CHALLENGING BILL 21: The EMSB looks forward to challenging Bill 21, An Act Respecting the Laicity of the State, before the Supreme Court of Canada.On Thursday, the Supreme Court of Canada announced that it will hear a challenge to Quebec’s secularism law On October 2019 the EMSB challenged Bill 21 in Quebec Superior Court. The legislation had come into force several months earlier, barring public-school teachers, government lawyers, judges and police officers from wearing religious symbols while at work. The Quebec Superior Court struck down key provisions of Bill 21 on April 20, 2021. However, the Quebec Court of Appeal did not uphold that decision on February 29, 2024, setting in motion the request by the EMSB, the National Council for Canadian Muslims, the Canadian Civil Liberties Association to seek leave to appeal that ruling at the Supreme Court. We maintain our original position that Bill 21 conflicts with our values and our mission and with those of all Quebecers as expressed in the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms,” said EMSB Chair Joe Ortona. “Its very adoption was contrary to our societal goal of promoting our peaceful co-existence in a pluralistic Quebec."
 |
| Joe Ortona is seen here at the Quebec Court of Appeal |
See our complete press release
BILL 40: Proceedings in the Quebec Court of Appeal for Bill 40, the legislation abolishing school boards, have begun. The nine English boards won the first round in Quebec Superior Court.
 |
| The late Horace I. Goddard |
BLACK HISTORY MONTH LAUNCH: The EMSB will mark Black History Month with programming across the network. On Thursday, February 6 the EMSB will hold its formal kickoff at Parkdale Elementary School in St. Laurent in dedication to the late Dr. Horace Goddard, a former school teacher, principal and head office administrator and a leader in the Black community. Animator Malik Shaheed will first lead a session for students about anti-racism and diversity. Leadership from the Montreal Black community, the EMSB and Dr. Goddard’s family will be on hand. In view of the fact he was a one-time principal of Parkdale, the library will be named in his memory. In the 1980s Dr. Goddard was president of Barbados House. For a while, he operated a publishing company: Afo Enterprises. At the time of his death, he was a member of the executive boards of the Quebec Board of Black Educators (from 1978 until his death), the Black Theatre Workshop and the Black Community Research Council of Quebec. He was also a prolific writer and poet. He passed away in the fall of 2020 during the pandemic. Born in Barbados, where he studied at Providence Elementary School and later at the Federal High School, he taught primary and secondary school there before moving to Montreal where he continued his studies at Concordia University, B.A. (Hons. English, 1975); Université de Montréal, M.A. English, 1977; McGill University, Dip. Ed English and TESL, 1977; Université de Montréal Ph.D. English Studies, 1985; McGill University, M.Ed. Administration and Policy Studies, 1988. From 1977 to 2012, he worked in the field of education as a teacher, vice-principal, principal, coordinator of personnel and director of community services.
 |
| Members of the Girls Group are congratulated. |
STUDENTS OF THE MONTH: The students of the month for February is the Girls Group from John F. Kennedy High School in St. Michel. An initiative of Child Care Worker Marietta Damiano, the Girls Group first came together three years ago as a way for a group of students to connect and build friendships. Over the course of their time together, the group evolved and began to hone their focus on community initiatives, anchored by their annual “Shoebox Project.” The goal of the project is to pack individual shoeboxes worth of personal items and subsequently donate them to women’s shelters. This past December, the girls packed and donated 125 boxes. I encourage everyone to visit our website to see both the EMSB TV and CBC Montreal report on their amazing project. Congratulations to Marietta and her girls!
 |
| Director General Nick Katalifos and Joe Ortona. |
NEW PLAQUE: The EMSB has unveiled a large new plaque featuring photos of the newly elected Council of Commissioners as well as the Director General and Assistant Directors General. It was designed by the EMSB Web Services team, headed by Nur Erdem and printed in-house at Rosemount Technology Centre.
 |
| New students like this are registering at the EMSB. |
PRE-SCHOOL AND K REGISTRATION: Kindergarten Registration Week for the 2025-2026 academic year is underway and will conclude on Friday, February 7. Parents are asked to register at the EMSB elementary school nearest their residence offering the French program of their choice. In order to take advantage of schools offering online K4 and K5 (pre-school and Kindergarten) requests for enrolment appointments were accepted on January 27 for certain schools. For more information please call (514) 483-7200, extension EMSB (3672) or log on to the Board’s website at www.emsb.qc.ca.
Here is one of our Bell Media radio commercials
Here is our The Beat 925 FM commercial
 |
| Left to right teacher Mylène Pépin, Educational Consultant Hélène Goetz, Roberte Louisma, Marc-Albert Paquette from AWEFLS, (on screen Megan Chatrand from CPF and Claude Quevillon, president of AQEFLS), Principal Carmen Nicolas, Vice-Principals Andrea Dillon and Sarah Ditchfield and teachers Chelsea Régine Jean-Baptiste and Roman Alexander Pitt. |
AWARD OF EXCELLENCE: Roberte Louisma from LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent will be presented with Le Prix de reconnaissance en enseignement du français langue seconde from the L’Association québécoise pour l’enseignement du français langue seconde (AQEFLS) and Canadian Parents for French. This award recognizes excellence in teaching French as a second language, and recognizes a teacher’s initiative and innovation, honoring those who motivate their students to develop their full potential, and who make a significant contribution to their school and community. Ms. Louisma was given the exciting news about the award on Wednesday, February 5 in the presence of some of her students, colleagues and EMSB officials. She has worked at the EMSB for 28 years, the last 23 at LaurenHill.
 |
| Roberte was told about the award as a surprise. |
This wonderful teacher is keen to share her love of the French language with her students. Her expertise is recognized and appreciated, as she has been a member of ministerial committees for several years and participates in various school board projects. Whenever she has the opportunity, Roberte attends training courses to improve her teaching and better serve the needs of her students. The cohorts lucky enough to have her as a teacher learn to love the language and culture of Quebec and the French-speaking world. Her students know that their teacher has their best interests and well-being at heart. Through her teaching, she is shaping the citizens of tomorrow's Quebec. Her passion for this wonderful profession is also passed on to future generations of teachers, as she works as a practicum supervisor for McGill University, welcoming teacher trainees into her classrooms every year. She will formally be presented with her award at a conference in April.
 |
| Nesbitt students perform at the EMSB launch. |
CELEBRATION OF MUSIC: On the eve of Kindergarten Registration Week, the EMSB kicked off Ode to Joy – A Celebration of Music on Friday, January 10 at Rosemount High School. Students from the Rosemount High Arts-études program were joined by students from four primary schools -Nesbitt in Rosemount, Gerald McShane in Montreal North and Willingdon and St. Monica in NDG- to perform and share how the magic of song is built into the curriculum from Kindergarten and onwards. A number of professional musicians were also on hand. Almost two centuries have passed and Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” remains a symbol of hope, peace, and fellowship. It’s a masterful musical celebration that makes everyone who listens to it feel almost instantly imbued with a torrent of positive emotions. This is also a song that is familiar to most elementary and high school students at the EMSB, since they perform it with their music teachers. An education that includes music encourages students to engage actively, develop their appreciation for the arts and benefit in so many positive ways while at school. Please see the full press release
 |
| Members of the Rosemount High Symphonic Winds. |
ODE TO JOY: As part of celebrating music during the month of January, schools across the EMSB were invited to submit a recorded instrumental or vocal performance of “Ode to Joy” or another song for a video montage to showcase the musical talents of EMSB students. This 19th century classic, part of Ludwig van Beethoven’s final movement of his famous Ninth Symphony, has a melody familiar across generations. Many students are taught the piece, even those in early elementary school, because the melody is so recognizable. Beethoven’s musical adaption of “Ode to Joy” originates from the poem, “An die Freude,” written by German poet Friedrich Schiller in 1785. The musical piece has stood the test of time, played by myriads of orchestras and opera singers around the world and remains the anthem of the European Union. Ode to Joy” is a piece often included in recorder methods such as “Recorder Karate,” where students learn and perform pieces to earn their “belts.” This method serves as a teaching tool for many elementary music teachers to facilitate recorder instruction, an instrument recommended for teaching at the elementary level as of Cycle 2 of the Quebec Education Program.
Watch this reel produced by Daniel Smajovits
 |
| Andrew Mangal, now Principal of St. Monica School, was Melina Catalano's teacher more than a decade ago at Rosemount High School. |
GRADUATE TO TEACHER-MELINA CATALANO: Imbued with a passion for music and education, Melina Catalano points to her family and her education at EMSB schools as paving the way for a career combining her two passions. Currently Educational Consultant for the Arts-études program at Rosemount High School, Ms. Catalano’s history at the EMSB starts at Honoré Mercier Elementary School in St. Leonard. She remembers her first dedicated music teacher in Grade 1, “Mr. George,” who would visit classrooms with his cart full of instruments and teach students little melodies and beginner rhythms. But her love of music comes in large part from her family, whose every member has a talent for something musical and who continues to follow these interests on top of their regular jobs. Her father, who now sings for pleasure, was, at the time, a singer in his own wedding band. Both her sisters have an interest in the performing arts – one in drama and acting and the other in dance. And her mom always played music in the house. “We were always singing along to something!” Ms. Catalano recalled. Please read her detailed story here
 |
| Joseph John Varga |
STUDENT PERSPECTIVES: Five students from Rosemount High School (RHS) shared their stories about the importance of music in their lives. They all attended an EMSB elementary school before going to RHS: Eva Marra, Joseph John Varga, Camillo Di Marco, Alessio Ciarlariello and Hyerin Jo. Read their full stories here
 |
| The Chorale. |
EMSB CHORALE: Celebrating its 45th anniversary this season, the EMSB Chorale continues to create amazing choir opportunities for the student population and beyond. Conductor Patricia “Pat” Abbott, who has been at the helm for 35 of those years and is also its executive and artistic director, says this is the only such program offered by a Quebec school board. The Chorale currently includes 98 choristers and is divided into two choirs – a junior choir of Grade 4 to 6 students and one senior choir, composed of high school students. Gone are the days of auditioning on the spot in front of dozens of other nervous applicants and their parents. Instead, auditions take place individually with the team. “What we’re looking for are kids who can match pitches easily and who are able to correct easily,” explains Ms. Abbott. “I do believe everybody can sing, but this is meant for kids who have a real interest in music and in singing – and who want to go a step further than what their school program can offer. They have to have a spark in their eye and be willing to commit to a rehearsal schedule.”
