrestler Jacques Rougeau is available to come speak to students as part of his anti-bullying program. He has already done so at a number of EMSB schools, with excellent feedback. One of the female wrestlers he has mentored is Jessika Neri (aka Jessika Black), a teacher at Rosemount High School. Rougeau’s presentations are very effective to young people. In 2022 he was the EMSB spokesman for Pink Shirt Day. See this video from his presentation.
 |
| Ms. Botelho with Amani. |
PEERS IN A VIRTUAL WORLD: Quebec Virtual Academy has offered a virtual education for specific students across the province this year that meet the admission criteria of students with long term medical conditions; students who are elite athletes and training at elite levels and those living in a rural area of Quebec whose academic needs cannot be met in their local school due to lack of accessibility of specific programs. Students have built relationships over the academic year with their teachers and peers in the virtual world.
 |
| Ms. Botelho with Mayson. |
The East Sector Storytelling event, held at Gerald McShane on March 30, provided a first opportunity for two Grade 5 students to finally meet in person and to connect with their teacher, Marianne Botelho and Principal David Servello. Mayson Lopera Alonzo presented his storytelling presentation titled L’évasion de Charly. Amani Ahmad presented her storytelling presentation titled My Birth Story. Participating in the event was a memorable moment for Quebec Virtual Academy
SPREADING THE LOVE: CBC TV did this wonderful report on the Grade 6 students at Carlyle Elementary School in TMR and their song called “Deserve Peace.” You can see it here.
 |
| Grade 2 students mark Earth Day. |
CARLYLE EXPOSES STUDENTS TO WASTE MANAGEMENT: Carlyle Elementary School in TMR's Grade 2 students recently embarked on an exciting unit to celebrate Earth Day. The unit, called "Ah Waste, P-U," is centered around waste management, recycling, and composting. Under the guidance of their teacher, Stephanie Zakem, the young learners explored the importance of preserving the planet and protecting the environment. To kick off the week, Ms. Stephanie read the book Dear Children of the Earth: A Letter from Home by Schim Schimmel to the students. The book instilled in them a deep sense of responsibility towards the planet and the role they play in taking care of it. Following the reading, the students were given an activity where they drew pictures of themselves practicing kindness towards the earth. In addition to their drawings, the students also wrote brief texts detailing specific actions that can be done to show kindness to the planet. Through this activity, the young learners learned the importance of taking care of the environment and the small steps they can take to make a difference. The values instilled in the students through this activity go beyond waste management and recycling. They learned that the earth is home to trees, animals, and all elements of nature. The activity taught them to appreciate the beauty of the environment and the need to preserve it for future generations. The young students also learned that their actions towards the environment have a direct impact on their own well-being. One of the students aptly summarized the significance of the activity, "If our mother earth is not healthy, we, as children will not be healthy."
YOUTH SECTOR CALENDAR: The EMSB Youth Sector calendar has been adopted for the 2023-24 academic year. The first day of classes will be Wednesday, August 30. Christmas Break will be December 25 to January 5. March Break is slated for March 4 to 8 and the last day of classes will be June 21. You can access it here
For the vocational calendar click here
For the Adult Academic calendar click here
 |
| Davide |
EXPOSURE TO THE ARTS: Two students from Dunrae Gardens Elementary School in TMR have published articles in French on our website related to their exposure to the arts. You can see the terrific presentations by Davide Cleinge and Noémie Donneger right here.
 |
| Noémie |
YOUTH FUSION: A number of EMSB schools continue to work with Youth Fusion. Since 2008, Youth Fusion has developed an effective and innovative model focused on the student’s perseverance and development, by offering them support throughout the school year, directly in the schools. The organization hires students from post-secondary institutions to work as project coordinators for 10 to 30 hours per week for a period of 32 to 37 weeks, in class or after-school programs, with the targeted students. The educational projects developed focus on the following four domains: Arts – Science & Engineering – Design – Leadership & Entrepreneurship. In addition to working alongside elementary or secondary students on projects related to their academic field, the coordinators develop a close bond with their students, which helps nurture continuity and perseverance. Employees-mentors from businesses and community organizations operating in sectors tied to the projects are also brought in as mentors and assigned to schools to introduce students to career options, inspire them and shepherd them through the process of completing their projects. These organizations consequently promote not only “expertise volunteering” among their employees but also the thriving opportunities and the needed skills in their sector. Youth Fusion therefore offers a continuum of interventions ranging from elementary schools to the industry and contributes to creating closer links between training and employment while working to lower dropout rates. Info
 |
| Architect Dr. Ipek Tureli and some students. |
ARCHITECTURE EXPERIENCE: Grade 4 students at Royal Vale School in NDG participated in the five-week Architecture Play Shop project led by McGill Architecture professor Ipek Tureli and her undergraduate students in collaboration with teachers Nadia Cinquino, Sarah Nabi and Nathalie Malhamé. The project seeks to develop critical literacy in elementary schools and helps students explore topics such as climate change, forced migration, safe housing, and built environment. The young architects gained awareness about what seeds they can sow and actions they can take to imagine a healthier world. Through play-based projects, the students worked collaboratively to build different environments such as reimagining their neighborhood, playground or city and building a safe home given certain climates and conditions. To deepen their understanding of the realm of Architecture, the students have been invited by Dr. Tureli to visit McGill’s Architecture department in May. To learn more about the project, please visit this link.
