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Vol.10. No. 7 February 28, 2008 EDITOR: MICHAEL J. COHEN PRINTING SERVICES: L. SHAW, D. D’ORNELLAS PROOFREADING/TRANSLATION: ALINE ZEROUNIAN

∆ Royal West Gym ∆ Heart Week ∆ Career Exploration ∆ Fred Penner at EMSB ∆ Black History Month ∆ Green Plan ∆ Chinese New Year ∆ FACE Time ∆ Tip Corner ∆ Dates of Events

A ceremony was held at Holy Cross Elementary School in St. Laurent at which time the library was dedicated in the memory of former principal Francine Jarret Imhoff, who passed away last summer after a battle with cancer. Her husband Keith, also a former principal and her mother Jeanne, were on hand for the unveiling of the plaque at the entrance to the library.

EMSB TO HOST REGIONAL SCIENCE FAIR The EMSB will host the Bell Montreal Regional Science & Technology Fair (BMRSTF) at Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North March 16 -18. Event chair Gio Spina, a retired science teacher from the school who still works there part-time, is coordinating the event. Ciriaco A. Piccirillo, Assistant Professor of Immunology and a Member of the Center for the Study of Host Resistance at McGill University, will be the keynote speaker at opening ceremonies. “The Bell Montreal Regional Science and Technology Fair is one of the few academic events that challenge our students to excel at various levels, personally as individuals, cooperatively with partners, locally within the school community, regionally competing and sharing with students from other schools, and provincially coordinating the activity for all Quebec schools,” said Mr. Spina. This regional event will involve approximately 35 schools, over 300 students and should attract over 4,000 visitors. Stay tuned to www.sciencetech.ca for more details.

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March Break is March 3-7 FOCUS SCHOOLS: The EMSB Committee on Focus Schools will hold hearings in May to hear from parents who presently have children in the system, in daycare or attending private schools. The question being asked is as follows: If you could have the ideal kind of school – primary or secondary – what would that be? “As we prepare to celebrate the 10th anniversary of linguistic school boards in Quebec this represents an excellent opportunity to look at what else the system can offer in order for us to better serve the community,” commented EMSB Chair Angela Mancini. “We are proud to become the first public school board in Quebec to initiate such a process.” In conjunction with the Central Parents Committee and its regional counterparts, the EMSB will be calling for submissions to the committee, chaired by Commissioner Syd Wise. The dates and locations of the hearings are as follows: Region 1, Tues. May 6, Laurier Macdonald High School in St. Léonard; Region 2, Mon. May 26, Dunrae Gardens in TMR; and Region 3, Tues. May 27, Hampstead School. The meetings will begin at 7:30 p.m. Others commissioners on the committee are Bernard Praw, Joseph Lalla, Angela Mancini, Anne Williams and Viky Keller. ROYAL WEST GYM: The official inauguration ceremony for the new Royal West Academy Gymnasium project in Montreal West was held on February 18, with a wine and cheese reception, followed by the ribbon cutting and ceremony. The Royal West Honour Band performed while the school’s female volleyball team put on an exhibition. Two and a half years ago the Quebec government announced that it was providing $2.1 million in funding for the long awaited project. The English Montreal School Board

(EMSB) made representation for this specific project for many years. Royal West’s 800 plus students are housed in a 70 year facility.

There were all smiles at the Royal West Academy Foundation Gymnasium ribbon cutting ceremony. This new state of the art stand alone facility replaces two small gymnasiums which will now be available for special events, assemblies, concerts, presentations and theatrical productions, no longer necessitating the need to cancel gym classes for such occasions. The actual cost of the gymnasium was $2.5 million, with the Royal West Academy Foundation contributing $300,000 and the EMSB $150,000. It is officially being named the Royal West Academy Foundation Gymnasium. N.D.G. Liberal MNA Russell Copeman, who was instrumental in securing the provincial government funding, was among the special guests to speak at the ceremony. So was Montreal West Mayor Campbell Stuart, EMSB Director General Antonio Lacroce, Royal West Academy Foundation Past President Margaret Wada and School Principal Mary Reynolds. ALOUETTES TOUR: Players from the Montreal Alouettes began their popular basketball/lecture tour of schools at Dante in St. Léonard and moved on to Pierre-de-Coubertin, also in St. Léonard, Royal West Academy, Rosemount High School and Michelangelo Elementary School. Still to

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come are Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary School in Rosemount, March 11; Dalkeith Elementary School in Anjou, March 14; Royal Vale School in N.D.G, March 17; Westmount Park Elementary School, March 20; and St. Dorothy Elementary School in St. Michel, April 11.