MUSIC EXPERTS: At the January 10 launch, a number of professional musicians were on hand to share their expertise with students.
Sarah Segal Lazar is a Royal West Academy graduate and a multifaceted creative force, dazzling audiences as an award-winning writer, director, actor, and singer-songwriter. Her latest album, VALLEYS, produced by Canadian folk luminary Matthew Barber, is out now. Sarah was nominated for Folk Music Ontario’s 2024 Recording Artist of the Year. See her latest single Anything But Age Recorded during the year’s first snowfall, the track captures the raw, cozy introspection of winter. “The music video is close to my heart—it’s crafted from 8mm footage my grandfather shot between 1949 and 1958,” she says. “It’s an homage to time, family, and the ways we evolve. You can watch it HERE. Some of you may even recognize a face or two.”
 |
| Habib Zekri and Sarah Segal Lazar. |
Centaur Theatre is presenting Strawberries in January - A Musical Fantasy, a heartfelt and joyous collaboration with Théâtre Advienne que pourra, until February 9, 2025. This marks the world premiere of a new English-language musical version of a Québécois classic, adapted by visionary director Frédéric Bélanger and songwriter Audrey Thériault, featuring original music by Ludovic Bonnier, Eva Foote and Habib Zekri. Based on the award-winning play Des fraises en janvier by Evelyne de la Chenelière, this new adaptation is a vibrant exploration of love, serendipity, and human connection, set against the romantic and wintry backdrop of Montreal. This musical adaptation features eighteen toe-tapping tunes, with stirring arrangements by Nick Carpenter and Zekri, adding layers of emotion and melody to this modern romantic tale. Habib was one of our guests. He was the director of El Sistema music programs for the youth in the southwest area of the city and this group used to collaborate on a daily basis with both French and English school boards offering free classical music classes to kids.
 |
| Maria Diamantis |
Montreal-born soprano Maria Diamantis holds a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from McGill University, where she trained under Lucile Evans and Dr. Robert Evans. She further honed her craft in master classes with renowned artists such as Sena Jurinac and Maureen Forrester. Maria has performed as a soloist with many symphony orchestras and has an extensive discography, including five CDs and 11 children’s operas and musicals.
 |
| Dimitris Ilias |
Montreal-born tenor Dimitris Ilias holds a Bachelor’s degree in Voice Performance and a Graduate Diploma in Advanced Music Performance Studies from Concordia University. An accomplished soloist and vocal director, he has performed leading operatic roles and collaborated with prestigious orchestras and ensembles across Canada, Greece, and the United States. A passionate advocate for music education, Dimitris has co-developed innovative programs, including specialized vocal workshops and children’s book/CD operatic productions, which have introduced symphonic music to thousands of young vocalists. His initiatives have fostered a lasting impact, particularly through collaborations with school boards such as Marguerite-Bourgeoys, Commission scolaire de Laval, and the EMSB (EMSB), with which he has maintained a close partnership for over 25 years.
Rafael Energía Dominicana is a Laval-based singer, songwriter, bandleader and producer born in Bani, a province of Peravia in the Dominican Republic. He is renowned for his compositions and performances inspired by merengue, bachata and a variety of Latin music genres from his native country.
 |
| Glenda Rush and Rafael Energía Dominicana. |
Glenda Rush is the founder and principale of Vivo Musique Internationale (Vivo Musique), a Montreal based music company working in media relations, as a label in music production, and artist management. Vivo Musique works with a variety of artists and projects, some already established with international profiles and others who are undiscovered gems.
 |
| Steve Atme speaks to students. |
Steven Atme wears many hats: musician, performer, speaker, teacher, writer, humanitarian, advocate - a man who has inspired so many to overcome their own challenges, pursue dreams and embrace their talents. He believes that everybody is their own leader, can start their own journey, and can create something new. Steven was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder around the age of four. Atme is grateful to his former teacher Maria Cordova at Parkdale Elementary School for helping him learn how to read and write. Later, at Summit School, he continued his academics and benefitted from speech therapy and learning social skills. At 17, Summit School gave him the scholarship to take piano lessons at the McGill Conservatory. It wasn’t long before he was reading music.
PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS: Besides the Rosemount High School Symphonic Winds and Class Act, the launch featured the participation of four elementary schools: St. Monica and Willingdon from NDG, Nesbitt in Rosemount and Gerald McShane in Montreal North.
 |
| Teacher Alison Notkin and some students. |
From St Monica, Grade 6 students and their music teacher Alison Notkin performed “Vent frais” in an arrangement that included singing and playing xylophones, metallophone and drums, accompanied by Ms. Notkin on the guitar.From Willingdon, a group of about 30 Grade 6 students performed “Ode to Joy” under the direction of music specialist Nick Batzios. Students played the recorder, xylophones, drums and violin, accompanied by Mr. Batzios on the piano. From Gerald McShane, music teacher Daniela Alongi and about 30 students from Grade 3 and 4 performed a choral arrangement of “Ode to Joy” in French and English, accompanied by the Rosemount High School Symphonic Winds. From Nesbitt, music specialist Caroline Derome had entered the school in three different performances in the national 2024 Canadian Music Class Challenge. Her Junior Music Club and Choir (students from Grades 1 to 3) won second place in the Primary Vocal Category (Kindergarten to Grade 3) for their performance of “You Can Be Anything” (by Jeremy and Jazz). As well, the group Mallets in Harmony made it to the top 10 in the Elementary Instrumental Category (Grades 4 to 6). Finally, the Senior Music Club and Choir’s performance of “Yohahí:yo” (“The Good Road,” a song in Mohawk and English written by Shawnee Kish), made it to the top ten in the Best Rendition of that piece. They were featured in a special video with other Canadian schools. The group performed this song on January 10.
 |
| Students from Gerald McShane get set to board their TRANSCO bus. |
THANK YOU TRANSCO: We’d like to thank the team from TRANSCO for transporting the students from Gerald McShane School to the Ode to Joy campaign launch at Rosemount High. In December they did the same for Carlyle School and their flash mob at Le Fou Fou Food Hall at the Royalmount Shopping complex
MEDIA COVERAGE: The EMSB campaign has enjoyed some nice media coverage
Read Allison Hanes’ article in The Montreal Gazette on the Ode to Joy promotion
Listen to our radio commercials on Bell Media stations
Watch EMSB grad Pamela Pagano’s report on our launch for CityNews Montreal
Listen to the live reports that aired on CFQR AM 600, with Kris Leblanc and Don Smooth
The EMSB produced a special podcast, hosted by noted radio personality and EMSB parent Natasha Hall. You can watch the video version here
 |
| Students and staff welcome officials from the Consulate General of Italy. |
PELO PROGRAMS: For a third year, the Italian government’s Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale, with the support of the Consulate General of Italy in Montreal, has granted three English Montreal School Board elementary schools with $17,030.25 in funding for their integrated Italian PELO (Programme d’enseignement des langues d’origine) programs. These grants received from the Italian government through the measure "contributi a valere sul capitolo 2619" for the creation and maintenance of Italian language courses at foreign educational institutions teaching Italian language and culture. They have been instrumental in supporting the integration of Italian language instruction at our integrated PELO schools Provided through the Consulate General of Italy in Montreal, the grant monies awarded by Italian government have enabled the EMSB to expand the reach and the impact of its Italian language programs, particularly at the Kindergarten level at Dante and Pierre de Coubertin in St. Leonard and East Hill in RDP. Officials from the Consulate, Deputy Counsel General Fortunato Mangiola and newly arrived School Director Luigi Speranza, visited Dante where they were treated to a musical performance in Italian. They also went into some classrooms and spoke to the staff.
Meanwhile, EMSB Assistant Director of Educational Services Anna Villalta was interviewed on the educational importance of EMSB students’ participation in the Italian Quiz show, ESATTO.
There were also broadcasts with three schools
For Pierre de Coubertin watch here
 |
| Eric Girard, Michelle Setlakwe and DG Nick Katalifos (left) are welcomed to Carlyle by the media club. |
SERENADING MINISTER GIRARD AND SETLAKWE: Eric Girard, Quebec’s Minister Responsible for Anglophone Relations and Mount Royal-Outremont Liberal MNA Michelle Setlakwe, visited Carlyle Elementary School in TMR on January 17. Music teacher Christina Crawford’s students performed a special concert as part of the EMSB’s Ode to Joy: A Celebration of Music Month theme. Prior to this program, Mr. Girard and Ms. Setlakwe participated in an unprecedented press conference with the Carlyle Media Club. Seasoned broadcaster Dan Laxer was engaged last year by Principal Dina Vourdousis to visit the school once a week. He assembled an enthusiastic group of Grades 5 and 6 students to learn about the media, help produce audio and video podcasts, blogs and cover events at their own school. They all worked hard with Mr. Laxer to come up with impressive questions for their special guests. Mr. Girard resides in TMR. Last year he visited Dunrae Gardens and in 2023 it was Royal Vale School.
Watch our segment about music at Carlyle
Listen to the student produced podcast
LINKS GRAD PROFILED: Pamela Pagano also filed this beautiful report on LINKS High School grad Corrado Nicita, who is the chef at his family’s restaurant.