 |
| The LINKS team. |
ENTREPRENEURIAL PROJECT: LINKS teacher Jenica Tandoc, with the assistance of class attendant Madeleine Valerio and LINKS MAP students created “Project Giving Back.” This entrepreneurial project was entered into Osentreprendre Competition, where they won locally and are heading to the regionals. Students raised nearly $1,000 from making and selling Mason Recipe Jars and donated all the proceeds to the First People’s Justice Center of Tiohtià:ke/Montreal (FPJCM). Inspired by class discussions about The Sixties Scoop during the month of Truth and Reconciliation, students began to research organizations that support Indigenous communities. That’s how they discovered FPJCM and decided to give back, becoming a part of this important change in the world. To further understand what the FPJCM does for the Indigenous community and how they advocate for alternatives to the justice system, Tealey Ka'senni:saks, Jocelyne Couture and Sheri Pranteau from the FPJCM were invited to come and present this non-profit organization’s mission and programs. Students learned how they help support, inform, and empower indigenous persons in indigenizing the justice system by educating key players, and engaging with indigenous community in a fair, culturally respectful and restorative way. Ms. Jenica explains, “The initial goal of the project was to make a difference by earning money and learning the basics of having a business that addresses a need in a community. However, through the students’ initiative, it became so much more than just learning how to be an entrepreneur because it allowed students to explore their own values and exercise empathy towards others.”
DEEP DEEP DOWN: Lydia Lukidis will launch her new children’s STEM (Science, Technology, English and Math) picture book on Sat. April 29 (11 am) at Babar Books in Pointe Claire. Parents are encouraged to bring their kids aged four to 12 for a reading and an array of fun activities. Reserve at info@lydialukidis.com . DEEP, DEEP, DOWN: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench is the title of the book. Through lyrical narration, this spare-text STEM picture book takes readers on a journey to a place very few humans have ever been--the Mariana Trench. The imagined voyage debunks scary myths about this mysterious place with surprising and beautiful truths about life at Earth's deepest point. The book is written by Lukidis, illustrated by Juan Calle and published by Capstone. It comes with a teacher guide that includes dozens of curriculum tie-ins and activities in Common Core ELA and Math, and Next Generation Science Standards. A science enthusiast from a young age, she now incorporates her studies in science and her everlasting curiosity into her books.
BASE DAYCARE WEEK: Quebec Day Care Week will be held from May 15 to 19. Let's take this opportunity to highlight the impact of school-based child care technicians and educator.
 |
| Showcasing the PDC cookbook. |
INTERGENERATIONAL COOKBOOK: Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School in St. Leonard is proud to announce the launch of its new intergenerational cookbook “Cucina del Cuore,” featuring recipes in English, French, and Italian. The program was initiated by the administration team of Principal Ida Pisano and Vice-Principal Jessica Monti, Spiritual Community Animator Vince Lacroce and Cycle 3 teachers Sonia Bertone, Carmela Bonifacio, Sabrina Colatruglio and Michelle Santilli, to preserve cultural heritage and promote intergenerational connections. The cookbook is a unique collection of recipes passed down from parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, as well as new recipes created by students and staff. It includes a variety of dishes ranging from classic family recipes to modern twists on traditional favorites, all with a focus on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The cookbook not only celebrates the diverse culinary traditions of the school community but also serves as a tool for language learning. Each recipe is presented in either English, French, or Italian, allowing students to practice their language skills and learn about different cultures in a fun and engaging way. Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School recognizes the importance of fostering intergenerational connections and promoting cultural diversity. The cookbook is just one example of the school's commitment to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and culturally rich learning environment for its students. A portion of the proceeds for this cookbook ($35) will benefit the Montreal Neurological Institute (The Neuro) for research and development in Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Dr. Louis Collins and his team will be working with the funds generated from this initiative and will also dialogue virtually with the students about their work and developments in the areas of the brain. If you would like to obtain a copy of the “Cucina del Cuore”, Cookbook, please contact Vince Lacroce at vlacroce@emsb.qc.ca.
 |
| An Earth Day puzzle. |
EARTH DAY: In honour of Earth Day, Spiritual Community Animator Lacroce organized an exciting and educational event for Cycle 2 and 3 students at both Pierre de Coubertin and Nesbitt Elementary. Students participated in an Earth Day Scavenger Hunt and Escape Room designed to teach them about the importance of environmentalism and conservation. The scavenger hunt took place in the schools’ indoor and outdoor spaces and challenged students to search for clues related to environmentalism and the protection of wildlife. As they explored their surroundings, they learned about topics such as recycling, composting, energy conservation, and Canadian wildlife. Throughout the interactive workshop, students entered specific rooms designed to reinforce the lessons they learned throughout the day. The escape room featured puzzles and challenges related to environmentalism and encouraged students to think critically about their role in protecting the planet. “Earth Day is a great opportunity to teach children about the importance of taking care of our planet,” Lacroce said. “By creating an event that’s both fun and educational, we hope to inspire students to become advocates for the environment.”
KINDNESS IN BLOOM: In recognition of the EMSB's "Respect” campaign, staff members Yole Atri (Art Specialist) and Nancy Bassett (Tutor) at Nesbitt Elementary, Claudina Leonora Ocando Pena (Art Specialist) at Pierre de Coubertin Elementary and Spiritual Community Animator Vince Lacroce are embarking upon on a school-wide respect and kindness initiative during this spring season! Each school has created beautiful handmade colorful flowers that will be given out throughout the month of April to students that demonstrate the virtues of respect, kindness, empathy, cooperation, and helpfulness toward others. Staff members will be awarding students these beautiful flowers and they will write their name and positive actions on one of the petals. The flowers will be collected and placed in each school's “Tree of Kindness” with the goal of encouraging students to participate in improving the community and society around them.
