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Students of the EMSB’s primary and secondary institutions will return to class on
Tuesday, September 2, 2014. Kindergarten children must be five years of age on or
before September 30, 2014 while Grade 1 (Cycle 1) students must be six years old
on or before the same date.
Registration for those not previously enrolled will begin on Monday, August 11 for
elementary and secondary schools. Parents are asked to call the school in their
neighbourhood to make an appointment. Parents are urged to consult the
Board’s website at www.emsb.qc.ca, which also contains information about the
successful adult education and vocational training programs. E-mail inquiries can
be sent to [email protected] or you can call 514- 483-7200.
All pupils registering for the first time are required to provide a birth certificate and
vaccination records to the school the child will be attending. Parents will be asked
to fill out forms which will allow the school to apply for the certificate of eligibility
for English schooling. Under the Charter of the French Language, a certificate of
eligibility is generally granted to children who did the majority of their elementary
or secondary studies in English in Canada; whose mother or father did the majority
of his/her elementary studies in English in Canada or whose brother or sister did the
majority of his/her elementary or secondary studies in English in Canada. Please
note that as a result of Bill 104, this criteria excludes studies completed in the
Quebec Private School system.
SCHOOL’S ALMOST OUT FOR THE SUMMER
–JUNE 23
Inside This Issue
Westmount Park Centennial
Administrative Appointments
Marymount Web Series
B.A.S.E. Publication
St. Laurent Adult Grads
Fielding Focus
VOLUME 16 NO. 11
EDITOR: MICHAEL J. COHEN
PRINTING SERVICES: D. D’ORNELLAS
PROOFREADING/TRANSLATION: ALINE ZEROUNIAN
JUNE 19, 2014
THE MONTHLY BULLET IN OF THE EMSB
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SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS: GET ON THE ELECTORAL LIST
The next school board elections will take place on November 2, 2014. In the case of the EMSB, voting will take
place for a chairman and 10 commissioners. You can see the precise electoral divisions here. We are
encouraging all voters who may be on the French school board electoral list who wish to be transferred to the
English list to fill out and submit this form. This is an appeal to our parents to help us get their relatives, friends
and children over 18, on the EMSB Electoral List.
EMSB IN THE MEDIA
The EMSB would like to point readers to the media clippings section of our website where we provide links to
newspaper articles about our Board or relevant to the local education system. You can click here to access all
of the links.
EMSB TV AND RADIO GUIDE
The EMSB posts links to television and radio reports, as well as videos produced in-house on our website. We
have now enhanced our dedicated sections for EMSB TV, hosted by Vimeo. We now have sections for EMSB TV
Coverage, EMSB Videos and NousSommesBilingues. In order to access EMSB Radio click here.
STUDENT MEETS HER LEGEND
When Elizabeth Ballantyne Elementary School in Montreal West held its annual
Talent Show on June 11, one of nine-time Grammy Award winner John
Legend’s biggest fans had some special motivation. Six year old Kai’yen Springer-Keith, a Grade 1 student who lives in NDG, auditioned for the show
and performed Legend’s all of Me. This impressed teacher Donna Perlin
(pictured below) so much that she contacted the Israel Cancer Research Fund
(ICRF), an organization which just happened to be hosting its annual gala June
9 featuring John Legend. Incoming ICRF Montreal President Jeffrey Bernstein
stepped in, arranged for Kai’Yen and her mother to see the show and meet
her idol. Ms. Perlin purchased her own ticket to be part of the excitement.
“When I first told Kai'Yen she was going to the show she didn't answer,” said
Ms. Perlin. “I asked her if she understood that she was going to see him perform.
She screamed and jumped. During the concert she
cried, her mom asked her why and she said because
she was so happy. After the concert, with my sister's
help, we tried to go backstage and meet John. Security
wouldn't let us through, but we saw Jeff and asked security if Kai'yen could go say thank
you to him. Security said yes, so off Kai'yen went. We were able to see her from afar.
Jeff was with John and introduced the two. She told him she was going to sing All of Me
at her school talent show. John legend said ‘cool.’ Kai'Yen gave him a hug and he
gave her a kiss on the forehead. When she came back to us, she was smiling from ear to
ear and told us what happened.” See our video.
WESTMOUNT PARK TURNS 100
Throughout the year, students and staff at Westmount Park Elementary School have celebrated their school’s
rich history, and on May 29, the doors at 15 Park Place in Westmount opened up to cap the centennial
celebrations. Staff members, students and volunteers whom have contributed to Westmount Park reunited for
an afternoon of celebrations that included musical performances, presentations and a tour of the century-old
building. What is known today as Westmount Park Elementary School was originally founded as a high school,
39 years after the Village of Côte St-Antoine, later renamed to Westmount, was incorporated in 1874. Situated
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adjacent to its namesake, a sprawling which was designed in 1912 by M.J. Manning, the cornerstone for the
school was laid on November 29, 1913 and the building opened shortly after that in 1914. Following World War
II, the school began its transition to its present day status by becoming Westmount Junior High, housing Grades
7, 8 and 9. Elementary students first begun studying at Westmount
Park in 1961 and over the next two decades, the school expanded
its territory to welcome students from Little Burgundy and Pointe St.
Charles. Today, the school continues to reach out across multiple
communities. In 2013, Westmount Park was named by UNICEF
Canada as the first Rights Respecting School in Quebec. The
program, which is grounded in supporting children’s rights and
respecting other cultures, has been welcomed by a multi-cultural
community at Westmount Park which includes children born in over
25 different countries. See this wonderful video from the
celebration.
Meanwhile, Cycle One and Two students danced, sang and played instruments to a full house at Westmount
Park School. The 10 eras of song and dance were represented by all to commemorate the school's 100th
anniversary. Under the musical direction of Music Teacher, Julia Budd and Aurore Chateigner the students
transformed the stage into a musical whirlwind. A great power point presentation put together by Grade Three
teacher Pamela Price and her students complimented this wonderful celebration.
THE HAWKSBILL TURTLE
Every year Westmount Park teacher Hollis Klein does a project with her
class on endangered species and recycled materials. Last year it was the
blue whale, which was made into a transparency and placed on a
container which ships a sustainable waste management machine. It has
gone up north on a Canadian Coastguard ship. This year her class made a
Hawksbill turtle. It too will be used by the same company which is winning
many awards for best sustainable research company called Terragon. Ms.
Klein has a Grade 1/2 split classroom. ”The children worked very hard on
this project,” she said. “They are passionate about this subject.”
MULRONEY SCHOLARSHIPS
The Horatio Alger Rt. Hon. Brian Mulroney Quebec Scholarship is awarded to students in critical financial need
and who have demonstrated integrity and perseverance in overcoming
adversity, as well as strength of character, a good academic record, a
commitment to pursue higher education and a desire to contribute to
society.
This year’s winners are Manisha Khan from Marymount Academy
International in NDG and Whitney Laliberty-Gouveia from Rosemount
High School.
INTERCULTURAL DIALOGUE INSTITUTE
The Intercultural Dialogue Institute of Montreal (IDI) is an organization committed to fostering a global agenda
of love, peace, cooperation and compassion. Part of their work involves organizing an annual contest for
Secondary students in Grades 9 to 11. The EMSB recently recognized the five students who were declared
winners at IDI's Annual Friendship dinner. Last year, the EMSB embarked upon a partnership with IDI and for the
first time participated in their Art and Essay Contest. This year, for the second time, the EMSB participated in the
IDI’s annual Art & Literature contest, promoting social harmony and intercultural understanding. Secondary
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students from both the public and private school boards
across Montreal were invited to submit art or literary works
on the theme of “Responsible Citizenship.” Students can
submit their work in either French or English.
The students and their families were invited to the
Intercultural Dialogue Institute’s annual Friendship Dinner
and awards ceremony. Prizes and engraved plaques
were presented. In the written work category, first, second
and third place were awarded: Zhanna Klimanova of
FACE won first prize for her essay “Respect is a Small Word
with a Big Meaning;” Derek Buffone of Vincent Massey
Collegiate won second prize for his essay “Le Choix Est le
Nôtre,” and Ashley Halikas of Royal West Academy captured third prize for her essay “What Does It Mean To
Be A Responsible Citizen?” In the Art Category, third place went to Safiya Kramer Hendrickson of FACE, and
an honorable mention to Lily Carson of FACE.
GREEN AWARDS AND GRANTS
The third year of the EMSB Green Award and a Green Grant program resulted in an array of excellent
submissions with approximately $30,000 worth of awards and grants distributed. The Green Award
acknowledges the important and innovative green
initiatives that have taken place in our schools and centres.