HOLOCAUST EDUCATION: Please listen to the latest EMSB Holocaust Education podcast as host Mark Bergman sits down with Grade 6 students Ciella and Léon from Edward Murphy Elementary School in Hochelaga Maisonneuve, along with Rocco Speranza, the school’s personal development and community involvement animator, to reflect on their visit to the Montreal Holocaust Museum. They explore the students’ experiences, starting with what they knew about the Holocaust before their visit and the educational preparation they received in class. They share the moments that impacted them most and discuss why learning from the mistakes of the past is vital for fostering respect, acceptance, inclusion, and understanding in today’s world. Join us as we uncover what these young learners took away from this important visit, their feelings, and how the lessons of history shape their perspective on peace and inclusion. This episode is a thoughtful conversation about the importance of teaching respect and understanding to future generations.
On the occasion of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we filed this podcast with Animator Rocco Speranza and two students from Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary School.
 |
| Barbara Cipely is welcomed at Rosemount High. |
ROSEMOUNT HIGH GUEST: As part of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Mary Poullas invited Barbara Cieply from the Foundation for Genocide Education to Rosemount High School. Ms. Cieply is the daughter of a holocaust survivor and she shared facts about the Holocaust including her mother’s story of how she escaped the death camps. Her message sensitized the students to the perils of antisemitism, racism and hatred.
CANADIAN JEWISH NEWS STORY: Please read this excellent story on the importance of Holocaust Education in schools and the role the EMSB is playing.
DUNRAE GARDENS VISIT: Grade 6 students at Dunrae Gardens Elementary School in TMR visited the Montreal Holocaust Museum after a month of learning about the Holocaust. The visit emphasized the values of compassion and empathy. “The students, well-informed from their prior learning, were highly engaged throughout the comprehensive tour,” said Personal Development and Community Involvement Service Animator Puynung Choy. “We were deeply struck by the reality that, during a time of rapidly growing antisemitism, very few countries opened their doors to protect those in need. “There were many thought-provoking exhibits in the museum that sparked meaningful discussions and a sense of shock among the students. However, beyond the dire and gruesome experiences endured by the Jewish people, what stood out was the extraordinary resilience and humanity they maintained toward one another. The cohesion of their community remained steadfast. This was a significant trip, one we hope to make an annual tradition. We will be back!”
 |
| LINKS students get a tour of the museum. |
LINKS AND PERSPECTIVE HEAR SURVIVOR TESTIMONY: On Monday, January 13 and Friday, January 17, students at LINKS High School and Perspectives High School had an extraordinary opportunity to hear the firsthand testimony of Eva Kuper, a Holocaust survivor.
 |
| Eva Kuper gets a hug from a student. |
The program, developed by Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Vince Lacroce, in coordination with the Montreal Holocaust Museum, has been an ongoing effort to educate young people about the Holocaust and its enduring lessons. Ms. Kuper’s remarkable story of survival offers a window into the atrocities of the Holocaust and the resilience of the human spirit. Separated from her family as a child, she faced unimaginable challenges but survived thanks to the courage and compassion of others. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness and standing against hatred in all its forms. “The Holocaust serves as a powerful example of the consequences of silence and inaction in the face of injustice. By teaching the Holocaust thoughtfully and age-appropriately, we empower children to be informed, compassionate, and active citizens committed to building a future free of hate and intolerance,” says Mr. Lacroce.
 |
| Laurier Macdonald students during their museum tour. |
LAURIER MACDONALD VISIT: Alessandra Di Viccaro’s Secondary V Contemporary World class from Laurier Macdonald High School in St. Leonard visited the Holocaust Museum on January 9 accompanied by Childcare worker Franca Bertucci, and PDCIA Joseph Monachino. The students were inspired by both a guided tour of the museum and a workshop on the Jewish Resistance movement during World War II. During the workshop students learned about the different stages in the genocide process grid and what the Jewish Resistance movement did during each stage. The Holocaust Museum provided the students with historical information that was enlightening but also shared the human element and faces behind the Holocaust and the atrocities of the Second World War. It was an empowering experience for all.
 |
| Mme Julie at Roslyn. |
TEACHERS BACK IN CLASS: There was a lot of celebration at Roslyn and Edinburgh Elementary Schools as Mme Julie and Mme Diane returned to class. They are teachers who arrived at the EMSB via France three years ago.
 |
| Mme Diane. |
Most recently they were absent due some immigration issues. These were resolved and returned to great appreciation See the CTV report
 |
| CTV's Matt Gilmore at East Hill. |
EAST HILL ONLINE SAFETY: A Montreal school is working to educate children about online safety and addiction by starting them early. At East Hill Elementary School in Riviere-des-Prairies, Grade 5 students in the media lab are taught to think before posting online and design and code their own video games meant to quiz third graders about online safety. "We're asking questions like if somebody asks you for like phone number or for your address, will you answer them," said student Alissa Campapiano. "Like, will you send it to them or will you just keep it to yourself, leave the game, tell your parents about it."
Watch the report on CTV Montreal
 |
| LaurenHill's OUI Dance Troupe. |
DANCE BRINGS FESTIVE JOY: Just before the holiday break, LaurenHill Academy's OUI Dance Troupe brought festive joy to EMSB elementary schools during the week of December 16. The troupe showcased their vibrant routines at schools including Gardenview, Cedarcrest, Parkdale, Dunrae Gardens, and others, spreading holiday cheer and leaving audiences amazed by their energy and talent. The OUI Dance Troupe is composed of dedicated dancers from Sec. 1 to Sec. 5, all deeply passionate about dance. They meet regularly with their teachers, AJ Russo and Briana Martorana, under the guidance of Melissa Spensieri and Michael Zois, to rehearse and refine their performances. Their hard work and commitment were on full display as they connected with younger students, inspiring them through the power of dance and teamwork. Looking ahead, the OUI Dance Troupe is gearing up as they will be enrolled in two competitions where they will represent LaurenHill Academy against other dance schools. Later this year, they will also take the stage at the school’s annual dance show, an event that features all students enrolled in LaurenHill’s dance program.
AWARD OF EXCELLENCE: Roberte Louisma from LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent will be presented with Le Prix de reconnaissance en enseignement du français langue seconde from the L’Association québécoise pour l’enseignement du français langue seconde (AQEFLS) and Canadian Parents for French. This award recognizes excellence in teaching French as a second language, and recognizes a teacher’s initiative and innovation, honoring those who motivate their students to develop their full potential, and who make a significant contribution to their school and community. Ms. Louisma was presented with the award on February 5 in the presence of some of her students, colleagues and EMSB officials.
 |
| Majd Al-Ghabkari |
WORLD KARATE COMPETITOR: St. Monica Elementary School in NDG proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of Majd Al- Ghabkari, a 10-year-old Grade 5 student, who recently participated in the prestigious World Karate Tournament in Kakasaki, Japan. This event, known for its high level of competition, brought together over 1,000 participants from various age groups around the globe. The tournament featured both Kumite (sparring) and Kata (forms) disciplines, showcasing the best of karate talent worldwide. Majd, a dedicated blue belt trainee at the Nun Island Karate Club, showcased his exceptional skills and determination. To compete in the Funakoshi Gichin Cup on October 25th, 2024, Majd first had to qualify at his club, where he earned his medal. We are incredibly proud of Johnny's participation, representing both St. Monica School and Canada with honour and excellence. His hard work and dedication are truly inspiring to us all.
BEST OF MONTREAL: The Suburban Newspaper has unveiled the winners of its Best of Montreal contest. You can go to the Education Section to see the exciting news:
Elementary
1) John Caboto -second year in a row
2) Pierre de Coubertin
3) FACE
High School
1) FACE
2) Lester B. Pearson
3) LMAC
Vocational
1) LMAC Career Centre
2) Pearson Electrotechnology (Pearson Board)
3) Pius X
JARDINS D’ITALIE SENIOR RESIDENCE: On Dec. 17, selected Secondary IV and V Rosemount High School students visited the senior residence Jardins d'Italie in St. Leonard. The students were accompanied by Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator, Mary Poullas and the ECA coordinator Stacey Picciano. This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to spread some holiday cheer as they connected with the elderly who often feel isolated and lonely during the holiday season. The students baked and served cookies, sang songs and spent time simply chatting with the elderly. Everyone was impressed to have met a resident that was 102 years old!
 |
| A senior enjoys his activity with the schools. |
LEGACY LINK: Perspectives I and II Alternative High School is proud to announce the launch of an innovative intergenerational exchange program called “The Legacy Link” designed to bridge the gap between youth and seniors. The initiative will connect students with residents of local CHSLDs, fostering meaningful relationships and enriching both communities. The program is spearheaded by Vince Lacroce, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator at Perspectives I and II High School, in collaboration with Ottavia Ranno, Leisure Technician at CHSLD Dante, and Maria Congiu Maiolo, Director General of the Italian-Canadian Community Services of Quebec. Through this partnership, students will engage in a variety of activities, including storytelling, arts and crafts, music, and digital literacy sessions, with seniors at CHSLD Dante and CHSLD Saint- Michel. These exchanges aim to promote empathy, cultural understanding, and social connection, while addressing the isolation often experienced by the elderly. “We are excited to bring students and seniors together in such a meaningful way,” said Mr. Lacroce. “This program will not only provide students with valuable life experiences but also offer seniors companionship and opportunities to share their wisdom.”