 |
| Members of the We Care Club. |
WE CARE CLUB: During the month of April, the Vincent Massey Collegiate We Care Club, through the guidance of Spiritual and Community Animator Veronica D’Agata, helped organize an online kindness campaign. Students and staff were encouraged to participate in suggested daily random acts of kindness as well as post kindness photos while tagging the new We Care Club Instagram page. Kindness has been scientifically proven to benefit one’s physical and mental health. Kind actions have the potential to directly improve one’s life no matter how large or small the act may seem. And so, we are hoping that by participating in this campaign we will, at the very least, bring a smile to someone’s face! In addition to the online campaign, the We Care Club also led a kindness campaign at school, with the guidance of Ms. D’Agata. Some of the kindness activities that took place through the month of April included: Writing letters of encouragement and advice to the Grade 6 class at John Caboto Academy to put at ease any worries they may have about the upcoming high school experience. A coloring kindness bookmark was also included for every student in the class; painting “Kindness Rocks” which will be placed in various greenspaces around the school grounds; and practicing showing kindness in the community by organizing a fun-filled “Carnival Day” for the seniors at the Almage Community Centre. Various stations were set up, and the students volunteered to assist the seniors in playing the different games. These intergenerational opportunities have a positive impact on both the students and seniors. They have a sense of enjoyment, well-being, increased activity levels, as well as develop self-esteem, allowing the seniors to feel cared for and valued.
 |
| The special reading activity. |
BANCROFT READS: Bancroft Elementary School in the Plateau has been busy this month with several different reading experiences, facilitated by participating teachers and Spiritual and Community Animato Jessica Wilson. Grades one and two were invited by MIND to engage in a special reading activity. The MIND High School students took smaller groups of Bancroft students and read them the book You Matter by Christian Robinson. After the reading, each student was lucky enough to bring a copy of the book home. Later in the month, all grades were invited to participate in an immersive reading experience to celebrate Multicultural week at Bancroft. Pre - K teacher Christina De Sousa purchased a variety of books showcasing diversity and inclusion, and over the course of two days classes visited the library, which was set up with essential oils, a projector, and soft music, for them to enjoy reading the special books.
 |
| A scene from the concert. |
SPRING CONCERT: On Thursday, April 20, Our Lady of Pompei Elementary School in Ahuntsic held its annual Spring Concert at the Leonardo Da Vinci Centre in RDP. Titled, “Rhythms of The World” music specialist Eugen Negrii incorporated his philosophy of music education: movement. It was a sold out show!
DUPLICATE OF CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY: If you need a duplicate copy of your certificate of English eligibility you can do so at this link.
DENTAL BENEFIT: The Canada Dental Benefit is part of the government’s plan to improve dental care for Canadians with a family income of less than $90,000 annually. Through this benefit, children under 12 who do not have access to dental care insurance can get the dental care they need. Go to www.canada.ca/dental for all of the details.
ADULT EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL SERVICES
 |
| The Galileo students with their project in the backdrop. |
MULTIMEDIA PROJECT: As part of the Galileo Adult Education Centre’s Multimedia Computer Science courses in the falls of 2021 and 2022 , photo galleries were created. Using their smartphones, students practiced applying the principles of photography and gained a new appreciation for the medium, each developing a unique aesthetic vision of their subject. While Miss Stephanie’s class captured the beauty of Montreal North’s often overlooked natural landscapes, Miss Sarah’s class explored Montreal North’s urban spaces as well as the PHI Centre’s evolving digital landscapes. This gallery highlights the work of the following student photographers: Ons Al-Halaki, Morena Aracely Canas Marquez, Emma-Anne Castanha, Skyler Donovan Charlot, Ilias D’Onofrio, Huu Dat Huynh, Aly Haj Hussein, Alicia Iannetta-Quito, Michael Pannunzio, Samantha Perrin, Ben-Jonathan Pierre, Sophia Graciela Molina-Cerda.
 |
| Students and staff banded together. |
YUMMY DOH FUNDRAISER: In Galileo's continued goal to raise money to renovate the second-floor kitchen, the school tapped into the cookie lover in all of us and teamed up with Yummy Doh to offer a delicious treat! The entire Galileo community banded together to sell Yummy Doh (cookie dough products that are dairy-free, vegan, have no preservatives or artificial colors, and can be enjoyed raw, baked, as a cake pop, in a parfait or with ice cream). Designated social integration students went class to class offering tasting samples, students and staff placed their orders, and then the Yummy Doh shipment was received, students separated, packaged, and delivered the delicious cookie orders to their respective classmates. In the process, Galileo raised and extra $1,800!
CABINETMAKING: Dedicated to the craft, Rosemount Technology Centre cabinet making students put in the time and effort to hone their skills and create something truly remarkable.
JFKAC BOOKSTORE: Students at John F. Kennedy Adult Education Centre in St. Michel u looking for textbooks can now find them at their bookstore! They have everything students need to succeed this semester, including the latest editions of textbooks for all courses.
 |
| A flexible learning space. |
A SOUND PEDAGOGICAL STRATEGY: Flexible learning spaces is an approach that allows for the implementation of differentiated instruction. St Laurent Adult Education Center have been successfully implementing flexible spaces in some classes. In fact, flexible learning spaces are a sound pedagogical strategy to deal with multi-level classes. Both students and teachers have expressed how exciting this approach is. The pictures here show the transformation of one of our classes from a traditional setting to a flexible learning space. There is now a section for students who need to write an exam, and several sections that serve various purposes for students in different levels and/or working on different learning goals. Students feel more comfortable and enjoy their learning experience much more.
 |
| The Book Club. |
DEVELOPING LITERACY: St Laurent Adult Education Center believes reading is essential to students’ success. That is the reason why they have been promoting a more intentional focus on developing literacy at the school. Both their Common Core Basic Education (CCBE) and Diversified Basic Education (DBE) students have been practicing extra intensive and extensive reading activities inside and outside class. A book club has also been created for students to exchange ideas about the books they are reading. More than 50 students are involved in these reading activities.