Three Green Awards of $1,000 were bestowed upon Edward
Murphy for Edward Murphy Schoolyard and Garden
Composting Project (Pillar 1), John Caboto for John Caboto
Academy School-wide Composting Initiative (Pillar 3) and
Marymount Academy International for Interfaith eco-action
(Pillar 2). As well, Parkdale Growing up Green at Parkdale
(Pillar 2) and Perspectives-Container Garden (Pillar 2) were
the recipients of Green Recognition prizes of $500. The
Green Grant Program helps schools, centres and the
administrative building implement future environmental
initiatives. These projects are linked to their action plans, as
well as the four pillars of the EMSB Green Policy. See our
press release for all of the winners.
EDWARD MURPHY: SUPPORTING YOUNG CANCER VICTIMS
Students at Edward Murphy Elementary School in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve were asked to make a least one
purchase of a red nose in support of the “Nez pour vivre” campaign which helps young adults aged 18 to 30
who are struggling with cancer. Proceeds from the sale of the red noses go entirely to helping cancer patients
continue to live productive lives. A large event recently took place where anyone who bought a nose was
invited to be part of a picture event in hopes of being part of the Guinness World Record book. The “Nez pour
vivre” campaign is a reminder to everyone that life continues once the diagnosis occurs and that life can be
joyful no matter what happens. For more info about this charity, please go to nezpourvivre.com.
2014-2015 & 2015-2016 SCHOOL CALENDARS
The school calendars for the youth sector for 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 have been approved. Classes will begin
on September 2, 2014. Christmas break will be December 22, 2014 to January 2, 2015 and March Break, March
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2 to 6, 2015. The final day of classes will be June 23, 2015. You can access the calendar for 2014-2015 here and
get a real head start for 2015-2016 here.
PHILIP E. LAYTON RELOCATION
Parents of students attending the Mackay Centre and Philip E. Layton Schools have written to Quebec
Minister of Education, Leisure and Sports Dr. Yves Bolduc and Minister of Health and Social Services Dr.
Gaétan Barrette, to alert them about a crisis facing their respective institutions. The EMSB special needs
schools are effectively tenants of the MAB-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre (MMRC), which falls under the
jurisdiction of Minister of Health and Social Services. In their letter to the Ministers, which has now been posted
on the front page of the EMSB website, they ask why the MMRC is planning to give valuable space to its staff
members rather than to their clients: fragile students, who are blind, deaf, physically disabled and have
communications disorders.
On July 27, 2011, the MAB-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre unveiled a strategic plan to consolidate its
operations into one new facility. This subsequently required that the EMSB house its two schools at one site.
Since there was no EMSB building available that could adequately facilitate the needed renovations required
for housing these students, it was determined that the purchase of the building at 3500 Decarie Blvd. would
make the most sense in the event that the MELS favored an alternative that would be less costly than
constructing a new facility. It should be noted that the MELS has already allocated funds so that two new
schools servicing similar French populations be built on the North and South Shore, as well as allocating over
$16 million for the addition of eight classes to Victor Doré School in Montreal.
For almost three years, the EMSB has been working with the MELS towards the acquisition of the property. The
EMSB Council of Commissioners tabled a resolution in April to approve the change to the deed of
establishment, expressing great misgivings over the unacceptable position held by MMRC regarding the finite
allocation of space to the Mackay School. When the MMRC announced, in 2011, that due to its new strategic
direction, Mackay and Philip E. Layton would have to relocate by August 2013 to another EMSB facility, they
assured parents that they would: work with the EMSB to adapt a school; provide financial help; and ensure that
the level of services it provides would not decrease. “This time delay was completely unrealistic,” the parents
write. “After a review of its vacant schools and available properties, no appropriate building existed within the
EMSB. An examination of the Décarie property revealed that further adaptations would be needed to
accommodate the Layton students.
“We parents believe that the MMRC is not considering the best interests of our children who are their clients, as
well and has not been acting in good faith in its negotiations with the EMSB for the allocation of space,” the
parents wrote. “Why are they not consulting us as the EMSB has? Don’t they care about what we think? Don’t
they care about our children? Why are decisions being made behind closed doors?” For a complete copy of
the letter go to www.emsb.qc.ca.
JPI MURAL
Students at John Paul I Junior High School in St. Léonard created an art mural in the agora. Sebastien Astoux
from Agor'art worked with the entire student population to paint the mural. A total of 524 students spent four
days and 16 hours doing the painting.
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EMSB EXPRESS
The latest EMSB Express Newspaper has been published, with copies sent to schools, media and government
offices. There is a special four page section on The Arts Are Alive @EMSB press conference held in January,
columns by Chairman Angela Mancini and Director General Robert Stocker, an Alumni Showcase, sports news
and an opportunity for students/parents to nominate a teacher for a dinner at P.F. Chang’s China Bistro. You
can read the paper here.
ADMINISTRATIVE APPOINTMENTS
The Council of Commissioners has approved a number of in-school administrative appointments for 2014-2015.
New principals will be: Anna Sanalitro (current vp at LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent), Pierre Elliott Trudeau
Elementary School in Rosemount; Sandra Léveillé (current vp at Gardenview in St. Laurent), St. Dorothy
Elementary School in St. Michel; Elizabeth Lagodich (current interim principal at
Roslyn Elementary School in Westmount), Marymount Academy International;
Nick Katalifos (current principal at Pierre de Coubertin in St. Léonard), Roslyn;
Ida Pisano (current principal at Dante), Pierre de Coubertin; Daniela Lattanzio
(currently principal at Westmount Park), Dante in St. Léonard; Richard Di
Marco (current principal at St. Raphael), Westmount Park; Derrek Cauchi
(current vice-principal at Westmount High), James Lyng High School in St.
Henri; Joseph Schembri (current vice-principal at Laurier Macdonald High
School in St. Léonard, pictured), General Vanier; Gail Callendar, currently on
leave as principal of Elizabeth Ballantyne), St. Raphael and Montreal Children’s Hospital; Otis Delaney, interim
principal at Elizabeth Ballantyne, moves to permanent status; and Rick David, John F. Kennedy Adult Centre
(currently interim principal). New vice-principals will be: Patrizia Tummillo, Westmount High School, (currently in
that position interim); Karine Arakelian, Westmount High School (current assistant to the principal, Ecole Notre-
Dame De Nareg in Laval); Cristina Celzi (currently interim vice-principal at Royal Vale School,) becomes
permanent; Despina Michakis (currently a teacher at Coronation), LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent; Marsha
Excellent (currently a teacher at East Hill), LaurenHill; Chantal Juhasz (currently
a teacher at Westmount High), Royal West Academy; Alain Belair (currently a
teacher at St. Pius X) to the same Centre; Maria Savignano, John F. Kennedy
Adult Centre (currently in that position interim); Vincenzo Timpano, Royal Vale
School (current vice-principal at Lester B. Pearson High School); Clorinda
Antonacci, Lester B. Pearson High School (current vice-principal at the same
school; Nicholas Romano, Laurier Macdonald High School (current vice-
principal at the same school); Miranda Serrecchia, Laurier Macdonald High
School (current teacher at Lester B. Pearson High School); Panorea
Limperopoulos, Gardenview (current vice-principal, Willingdon Elementary School); Nadine Pomilio, High School
of Montreal Adult Education Centre in the Plateau (current mathematics consultant for the EMSB); Giuseppe
Cacchione, Adult Education Centre (currently a vice-principal at Commission scolaire de la Pointe-de-l'Île)
and Tina Spiridigliozzi, Rosemount Technology Centre (current principal, Roslyn Elementary School)
Taking leaves of absence next year will be Angela Vaudry (James Lyng) and Craig Olenik (Marymount).
Retiring are Michelle Stein (principal Pierre Elliott Trudeau, pictured), Agostino Porchetta (vice-principal at
Rosemount Technology Centre), Sylvia Serchuk (principal, General Vanier) and Jean Alexandres
Real Heppelle, a teacher at Honoré-Mercier Elementary School in St. Léonard, is the new vice-principal of East
Hill Elementary School in RDP effective immediately. More appointments will be announced in June.
INSPIRATIONS NEWSPAPER
The spring-summer edition of Inspirations Newspaper has been published. This remarkable snapshot of the
special needs community has a wide array of wonderful and “inspiring” stories.