Brian Chiu of the Alouettes meets Dante students.

Among the Alouettes players participating are: Luke Fritz, Paul Lambert, Bryan Chiu, Scott Flory, Jeff Perrett, Dave Mudge, Dave Stala, Damon Duval, Danny Desriveaux, Anwar Stewart, Matthieu Proulx, Pascal Masson, Brad Smith and Shaun Diner.

The Impact School Program launch was a big success. IMPACT PROGRAM: The EMSB and the Montreal Impact have renewed their partnership for 2008. The Banque Nationale All the Way with the Impact (Jusqu’au bout avec l’Impact) campaign is presently promoting the importance of persevering in school. Gardenview Elementary School in St. Laurent was the site of the official kickoff,

Feb. 13 with players Mauro Biello and Adam Braz as well as ambassador Lloyd Barker and president Joey Saputo on hand. Go to the Press Room (video) section of the EMSB website at www.emsb.qc.ca to view the ceremonies. Barker is following this up with visits to Dante in St. Léonard, Edinburgh in Montreal West, Nesbitt in Rosemount, Royal Vale in N.D.G., Perspectives in St. Michel, LaurenHill in St. Laurent, Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North and Options II in Ville Émard. Tickets will soon be available for the third annual EMSB Night. This will take place on Wednesday, June 4 (7:30 p.m.) at the brand new state-of-the-art Saputo Stadium (next to Olympic Stadium) when the Impact host Miami FC. Students, their families and staff will be able to reserve their seats via order forms which are being delivered to schools for the special price of $5. If anyone would like a block of tickets to sell, please call 514-483-7200, ext. 7245. The Impact will once again hold a special ceremony before the game, highlighting some of the most outstanding students, and bursaries will be awarded to those with the highest academic standings. These bursaries are named in honour of the late Tony Licursi, the long-time Impact statistician who died two years ago. Mr. Licursi was a member of the EMSB’s James Lyng High School Alumni Association. HEART WEEK LAUNCH: The Heart of Life Fund organized its fifth annual Heart Week celebrations with the support of the Montreal Children’s Hospital (MCH) Foundation and over 30 English and French schools in and around the greater Montreal area. The official launch took place at John Paul I High School in St. Léonard with the presence of Canadian Olympic gold medal winning skier Jennifer Heil, Mauro Biello of the Montreal Impact, Paul Lambert from the Montreal Alouettes, Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Montreal franchise owner and president Farrel Miller and Martin Routhier respectively and, of course, the

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Children’s Hospital mascot: Caramel. The students and staff at John Paul I raised $2,000 for the cause. Go to the Press Room/Video section at www.emsb.qc.ca to see the ceremonies, which were hosted by CJAD’s Rick Moffat.

CJAD’s Rick Moffat addresses the crowd.

During Valentine’s Week each student with a healthy heart was asked to bring a small donation to help a child with a “broken heart” while wearing a red garment to show their friendship towards children with more fragile hearts. The Heart of Life Fund encouraged a pedagogical approach by tying their efforts together with the schools to publicize Heart Week and educate kids on healthy lifestyles through the Physical Education Department and Homeroom Teachers. This Fund was created in 1997 by parents of children who have undergone complex open heart surgery. Their goal is to increase awareness of heart disease amongst children. One in 100 children is born with a heart defect. This rate is 10 times higher than for any other childhood illness. Funds collected during Heart Week will enable the Cardiology Department at the Montreal Children's Hospital to purchase state-of-the-art equipment. The 2007 campaign raised over $40,000 for that purpose. EDINBURGH HAS HEART: For a fifth consecutive year, Edinburgh Elementary School in Montreal West observed and supported Heart Week with a “Red Day.” Students were asked to wear something red