ÉDITION DU MOIS D’AVRIL / BULLETIN DE LA CSEM
CONFÉRENCE DES PARENTS : La conférence des parents de la CSEM 2023 aura lieu le dimanche 28 mai, de 9 h à midi, à l'école secondaire Rosemont située au 3737, rue Beaubien Est. Le duo de comédiens Bowser et Blue seront les maîtres de cérémonie. L'événement sera suivi de cinq jours de capsules vidéo de type dîner-conférence, du 29 mai au 2 juin. Plus de détails à venir.
HOMMAGE AUX BÉNÉVOLES : À l'occasion de la Semaine de l'action bénévole, qui s'est déroulée du 16 au 23 avril dans les écoles et les centres, la Commission scolaire English-Montréal a organisé une réception et une cérémonie spéciales dans le but d’honorer quatre bénévoles émérites et l’Ambassadeur de l'année. Le 25 avril, au Centre de carrières St. Pius X à Ahuntsic, les personnes honorées, leurs familles, les commissaires et la direction de la CSEM ainsi que les membres de l’exécutif du comité de parents ont peu déguster un délicieux buffet préparé par les élèves du programme culinaire de la CSEM, suivi d'une cérémonie de remise des prix diffusée en direct. Nous vous invitons à la visionner à www.emsb.qc.ca, sous À propos, Gouvernance, Webdiffusion en direct des réunions du conseil. Tim Sargeant, de Global Montreal, a agi comme maître de cérémonie. Les bénévoles émérites sont Debbie Fox et Natalie Sztych de l'école primaire Saint-Gabriel de Pointe Saint-Charles, ainsi que Laura et Frank Marra de l'école secondaire Rosemont. Le légendaire Simon Chang a été couronné Ambassadeur de l'année.
DU TISSU POUR LES ÉCOLES : Du tissu, du tissu et encore du tissu! Une fois de plus, le créateur de mode canadien, partenaire du journal Inspirations et Ambassadeur bénévole de l'année à la CSEM, a du tissu à offrir à nos écoles. Vous planifiez un projet artistique spécial - qu'il s'agisse de couture, de murales, de décorations, de fabrication de cartes, de marionnettes ou de toute autre idée créative - et vous avez besoin de tissus pour le réaliser? Ça tombe bien, car M. Chang a une multitude de tissus et garnitures dont il aimerait faire don aux écoles de la CSEM.
Nous vous invitons à contacter Faye à admin@sominchanggroup.com pour vérifier s'ils ont des tissus qui correspondent à votre projet. Une fois que vous aurez trouvé ce que vous cherchez, vous pourrez ramasser les tissus à leur bureau sur la rue Chabanel.
ÉLÈVE DU MOIS : La CSEM est fière de nommer Shayne Armstrong, de l’école St. Gabriel, à titre d'Élève du mois d'avril. Laura Dextrase, enseignante en 5e année, a proposé la candidature de Shayne parce que c’est un excellent élève qui adopte un comportement positif et inclusif. Récemment, en février, Shayne a participé à la mise sur pied de diverses activités pour sa classe dans le cadre du Mois de l'histoire des Noirs. Shayne et son enseignante ont travaillé de concert afin de former une équipe d'élèves qui, à l’heure du dîner et lors des pauses, se sont affairés à créer des stations d'activités en lien avec l'histoire des Noirs, notamment un mur de lecture et de recherche, un bingo sur l'histoire des Noirs ainsi qu’un poste de graffitis et de coloriage de personnages historiques. Laura et tous ceux qui connaissent Shayne s'accordent à dire que ses qualités de leader et son comportement incarnent le meilleur de l'école Saint-Gabriel.
MATHESON DE PASSAGE DANS UNE ÉCOLE : Le défenseur des Canadiens de Montréal, Mike Matheson, a rendu visite à l'école primaire St. Gabriel de Pointe Saint-Charles le 17 avril pour s'entretenir avec les élèves. Il est ambassadeur de la Fondation Champions pour la vie, qui donne aux enfants les moyens de rester actifs toute leur vie et d'acquérir les aptitudes, la confiance et la motivation nécessaires. Matheson, qui est né et a grandi à Montréal et qui s'est joint aux Canadiens cette saison à la suite d'un échange avec Pittsburgh, s’est adressé aux élèves de la maternelle. Il leur a lu une histoire interACTIVE Petits champions, destinée à fournir des expériences de mouvement significatives de sorte que les enfants puissent développer leur littératie physique par l’entremise de la narration. Il a ensuite passé du temps avec les élèves de la 1re à la 6e année dans le gymnase pour parler de ce que signifie être un « Champion pour la vie » et d'autres sujets, comme grandir et fonder une famille. Le programme Champions pour la vie est en place à l'école primaire St. Gabriel depuis 2016, grâce au soutien généreux de la Fondation des Canadiens pour l'enfance. Parmi les invités spéciaux figuraient Kaizen, la mascotte de Champions pour la vie, ainsi que des représentants de la CSEM.