FIT TO FIGHT: In honour of Bell Let’s Talk 15th anniversary in support of youth mental Health, Perspectives I and II will be launching a new initiative called “Fit to Fight.” The program is spearheaded by Mr. Lacroce, owner of CAVE and Certified Health Instructor Gabriel Iacampo, along with Certified Health Coach, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and owner of Quasar Fitness Riccardo Simanella. The program will be supported by Salvatore Pileggi and Rodney Handelsman, teachers at Perspectives I and II High School. “Fit to Fight” is a holistic program designed to equip students with the tools to manage their mental health through the interconnected pillars of nutrition, physical fitness, meditation, and community engagement. Students will learn about the importance of balanced nutrition for mental and physical well-being, the role of regular physical activity as a tool to manage stress and improve mood, mindfulness and meditation techniques for emotional regulation and focus, and how community involvement provides a pathway for building connections and fostering a sense of contribution and belonging. The program will run for three months, from January to March 2025, and include a mix of workshops, fitness sessions, and community projects. In January, nutrition workshops will be coordinated by EMSB Dietitian Ariane Séguin, who will provide students with workshops on meal planning, understanding macronutrients, mindful eating, and misconceptions on fad diets. Group fitness sessions (yoga, strength training, cardio) led by Mr. Lacroce along with Mr. Iacampo and Mr. Simanella. February sessions will include guided meditation sessions and mindfulness workshops and “Lunch and Learn” discussions emphasizing stress management and emotional intelligence. In March, students will participate in community engagement projects and volunteer opportunities with local shelters to help those in the community that are in need.
 |
| Celebrating seafarers. |
MARINERS’ HOUSE OF MONTREAL: The Mariners’ House of Montreal, a home away from home for seafarers in the Port of Montreal since 1862, serves the men and women working on cargo ships who deliver 90 percent of the items we use daily. Seafarers ensure our store shelves are stocked with goods such as clothing, food, building materials, toothbrushes, electronics, and more. Life at sea, away from home and family for six to nine months of the year, is not easy—it is often lonely. By providing a safe, welcoming, and caring space, the Mariners’ House of Montreal material, social, and spiritual needs. This vital work is made possible through the dedication of staff, partners, and volunteers. Pierre Elliott Trudeau School is proud to be one of those partners. This year, the school supported the Mariners’ House for the first time. Chaplain David and Administrator Patty visited students in grades 4 to 6, presenting an interactive PowerPoint that highlighted the challenges of life at sea, the importance of seafarers to our daily lives, and how Montreal Mariners’ House helps. Students also learned how they could contribute through their gift bag initiative. Chaplain David visits ships daily, connects with crews, brings them to the Mariners’ House, and distributes gift bags as a small token of thanks for their sacrifices, especially during the holiday season. Students prepared over 60 hand-stitched and decorated gift bags, filling them with gloves, socks, holiday lights, snacks, playing cards, toiletries, and handmade holiday cards with messages of gratitude, joy, and hope. Mariners’ House distributes over 1,400 gift bags annually thanks to community partners like Pierre Elliott Trudeau School. The school continues to inspire kindness and gratitude through initiatives such as this, embodying their S-H-A-R-E message: spreading hope, acceptance, respect, and equality. This initiative was organized by School Behaviour Technician Anna Szabo, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Rocco Speranza, Principal Tanya Alvares, school staff, Chaplain David, and Ms. Patty from Mariners’ House of Montreal.
.jpeg) |
| Having fun at the McCord. |
VISIT TO McCORD: As part of its ongoing commitment to integrating Truth and Reconciliation throughout the year, students from grade three and the language classes at Parkdale Elementary visited the McCord Stewart Museum on January 13. They participated in a guided tour of the Indigenous Voices of Today: Knowledge, Trauma, Resilience exhibition and took part in the Tell Me a Legend: Learn, Create, and Share a Living Story workshop, developed in collaboration with Innu storytellers. During the visit, students explored many objects that reflect aspects of Indigenous history and traditions, including a cradleboard from the Kanien’kehá:ka First Nation, a bandolier bag from the Anishinaabe First Nation, and snowshoes from the Eeyou First Nation. Through the storytelling workshop, students learned that stories are a living tradition, passed down to teach values, preserve culture, and build connections between generations. They also discovered the importance of listening and sharing stories with care and respect, which deepened their understanding of resilience in Indigenous communities. Our takeaway message and commitment is to continue learning about Indigenous cultures throughout the year, fostering respect, empathy, and cultural awareness in our school community.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS: LINKS High School has begun a two-part initiative focusing on nutrition and mental health awareness, led by Ariane Séguin, EMSB Dietitian, and Mr. Lacroce. The first phase of the campaign successfully took place on January 14 and was met with enthusiasm from students and staff. Ms. Séguin provided an engaging workshop on the role of proper nutrition in supporting physical health and mental well-being, emphasizing practical steps for adopting healthier eating habits. Meanwhile, Vince Lacroce conducted interactive sessions encouraging students to explore the connection between mental health and community engagement, fostering resilience and emotional intelligence. The initiative is designed to provide students with holistic tools to navigate life’s challenges, promoting both physical and mental wellness. By combining the expertise of a dietitian with the skills of a personal development animator, LINKS High School ensures that students receive comprehensive education on how to build a balanced lifestyle. The second phase of the campaign will take place in the spring of 2025 and promises to deepen the conversation around these critical issues. This event will include follow-up workshops, hands-on activities, and student-led initiatives designed to empower youth to take ownership of their health and well-being. “This campaign reflects our commitment to nurturing not only the academic success of our students but also their overall health and resilience.
BLACK HISTORY AND SPOKEN WORD: On January 20, Cedarcrest Elementary in St. Laurent welcomed Ibrahim Ahmed, a poet and spoken word artist, to inspire and educate Cycle 2 and 3 students. The students enjoyed a dynamic and engaging presentation, in which they learned about various types of rhymes, the use of similes, metaphors, and hyperbole, all through the lens of Black history education. They discovered how Black pioneers used poetry to communicate their messages and effect change. What the students appreciated most was the opportunity to create their own poems and share them on stage. Their main takeaway was that words have power, and everyone has the responsibility to use their words positively. A special thank you to our Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator for leading this meaningful initiative.
NATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE: On January 29, students from Cedarcrest Elementary, and Willingdon Senior Campus commemorated the National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia. During the event, students learned about the lives and character traits of the six victims: Ibrahima Barry, Abdelkrim Hassane, Khaled Belkacemi, Mamadou Tanou Barry, Aboubaker Thabti, and Azzeddine Soufiane. They also explored the consequences of hatred and discrimination, fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of inclusion and respect. As an act of solidarity, students wrote messages of hope on green squares, which will be displayed in a local Montreal mosque. This initiative reinforces the message that Islamophobia has no place in our world. A special thank you to our Personal Development and Community Involvement Animators for leading this meaningful initiative.
 |
| Cards for veterans. |
VALENKIND: Students at Dante and Honore Mercier showed their love and support to our Canadian military service men and women through an initiative called Valentines for Veterans, led by Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Mary Poullas. The cards let Veterans know that we are thinking about them not just on Remembrance Day.
CORONATION REWARD SENIORS: Coronation Elementary School's Grades 4 visited the Sheppherd and James Victoria Seniors’ Residence to hand deliver some lovely gifts during the winter months and they will be on their way for a second visit to celebrate Valentines Day through a shared craft and arts activity. As a lovely connection, this residence is run by a family whose child attended Coronation nearly a decade ago. "This is part of the school’s Intergenerational Program, where different grades have been connecting and will continue to visit the local seniors’ residences throughout the year (Beit Chai Senior's home and the Shepperd and James Victoria seniors’ residence). The trip bridges the essential relationship between the students and elders. Some students who initially had some reservations, ended up praising the trip, saying “it was the best school trip ever,” noted Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Puynung Choy.
.
 |
| Showcasing the bracelets. |
WE CARE BRACELETS: Members of the Vincent Massey Collegiate We Care Club, guided by Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Veronica D’Agata, worked very hard to make 100 beautiful bead bracelets for the patients at the Montreal Children’s Hospital. This activity was a special contribution to the annual PDCIA “Heart to Heart” Valentine’s Day project. Students at John Caboto Academy and Our Lady of Pompei Elementary also participated by creating fun bee-themed Valentine’s Day cards. The goal is to spread messages of joy, love, and care to make the young patients smile!
 |
| Left to right: Ramona Potesta, Giacomina Alfano, Valerie Barnabe, Joseph Monachino, Victoria Kappos and John Kappos |
TOY DRIVE: Children who had to spend time in the Montreal Children’s Hospital during the holiday season would like to thank all the generous Laurier Macdonald High School students and their families who donated gifts during the December toy drive. This toy drive was initiated by our Secondary V student Victoria Kappos as a personal passion initiative not related to school projects. Victoria worked under the guidance of Joseph Monachino, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator, with support from Valerie Barnabé, IB coordinator. The toy drive was a great success, and they collected three carloads of toys for the Montreal Children’s Hospital. LMAC support staff as well as Victoria and her father personally delivered the toys, and it certainly made a big difference in the lives of the children at the hospital and their families.
 |
| A scene from the visit to the CHSLD. |
MACKAY AND CHSLD SAINT ANDREW: MacKay Centre School’s Grade 3 students went to visit the CHSLD Saint Andrew Residential Centre to give residents a little Festival of Lights. Students sang a variety of fun, wintery holiday songs, and even had an opportunity to learn some of the popular classics from the seniors, including songs from the Beatles and from the Sound of Music soundtrack. "Thanks to Tracie Swim with the WIN Intergenerational Network, for her help facilitating connections and Intergenerational Programming with local seniors’ homes in NDG, and thanks to the classes, for their lovely musical offering for the seniors," says Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Puynung Choy. "In the spring, the students will be offering a little formal concert led by their music teacher and accompanied by their long-time tutor and guitarist, Carlos.
ADVERTISING FEATURES
There with you then. Here with you now.
As a critical part of the community for over 245 years, The Gazette reports the truth in changing times. Enjoy unlimited digital access with an exclusive offer for English Montreal School Board parents. Get an annual subscription for only $40 for the first year and get a free six months subscription for a friend.
What’s included:
• Unlimited digital access to The Gazette.
• Articles by Allison Hanes, Jack Todd and others, award-winning newsletters and virtual events.