7 FIELDING FOCUS
CAREGIVER OF INSPIRATIONS
Inspirations Newspaper: a snapshot of our special needs community, is honouring the 2014 Dynamic Funds
Caregiver of Inspirations – Tamara Novak - at a breakfast award ceremony in the gymnasium of Peter Hall
School (840 Boul. Côte-Vertu) in Saint-Laurent, on Friday June 20 (8:30 a.m.). Sponsored by the EMSB, Inspirations
provides uplifting success stories and timely advice in the area of special needs. The newspaper is produced in
collaboration with other English public school boards, private schools, special needs schools and associations,
CEGEPs and universities across Montreal, Laval and the South Shore.
The Dynamic Funds Caregiver of Inspiration award honours outstanding caregivers for their work with people
with special needs. It presents an opportunity to share a fresh perspective with peers, professionals, parents of
children with special needs and the public. Novak has been an employee for over 20 years at Peter Hall
School. She is a member of the school’s crisis intervention team, and is responsible for the school’s involvement
in the Défi Sportif Altergo, organizing and training their ball hockey team.
STUDENT ANTHOLOGY
The English Montreal Student Action Committee (EMSAC) recently presented copies of their year-end
anthology to members of the Council of Commissioners. The final product includes poetry, prose in both English
and French, plus a diverse selection of artwork: photography, sketches, paintings and collages. Students from
FACE, James Lyng, John F. Kennedy High School, John Paul 1 Junior High School, LaurenHill Academy in St.
Laurent, Laurier MacDonald in St. Léonard, Lester B Pearson in Montreal North, Marymount Academy
International in NDG, Royal Vale in NDG, Royal West in Montreal West, Rosemount, Vincent Massey in
Rosemount and Westmount are all included. In a presentation to the Council of Commissioners, VMC
Secondary IV student Laurence Campanella, spoke about the project for which she was a driving force. “This
experience was an important one for us as we learned that all leaders must find the courage to bounce back
and persevere to attain their goals, despite the many challenges they face,” she said. “The anthology
represents all of our high schools in which each was allocated five pages for artwork, poetry and short stories.
This project of ours allowed us to explore the artistic talents that many EMSB students possess in each of our own
schools. Putting the Anthology together was a team effort that all the representatives from each school
participated in and we are proud of the results.”
REMEMBERING LAC MÉGANTIC
Students and staff from John F. Kennedy High School in St. Michel came out to show their support for Lac
Mégantic recently by holding a True Colour Run. The event was organized by Spiritual Animator Frank Lofeodo
and physical education teacher Shaun Simon, with the
support of Principal Joseph Vitantonio and Vice Principal
Sabrina Petrocco. Lac Mégantic has been in the news several
times in the last few weeks. Their recovery process is ongoing
as we approach the first anniversary of that tragic event.
Forty- seven people lost their lives that night. Just before the
run began students and staff paused for a moment of silence
to remember the forty – seven people who died.
JFK responded enthusiastically and generously to help the
residents of Lac Mégantic. Through this event of joy and hope,
JFK recognized those who died and looked forward in hope
with our neighbours in their long recovery process. The event
was one of joy and hope; of looking to the future while
remembering the past. With the funds raised, the intention is to plant a tree in the memorial park at Lac
Mégantic in the name of John F. Kennedy High School. This tree will be dedicated to the memory of those who
died. It will be a continuous memorial to those who lost their lives as well as the community of Lac Mégantic.
8 FIELDING FOCUS
GLOBAL TO REPORT LIVE FROM CORONATION
Global TV’s Jessica Laventure will report live from Coronation Elementary School in Côte des Neiges on the final
day of school, Monday, June 23 from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. The Steel Pan Band will perform. It should be a joyous
atmosphere. Make sure to tune in. Watch this terrific musical presentation.
HOLOCAUST EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS FOR TEACHERS
Three teachers, one each from the EMSB and the Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB) and another from
Collège Laflèche (Trois-Rivières) have been presented with scholarships for a three week experience as part of
the Yad Vashem International Seminar for Educators. Thomas
and Riva Hecht hosted a formal reception for the scholarship
recipients at their home to recognize nine teachers in all.
Marymount Academy International history teacher Richard
Owendyk, Beaconsfield High School drama teacher and
department head Jeffrey Pinsky and Collège Laflèche in Trois-
Rivieres teacher Pierre Picard will have their trip funded by the
Hechts. Vincent Massey Collegiate teacher Vincent Gagnon,
a 2013 recipient was in attendance and is shown in this photo
with Mr. Owendyk and the Hechts.
Other sponsors are Dana and Bill Bell for Libby Fainsilber of
Trafalgar School for Girls in Montreal; Victor David for Jean-
Philippe Bosset of College Jean-Eudes in Rosemount; Rosalind
and Morris Goodman for Line Dubé of Ecole Secondaire
Marie-Clarac in St. Michel; Jane Silverstone-Segal for Hélène Dupuis of Collège Laflèche; Sarah and Irwin
Tauben, Miriam Shuster and Janis Levine for Christophe Surget of L’École Secondaire du Coteau in Mascouche.
Each of the teachers will take part in a professional development program under the direction of the Faculty of
the Yad Vashem Seminars for Educators from Abroad, International School for Holocaust Studies. The goal of
the program is to provide professional development activities to teachers for teaching about the Holocaust
and anti-Semitism to students in the youth Sector. Each recipient will be asked to create at least one teaching
unit or module developed within the context learned. This is the ninth year for the program, with 29 teachers
having gone through it with full scholarships.
BEE THE CHANGE
Carlyle Elementary School in TMR’s Grade 6 students worked diligently on their project on the decline of the
urban honeybee population. On April 16, students presented their research to the listeners of Radio Centre Ville.
Their project was in conjunction with the mayor of TMR. They worked with the ‘Town School Council’ to change
the by-law in order to allow TMR to build a beehive to help increase the honeybee population. This project
could not have been made possible without the kind consideration of “Une école montréalaise pour tous”
(AMSFA) and Radio Centre-Ville. The radio show will be presented in both English and French and it was on May
27.
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ST. DOROTHY CONCERT AND
SCIENCE PROJECT
Ms. Yara has been replacing teachers and working with
the students at St. Dorothy Elementary School in St.
Michel for a couple of years now. It was therefore a
great treat for her to come to the recent school
concert to listen and see the results of months of hard
work and practice. “Thank you Madame Esther for the
discipline and harmony you transmit to your students on
a daily basis,” she remarked. “Bravo to Eleni and
Marianna for being such professional masters of
ceremonies. Big appreciation to the whole staff who
worked overtime to make that night feel magical. The
students’ performance was outstanding!”
In order to welcome spring, the St. Dorothy School Pre-Kindergarten students embarked on a Science project.
Each child received a container with a caterpillar and special food to help it develop into a chrysalis and then
a butterfly. The children named their caterpillars, took care of them and then watched them emerge from their
cocoons into beautiful butterflies before their very
eyes. After a few days, as their wings became stronger
they were ready to go on their journeys. Here we see
some students releasing the “Painted Lady” butterflies
to their freedom in front of the school.
WEB SERIES TO PREMIERE
A group of students are detained after school for
detention, detention is over, the students leave and
something is not right. They cannot leave the school –
they are in Isolation. How do they survive with
language differences, lack of food, emotional
upheaval? Isolation, is a bilingual web series, filmed, performed and edited by the students of Marymount
Academy International. Each of the episodes is approximately five minutes long. The students of teacher
Lauriane Smolla studied with director, Patrice Laliberté. They worked on script creation, camera work, the
intricacies of sound and other technicalities of film. They worked with him in French only. The goal was to
encourage them to perfect their second language. The red carpet gala was a big success. Teacher Lauriane
Smolla is excited about the final result and already planning for next year.
We have posted this extraordinary work for you to watch.
Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
Episode 4
Here is a CTV report on the premiere.
MARYMOUNT GRADS MAKE SCHOOL PROUD
Tracy Mangal, a former teacher at Marymount Academy International and now a pedagogical consultant,
had a visit from a former student who is now a recording artist. He is signed to a label and released a song that
has been garnering radio play, and at this point he is changing management. “What he really wanted to tell
me is that he is working hard, doing well, and wants to give back to the EMSB community!“ she said. ”He
10 FIELDING FOCUS
actually came in just to say thank you!” Avner is known as Young Avz. He has been rapping since he was a
teen and even recorded this video at MMA. He is currently starring in a YouTube
serial about his recording career and has a huge following. “I am impressed by his
drive and how far he has been able to get in the music industry,” says Tracy. “This
is bolstered by his recent decision to go independent, he has had to apply his
learning in a very real way that has fostered a sense of genuine appreciation for
the education he received at Marymount. Watching him conduct business has
been a real treat for me!”