CONFÉRENCE SUR LA LOI 96 : La CSEM tiendra une conférence spéciale sur les répercussions de la loi 96 sur notre réseau scolaire et notre compétitivité. Cet événement sur invitation seulement, qui sera diffusé en direct sur nos plateformes de réseaux sociaux, aura lieu le jeudi 27 avril en soirée. Un panel se penchera sur les incidences de cette loi sur nos écoles primaires et secondaires anglophones, tandis qu'un autre s'attardera aux conséquences sur les cégeps, les universités et les entreprises. Mark Power, dont le cabinet représente la CSEM dans une contestation judiciaire contre la loi 96, prendra la parole, de même que le président de la CSEM, Joe Ortona; Nancy Beattie, directrice du campus du collège Champlain; Russell Copeman, directeur général de l'Association des commissions scolaires anglophones du Québec; Lloyd Segal, président et chef de la direction de Repare Therapeutics; Christopher Shannon, président du comité de défense des intérêts de l'Association des écoles privées du Québec; et Beryl Wajsman, rédacteur en chef du journal The Suburban.
LA BATAILLE DES LIVRES : « Nous avons lu les livres ». C'est ainsi que la capitaine de l'équipe, Emma Birlean, a brièvement expliqué la victoire écrasante de l'Académie Royal West dans le cadre du concours annuel la Bataille des livres de la Commission scolaire English-Montréal – la première présentation en personne de cet événement en quatre ans. Des élèves de quatre écoles secondaires se sont affrontés en mettant à l’épreuve leurs connaissances en lien avec 12 livres pour adolescents qu'ils ont lus au cours de l'année scolaire. Le concours a été organisé par les bibliothécaires des écoles et les Services éducatifs de la CSEM. L'Académie Royal West de Montréal-Ouest a accumulé 105 points lors de la compétition finale qui a eu lieu au centre administratif de la CSEM. L'école secondaire Lester B. Pearson de Montréal-Nord s'est classée deuxième avec 80 points, suivie de l'école secondaire Westmount avec 74 points et de l'école secondaire Laurier Macdonald de Saint Léonard avec 72 points. Les gagnants représenteront la CSEM dans le cadre de l’Ultime bataille le mercredi 26 avril, au centre administratif de la Commission scolaire Lester B. Pearson (CSLBP) située au 1925, avenue Brookdale, à Dorval. À cette occasion, l'équipe gagnante de la CSEM tentera de remporter les grands honneurs à l'échelle de la métropole en se mesurant aux équipes gagnantes de la Commission scolaire Lester B. Pearson et de l'Association des écoles privées du Québec (AEPQ). Nous vous invitons à consulter l’intégral de l’article rédigé par Pat Hickey : https://www.emsb.qc.ca/csem/nouvelles/l-academie-royal-west-remporte-la-bataille-des-livres.
ÉDUCATION SUR L'HOLOCAUSTE : Les élèves de 5e secondaire de l'école secondaire Lester B. Pearson de Montréal-Nord se sont engagés dans un processus d'apprentissage ayant pour objectifs la compréhension de notre histoire, le développement de l'empathie et de la compassion, ainsi que l'autonomisation pour l'avenir. Pour les élèves de l'école secondaire Lester B. Pearson de Montréal-Nord, ce cheminement a débuté avec l'étude des mémoires Night d'Elie Wiesel dans le cadre des cours d'anglais de Pangiota Seremetis en 5e secondaire. Le récit se déroule pendant l'Holocauste et relate l'horrible destin de la famille d'Eliezer jusqu'à Auschwitz. Cette activité d'apprentissage s'est conclue par une visite au Musée de l'Holocauste de Montréal, organisée par l'animateur de vie spirituelle et d'engagement communautaire Joseph Monachino. La visite et l'atelier qui a suivi ont permis aux élèves de prendre conscience des expériences décrites dans le livre Night et ont rendu l'étude du roman encore plus percutante. M. Monachino insiste sur le fait que ce type d'occasion d'apprentissage permet véritablement à chaque élève de s'épanouir et de se responsabiliser, et c'est de cette manière que nous pouvons contribuer à faire en sorte que des événements tels que l'Holocauste ne se reproduisent plus jamais. Nous vous invitons à écouter notre balado :
https://holocausteducationprogram.buzzsprout.com/2046819/12579658-lester-b-pearson-high-school-students-get-a-new-perspective-on-the-holocaust#:~:text=Secondary%20V%20students,never%20happen%20again.
LA TECHNOLOGIE ET LA SCIENCE : Cinq élèves de l'Académie Royal West à Montréal Ouest se sont illustrées lors de la finale régionale de Montréal de l'Expo-sciences Hydro Québec qui s'est tenue à l’Académie Laval Senior. Les jumelles Lauren et Cassidy Engo et leur projet intitulé « Take a Bite Out of CO2 » ont remporté la médaille de bronze (senior), le prix de la Société canadienne de météorologie et d'océanographie, le prix de la plus haute distinction, le prix du Département des sciences atmosphériques et océaniques de la Faculté des sciences de l'Université McGill, le prix de la Faculté des sciences de l'Université McGill ainsi que le prix de l'expérimentation et du design de la Super Expo-sciences Hydro-Québec (SESHQ). Elles se sont qualifiées pour la compétition provinciale qui a eu lieu en début de semaine au Centre d'éducation physique et des sports de l'Université de Montréal (CEPSUM). Laura De Angelis et Elisabetta Iorio et leur projet « Can You Remember? » se sont vu décerner le prix en sciences du Collège Champlain – campus Saint-Lambert et le prix en sciences du Collège John Abbott. Le projet d'Emma Birlean « Anxiety for High Achievers » s’est mérité le prix en sciences du Collège Dawson ainsi que le prix en psychologie de l'Université McGill.