• Opportunity to engage with our commenting community.
• The Gazette ePaper.
• The Gazette App.
The Gazette continues to deliver trusted English-language news and coverage on issues that matter.
Subscribe now at montrealgazette.com/emsb
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto, Ontario would like to welcome schools from English-Montreal School Board to visit. From towering dinosaurs to awe-inspiring contemporary art, ROM is home to more than 18 million objects — from ancient Egyptian mummies to stunning contemporary sculptures, and even meteorites and dinosaurs.
ROM is Canada’s most visited Museum and hosts some of the world's best exhibitions including,
• Nature in Brilliant Colour, on till August 17, 2025
• Wildlife Photographer of the Year on till May 4, 2025
• Auschwitz: Not long ago. Not far away. on till September 1, 2025
• Saints, Sinners, Lovers, and Fools June 28 – November 30, 2025
• Sharks October 25, 2025 – March 22, 2026
Enhance your visit with a fun and educational guided tour in English or French, tailored to your group’s interests. We’re committed to crafting unforgettable experiences that your students will cherish for years to come! ROM group visits can be booked through Quebec Tour Operators. Visit rom.ca/groups to learn more and plan your adventure today!
Registration for the McGill Winter Break Sports Camp (March 3 to 7) and the McGill Summer Sports Camp (weekly from June 30 to August 8) is now open.
Children and teens between the ages of 6 and 15 are welcome to join us for a variety of sports and recreational activities, led by university-level animators, that promote physical literacy and an active and healthy lifestyle. Info: recreation.mcgill.ca/kids.
YOUNG WRITERS CONTEST: The Eleanor London Côte Saint-Luc Public Library is excited to announce the launch of the second annual Roslyn and Max Margles Young Writers' Contest 2024–2025, inviting children in Grades 3 through 6 who live in Côte Saint-Luc or who live outside of Côte Saint-Luc but attend nearby schools to participate. This contest, generously funded by Mrs. Roslyn Margles, a passionate advocate for children’s literacy in Montreal, honours her late husband, Max Margles, whose legacy is celebrated in the naming of our Children's Library, the Max Margles Children’s Library. We are proud to partner with the Quebec Writers’ Federation (QWF), which will provide a distinguished panel of children’s authors to judge the contest, including P.J. Bracegirdle, Marie-Louise Gay and Anne Renaud. Last year, the library received more than 70 impressive entries, all of which will be included in the Max Margles Children's Library Anthology. This year, the contest is again open to students in grades 3 to 6. Submissions will be accepted until Friday, March 7. The library welcomes all forms of writing—fiction, non-fiction, and poetry—with no length restrictions. Detailed submission guidelines can be found at csllibrary.org on the Max Margles Children’s Library page. Participating young writers will have the opportunity to: Win exciting prizes; receive valuable feedback from experienced writers; be published in carte blanche, the QWF's online literary magazine ; and attend an award ceremony in early May to celebrate all participants. For more information, please visit csllibrary.org or send an e-mail message bcathey@cotesaintluc.org
CELL PHONES: A special commission on cell phone use in schools will release its report in May. Here is a small news item on CTV News with James Lyng High School Principal Alex Kulczyk.
 |
| Basketball champs. |
CLEAN SWEEP: Royal Vale School completed a clean sweep of this Ottawa Invitational Girls basketball tournament with winning all four games. The final was 18 to 10 over LCC. Victories in round robin play were 20 to 16 over LCC, 48 to 2 over St Laurent, and 36 to 16 over host Turnbull School Yvon Carrierre P.E. Director at Turnbull School and Tournament, was among those to congratulate them. Meanwhile, the Royal Vale Girls won all three preliminary games in convincing manner defeating ECS, Turnbull School of Ottawa, and Kuper Academy. They then advanced to the semi-finals against Academy St Anne whom they also defeated in a much closer game. Them they defeated Notre Dame de Sion 21-9 in a hard fought final. There were 12 Girls teams in the Annual event. This is a second consecutive tournament victory for Royal Vale. As of this writing they have an impressive 16-1 record in games this year.
JUMP ROPE FOR HEART: Royal Vale has scheduled its 21st consecutive Jump Rope for Heart event for April 24. They have raised almost $400,000 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation during that time and have had many occasions of being one of the top schools fundraising in Canada. Stay tuned for news from Physical Education and Health teacher.
ADULT EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL SERVICES
RTC OPEN HOUSE: Rosemount Technology Centre will present their upcoming Open House (Noon to 6 pm) and Internal Skills Competition (2 pm to 5 pm) on Thurs. Feb, 27.
 |
| Showcasing the new Wagar tuques. |
WARMTH FROM WAGAR: Students in the Socio-Vocational Integration (SVI) Community Engagement class at Wagar Adult Education Centre in Côte Saint-Luc have been hard at work spreading warmth and kindness during this challenging winter season. In anticipation of the plummeting temperatures brought on by the polar vortex, the students assembled 152 care packages, affectionately called "Warmth from Wagar" bags. Each package included one hat, a pair of socks, and a snack—small but essential items to help those experiencing homelessness face the cold. On the hats, a small heart was ironed on—a simple yet powerful message from one community to another. As one student so beautifully put it, "We have a lot of love to give. Let’s spread it as far as we can…from our heart to theirs." These care packages were delivered to shelters around Montreal identified as having the highest needs, ensuring they reached individuals who would benefit the most. This incredible initiative would not have been possible without the generosity and support of several key contributors, including: The Wagar Administration Team, whose encouragement and assistance made this project a reality.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Tracy Wrench, manager of recreation services at the West Island Association for the Intellectually Handicapped, (WIAIH), who personally donated an astounding 95 hats. Tracy’s extraordinary generosity allowed us to surpass our initial goal of fifty care packages, making an even greater impact on our community. The Centre is also deeply grateful to Team Bread and Beyond, a local organization who went above and beyond by identifying the shelters with the greatest needs and ensuring the packages were delivered with care. Thank you for making giving back seamless, impactful, and truly meaningful! Finally, the true stars of this project: the students. Their dedication, compassion, and meticulous efforts ensured that each package was prepared with love, offering both warmth and much-needed kindness to 152 individuals in our community. As their teacher, I am immensely proud and grateful. Witnessing their dedication has been one of the greatest joys of my career. This project not only demonstrated the power of community but also highlighted the incredible potential of these students to make a meaningful difference. “I am confident this group will continue to inspire and impact our community in extraordinary ways,” said Principal Demetra Droutsas. “ The spirit of service and teamwork they have cultivated is just the beginning of a legacy of kindness and action that will ripple far beyond this project. I feel so privileged to have a front-row seat on this amazing journey with them. Together, we’ve shown that even in the coldest of times, kindness can create warmth—and that the love we share can change lives."
 |
| Welcoming the police. |
COMMUNITY WORKSHOP WITH THE SPVM: The Galileo Adult Education Centre in Montreal North recently welcomed a special visit from the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) as part of an initiative to foster community engagement and promote safety. Local community police officer Anne-Marie Gauvreau played a key role in the visit, delivering an insightful workshop on creating healthy relationships. The workshop was designed to help students understand the foundations of respectful and positive interactions in their personal lives. Officer Gauvreau provided advice and strategies on how to identify challenging situations and emphasized the importance of communication, empathy, and mutual respect. Students actively participated in the session, engaging in discussions and asking questions about real-life scenarios. They also explored topics such as conflict resolution, recognizing signs of unhealthy relationships, and setting personal boundaries. Students and staff at Galileo expressed their appreciation for Officer Gauvreau’s time and expertise. Both teachers and students noted that the workshop provided valuable insights and practical tips which they can be immediately applied in their lives.
WELDING REGIONAL SKILLS OLYMPICS: Laurier Macdonald Vocational Career Centre is proud to be hosting the 2025 Welding Regional Skills Olympics for the Island of Montreal on Thursday February 13 from 8 am to 5 pm at the 6065 boul. des Grandes Prairies Campus. This dynamic event will showcase the skill of the four competitors from different vocational Centre’s in Montreal. First place finish will move onto the Quebec Skills Olympics hosted in Quebec City in May. The Centre will be open to the public, highlighting the welding facilities and the training provided to students.
ÉDITION DU MOIS DE FÉVRIER 2025 / BULLETIN DE LA CSEM
LANCEMENT DU MOIS DE L'HISTOIRE DES NOIRS: La Commission scolaire English Montréal marquera le Mois de l'histoire des Noirs par une programmation dans tout le réseau. Le jeudi 6 février, la CSEM donnera le coup d'envoi officiel à l'école primaire Parkdale de Saint-Laurent en hommage au regretté Dr Horace Goddard, ancien enseignant, directeur d'école et administrateur au centre administratif, ainsi que leader de la communauté noire. L'animateur Malik Shaheed s’adressera d'abord aux élèves sur la diversité et la lutte contre le racisme. Des représentants de la communauté noire de Montréal, de la CSEM et des membres de la famille du Dr Goddard seront présents pour l’occasion. Compte tenu qu'il a été directeur de Parkdale, la bibliothèque sera nommée en sa mémoire. Dans les années 1980, M. Goddard a été président de la Barbados House. Pendant un certain temps, il a dirigé la maison d'édition Afo Enterprises. Au moment de son décès, il était membre des conseils d'administration du Conseil des éducateurs noirs du Québec (de 1978 jusqu'à sa mort), du Black Theatre Workshop et du Black Community Research Council of Quebec. Il était également un écrivain et un poète prolifique. Il est décédé à l'automne 2020 pendant la pandémie. Né à la Barbade où il a fréquenté l'école primaire Providence puis l'école secondaire Federal High School, il a été enseignant au primaire et au secondaire avant de s'installer à Montréal où il a poursuivi ses études à l'Université Concordia (B.A. anglais avec mention, 1975); à l'Université de Montréal (M.A. anglais, 1977); à l'Université McGill (Dip. Éd. anglais et TESL, 1977); Université de Montréal (Ph.D. études anglaises, 1985); Université McGill (M.Éd. administration et études politiques, 1988). De 1977 à 2012, il a travaillé dans le milieu de l'éducation en tant qu'enseignant, directeur adjoint, directeur d'école, coordonnateur du personnel et directeur des services communautaires.