from head to toe and brought loonies or toonies to donate to the “Heart of Life Fund.” A total of $367.55 was raised. Paola Borzone, a parent and an EMSB guidance counsellor were at Edinburgh to speak to the students about heart surgery for a defective heart. Helping her with the presentation were sons Gabriel and Antonio. Teacher Marina Rendina assisted with the graphic part of the presentation. John F. Kennedy High School raised $500 for the cause. HEART AT FIELDING: EMSB Assistant Director of Pedagogical Services Athina Galanogeorges and executive secretary Gina Mancini spearheaded a fundraising drive at the Administration Building. A total of $765 was raised through a raffle, with many good prizes up for grabs. This included meals from five restaurants, a weekend getaway at Chalet Laurentides, roses from Les Fleurs Dimitry et Cadeaux, wine, a big stuffed animal, tickets for the EMSB Chorale Spring Gala and a bouquet of flyers. The Pedagogical Services Social Committee wishes to thank Jose Fernandes for soliciting the restaurant donations, Sara Iatauro for getting the wine and weekend getaway and Ms. Galanogeorges for the stuffed animal. LIBRARY DEDICATION: A ceremony was held at Holy Cross Elementary School in St. Laurent at which time the library was dedicated in the memory of former principal Francine Jarret Imhoff, who passed away last summer after a battle with cancer. Her husband Keith, also a former principal and her mother Jeanne, were on hand for the unveiling of the plaque at the entrance to the library, “Francine had two loves,” said Keith. “A love for teaching and a joy for reading. We appreciate this tribute.” EMSB Deputy Director General Mario Tirelli paid tribute to Ms. Jarret Imhoff. Spiritual Community Animator Father Mike Shaw added some solemn words of remembrance. Assistant Director of Pedagogical Services Irene Konecny presented some news books to principal Michelle Stein and students Clara Lévesque and Dimitri Baibos.

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GOING GREEN: A team of six students from Leonardo Da Vinci Elementary School in RDP came to the Administration Building recently to give a presentation on "Going Green." The LDV junior scientists did a study of how many water bottles were used at their school, discussed their recycling efforts and enlightened us about the types of bottle that are recyclable and which bottles release toxins. At the end of the presentation the students gave each participant an LDV water bottle.

LDV students make their presentation.

Students at the school will now use this recyclable bottle for water. Senior management recessed their meeting to see the presentation. More recently, LDV hosted NDP Member of Parliament Thomas Mulcair who came to speak to students about the importance of saving our environment and the easy steps we can all take to achieve that mission. And still with this subject, LDV students will soon be featured on the Global TV News Global Planet series as they prepare their own report. MULCAIR AT LDV: On February 18, as part of a school project on the environment, Leonardo Da Vinci Elementary School in RDP had the honour of welcoming New Democratic Party Member of Parliament. Thomas Mulcair to the school. Mr. Mulcair is a well-known environmentalist and spokesperson for the environment on many committees. He was first invited to hear

students from the school Green Committee/Comité Vert make their presentation on a very ambitious project that has to do with reducing the number of plastic water bottles used daily by students by buying one that is reusable and is being sold in the school at the moment. That same presentation was also made in schools in our neighbourhood and at the school board as well. Mr. Mulcair then spoke to all the students about the environment and the measures and small steps we all need to take in order to save our planet before it is too late. It was a very informative presentation.

Left to right: EMSB Chair Angela Mancini, Commissioner Richard Lalonde, Justin Jackson and James Lyng Principal Luigi Santamaria. MERITORIUS STUDENTS: Two meritorious EMSB students were honoured at the last Council of Commissioners meeting. Justin Jackson, a Secondary V student at James Lyng High School in St. Henri, received the Victor Phillips Cash Award of $1,000, funded by the CJAD Radio Kids Fund and the Black Theatre Workshop’s Board of Governors. He is a tap teacher and choreographer with the Ethel Bruneau Dance School. Meanwhile, Odessa Thornhill is a graduate of James Lyng. She received the Gloria Mitchell Aleong Award of $1,500. She was selected to be one of the singers for Cirque de Soleil’s LaNouba in Orlando, Florida.