CLUB CDL CAMP D'ÉTÉ: Notre camp d'été se concentre sur l'introduction et l'amélioration des techniques de tennis dans un groupe agréable pendant 4 heures par jour. Le plaisir ne s'arrête pas au tennis! Nous offrons également une heure de fitness dans notre piscine extérieure ou sur le terrain de soccer intérieur. Notre équipe d'entraîneurs donne la priorité à la sécurité, la joie et le confort des enfants. Votre (vos) enfant(s) demandera(ont) des semaines supplémentaires de camp d'été! Plus d'infos: https://www.clubcdl.com/summercamp?lang=fr
LES BRUINS DIRIGÉS PAR UN DIPLÔMÉ DE L'ÉCOLE SECONDAIRE ROSEMONT : L'entraîneur-chef des Bruins de Boston, Jim Montgomery, affirme que le système scolaire public a joué un rôle clé dans le succès qu’il a remporté plus tard au cours de sa vie. « Je pense que mes études à l'école primaire Montrose et à l'école secondaire Rosemont m'ont préparé à réussir à l'Université du Maine », a déclaré Montgomery avant le dernier match de la saison régulière des Bruins contre les Canadiens au Centre Bell le 13 avril. « Les enseignants étaient dévoués et nous demandaient de rendre des comptes. Ceux qui étaient curieux d'apprendre étaient bien servis. »
Bien que Montgomery n'ait pas vécu à Montréal au cours des 30 dernières années, il a gardé contact avec des amis d'enfance. Nombre d'entre eux ont pratiqué des sports dans les ligues mineures sous la houlette de Jim Montgomery père, un athlète polyvalent qui a représenté le Canada à la boxe aux Jeux olympiques de 1956. Une vingtaine de ses amis ont assisté à la séance de patinage matinale des Bruins au Centre Bell. Montgomery a indiqué qu'il avait obtenu 35 à 40 laissez-passer d'invités pour une petite rencontre après le match. Nous vous invitons à consulter l’intégral de l’article de Pat Hickey : https://www.emsb.qc.ca/csem/nouvelles/montgomery-l-entraineur-chef-des-bruins-de-boston-garde-de-bons-souvenirs-de-son-passage-a-l-ecole-secondaire-rosemont
EMSB EXPRESS : L'édition du printemps du journal EMSB EXPRESS de la CSEM est maintenant disponible et des exemplaires imprimés ont été livrés aux écoles et aux centres. Ce numéro gravite principalement autour de la récente campagne Être bilingue, c'est gagnant! Une section spéciale est d’ailleurs consacrée à ce thème. Il est également possible d’en faire la lecture en ligne.
LA MAGIE DES IMPRESSIONNISTES : Quelque 300 élèves de deux écoles primaires, soit Gerald McShane à Montréal-Nord et Royal Vale à NDG, ont assisté à une représentation de La Magie des impressionnistes (www.lastingimpressionsin3D.com) au complexe Studio-Cabaret / Espace St Denis le 13 avril. Ils ont vécu une expérience extraordinaire projetée sur un énorme écran holographique 3D à DEL de 75 pieds où les spectateurs ont véritablement l’impression de prendre place avec les invités de Renoir dans Le déjeuner des canotiers, de tourbillonner avec les Danseuses de Degas, de flotter au-dessus des Nymphéas de Monet et de s'envoler dans La nuit étoilée de Van Gogh. Passez un dimanche dans le parc avec Georges Seurat et déambulez parmi les célèbres personnages de son œuvre Un dimanche après-midi à l'île de la Grande Jatte. En plus d’en mettre plein les yeux, La Magie des impressionnistes est un réel enchantement pour les oreilles avec les chefs-d'œuvre de Debussy, Ravel et d'autres compositeurs, ainsi que les classiques français signés Piaf, Aznavour et Mouskouri, parfaitement synchronisés avec les œuvres d’art qui prennent vie. Les élèves présents aux deux représentations ont été émerveillés, applaudissant à plusieurs reprises et laissant échapper plusieurs « oohs » et « aahs » sur les effets spéciaux en 3D. Nicolas Doyon, conseiller en arts à la CSEM, qui a assisté à la première du programme, a coordonné ces visites l'hiver dernier. En raison de l'accueil fort enthousiaste réservé à La Magie des impressionnistes, les promoteurs Paul Dupont Hébert et Rubin Fogel ont annoncé la prolongation de l'événement. Le public, qui a répondu en grand nombre, pourra donc vivre l’expérience de cette production holographique en 3D unique en son genre jusqu'à la fin du mois de juin au nouveau Studio-Cabaret.
LE RETOUR D’UN RESTAURATEUR : Ryan Silkey a rendu visite à son ancienne école primaire, soit Edinburgh à Montréal-Ouest, où il s’est entretenu avec les élèves de sa carrière de chef professionnel et de son propre restaurant, Randy's Bistro, situé à proximité sur l'avenue Westminster. Le restaurant porte le nom de son défunt père. Ryan est parvenu à persuader son ami Tyler Casey de venir travailler comme chef dans son restaurant. Il dirigeait récemment la cuisine du Sumac, dans le Vieux-Montréal. Ryan a travaillé dans plusieurs restaurants. Tout récemment, il était le chef du Bird Bar à Griffintown. Il a parfait ses connaissances à l'institut culinaire. À l'âge de 38 ans, ouvrir son propre restaurant, lui a semblé la chose à faire. C'est un travail difficile qui exige de longues heures. Le restaurant est ouvert de midi à 22 h les mardis et mercredis et de midi à 23 h du jeudi au samedi. Le lundi, Ryan et Tyler font l'inventaire, achètent les aliments et voient à la préparation. Tous les plats sont concoctés à partir d'ingrédients frais. Randy's Bistro est situé au 45, avenue Westminster Nord. La livraison est disponible via Uber Eats et DoorDash. Pour informations, 514 481 7731 ou https://randysbistro.wixsite.com/my-site.