Congratulations to Sean Yendrys (pictured), son of Viky Keller and Leonard
Yendrys, and a graduate of Carlyle and Marymount Academy International, on
receiving his MFA in graphic design from Yale University. Sean was one of only six
students accepted into the program. Sean is currently based between New York,
Germany, and Montreal where he works independently in the cultural field, often collaborating with artists,
institutions, and non-profit organizations. He also organizes and teaches special projects at Concordia University
and Rutgers University. Viky Keller is a former EMSB parent commissioner and presently works with the
international students program.
WESTJET LANDS AT GARDENVIEW
Last December the Grade 5 class of Randi Berman at
Gardenview Elementary School in St. Laurent wrote letters
to WestJet regarding this Christmas Miracle video, which
has recorded more than 35 million views. When WestJet
received the letters from the students they were
overwhelmed by the quality and creativity of the writing.
A Westjet employee, Leah O’Donnell, quickly responded
that this was the highlight of her six year career at the
company. WestJet was so moved by the letters that on
June 2 they flew Ms. O’Donnell in from Calgary to come
and personally thank the students for sharing their ideas.
Ms. O’Donnell was accompanied by her Montreal colleague Patrick Ladouceur. The video has had more than
35 million views. Students got to watch the video again, ask questions as to how it was made and received a
number of souvenir gifts from Ms. O’Donnell. See this report on Global TV.
HABS AND ROYAL VALE
Led by teachers Sophie Christopoulos and Norman Katz, the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation had a
presence at Royal Vale School in NDG throughout the 2013-2014 school year. A partnership, which began last
year with the opening of the “Bleu, Blanc et Rouge” skating rink, located within walking distance of the school,
translated into the “Blue, Blanc et Bouge” program last winter. The program featured weekly skating clinics by
members of the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation. In addition to perfecting the art of skating, all
Grade 2 students and their families were invited to the Bell Centre in February for the game featuring the
Hamilton Bulldogs and the Binghamton Senators.
Grade 2 student Andrew Hazan received a special honour as he was asked to return to the Bell Centre on
March 12 for the Foundation’s Radio Telethon. Joining him that evening for radio interviews in English with TSN
690 and in French for 98.5 FN was Sophie Christopoulos. While the Canadiens lost the game, Andrew was the
big winner that evening, earning a coveted Zamboni ride at intermission. Capping off the year on a perfect
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note, led by Mr. Katz, Royal Vale competed in the “Hockey de Rue” tournament at the end of May, benefitting
the Foundation and the YM-YWHA.
JACK LAYTON AWARD The results of the 2014 Learning for a Sustainable Future Jack Layton Award for Youth Action in Sustainability are
in! From over 100 amazing school action projects, Royal Vale and its project was selected to receive
an Honourable Mention. The selection committee was deeply impressed by their student garden project and
the commitment shown to sustainability in their local community.
ALOUETTES NIGHT
The EMSB will have its first ever game time promotion with the Montreal Alouettes, set for a pre-season game on
Friday evening, June 20 at Percival Molson Stadium when the expansion Ottawa Red Blacks are the visitors.
Tickets were made available online only for the special reduced price of $12, with $2 from each purchase
going towards the EMSB produced special needs newspaper, Inspirations.
LONG SERVICE RECEPTION Nearly 90 people attended the annual Long Service Reception, which took place on May 29th at Le
Challenger reception hall in St. Laurent. The EMSB honoured 50 employees – ranging from teachers,
administrators and support staff -- for their 25 years of service with the Board, which began in 1989. EMSB
Chairman Angela Mancini, EMSB Vice-Chairman, Sylvia Lo Bianco, Deputy Directors General Roma Medwid,
Angelo Marino, Paola Miniaci and Assistant Director from Adult Education and Vocational Services Mario
Argiropoulos, along with several commissioners, school administrators and directors from the Administration
Building presented the honoured employees with special EMSB watches courtesy of Promovoir as a token of
appreciation. The honourees for this year were: from the Administration Building: Marlene Baran (Student
Services), Marie-Claude Bergeron (Pedagogical Services), Maria Castellanos (Student Services), Beatrice
Devroye (Student Services), Sandra Heinz (Legal Services), Sarah Kadoche (Pedagogical Services), François
Lemyre (Material Resources), Irene Miller (Student Services), Sheela Ramasamy (School Organization), Marisa
Santeusanio (School Organization), Sherry Skelton (Pedagogical Services) Valerie Whattingham (Financial
Services, pictured with Chairman Angela Mancini, Vice-chairman Sylvia Lo Bianco, & Deputy Director General
Angelo Marino); from Education Division I: Carole Caron (Royal Vale School), Anna Di Raddo (Laurier
Macdonald High School), Linda De Young (Laurier Macdonald High School), Helen Dimakos (Marymount
Academy International), François Grenier (General Vanier School), Michel Latour (Outreach School), Mary
Moroska (Roslyn School), Joyce Palmer (Venture School), Sandra Primiani (John Grant High School), Elliott Roth
(Westmount Park School),Gerald Rowe (Marymount Academy International); from Education Division II: Sylvie
Blain (Nesbitt School), Marie-Josée Dalpé (Dunrae
Gardens School), Ronnie Lascu (Bancroft School),
Kelvin Murray (Laurenhill Jr. Academy), Daniel
Ouellette (Laurenhill Academy), Jean Sebastian
Piquette (Mackay Centre School), and from Adult
Education & Vocational Services; Jacques Caty
(Rosemount Technology Centre), Philip Robert
Christie (Shadd Business & Health Centre), Hipolito
Corral (Marymount Adult Ed. Centre), Gary Currie
(St. Pius X Adult Ed. Centre), Anita De Iure (Shadd
Business & Health Centre), Ann Fairhurst Lozyk
(James Lyng Adult Ed. Centre), Élaine Frenette (St.
Pius X Adult Ed. Centre), Miria Frent (St. Pius X Adult
Ed. Centre), Robert Gallo (James Lyng Adult Ed.
Centre), John Patrick Gilligan (Shadd Business &
Health Centre), Gloria Grimard (High School of Mtl
Adult Centre), Stephen Mcelcheran (James Lyng
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Adult Ed. Centre), Maria Miceli (James Lyng Adult Ed. Centre), Wing Out (James Lyng Adult Ed. Centre), Brenda
Pion (Marymount Adult Ed. Centre), Maria Pitsas (James Lyng Adult Ed. Centre), Anita Raymond (Shadd
Business & Health Centre), Denis Roy(James Lyng Adult Ed. Centre), Paul Saletnig (St. Pius X Adult Ed. Centre),
Alice Sideropoulos (St. Pius X Adult Ed./Culinary) and Susan Yee (St. Laurent Adult Ed. Centre).
NESBITT VIDEO PROJECT
Cycle 3 students at Nesbitt Elementary School in Rosemount spent two years working on a video project about
the environment under the direction of their music teacher Lise Beauchemin en collaboration. She worked with
other teachers and specialists. They were inspired by a song called J’avais une cabane by Blas Sanchez et
de Roger Sanny. The youngsters studied, analyzed and provided the text for the video. They also provided the
audio portion. This was a project which brought together language, music, visual arts, technology, eco
citizenship and entrepreneurship. Here is the video.
SCHOOL PARTNERS WITH CONCORDIA
Sophie Glowa and Naomi Large, Art Education students at Concordia University, wanted to bridge the gap
between art students at the university and elementary level. Nesbitt Elementary School in Rosemount Principal
Elena Zervas, EMSB Arts Consultant Melissa-Ann
Ledo, and Concordia’s Art Education
Department Coordinator Larissa Yousoubova,
collaborated with 16 practicing and university
artists, Grade 4 teacher Thérèse Seguin and her
class to create collection collaborative artworks.
The art making revolved around the theme Our
Imagined Future, responding to the questions:
What will have changed? And what role will you
(the artist) play in it? Using drawing, painting,
printing, and collage, as well as assemblage
and 3-D modeling techniques, the novice and
professional artists reflected on this theme and
considered how their actions contribute to future
societal outcomes. The aim of this project is to
provide young budding artists with mentorship
and an opportunity for expression through
collective art-making. Pairing these practicing
university artists with Nesbitt’s aspiring elementary artists created a context for intergenerational exchange of
perspectives towards positive change in our imagined futures. The project culminated with a Vernissage and
art exhibition on May 29 at Concordia.