ÉLÈVES DU MOIS : Les élèves du mois de février sont le Girls Group de l'école secondaire John F. Kennedy. À l'initiative de Marietta Damiano, préposée aux élèves, le Girls Group a vu le jour il y a trois ans pour permettre à un groupe d'élèves de nouer des liens et des amitiés. Au fil du temps, le groupe a évolué et a commencé à se concentrer sur les actions communautaires, principalement avec le projet de boîtes à chaussures (Shoe Box Project) dont l'objectif est de garnir des boîtes à chaussures avec des articles pour soins personnels et d’en faire don ensuite à des refuges pour femmes. En décembre dernier, ces jeunes filles ont préparé et donné 125 boîtes. Vous êtes tous invités à consulter le site Web de l’école pour voir les reportages de CSEM TV et CBC Montréal mettant en lumière ce formidable projet. Félicitations à Marietta et à toutes les jeunes filles!
INSCRIPTION AU PRÉSCOLAIRE ET À LA MATERNELLE : La CSEM a annoncé que la Semaine des inscriptions à la maternelle pour l'année scolaire 2025-2026 se tiendra du lundi 3 février au vendredi 7 février. Si un enfant est déjà inscrit dans une école donnée, la période d'inscription pour ses frères et sœurs aura lieu une semaine plus tôt.
Les parents sont invités à inscrire leur enfant à l'école primaire de la CSEM la plus proche de leur domicile où le programme de français de leur choix est offert. Afin de réserver en ligne un rendez-vous pour inscrire un enfant au préscolaire (maternelle 4 ans ou 5 ans) dans une école offrant cette option, vous devez vous connecter à https://www.emsb.qc.ca/emsb/reserve à compter de 7 h le 27 janvier. Pour de plus amples renseignements, veuillez composer le 514 483-7200, poste EMSB (3672) ou consulter le site Web de la CSEM au www.emsb.qc.ca.
UNE CÉLÉBRATION DE LA MUSIQUE: À l’approche de la Semaine des inscriptions à la maternelle, la Commission scolaire English-Montréal (CSEM) a donné le coup d'envoi à l'Hymne à la joie – Une célébration de la musique, le vendredi 10 janvier à l'école secondaire Rosemont. À cette occasion, les élèves du programme Arts-études de l'école secondaire accompagnés d’élèves de quatre écoles primaires, soit Nesbitt à Rosemont, Gerald McShane à Montréal-Nord ainsi que Willingdon et St. Monica à NDG, ont démontré comment la magie musicale s’intègre au curriculum dès la maternelle. Des musiciens professionnels étaient également sur place lors de l’événement. Près de deux siècles plus tard, l'Hymne à la joie de Beethoven demeure un symbole d'espoir, de paix et de camaraderie. Cette sublime célébration musicale engendre presque instantanément un torrent d'émotions positives chez tous ceux et celles qui en font l’écoute. La plupart des élèves du primaire et du secondaire de la CSEM connaissent bien cette œuvre puisqu'ils l'interprètent avec leurs enseignants et enseignantes de musique. Dans le cadre de la campagne des inscriptions à la maternelle en janvier 2025, la CSEM a choisi pour thème l’Hymne à la joie – Une célébration de la musique. L’enseignement de la musique encourage les élèves à s'engager activement, à développer leur appréciation pour les arts et à en tirer de nombreux avantages tout au long de leur parcours scolaire. Nous vous invitons à consulter l’intégral du communiqué
L'HYMNE À LA JOIE : À l'occasion de la célébration de la musique en janvier, les écoles de la CSEM ont été invitées à soumettre un enregistrement instrumental ou vocal de l'Hymne à la joie ou d'une autre chanson destinée à un montage vidéo mettant en vedette les talents musicaux des élèves de la CSEM. Ce classique du XIXe siècle, qui fait partie du dernier mouvement de la célèbre Neuvième Symphonie de Ludwig van Beethoven, comporte une mélodie qui résonne à travers les âges. Cette mélodie est enseignée à de nombreux élèves, même aux tout-petits du primaire, tellement la mélodie est reconnaissable. L'adaptation musicale de l'Hymne à la joie de Beethoven trouve son origine dans le poème « An die Freude », écrit par le poète allemand Friedrich Schiller en 1785. Interprété par des myriades d'orchestres et de chanteurs d'opéra dans le monde entier, la pièce musicale a résisté à l'épreuve du temps et demeure l'hymne de l'Union européenne. L’Hymne à la joie est une pièce que l’on retrouve bien souvent dans les méthodes d’apprentissage de la flûte à bec telles que le « karaté de la flûte », où les élèves apprennent et interprètent des pièces pour obtenir leurs « ceintures ». Cette méthode fait partie des ressources pédagogiques utilisées par de nombreux enseignants de musique au primaire pour faciliter l'enseignement de la flûte à bec, un instrument recommandé pour l'enseignement au primaire à partir du 2e cycle du Programme de formation de l’école québécoise. Nous vous invitons à lire l’intégral du communiqué
Voir la vidéo produite par Daniel Smajovits
MELINA CATALANO : Passionnée de musique et d'éducation, Melina Catalano estime que sa famille et son éducation reçue dans les écoles de la CSEM lui ont pavé la voie vers une carrière alliant ses deux passions. Actuellement conseillère pédagogique pour le programme Arts-études à l'école secondaire Rosemont, le parcours de Mme Catalano à la CSEM a commencé à l'école primaire Honoré Mercier de Saint-Léonard. Elle se souvient de M. George, son tout premier enseignant de musique dévoué en 1re année, qui déambulait dans les classes avec son chariot rempli d'instruments et enseignait aux élèves de petites mélodies et des rythmes pour débutants. Mais son amour pour la musique lui vient en grande partie de sa famille, au sein de laquelle tous les membres ont des talents musicaux et continuent de les exploiter, en plus de leur emploi régulier. Son père, qui chante aujourd'hui pour le plaisir, était à l'époque chanteur du groupe qui s’est produit à son propre mariage. Ses deux sœurs s'intéressent aux arts de la scène – l'art dramatique et l’interprétation pour l’une d’elles, et la danse pour l’autre. Et sa mère veillait à ce qu’il y ait toujours de la musique à la maison. « Nous chantions sans cesse! », se souvient Mme Catalano. Nous vous invitons à lire son récit détaillé
POINT DE VUE DES ÉLÈVES : Cinq élèves de l'école secondaire Rosemont ont partagé leurs récits sur l'importance de la musique dans leur vie. Ils ont tous fréquenté une école primaire de la CSEM avant de poursuivre leurs études à l'école secondaire Rosemont : Eva Marra, Joseph John Varga, Camillo Di Marco, Alessio Ciarlariello et Hyerin Jo. Nous vous invitons à lire leur récit complet : https://www.emsb.qc.ca/csem/nouvelles/des-eleves-soulignent-limportance-de-la-musique-dans-leur-vie
LA CHORALE DE LA CSEM : Célébrant son 45e anniversaire cette saison, la Chorale de la CSEM continue de créer des occasions extraordinaires pour les élèves. La chef de chœur Patricia « Pat » Abbott, qui dirige la chorale depuis maintenant 35 ans et en est également la directrice générale et artistique, affirme qu'il s'agit du seul programme du genre offert par une commission scolaire au Québec. La chorale compte présentement 98 choristes, répartis en deux chœurs – un chœur junior composé d'élèves de la 4e à la 6e année et un chœur senior qui regroupe des élèves du secondaire. L’époque où les auditions se tenaient sur place devant des dizaines d'autres candidates et candidats nerveux accompagnés de leurs parents est révolue. Désormais, les auditions se déroulent individuellement avec l'équipe de la chorale. « Nous recherchons des jeunes capables de reproduire les hauteurs de son avec aisance et de s’autocorriger facilement », explique Mme Abbott. « Je suis d’avis que tout le monde peut chanter, mais ce programme est destiné aux jeunes qui ont un réel intérêt pour la musique et le chant, et qui souhaitent aller un peu plus loin que ce que le programme de leur école est en mesure de leur offrir. Ils doivent avoir une étincelle dans les yeux et s’engager à respecter l’horaire des répétitions. »
Nous vous invitons à lire l’intégral de l'article
EXPERTS EN MUSIQUE : Lors du lancement du 10 janvier, un certain nombre de musiciens professionnels étaient présents pour partager leur expertise avec les élèves. Le Théâtre Centaur présente Des fraises en janvier – Une fantaisie musicale, une collaboration sincère et joyeuse avec le Théâtre Advienne que pourra, et ce, jusqu'au 9 février 2025. Il s'agit de la première mondiale d'une nouvelle version musicale en anglais d'un classique québécois, adapté par le metteur en scène visionnaire Frédéric Bélanger et l'auteure-compositrice Audrey Thériault, sur une musique originale de Ludovic Bonnier, Eva Foote et Habib Zekri. Basée sur la pièce primée d’Evelyne de la Chenelière Des fraises en janvier, cette nouvelle adaptation offre une immersion vibrante dans les thèmes de l'amour, du hasard et des connexions humaines, avec pour toile de fond la ville de Montréal, romantique et hivernale. Cette adaptation musicale comprend dix-huit airs entraînants, avec des arrangements émouvants de Nick Carpenter et Habib Zekri, qui contribuent à rehausser l'émotion et la mélodie de ce conte romantique moderne. Habib était l'un de nos invités. Il était directeur des programmes de musique d’El Sistema pour les jeunes du sud ouest de la ville et ce groupe collaborait quotidiennement avec les commissions scolaires francophones et anglophones en offrant aux jeunes des cours de musique classique gratuits.