SENSIBILISATION À L'AUTISME : C'est le Mois de la sensibilisation à l'autisme et la CSEM tient à remercier ASISTA pour son soutien qui contribue à enrichir la vie de tous les élèves de l'école primaire Dalkeith à Anjou. Kira et Jessie, les chiens d'assistance d’ASISTA, offrent une présence apaisante et bienveillante pour tous les élèves. Les chiens aident les élèves à apprendre et à s’épanouir. Leur présence a permis de créer un environnement plus inclusif et plus accueillant pour tous.
FUN 15 WITH FRIENDS : L'initiative de sensibilisation à l'autisme « Fun 15 with Friends » est de retour à l'école primaire Edward Murphy dans Hochelaga-Maisonneuve. Contraints de mettre le programme sur pause pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, le personnel et les élèves de l'école Edward Murphy proposent à nouveau les groupes d'intégration sociale inversée, organisés par les enseignantes des classes WINGS, Alana Goodings et Pamela D'Adamo, afin d'appuyer l’éducation et de soutenir la sensibilisation et l'acceptation face à l'autisme. « Fun 15 with Friends » permet aux élèves des classes multidisciplinaires WINGS de s'intégrer et de se socialiser davantage au sein de l'école, de développer et d’entretenir des amitiés, et d'accroître la sensibilisation et la compréhension entourant l'autisme à l'école. Le programme se déroule pendant la pause du dîner. Les élèves des classes WINGS, accompagnés d'élèves mentors et d'un membre du personnel bénévole, passent du temps ensemble autour d'un jeu ou d'une activité amusante! Les élèves ont ainsi l'occasion de tisser de nouvelles amitiés et de faire preuve de compréhension et de compassion les uns envers les autres. Les activités ont débuté le 27 mars et se poursuivront pendant cinq semaines jusqu'à la fin du mois d'avril. Plus de 65 membres du personnel et élèves y participent, chaque élève étant jumelé un jour par semaine à un enseignant bénévole et à quelques élèves mentors. Si vous avez des questions ou si vous souhaitez mettre sur pied une activité « Fun 15 with Friends » à votre école, contactez Alana Goodings : agoodings@emsb.qc.ca.
Photo : Violette Williams, Alana Goodings, Mila Lisi, Violette Ramirez, Olivia Askew et Luca Agnello.
JACQUES ROUGEAU REND VISITE AUX ÉCOLES : Le légendaire Jacques Rougeau est disposé à s’entretenir avec les élèves dans le cadre de son programme de lutte contre l'intimidation. Il a déjà rendu visite à un certain nombre d'écoles de la CSEM, et les commentaires sont excellents. L'une des lutteuses qu'il a pris sous son aile est Jessika Neri (alias Jessika Black), enseignante à l'école secondaire Rosemont. Les interventions de M. Rougeau sont très appréciées par les jeunes. En 2022, il a été le porte-parole de la CSEM lors de la Journée du chandail rose. Nous vous invitons à visionner cette vidéo de sa présentation : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEQR5LoPBoo.
L’AMITIÉ EN MODE VIRTUEL : L'Académie Quebec Virtual a dispensé cette année un enseignement virtuel à certains élèves de la province répondant aux critères d'admission : les élèves qui ont une condition médicale de longue durée, les élèves athlètes de haut niveau qui s'entraînent au niveau élite et les élèves qui habitent en zone rurale et dont les besoins scolaires ne peuvent être satisfaits au sein de leur école locale en raison du manque d'accessibilité à des cours spécifiques. Tout au long de l'année scolaire, les élèves ont tissé des liens avec leurs enseignants et leurs camarades de classe virtuelle. Lors de l’activité East Sector Storytelling tenue à Gerald McShane le 30 mars, deux élèves de 5e année ont pu enfin se rencontrer en personne et échanger avec leur enseignante, Mme Botelho, et le directeur de l'école, David Servello. Mayson Lopera Alonzo a présenté son conte intitulé L'évasion de Charly. Amani Ahmad a fait la lecture de son récit My Birth Story. La participation à cet événement fut un moment mémorable pour l'Académie Quebec Virtual.
RÉPANDRE L'AMOUR : La chaîne de télévision CBC a réalisé un excellent reportage mettant en vedette les élèves de 6e année de l'école primaire Carlyle, à TMR, et leur chanson ayant pour titre « Deserve Peace ». Pour visionner : https://vimeo.com/814426384.
CALENDRIER DU SECTEUR DES JEUNES : Le calendrier du secteur des jeunes de la CSEM a été adopté pour l'année scolaire 2023-2024. La rentrée se tiendra le mercredi 30 août. Le congé des Fêtes aura lieu du 25 décembre au 5 janvier. La relâche scolaire est prévue du 4 au 8 mars et le dernier jour de classe sera le 21 juin.