SINCLAIR LAIRD CHOIR
Sinclair Laird Elementary School in Park Extension, parents was wowed as the choir of students from grades 3 to
6 accompanied a cast of 35 in the musical L’Exilée: 2014. The children told the adventures of Cassëope des
Prés and her epic odyssey back home. The cast went on to present the musical at Willingdon to the joy of their
fellow students and at the EMSB Festival where the dancers performed 2 choreographies from the musical. The
script, music and lyrics were penned by their own music teacher, M. Bélizaire
LACROCE AWARDED
Laurier Macdonald students from the graduating class of 2014 came together to celebrate their intellectual,
emotional, and spiritual growth at their annual Spiritual Leaving ceremony. The graduating class and their
accompanying families were treated to emotional and uplifting teacher speeches, serenaded by talented
students, and indulged in a delicious five-course meal. This celebration is truly one of the final school events
where staff, students, and families get to immerse themselves in the marvel that is the Laurier Macdonald
13 FIELDING FOCUS
community. This year’s celebration, the tenth in its current format, was marked by a special surprise for Vince
Lacroce, Spiritual Community Animator at the St. Léonard high school. Mr. Lacroce was presented with a
special thank you from the students that he so positively influences on a daily basis. His dedication to student
life and the development of the school’s young people was recognized when he was presented with the
Spiritual Community Animator of the Decade Award by the very students with whom he worked to put the
evening together. When asked what impact Mr. Lacroce has on his students, Annie Cacchiotti (Secondary V
student) responded that he helps students find qualities in themselves that they did not even know they had: “I
feel me! I’m happy! He makes me want to do more and go higher than the expectations.”
FREE THE CHILDREN AT LMAC
Here is a terrific video on EMSB TV of Laurier Macdonald’s connection with Free the Children and the We
Create Change tour.
GRICS ADOPTS HALL MONITOR
A non-profit organization, Société GRICS has been handling all of the computer management needs of the
Quebec education sector for several decades. GRICS has announced
that it has purchased Hall Monitor, a mobile App developed by the
EMSB. It will be distributed free to all school boards in Quebec. Hall
Monitor allows school administrators to quickly identify and look up
student and classroom information within their daily rounds, during
meetings or in emergency situations. By having a consolidated view of
the entire student’s information, previously only accessible through
legacy systems, school administrators can easily help students outside of
class, provide information to parents regarding their child’s progress, and
create a safer environment for all stakeholders. “Not only were we ahead
of the curve, but we defined the curve,” said EMSB Director of Information Technology. Luigi Di Filippo.
PARKDALE AND NESBITT ENTRENEURSHIP
Parkdale Elementary School students from room 19, challenged by their homeroom teacher Sabrina Carbone,
created an eco-friendly cleaning product. Through research and experiment, they came up with their own
secret formula. The students decided to sell their product and convinced the principal to invest. Students
found a name for the product, designed a label, looked into getting spraying bottles and made publicity for it.
They even found out about school board rules surrounding the collection of money! The project grew to
include Math situational problems using data from the
money raised, creating Excel sheets and writing labels
in French. Nature’s Delight received a grant from
Pedagogical Services and was selected to represent
the EMSB at the Montreal finals of the Quebec
Entrepreneurship Contest. On May 7 the students,
teacher and principal were invited to City Hall to
participate in the Regional Gala. Nature’s Delight won
second prize and became a provincial finalist.
Students decided that all the profits from the sales, as
well as the amount from the grants, would go towards
to the Montreal Children’s Hospital charity’s Change
for Change: Rachel’s Journey, as well as to the
purchase of snacks for the entire school for the month
of June. Students are looking forward to continue the
project next year. If you are interested in purchasing
your own bottle, please email the young entrepreneurs at [email protected].
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Nesbitt’s class was also a winner for A Glimpse of Klimt. Cycle I teacher Christina DeSousa’s class captured the
Coup de Coeur Trophy. Students created a calendar showcasing student art work inspired by Gustav Klimpt’s
technique of paintings. Profits from those sold will pay for new helmets and skates for the school
B.A.S.E. PUBLISHES SUMMER EDITION OF PAPER
At the beginning of June 2014, the B.A.S.E. (Before and After School Enriched) Daycare Program team and its
students published a 12-page all-colour newspaper. The front page of the issue highlights the launch of the
Destination Imagination Program and the events from Mental Health Awareness Week and the sixth annual
Daycare Week festival. Destination Imagination is a challenge program that gets teams of young people from
around the world to compete in imaginative timed challenges. For Mental Health Awareness Week, students
from many daycares expressed their ideas about self-esteem and coping skills through written projects, artwork
and videos. Daycare Week festivities included a variety of performances across the daycares, showcasing all
the hard work of the students.
Two feature-length articles describe the Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program offered to students with special
needs and include many wonderful photos. As June features Environment Week, you will find an article on the
benefits of outdoor education and an entire page devoted to the B.A.S.E. Green Initiative and all the garden
news. The exciting activities and pedagogical day events fill four pages of the newspaper with written work
from the daycare students themselves. From a tennis program for children with special needs, to all kinds of
creative arts, the smiles of the students in the many colorful photos tell the story. To see the full paper as well as
all past editions, find it online under the Press Clipping section of the B.A.S.E. blog at daycarematters.com. The
B.A.S.E. program will be featured during a live broadcast from Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School in St.
Léonard on City`s Breakfast TV Friday, June 20.
LAURENHILL ATHLETIC BANQUET
LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent held its annual Athletic Banquet. Former
student and one-time world boxing champion Otis Grant was the guest
speaker. Pictured from left to right are: Gisella Scalia, Mike Brown, Grant,
Julia King and David Servello. Granted delivered a stay in school message.
ANTI-DISCRIMINATION
The EMSB Pedagogical Services department has launched its third annual
Anti-Discrimination poster contest for
Secondary students. In light of Bill 56 and
the EMSB’s goal of developing safe and
healthy school environments, students
from all secondary schools were invited to
create posters depicting the short or long term effects of homophobia and
heterosexism. First Prize for the 2014 contest went to Lara Rensullo of Vincent
Massey Collegiate in Rosemount.
DAVID HODGES NOTRE HOME MUSIC PROJECT
The Notre Home Music Project, headed by singer and composer David Hodges, has been working on with
students at Lester B. Pearson High School resulted in some excellent media interest. Hodges and some students
performed live on the Global TV Morning News on June 19; they will be interviewed on 94.7 Hits FM on June 20
at 9:30 a.m.; and on Saturday they will be on stage at the Olympic Stadium for a United Nations Refugee Day
concert.
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SCIENCE FAIR WINNERS
At the last EMSB Council of Commissioners meeting, Matteo Arduini from
Honoré Mercier Elementary School in St. Léonard was recognized for winning
the Premier Senior Gold medal at the Hydro Quebec Montreal Regional
Elementary School Science and Technology Fair for his project on Antibiotic
Resistance.
Also recognized were Abishek Chakraborty and Lia
Loebenberg from Royal West Academy. Both students
participated in the annual Hydro-Québec Montreal Regional
Science & Technology Fair (MRSTF), organized by Educational
Alliance for Science & Technology (EAST) at John Abbott
College in March and the 2014 Super Expo-sciences Hydro-
Québec, Québec final in Terrebonne. Abishek ended up
proceeding to the Canada-wide Science Fair in Windsor and
won an Intermediate Gold Meda, $700 cash and a Western
University scholarship for his work on the Effects of Folic Acid on
Cells. Lia’s project was called Why-Fi? and focused on possible
health issues related to WiFi routers.
HIGH SCHOOL REUNIONS
MONKLANDS HIGH SCHOOL –ANNUAL ALUMNI SUMMER GET-TOGETHER
MHS RestoBar Reunion Dinner 2014
Saturday, July 19, 2014 at 5:00pm
Ye Olde Orchard Pub & Grill (NDG) in Montreal, Quebec
Info on the MHS Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/MHSMTLQC/
FIELDING FOCUS BULLETIN BOARD
Editor’s Note: The Communications and Marketing Division of the EMSB is contacted regularly by organizers of
different conferences, facilitators of interesting workshops and developers of innovative fundraising
opportunities. We screen these requests and make the information available to schools and centres. From this
point on, we will group these in our Tip Corner and give in-school administrators, teachers, other staff, parent
groups and even students of making contact directly.
FOR TEACHERS: A FREE NETWORKING SITE
Shareor, a free social networking platform for teachers is an initiative designed to simplify communications
between teachers in Canada. As the first online social network designed exclusively for teachers, Shareor
empowers educators to share, collaborate, and connect within the teacher community.