ÉCOLES PARTICIPANTES : Outre le Symphonic Winds et le groupe Class Act de l’école secondaire Rosemont, quatre écoles primaires ont pris part au lancement : St. Monica et Willingdon de NDG, Nesbitt de Rosemont et Gerald McShane de Montréal-Nord.
À St. Monica, les élèves de 6e année et leur enseignante de musique, Alison Notkin, ont interprété « Vent frais » dans un arrangement entremêlé de chants, xylophones, métallophones et batterie, accompagnés à la guitare par Mme Notkin. À Willingdon, un groupe d'environ 30 élèves de 6e année a interprété l'Hymne à la joie sous la direction de Nick Batzios, spécialiste en musique. Les élèves ont joué de la flûte à bec, du xylophone, de la batterie et du violon, accompagnés par M. Batzios au piano. À l'école secondaire Gerald McShane, l’enseignante de musique Daniela Alongi et une trentaine d'élèves de 3e et 4e année ont interprété un arrangement choral de l'Hymne à la joie en français et en anglais, accompagnés par le groupe Symphonic Winds de l’école secondaire Rosemont. À Nesbitt, la spécialiste en musique Caroline Derome avait inscrit l'école dans trois catégories différentes dans le cadre du Défi des classes de musique au Canada 2024. Son club de musique et sa chorale junior (élèves de la 1re à la 3e année) ont remporté la deuxième place dans la catégorie vocale au primaire (maternelle à 3e année) pour leur interprétation de « You Can Be Anything » (de Jeremy and Jazz). De même, le groupe Mallets in Harmony s'est classé parmi les 10 premiers dans la catégorie instrumentale au primaire (4e à 6e année). Enfin, le club de musique et la chorale senior se sont classés parmi les dix premiers dans la catégorie Meilleure interprétation de « Yohahí:yo » (« La bonne route »), chanson en mohawk et en anglais écrite par Shawnee Kish. Ils ont fait l’objet d’une vidéo spéciale en compagnie d'autres écoles canadiennes. Cette chanson a été interprétée par le groupe le 10 janvier.
MERCI TRANSCO : Nous tenons à remercier l'équipe de TRANSCO pour avoir assuré le transport des élèves de l'école Gerald McShane lors du lancement de la campagne L'Hymne à la joie à l'école secondaire Rosemont. Au mois de décembre, ils ont également transporté les élèves du Flash Mob de l'école Carlyle au hall gourmand Le Fou Fou du complexe commercial Royalmount.
LES PROGRAMMES PELO: Pour une troisième année, le Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale du gouvernement italien, avec le soutien du Consulat général d'Italie à Montréal, a octroyé à trois écoles primaires de la Commission scolaire English-Montréal (CSEM) un appui financier totalisant 17 030,25 $ au profit de leurs programmes intégrés d'italien PELO (Programme d'enseignement des langues d'origine). Ces subventions ont été accordées par le gouvernement italien dans le cadre de la mesure « contributi a valere sul capitolo 2619 » pour la mise sur pied et le maintien de cours d'italien dans des établissements à l'étranger où la langue et la culture italiennes sont enseignées. Ce financement a contribué à soutenir l'intégration de l'enseignement de la langue italienne dans nos écoles intégrées PELO. Décernées par le Consulat général d'Italie à Montréal, les subventions du gouvernement italien ont permis à la CSEM d'étendre la portée ainsi que l'impact de ses programmes de langue italienne, en particulier au niveau de la maternelle, aux écoles Dante et Pierre de Coubertin à Saint-Léonard ainsi qu'à l'école East Hill à RDP. Des fonctionnaires du consulat ont récemment visité les trois écoles. À Dante, ils ont assisté à une représentation musicale en italien. Par ailleurs, Anna Villalta, directrice adjointe des Services éducatifs à la CSEM, a été interviewée sur le rôle éducatif de la participation des élèves de la CSEM à l'émission de quiz italien, ESATTO. Voir la vidéo
SÉRÉNADE POUR LE MINISTRE GIRARD ET MICHELLE SETLAKWE : Eric Girard, ministre responsable des Relations avec les Québécois d'expression anglaise, et Michelle Setlakwe, députée libérale de Mont-Royal–Outremont, ont rendu visite à l'école primaire Carlyle de Ville Mont-Royal le 17 janvier dernier. Les élèves de l'enseignante de musique Christina Crawford ont présenté un concert spécial dans le cadre du mois de la musique à la CSEM, sous le thème Hymne à la joie – Une célébration de la musique. Préalablement, M. Girard et Mme Setlakwe ont participé à une conférence de presse inédite avec le Carlyle Media Club. L’an dernier, la directrice de l'école, Dina Vourdousis, a fait appel au journaliste chevronné, Dan Laxer. À raison d’une visite à l'école par semaine, ce dernier a réuni un groupe d'élèves enthousiastes de 5e et 6e année pour leur faire découvrir les médias, les accompagner dans la production de balados audio et vidéo, de blogues, et les amener à couvrir des événements qui se déroulent au sein de leur école. Ils ont tous travaillé fort avec M. Laxer en vue de formuler d’excellentes questions à poser aux invités de marque. M. Girard réside à Ville Mont Royal. L'année dernière, il a fait un saut à l'école Dunrae Gardens et en 2023, il a rendu visite à l'école Royal Vale.
Nous vous invitons à visionner notre balado pour découvrir la conférence de presse des élèves avec le ministre Girard et Mme Setlakwe, ainsi qu'un entretien avec des élèves musiciens.
Prestations musicales
PRIX D'EXCELLENCE : Roberte Louisma, de l'Académie LaurenHill de Saint-Laurent, se verra remettre le Prix de reconnaissance en enseignement du français langue seconde, décerné par l'Association québécoise pour l'enseignement du français langue seconde (AQEFLS) et Canadian Parents for French. Ce prix reconnaît l'excellence en enseignement du français langue seconde, ainsi que l'initiative et l'innovation d'un enseignant. Il rend hommage à ceux qui motivent leurs élèves à développer leur plein potentiel et qui apportent une contribution significative à leur école et à leur communauté.
ÉDUCATION À L’HOLOCAUSTE: Nous vous invitons à écouter le plus récent balado de la CSEM sur l'éducation à l'Holocauste. L'animateur Mark Bergman s'entretient avec les élèves de 6e année Ciella et Léon de l'école primaire Edward Murphy dans Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, ainsi qu'avec Rocco Speranza, l'animateur du développement personnel et de l'engagement communautaire de l'école, au sujet de leur visite au Musée de l'Holocauste de Montréal. Ils explorent les expériences des élèves, en commençant par ce qu'ils savaient de l'Holocauste avant leur visite et la préparation scolaire qu'ils ont reçue en classe. Ils partagent les moments qui les ont le plus marqués et discutent des raisons pour lesquelles il est essentiel d'apprendre des erreurs du passé dans le but de promouvoir le respect, l'acceptation, l'inclusion et la compréhension dans le monde d'aujourd'hui.
Découvrez ce que ces jeunes apprenants ont retiré de cette importante visite, leurs émotions, et comment les leçons de l'histoire façonnent leur point de vue sur la paix et l'inclusion. Ce balado se veut une conversation réfléchie sur l'importance d'enseigner le respect et la compréhension aux générations futures.
ENSEIGNANTES DE RETOUR EN CLASSE : Les écoles primaires Roslyn et Edinburgh ont célébré le retour à l’école de Mme Julie et Mme Diane. Ces enseignantes de la France sont arrivées à la CSEM il y a trois ans. Des obstacles liés à l’immigration les avaient contraintes de s’absenter récemment. Ces problèmes ont été résolus et leur retour a été accueilli avec grande joie. Voir le reportage de CTV
SÉCURITÉ EN LIGNE À EAST HILL : Une école de Montréal travaille à sensibiliser les enfants sur la sécurité en ligne et la dépendance en les initiant dès le plus jeune âge. À l'école primaire East Hill de Rivière-des-Prairies, les élèves de 5e année apprennent dans le laboratoire des médias à réfléchir avant de faire des publications en ligne et à concevoir et coder leurs propres jeux vidéo visant à interroger les élèves de 3e année sur la sécurité en ligne. « Nous posons des questions telles que : si quelqu'un vous demande votre numéro de téléphone ou votre adresse, allez vous lui répondre? », explique l'élève Alissa Campapiano. « Allez-vous le lui communiquer ou allez-vous plutôt quitter le jeu et en faire part à vos parents. » Nous vous invitons à visionner le reportage de CTV Montreal
UN COMPÉTITEUR MONDIAL DE KARATÉ: L'école primaire St. Monica de NDG est fière de célébrer la remarquable réussite de Majd Al- Ghabkari, élève de 5e année âgé de 10 ans ayant récemment participé au prestigieux tournoi mondial de karaté à Kakasaki, au Japon. Cet événement, reconnu pour son haut niveau de compétition, a rassemblé plus de 1 000 participants de différentes tranches d'âge à travers le monde. Le tournoi comprenait à la fois des disciplines de Kumite (combat) et de Kata (enchaînements), mettant en valeur les talents les plus prometteurs du karaté dans le monde entier. Majd, ceinture bleue du Club de karaté de l’Île-des- Sœurs, a démontré son grand talent et sa détermination exceptionnelle. Pour participer à la Funakoshi Gichin Cup le 25 octobre 2024, Majd a d'abord dû se qualifier au sein de son club, où il a obtenu sa médaille. Nous sommes incroyablement fiers de la participation de Majd, qui a su représenter l'école St. Monica et le Canada avec honneur et excellence. Son travail acharné et son dévouement sont une véritable source d'inspiration pour nous tous.