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Mario Tirelli and Angela Mancini congratulate retired commissioner Dr. John Simms. COMMISSIONERS HONOURED: The EMSB held a dinner at Baron Royal in St. Léonard to honour all of the commissioners who served in the last four year mandate. EMSB Chair Angela Mancini thanked everyone for the commitment they made to the public school education system and them with special plaques. Among those honoured was Dr. John Simms, a past board chairman, who retired last fall after serving an incredible 44 years as the commissioner for Montreal West. FRED PENNER VISITS: Fred Penner, one of the most popular children’s entertainers in the world, will visit Hampstead Elementary School (83 Thurlow) on Thursday, March 13 (1 p.m.) and Coronation Elementary School in Côte des Neiges (4810 Van Horne) on Friday, March 14 (tentatively, 9:30 a.m.) where he will give special performances for students.

Fred Penner

In a new world of consumerized children’s entertainment, Penner stands apart from the mass marketed entertainers now targeting younger audiences. The Quebec born singer,

songwriter and guitarist, who now lives in Winnipeg, continues to offer families a clear, simple message that emphasizes strong values. Recognized internationally as an exceptional artist whose powerful music resonates with family values and imaginative style, his television program Fred Penner’s Place aired for many years on CBC and the United States on the Nickolodeon Network. He is a member of the Order of Canada, a past Juno Award winner. Penner has recorded countless albums of children’s music. COMMUNITY SERVICE: Students from Imagination Pre-Kindergarten, located in St. Léonard and their teachers, Nancy Salituri and Nancy Maggiore, were visited by 10 devoted students from John Paul I Jr High School and Spiritual Community Animator Rocco Speranza, who braved the winter weather and high snow drifts to perform valuable community service to some of their community’s younger members. Students gave their time in order to assist the pre-k students and staff decorate for their delightful and enchanting Christmas show that was held on December 21 for family and friends. Students also delivered storybooks to the children in order to promote literacy. Students will make another visit to the the Pre-k in mid-February in order to spend some time reading and encourage literacy among the students. CAREER EXPLORATION: Two Grade 10 students from LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent recently enjoyed a Career Exploration day at Cirque du Soleil. Keshia Parris and Whitney Connors-Isaa spent the morning with Cirque dancers who are preparing for the new show scheduled to open in Macao, China, in the spring. The students, who are both involved in LaurenHill's Dance Troupe, watched Cirque dancers as they took in a morning dance class, and then reviewed a video of their latest rehearsal with the choreographer. Throughout the morning there were opportunities to speak to the dancers and ask questions. Both students said that the experience was very interesting and helpful to them. The Career Exploration program is

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coordinated by the Department of Student Services. DESIGNING CAREERS: On Feb. 13, Alexandra Di Maio (Vincent Massey Collegiate) and Kristen Whalen (LaurenHill Academy) both met Marilena Tricarico, Interior Designer on the TV Show “Décore ta Vie” from Canal Vie. “They are both very inspiring and passionate young ladies,” Ms. Tricarico told Lori Guarino of Student Services, who arranged the visit. “You can see that they both have a very strong sense of design and will both do fine if they choose to be in this field. I started by showing them my portfolio and some of the projects I' ve worked on in school, for DTV and other contracts. They asked questions about the school I attended and the projects I' ve worked on in the past. I also gave them a little introduction to the computer program Autocad and explained the importance of knowing how to use this program to be a good designer. We then shopped at Homesense for my next project. I asked their opinions on certain choices I was making and both girls were really very good in their comments and understanding what I was looking for. Overall the three hours went by very quickly. I would definitely consider hiring them if they choose to be in the design field. UBISOFT VISIT: On Feb. 1 Guidance Counsellor Ana Santos accompanied eleven students from LaurenHill, Laurier Macdonald, James Lyng and John F. Kennedy to Ubi Soft Entertainment for career exploration. The excited students were welcomed by Geneviève Laurendeau, a talent network specialist, who gave students a guided and informative tour of the Ubi Soft Company. The students had the opportunity to visit all the different departments that deal with the various facets of game development. Following the introduction to the various departments, students were offered a one hour powerpoint presentation on the different specialties in game development, such as, programming, artistic design, modelling, animation, illustration, etc., and how people

with talent in these different areas must work together to reach the desired outcome. Students also learned about the Ubi Soft Entertainment Company and its rapid growth in Montreal, the Ubi Soft Campus, career opportunities and tips on connecting to the industry. Students were excited, learned a great deal, and were motivated to apply to related fields.