Teachers use Shareor to plan their lessons, organize projects, collaborate with colleagues and promote student
work online. Teachers can also browse lesson plans created by other teachers to discover new things as well as
get inspired from other teachers' interests. Shareor is an initiative of a group of Canadian teachers and is made
16 FIELDING FOCUS
possible through the generosity of private funders and community partners.
To learn more about Shareor, please visit: http://www.shareor.com. More details are available by contacting
Rosa Delia at [email protected].
PROSET AUTISM
Proset Autism Special Needs Adaptive Tennis Program, is extremely proud to present for the
first time in a Montreal School area, an Adaptive Tennis Program, for students with Special
Needs. This program would assist special needs students from both Elementary to Secondary
levels through an (extracurricular) activity, during after school hours. Our professional adaptive tennis coach
Philippe Manning, Director of Proset Autism, would be offering the tennis lessons in the school gyms (three times
a week) or as much time as needed, and would gladly be guiding each of the students to their full potential as
this program is progressive in nature.
What the students will be learning during the course of six to 12 weeks
- how to follow instructions during the lessons.
- new skills that demands Physical Activity and Concentration.
- how to work in a social environment.
- to play different games that associate movement and flexibility.
- to balance and coordinate the different skills associated with the activity.
Info: www.prosetautism.ca
AEVS NEWS
MARYMOUNT ADULTS HELP THE HOMELESS
Long before the season’s first snowstorm, Nabiha Tadorian and her students from Marymount Adult Education
Centre in Côte Saint-Luc were thinking of a way to help out the city’s homeless population. After speaking
with, and subsequently helping, an individual who was unhappy with the state of his life, Nabiha and her
colleague, Sandra Costa, took the advice they gave to heart: there are individuals who have no food, warm
clothes, family or a roof over their head. They decided to help, in any way they can. As educators at the
Marymount Adult Education Centre, both Nabiha and Sandra also wanted to develop a project that not only
would help the homeless, but could incorporate their students, and alas, Every Stitch of Hope was born. Read
the full press release here.
ST. LAURENT GRAD CEREMONY
A beautiful graduation ceremony was held at the St.
Laurent Adult Education Centre recently. Twenty-nine
graduates out of a total of 57 participated. Distinguished
guests in attendance included Commissioner Bernard
Praw, AEVS Director Cosmo Della Rocca and guest
speaker Sena Boateng, an alumnus of St. Laurent Adult
Education Centre. While all graduates have worked hard
to earn their Secondary V Diplomas, some have excelled
in areas of academics, creativity, leadership, or
perseverance. A number graduates were honored with
special awards of recognition. Highest Achievement in
Core Academic Courses, English, Chemistry, Manju
Chettri; French, Jane Kishto; , History, Physical Science
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and Math 436, Irina Moraru; Ben Fairbairn Award, Manju Chettr; Freda Greenstone Award, Karl Ericson
Sumalinog; Teachers’ Awards for Perseverance, Sawera Gul, Siham Kamal Mohamad, Riley O’Neil, Lucinda
Roberts, Anat Topor and Ioannis Vouloumanos; Student Life Awards, Vijay Mahalingam, Riley O’Neil and Ann-
Marie Pulice; PSBGM Cultural Heritage Foundation Award, Taimur Ahmed; and Governor General’s Academic
Award and Medal, Irina Moraru.
The Class Valedictorian, Irina Moraru, gave an inspirational speech to her classmates. She was honored with
flowers from last years’ Valedictorian, Vaibhav Kakkar. All in attendance were treated to musical interludes by
Bagpiper Sylvain Jette of the Black Watch Royal Highland Regiment of Canada, and by the St. Laurent Choir,
directed by Myrtle Thomas. After the traditional Tassel Ceremony, a reception was held with a light buffet and
graduation cake.
HIGH SCHOOL OF MONTREAL
The Montreal Gazette wrote this article on High School of Montreal Adult Education Centre teacher Don King.
Another teacher at the school, Beverly Markus, received a literary award recently in Calgary. She won The
Carte Blanche/Canadian Non-Fiction Collective Competition. Log on to http://carte-blanche.org/articles/on-
good-days/
CALENDAR
July 3, 2014
EMSB Council of Commissioners, Special Meeting
August 27, 2014
EMSB Council of Commissioners
PLEINS FEUX SUR FIELDING
ÉLECTIONS SCOLAIRES: INSCRIVEZ-VOUS À LA LISTE ÉLECTORALE
Les prochaines élections scolaires auront lieu le 2 novembre 2014. Dans le cas de la CSEM, le vote désignera le
président et 10 commissaires. Vous pouvez voir les circonscriptions électorales ici. Nous encourageons tous les
électeurs qui pourraient figurer aux listes électorales francophones et qui désirent être transférés à la liste
anglophone de remplir et de soumettre ce formulaire. Ceci est un appel à nos parents pour nous aider à faire
inscrire leurs familles, amis et enfants, âgés de plus de 18 ans, à la liste électorale de la CSEM.
ÉLECTIONS SCOLAIRES: INSCRIVEZ-VOUS À LA LISTE ÉLECTORALE
Les prochaines élections scolaires auront lieu le 2 novembre 2014. Dans le cas de la CSEM, le vote désignera le
président et 10 commissaires. Vous pouvez voir les circonscriptions électorales ici. Nous encourageons tous les
électeurs qui pourraient figurer aux listes électorales francophones et qui désirent être transférés à la liste
anglophone de remplir et de soumettre ce formulaire. Ceci est un appel à nos parents pour nous aider à faire
inscrire leurs familles, amis et enfants, âgés de plus de 18 ans, à la liste électorale de la CSEM.
WESTMOUNT PARK CÉLÈBRE SES 100 ANS
Tout au long de l’année, les élèves et le personnel de l’école primaire Westmount Park ont célébré la riche
histoire de leur école et, le 29 mai, les portes du 15 Park Place ont été ouvertes pour les célébrations du
18 FIELDING FOCUS
centenaire. Les membres du personnel, les élèves et les bénévoles qui ont contribué à Westmount Park se sont
réunis pour un après-midi de célébrations qui incluait des représentations musicales, des présentations et une
visite du bâtiment centenaire. Ce qui est connu aujourd’hui sous le nom d’école primaire Westmount Park a
originellement été fondé comme une école secondaire, 39 ans après que le Village de Côte-Saint-Antoine,
nommé plus tard Westmount, avait été incorporé en 1874. Située près d’un parc de plus de 100 000 m² qui
avait été conçu en 1912 par M. J. Manning, la première pierre de l’école a été posée le 29 novembre 1913 et
l’école a ouvert en 1914. Après la Deuxième guerre mondiale, l’école a débuté sa transition au statut actuel en
devenant l’école secondaire du 1er cycle Westmount et en accueillant les 7e, 8e et 9e années. Les élèves du
primaire ont commencé à fréquenter Westmount Park en 1961 et, au cours des deux décennies suivantes,
l’école a étendu son territoire en accueillant des élèves de la Petite Bourgogne et de Pointe Saint-Charles. De
nos jours, l’école continue à atteindre de multiples communautés. En 2013, Westmount Park a été nommée par
UNICEF Canada la première école respectant les droits au Québec. Le programme qui a pour base le soutien
aux droits des enfants et le respect des autres cultures, a été favorablement accueilli par la communauté
multiculturelle de Westmount Park, qui inclut des enfants nés dans plus de 25 divers pays.
INSTITUT DE DIALOGUE INTERCULTUREL
L’institut de dialogue interculturel de Montréal (IDI) est un organisme engagé à encourager un agenda
mondial d’amour, de paix, de coopération et de compassion. Une partie de son travail consiste à organiser un
concours annuel pour les élèves du secondaire 9 à 11. La CSEM a récemment reconnu les cinq élèves lauréats
du dîner annuel d’amitié de l’IDI. L’an dernier, la CSEM a conclu un partenariat avec l’IDI et a participé, pour la
première fois, à son concours annuel d’art et de littérature faisant la promotion de l’harmonie sociale et de la
compréhension interculturelle. Des élèves du secondaire du secteur privé et public d’à travers Montréal ont été
invités à soumettre une œuvre d’art ou littéraire sur le thème « Citoyenneté responsable ». Les élèves
pouvaient soumettre leur travail en anglais ou en français.
Les élèves et leurs familles ont été invités au diner d’amitié annuel et à la cérémonie de remise de prix de
l’Institut de dialogue interculturel. Dans la catégorie d’œuvre écrite, Zhanna Klimanova de FACE a remporté le
premier prix pour sa dissertation « Respect is a Small Word with a Big Meaning »; Derek Buffone du Collège
Vincent Massey a remporté le deuxième prix pour « Le Choix est le Nôtre » et Ashley Halikas de l’Académie
Royal West a remporté le troisième prix pour « What Does It Mean To Be A Responsible Citizen?» Dans la
catégorie Arts, Safiya Kramer Hendrickson de FACE a remporté le troisième prix et une mention honorable a
été décernée à Lily Carson de FACE.