Pour consulter le calendrier de la formation professionnelle
Pour consulter le calendrier de la formation générale des adultes
EXPOSITION AUX ARTS : Deux élèves de l'école primaire Dunrae Gardens de Ville Mont-Royal ont publié des articles en français sur notre site Web en lien avec leur exposition aux arts. Nous vous invitons à les consulter :https://www.emsb.qc.ca/csem/nouvelles/reporters-en-herbe
ARCHITECTURE: Les élèves de 4e année de l'école Royal Vale à NDG ont pris part au projet Architecture PlayShop, d'une durée de cinq semaines, dirigé par Ipek Tureli, professeure d'architecture à l'Université McGill avec ses étudiants de premier cycle et en collaboration avec les enseignantes Nadia Cinquino, Sarah Nabi et Nathalie Malhamé. Le projet vise à développer la littératie critique au primaire et permet aux élèves d’explorer des thèmes tels les changements climatiques, la migration forcée, la sécurité des logements et l'environnement bâti. Les jeunes architectes ont pris conscience des gestes qu'ils peuvent poser et des actions qu'ils peuvent entreprendre pour imaginer un monde plus sain. Par l’entremise de projets ludiques, les élèves ont collaboré à la construction de différents environnements, comme réimaginer leur quartier, leur terrain de jeu ou leur ville et construire une maison sécuritaire en tenant compte de certaines conditions climatiques. Pour approfondir leur compréhension du domaine de l'architecture, les élèves ont été invités par la Dre Tureli à visiter le Département d'architecture de l'Université McGill en mai. Pour en savoir plus sur le projet : : https://www.mcgill.ca/architectureplayshop/fr
DEEP, DEEP, DOWN : Lydia Lukidis lancera son nouveau livre d'images STIM (science, technologie, ingénierie et mathématiques) pour enfants le samedi 29 avril (11 h) à la librairie Livres Babar de Pointe-Claire. Les parents sont invités à y amener leurs enfants de 4 à 12 ans pour une lecture et une foule d'activités amusantes. Pour réserver : info@lydialukidis.com. Son livre s’intitule DEEP, DEEP, DOWN : The Secret Underwater Poetry de Mariana Trench. Ce livre d'images STIM à la narration lyrique et au texte dépouillé transporte le lecteur dans une aventure vers un lieu où très peu d'êtres humains sont allés : la fosse de Marianna. Ce voyage imaginaire brise des mythes terrifiants sur cet endroit mystérieux en révélant des vérités surprenantes et magnifiques sur la vie au point le plus profond de la Terre. Le livre est écrit par Lydia Lukidis, illustré par Juan Calle et publié par Capstone. Il est accompagné d'un guide de l'enseignant renfermant des douzaines d'activités et de liens avec le curriculum dans le cadre des cours ELA et Mathématique du programme de base, et des normes scientifiques de nouvelle génération. Passionnée de sciences depuis sa plus tendre enfance, elle intègre désormais ses études en sciences et son éternelle curiosité dans ses livres.
SEMAINE DES SERVICES DE GARDE B.A.S.E. : La Semaine québécoise de la garde scolaire se tiendra du 15 au 19 mai 2023. Profitons de l’occasion pour souligner la contribution des techniciennes/techniciens et des éducatrices/éducateurs en service de garde en milieu scolaire.
MÉDAILLE L'OR : L'équipe féminine de basketball de Royal Vale, qui représentait NDG, a remporté une médaille d'or aux Jeux de Montréal qui se sont déroulés à l'Académie LaurenHill de Saint Laurent.
PRESTATION DENTAIRE : La prestation dentaire canadienne s’inscrit dans le plan gouvernemental visant à améliorer les soins dentaires pour les Canadiens dont le revenu familial annuel est inférieur à 90 000 $. Grâce à cette prestation, les enfants de moins de 12 ans non couverts par un régime d'assurance dentaire peuvent obtenir les soins dentaires dont ils ont besoin. Pour plus de détails, consultez le site du gouvernement : https://www.canada.ca/fr/agence-revenu/services/prestations-enfants-familles/prestation-dentaire.html.
SERVICES DE L'ÉDUCATION DES ADULTE ET DE LA FORMATION PROFESSIONNELLE
PROJET MULTIMÉDIA : Dans le cadre des cours d'informatique multimédia dispensés au Centre de formation des adultes Galileo à l’automne 2021 et 2022, des galeries de photos ont été créées. À l'aide de leurs téléphones intelligents, les élèves se sont exercés à appliquer les principes de la photographie et ont acquis une nouvelle appréciation pour ce médium, chacun développant une vision esthétique unique de son sujet. Alors que la classe de Mme Stéphanie a capturé la beauté des paysages naturels souvent négligés de Montréal-Nord, la classe de Mme Sarah a pour sa part exploré les espaces urbains de Montréal-Nord ainsi que les paysages numériques en évolution du Centre PHI. Cette galerie met en lumière le travail des élèves photographes suivants : Ons Al-Halaki, Morena Aracely Canas Marquez, Emma-Anne Castanha, Skyler Donovan Charlot, Ilias D'Onofrio, Huu Dat Huynh, Aly Haj Hussein, Alicia Iannetta-Quito, Michael Pannunzio, Samantha Perrin, Ben-Jonathan Pierre et Sophia Graciela Molina-Cerda.
ÉBÉNISTERIE : Dévoués à leur art, les élèves en ébénisterie du Centre de technologie Rosemont consacrent temps et efforts pour parfaire leurs compétences et créer de véritables merveilles.
LIBRAIRIE CEAJFK : Les élèves du Centre d'éducation des adultes John F. Kennedy (CEAJFK) de Saint-Michel peuvent désormais se procurer des manuels à leur librairie! Ils y trouveront tout ce dont ils ont besoin pour réussir leur semestre, y compris les plus récentes éditions des manuels pour tous les cours.
Le prochain numéro de Pleins feux sur Fielding sera publié le 23 mai. Prière de soumettre vos articles au plus tard le 19 mai à midi.The next edition of the EMSB Focus will be published on May 23. Deadline for submissions is May 19 at Noon.