MUSÉE ROYAL DE L’ONTARIO: Le Musée royal de l'Ontario (ROM) à Toronto, en Ontario, lance une invitation aux écoles de la Commission scolaire English-Montréal! Des dinosaures imposants à l’art contemporain époustouflant, des momies anciennes égyptiennes aux étonnantes sculptures contemporaines, en passant par les météorites et les dinosaures, le ROM abrite plus de 18 millions d’artéfacts.
usée est le plus visité au Canada et accueille certaines des expositions parmi les plus grandioses au monde, notamment :
• La nature sous toutes ses couleurs - jusqu'au 17 août 2025
• Le Photographe naturaliste de l’année 2025 - jusqu'au 4 mai 2025
• Auschwitz. Pas si longtemps. Pas si loin - jusqu'au 1er septembre 2025
• Vice, vertu, désir, folie - Trois siècles de chefs-d’œuvre flamands - du 28 juin au 30 novembre 2025
• Requins - du 25 octobre 2025 au 22 mars 2026
Agrémentez votre expérience d’une visite guidée ludique et éducative, en anglais ou en français, adaptée aux centres d’intérêt de votre groupe. Nous nous engageons à créer des expériences inoubliables dont vos élèves se souviendront longtemps! Il est possible de réserver des visites en groupe au ROM par l’entremise d’organisateurs de voyages au Québec. Visitez le rom.ca/groupes pour en apprendre davantage et planifiez votre visite dès aujourd’hui!
CAMP DES SPORTS: Les inscriptions pour le Camp des sports de la relâche hivernale de McGill (du 3 au 7 mars) et le Camp des sports estival de McGill (hebdomadaire du 30 juin au 8 août) sont maintenant ouvertes. Les enfants et les adolescents âgés de 6 à 15 ans sont invités à se joindre à nous pour participer à une variété d'activités sportives et récréatives, dirigées par des animateurs de niveau universitaire, qui font la promotion de la littératie physique et d'un mode de vie actif et sain. Info: recreation.mcgill.ca/fr/enfants.
CONCOURS D’ÉCRITURE POUR LES JEUNES : La Bibliothèque publique Eleanor London de Côte Saint-Luc est heureuse d’annoncer le lancement de la deuxième édition du Concours 2024 2025 d’écriture pour jeunes auteurs Roslyn et Max Margles, destiné aux jeunes de la 3e à la 6e année du primaire qui résident à Côte Saint-Luc ou à ceux qui n’habitent pas dans l’arrondissement Côte Saint-Luc, mais qui fréquentent une école des environs. Ce concours, généreusement financé par Mme Roslyn Margles, ardente défenseure de l'alphabétisation des enfants à Montréal, rend hommage à son défunt mari, Max Margles, qui a légué son nom à notre bibliothèque pour enfants : la Bibliothèque des jeunes Max Margles. Nous sommes fiers de nous associer à la Quebec Writers' Federation (QWF), qui a prévu un panel d'auteurs de littérature jeunesse distingués pour agir en tant que juges dans le cadre du concours, notamment P.J. Bracegirdle, Marie-Louise Gay et Anne Renaud. L’an dernier, la bibliothèque a reçu plus de 70 textes impressionnants, qui seront tous inclus dans l’anthologie de la Bibliothèque des jeunes Max Margles. Encore cette année, le concours est ouvert aux élèves de la 3e à la 6e année du primaire. Les textes seront acceptés jusqu’au vendredi 7 mars 2025. La bibliothèque accepte les œuvres de tous genres – fiction, non fiction et poésie – sans restriction de longueur. Des directives détaillées sont disponibles sur le site csllibrary.org, à la page Bibliothèque des jeunes Max Margles. Les jeunes écrivains auront l’occasion : de gagner des prix intéressants, de recevoir des commentaires précieux de la part d’écrivains expérimentés, d’être publiés dans Carte blanche – le magazine littéraire en ligne de la QWF, et d’assister à une cérémonie de remise des prix au début du mois de mai pour célébrer tous les participants. Pour plus d’informations, veuillez consulter le site csllibrary.org ou envoyer un courriel à bcathey@cotesaintluc.org.
VISITE AU MUSÉE : Les élèves du 3e cycle explorent l'histoire et la culture au Musée des Mémoires Montréalaises (MEM) – un voyage enrichissant dans le passé de Montréal! Les élèves du 2e cycle ont eu droit à une visite inspirante du Musée des arts! Notre invité Mathieu nous a guidés dans une visite virtuelle du musée et a partagé un conte captivant sur un chaman ayant le pouvoir de transformer une femme en sirène. L'expérience s’est conclue par une activité artistique créative inspirée de l'histoire!
SERVICES DE L’ÉDUCATION DES ADULTES ET DE LA FORMATION PROFESSIONNELLE
PORTES OUVERTES AU CENTRE DE TECHNOLOGIE ROSEMONT : Le Centre de technologie Rosemont tiendra son activité portes ouvertes (de midi à 18 h) et la compétition maison de compétences (de 14 h à 17 h) le jeudi 27 février.
UNE INITIATIVE QUI FAIT CHAUD AU CŒUR À WAGAR : Les élèves de la classe d’engagement communautaire des services d’intégration sociale (SIS) du Centre d’éducation des adultes Wagar à Côte Saint-Luc ont travaillé d'arrache-pied pour répandre la chaleur et la gentillesse en cette saison hivernale difficile. En prévision de la chute des températures provoquée par le vortex polaire, les élèves ont assemblé 152 trousses réconfort, qu’ils ont affectueusement baptisées « Warmth from Wagar ». Chaque trousse renfermait une tuque, une paire de chaussettes et une collation – ces articles, aussi petits soient-ils, sont essentiels pour aider les sans-abri à affronter le froid. Sur les tuques, un petit cœur a été appliqué à l’aide d’un fer à repasser – un message tout simple mais d’une grande puissance d'une communauté à une autre. Comme l'a si bien dit un élève : « Nous avons beaucoup d'amour à donner. Répandons-le aussi loin que possible... de notre cœur au leur ». Ces trousses ont été livrées à des refuges de Montréal identifiés comme ayant les besoins les plus criants, afin de s'assurer qu'ils puissent les remettre aux personnes qui en bénéficieront le plus. Cette incroyable initiative n'aurait pas pu voir le jour sans la générosité et le soutien de plusieurs contributeurs clés, notamment l’équipe de direction de Wagar dont les encouragements et le soutien a permis la concrétisation de ce projet. Nous voulons remercier Tracy Wrench, responsable des services récréatifs à l’Association de l’Ouest de l’île pour les handicapés intellectuels (AOIHI), qui a elle-même fait don de 95 tuques. L'extraordinaire générosité de Tracy nous a permis de dépasser notre objectif initial de cinquante trousses, ce qui a eu un impact encore plus grand sur notre communauté. Le Centre est également très reconnaissant à Team Bread and Beyond, une organisation locale qui s'est surpassée en identifiant les refuges ayant les plus grands besoins et en veillant à ce que les trousses soient livrées avec soin. Merci d'avoir fait en sorte que le don soit si fluide, percutant et vraiment significatif! Et ne passons pas sous silence les véritables héros de ce projet : les élèves. Chaque trousse a été préparée avec amour grâce à leur dévouement, leur compassion et leurs efforts méticuleux. Ils ont ainsi pu apporter du réconfort et témoigner de la gentillesse à 152 personnes de notre communauté. En tant qu'enseignante, je suis immensément fière et reconnaissante. Être témoin de leur dévouement a été l'une des plus grandes joies de ma carrière. Ce projet a non seulement démontré le pouvoir de la communauté, mais a également mis en lumière l'incroyable potentiel de ces élèves à faire une différence notable. « Je suis convaincue que ce groupe continuera à inspirer et à influencer notre communauté de manière extraordinaire », s’est exclamée la directrice Demetra Droutsas. « L'esprit de service et de travail d'équipe qu'ils ont cultivé n'est que le début d'un héritage de bonté et d'action qui se répercutera bien au-delà de ce projet. Je me sens privilégiée d'avoir été aux premières loges de cet incroyable voyage avec eux. Ensemble, nous avons démontré que même dans les moments les plus froids, la gentillesse peut réchauffer les cœurs et que l'amour que nous partageons peut contribuer à changer des vies.
ATELIER COMMUNAUTAIRE AVEC LE SPVM : Le Centre d’éducation des adultes Galileo à Montréal-Nord a récemment reçu la visite spéciale du Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) dans le cadre de son initiative visant à favoriser l’engagement communautaire et à promouvoir la sécurité. Anne-Marie Gauvreau, agente de police communautaire, a joué un rôle clé dans cette visite, en animant un atelier fort instructif sur la création de relations saines. L'atelier a été conçu pour aider les élèves à comprendre les fondements d'interactions respectueuses et positives dans leur vie personnelle. L'agente Gauvreau a fourni des conseils et des stratégies sur la façon d'identifier les situations difficiles et a souligné l'importance de la communication, de l'empathie et du respect mutuel. Les élèves ont participé activement à l’atelier, en prenant part à la discussion et en posant des questions sur des scénarios de la vie réelle. Ils ont également exploré des sujets tels que résoudre les conflits, savoir reconnaître les signes de relations malsaines et fixer des limites personnelles. Les élèves et le personnel de Galileo ont remercié l'agente Gauvreau pour son temps et son expertise. Le personnel enseignant et les élèves ont fait savoir que l'atelier leur a fourni des informations précieuses et des conseils utiles qu'ils peuvent immédiatement mettre en pratique dans leur vie.
Le prochain numéro de Pleins feux sur Fielding sera publié le 18 mars. Prière de soumettre vos articles au plus tard à midi le vendredi 14 mars à mcohen@emsb.qc.ca
The next EMSB Focus will be published on March 18. Deadlines for submissions is Friday, March 14 at Noon. Please e-mail to mcohen@emsb.qc.ca
No comments:
Post a Comment