EDWARD MURPHY SOUTIENT LES JEUNES VICTIMES DU CANCER
Il a été demandé aux élèves de l’école primaire Edward Murphy de Hochelaga Maisonneuve d’acheter au
moins un nez rouge en appui à la campagne « Nez pour vivre » qui aide les jeunes adultes âgé de 18 à 30 ans
qui luttent contre le cancer. Le produit de la vente des nez rouges servira à aider les patients cancéreux à
continuer à mener des vies productives. Au cours d’un récent évènement important, toute personne qui
achetait un nez rouge était invitée à participer à un évènement de photo dans l’espoir de figurer au livre
Guinness des records. La campagne « Nez pour vivre » est un rappel que la vie continue dès que le cancer est
diagnostiqué et qu’elle peut être heureuse quoiqu’il arrive. Pour plus de renseignements au sujet de cette
activité, veuillez consulter nezpourvivre.com.
CALENDRIERS SCOLAIRES 2014-2015 ET 2015-2016
Les calendriers scolaires du secteur des jeunes pour 2014-2015 et 2015-2016 ont été approuvés. Les classes
débuteront le 2 septembre 2014, le congé de Noël aura lieu du 22 décembre 2014 au 2 janvier 2015 et la
relâche du printemps du 2 au 6 mars 2015. La dernière journée de classes sera le 22 juin 2015. Vous pourrez
accéder au calendrier pour 2014-2015 ici et avoir aussi un aperçu de 2015-2016 ici.
DÉMÉNAGEMENT DE PHILIP E. LAYTON
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Les parents des élèves qui fréquentent les écoles du Centre de réhabilitation Mackay et Philip E. Layton ont
écrit au ministre de l’Éducation, du Loisir et du Sport, le Dr. Yves Bolduc et au ministre de la Santé et des services
sociaux, le Dr Gaétan Barrette, pour les alerter d’une crise qui menace leurs institutions respectives. Les écoles
des besoins particuliers de la CSEM sont locataires du Centre de réhabilitation MAB-Mackay (CRMM) qui relève
du ministère de la Santé et des services sociaux. Dans leur lettre aux ministres, qui est publiée à la première
page du site Web de la CSEM, ils demandent pour quelle raison le CRMM compte donner de l’espace
important aux membres de son personnel plutôt qu’à ses clients : des élèves fragiles qui sont aveugles, sourds,
physiquement handicapés et qui ont des troubles de communication.
Le 27 juillet 2011, le Centre de réhabilitation MAB-Mackay a dévoilé un plan stratégique de consolidation des
opérations dans un nouvel établissement. Cette décision a subséquemment requis que la CSEM loge ses deux
écoles dans un établissement. Étant donné que la CSEM ne disposait pas de bâtiment qui pourrait
adéquatement entreprendre les rénovations nécessaires pour accueillir ces élèves, il avait été déterminé que
l’achat du bâtiment au 3500, boulevard Décarie serait le plus plausible au cas où le MELS favoriserait une
alternative qui serait moins onéreuse que la construction d’un nouvel établissement. Il faut souligner que le
MELS avait déjà alloué des fonds pour que deux nouvelles écoles desservant un effectif semblable
francophone soient construites sur la Rive Nord et la Rive Sud et qu’il avait aussi alloué 16 millions $ pour l’ajout
de huit classes à l’école Victor Doré à Montréal.
Pendant près de trois ans, la CSEM a œuvré avec le MELS pour l’acquisition de la propriété. Le conseil des
commissaires de la CSEM a déposé une résolution en avril pour approuver la modification de l’acte
d’établissement et exprimant de fortes réserves au sujet de la position inacceptable du CRMM au sujet de
l’allocation définitive d’espace à l’école Mackay.
Lorsque le CRMM a annoncé en 2011 que, à cause de sa nouvelle orientation stratégique, Mackay et Philip E.
Layton devraient déménager vers août 2013 à un autre établissement de la CSEM, il a assuré aux parents que :
il collaborerait avec la CSEM pour adapter une école; offrirait une aide financière; et assurerait que le niveau
de services offert ne diminuerait pas. « Cette échéance était totalement irréaliste » ont écrit les parents. Après
une révision des écoles vacantes et des propriétés disponibles, aucun bâtiment approprié n’existait à la CSEM.
Un examen de la propriété de Décarie a révélé que des adaptations futures seraient requises pour recevoir les
élèves de Layton.
« Nous les parents croyons que le CRMM ne considère pas les meilleurs intérêts de nos enfants qui sont aussi ses
clients et qu’il n’a pas agi de bonne foi dans les négociations avec la CSEM pour l’allocation d’espace.
« Pourquoi ne nous a-t-il pas consultés comme l’a fait la CSEM? Est-ce qu’il ne se soucie pas de nos enfants?
Pourquoi les décisions sont-elles prises à huis clos? »
Pour une copie complète de la lettre voir www.emsb.qc.ca
NOMINATIONS ADMINISTRATIVES
Le conseil des commissaires a approuvé plusieurs nominations administratives pour 2014-2015. Les nouvelles
directrices /nouveaux directeurs d’école sont : Anna Sanalitro (actuellement directrice adjointe à l’Académie
LaurenHill) à l’école primaire Pierre Elliott Trudeau de Rosemont; Sandra Léveillé (actuellement directrice
adjointe de l’école Gardenview) à l’école primaire St. Dorothy de Saint-Michel; Elizabeth Lagodich
(actuellement directrice par intérim de l’école primaire Roslyn) à l’Académie internationale Marymount; Nick
Katalifos (actuellement directeur de Pierre de Coubertin) à l’école primaire Roslyn; Ida Pisano (actuellement
directrice de l’école primaire Dante) à l’école primaire Pierre de Coubertin; Daniela Lattanzio (actuellement
directrice de Westmount Park) à l’école primaire Dante; Richard Di Marco actuellement directeur de St.
Raphaël) à l’école primaire Westmount Park; Gail Callendar (actuellement en congé de l’école Elizabeth
Ballantyne) à St. Raphaël et l’Hôpital de Montréal pour enfants; Otis Delaney (directeur par intérim à Elizabeth
Ballantyne) obtient le statut permanent de directeur; Rick David (Centre d’éducation des adultes John F.
Kennedy (actuellement directeur par intérim). Les nominations aux directions adjointes d’école sont : Rea
Limperopoulos (actuellement directrice adjointe de l’école primaire Willingdon) à l’école secondaire Laurier
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Macdonald de Saint-Léonard; Patrizia Tummillo, École secondaire Westmount (actuellement par intérim à ce
poste); Cristina Celzi (actuellement directrice adjointe par intérim à l’école Royal Vale) obtient le statut
permanent à ce poste; Despina Michakis (actuellement enseignante à Coronation) à l’Académie LaurenHill
de Saint-Laurent; Marsha Excellent (actuellement enseignante à East Hill) à l’Académie LaurenHill; Chantal
Juhasz (actuellement enseignante à l’école secondaire Westmount) à l’Académie Royal West; Alain Belair
(actuellement enseignant à St. Pius X) au même Centre; Maria Savignano (Centre des adultes John F Kennedy
(actuellement à ce poste par intérim); Tina Spiridigliozzi Centre de technologie Rosemont. Congés d’absence
pour l’an prochain : Michelle Stein (Pierre de Coubertin), Craig Olenik (Marymount), Agostino Porchetta
récemment retraité du poste de directeur adjoint du Centre de technologie Rosemont, Real Heppelle,
enseignant à l’école primaire Honoré Mercier est le nouveau directeur adjoint de l’école primaire East Hill.
ANTHOLOGIE DES ÉLÈVES
Le comité d’action étudiante English-Montréal (CAEEM) a récemment présenté des copies de son anthologie
de fin d’année au conseil des commissaires. Le produit fini inclut de la poésie et de la prose en français et en
anglais plus une collection de divers travaux d’art, de photographies, de dessins et de collages. Des élèves de
FACE, de James Lyng, de John F. Kennedy et de l’école secondaire du premier cycle John Paul I , de
l’Académie LaurenHill, de Laurier Macdonald, de Lester B. Pearson, de l’Académie internationale Marymount,
de Royal Vale, de Royal West, du Collège Vincent Massey et de l’école secondaire Westmount ont contribué à
cette anthologie. Dans une présentation au conseil des commissaires, l’élève du secondaire IV du CVM,
Laurence Campanella, a parlé du projet dont elle a été l’inspiration principale. « Cette expérience a été
importante pour nous car nous avons appris que tous les leaders doivent trouver le courage de se remettre
rapidement sur pied et de persévérer pour atteindre leurs objectifs, malgré les nombreux défis auxquels ils
doivent faire face » a déclaré Laurence. « L’anthologie représente toutes les écoles secondaires auxquelles ont
été allouées cinq pages de travaux d’art, de poésies et de cours récits. Ce projet nous a permis d’explorer les
talents artistiques que possèdent de nombreux élèves de la CSEM dans chacune de nos écoles. Créer
l’anthologie a été un travail d’équipe auquel tous les représentants de chaque école ont participé et nous
sommes fiers des résultats. »
LAC MÉGANTIC
Les élèves et le personnel de l’école secondaire John F. Kennedy ont récemment démontré leur appui au Lac
Mégantic en organisant une course spéciale. L’évènement a été organisé par l’animateur de vie spirituelle
Frank Lofeodo et l’enseignant d’éducation physique Shaun Simon avec le soutien du directeur Joseph
Vitantonio et la directrice adjointe Sabrina Petrocco. Lac Mégantic a défrayé plusieurs fois les nouvelles au
cours des dernières semaines. Le processus de récupération se poursuit alors que nous approchons du premier
anniversaire de ce tragique évènement. Quarante sept personnes ont perdu la vie ce jour là. Tout juste avant
la course, les élèves et le personnel ont observé un moment de silence en mémoire des quarante sept disparus.
JFK a réagi avec enthousiasme et générosité pour aider les résidents de Lac Mégantic. Par cet évènement de
joie et d’espoir, JFK a reconnu les personnes qui avaient perdu la vie et partagé l’espoir de nos voisins dans leur
long processus de récupération. L’évènement a été souligné d’espoir et de joie d’un regard vers l’avenir tout
en se souvenant du passé. Avec les fonds recueillis, l’intention est de planter un arbre au parc commémoratif
de Lac Mégantic au nom de l’école secondaire John F. Kennedy. L’arbre sera dédié à la mémoire des
disparus et sera un souvenir permanent de ces personnes qui ont perdu leurs vies.
LES CANADIENS ET ROYAL VALE
Menés par les enseignants Sophie Christopoulos et Norman Katz, la Fondation pour enfants des Canadiens de
Montréal était présente à l’école Royal Vale tout au long de l’année 2013-2014. Un partenariat qui a débuté
l’an dernier avec l’ouverture de la patinoire « Bleu, Blanc et Rouge », située à une courte distance de l’école a
donné naissance au programme « Bleu, Blanc et Rouge » cet hiver. Le programme présentait des programmes
hebdomadaires de patinage animés par des membres de la Fondation pour enfants des Canadiens de
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Montréal. En sus de perfectionner l’art du patinage, tous les élèves de 2e année et leurs familles ont été invités
au Centre Bell en février pour la partie opposant les Bulldogs de Hamilton aux Senators de Binghamton.
L’élève de 2e année, Andrew Hazan a reçu un honneur spécial lorsqu’il lui a été demandé de retourner au
Centre Bell le 12 mars pour le téléthon radiophonique de la Fondation. Sophie Christopoulos était présente à la
soirée pour des entrevues en anglais avec TSN 690 et en français avec 98,5 FM. Bien que les Canadiens ont
perdu la partie, Andrew a été le grand gagnant de la soirée en méritant un tour de piste avec le Zamboni
durent l’entracte. Pour terminer l’année sur une note parfaite, sous la direction de M. Katz, Royal Vale a
participé au tournoi de « Hockey de Rue » à la fin du mois de mai qui s’est déroulé au profit de la Fondation et
du YM-YWHA.
SOIRÉE DES ALOUETTES
La CSEM tiendra pour la première fois une promotion avec les Alouettes de Montréal qui a été fixée lors d’une
partie pré-saison dans la soirée du vendredi 20 juin au Stade Percival Molson avec les Ottawa Red Blacks. Les
billets sont maintenant disponibles en ligne seulement au prix réduit de 12 $ dont 2 $ de chaque achat ira au
journal Inspirations, produit par la CSEM.
PROJET VIDÉO DE NESBITT
Les élèves du Cycle 3 de l’école primaire Nesbitt de Rosemont ont consacré deux années à travailler à un
projet vidéo sur l’environnement, sous la direction de leur enseignante de musique Lise Beauchemin et en
collaboration avec d’autres enseignants et spécialistes. Ils ont été inspirés par une chanson intitulée ‘J’avais
une cabane’ de Blas Sanchez et de Roger Sanny. Les élèves ont étudié, analysé et produit le texte pour la
vidéo ainsi que la portion audio. Ce fut un projet qui a regroupé la langue, la musique, les arts visuels, la
technologie, l’écocitoyenneté et l’entrepreunariat.
CHORALE DE SINCLAIR LAIRD
Les parents de l’école primaire Sinclair Laird de Parc Extension ont été ravis par la représentation de la chorale
d’élèves de la 3e à la 6e année qui a accompagné une troupe de 35 interprètes de la comédie musicale
L’Exilée : 2014. Les enfants ont raconté les aventures de Casseöpe des Prés et de son retour épique à la maison.
La troupe a présenté la pièce à Willingdon au grand bonheur de leurs condisciples et du Festival de la CSEM
où les danseurs ont interprété 2 chorégraphies. Le scénario, la musique et les chansons ont été composés par
leur propre enseignante de musique, M. Bélizaire.
NOUVELLES DES SÉAFP
Bien avant la première tempête de neige, Nabiha Tadorian et ses élèves du Centre des
adultes Marymount de Côte Saint-Luc ont pensé à une façon d’aider les sans abris de la
ville.
Après avoir parlé à et, subséquemment aidé une personne qui n’était pas satisfaite de sa vie, Nabiha et sa
collègue Sandra Costa ont décidé de donner suite aux conseils qu’elles avaient prodigué : il y a des personnes
qui, contrairement à nous, n’ont pas de nourriture, de vêtements chauds, de famille ou un toit au dessus de
leurs têtes et elles ont décidé d’aider du mieux qu’elles pouvaient.
En tant qu’enseignantes au Centre des adultes Marymount, Nabiha et Sandra voulaient aussi élaborer un
projet qui, non seulement aiderait les sans abris, mais aussi impliquer leurs élèves et c’est ainsi qu’« Every Stitch
of Hope » est né.
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« Nous avons commencé avec seulement notre groupe, en tricotant durant notre période du repas de midi »
déclare Nabiha. « Après que d’autres personnes aient entendu parler de notre projet, elles ont aussi voulu
contribuer. »
En fait, la soeur de Sandra a entendu parler du projet au New Jersey et, après en avoir parlé à ses collègues, le
projet a reçu plusieurs dons pour acheter de la laine.
« Nous étions et nous serons toujours reconnaissantes de la générosité d’étrangers. Très rapidement des aînés,
des membres de la famille et quelques autres employés se sont aussi impliqués. »
« Nous avons tous commencé à tricoter. Chaque personne avait son propre modèle et il a été intéressant de
constater comment chaque personne apportait sa touche personnelle et son imagination. Bien qu’il ait fallu un
certain temps, nous avons tricoté 25 écharpes en une année. »
Cependant, tricoter n’était que la moitié du projet, étant donné que les écharpes devaient être remises en
mains propres.
« En compagnie de quelques élèves, nous sommes allées au centre-ville et avons commencé à donner des
écharpes aux sans abris. Nous leur avons expliqué notre projet et ils ont été reconnaissants. »
Bien que Nabiha, Sandra et leur équipe de tricoteurs ont apporté une différence dans la vie de plusieurs
personnes cet hiver, elles réalisent que le besoin continue de croître et, en tant que tel, elles espèrent que le
projet s’étendra aussi.
« Nous aimerions aller de l’avant et encourager d’autres personnes à s’impliquer. Que ce soit durant leur
période du repas de midi ou juste en tant que passe-temps : nous espérons ces personnes prendront le temps
de tricoter et nous aideront à étendre Every Stitch of Hope. »
Pour plus de renseignements ou pour impliquer votre classe ou votre école, veuillez communiquer avec Nabiha
Tadorian à [email protected].
The next Focus will be published on August 28, 2014. Submissions
should be made to Michael J. Cohen preferably by e-mail
([email protected]) by August 22, 2014
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