Michelle Courchesne

MINISTER TO VISIT: Quebec Minister of Education, Leisure and Sports Michelle Courchesne will make a special visit to Merton Elementary School in Côte Saint-Luc on March 31 (12:30 p.m.). SHARNA’S WISH: Sharna Dey, the president of the Marymount Academy Student Body, organized a musical fundraiser for the Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada, which has as its main goal to grant children living with high-risk life threatening illnesses, the opportunity to fulfill their most heartfelt wish. It took place February 22 at Marymount. There were two shows. Admission was free of charge for the children who are ill. Everyone else was asked to donate $8. The show included dances, songs, and performances from the Indian culture so that the children felt as if they had been transported to India. Marymount staff and students performed. “I hope that the children that are sick got the opportunity to come and enjoy the day planned out for them,” she said. “This was my dream.”

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DI GIOVANNI FOUNDATION: The fifth year of fundraising for the Franco Di Giovanni Foundation, supporting the Brain Tumour Research Center at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, is underway. This year three major events are planned. The first is a fundraising campaign in all schools and centres, whereby they are being called upon to organize dress down days, bake sales, raffles or anything else they choose. To facilitate this fundraising, organizers are offering two items: a grey metal ribbon for a $2 donation and an EMSB dog tag for a $3 donation. Over the four years more than $118,000 dollars has been raised for the Brain Tumour Research Centre. GALA EVENING: The second event is the fourth annual Franco Di Giovanni Foundation Social Night Fundraiser will take place on March 15 at the Prima Luna Reception Hall (7301 Henri Bourassa Blvd. East in R.D.P.). Cocktails are at 5:30 p.m., followed by a seven course dinner with open bar. The music will be provided by Goldstarr Entertainment. There will also be door prizes and auctions of gift items and sports memorabilia, such as a personalized Sydney Crosby Hockey Stick and personalized hockey jerseys of Sydney Crosby, Alexander Ovechkin, Robert Luongo, Wayne Gretzky, Saku Koivu, Martin Brodeur, Maurice Richard, Guy Lafleur, and Gump Worsely. The soccer memorabilia will include an autographed and framed Buffon picture and glove, autographed soccer jerseys of Del Piero, Cannavaro, Totti and Beckham. There will also be a grand prize of an all inclusive trip for two to Acapulco, Mexico. The special guest will be Dr. Rolando Del Maestro, Clinical Director of the Brain Tumour Research Center at the Montreal Neurological Center. Tickets are now available at $100 each. All proceeds will go to support the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital Brain Tumour Research Center. Please come out and support this worthy cause and remember that together we can make a difference. For more information, call Lina Di Giovanni at (514) 494-6831 or Mike Talevi at (514) 352-6730. See the event poster in the

Press Room (Information Flyers) section of the EMSB website. BRAIN WAVES: Finally plans are moving ahead for the fourth Brain Waves Gala at the Leonardo Da Vinci Center on Wed. May 7. The gala will highlight talented students from 10 secondary schools. Tickets are $25 each and will go on sale soon. For more information and for tickets please contact Lina Di Giovanni at 514-494-6931 email: linadg1@hotmail.com; Vince Lacroce at 5365 or email: vlacroce@emsb.qc.ca or Mike Talevi at 2004 or email: mtalevi@emsb.qc.ca. ITALIAN IDOL: Dante Elementary School in St. Léonard’s Chorale of 45 students has been selected to do the background chorus for the Superfantastico Show (Italian Idol) at Place Des Arts on April 13 (5:30 p.m.) .The students will also record the chorus to be used as the promo for the show. Dante will be announced on the radio along with the promo. American Idol judge Randy Jackson will be at the event, as will some Canadian Idol personalities. Adults who wish to attend can get tickets for $30. Log on to www.cfmb.ca/content.asp?key=22. CITIZENSHIP CEREMONY: Willingdon Elementary School in N.D.G. will host its first Canadian Citizenship Ceremony on Thurs. March 20 (10 a.m.) with Judge Gordana Caricevic-Rakovich presiding. Thirty new immigrants from around the world will be sworn in. CANADIAN IDOL: This is a notice for musically-inclined EMSB students. CTV has announced details of its sixth cross-country audition tour for the Canadian Idol 2008 Audition Tour. All singer/musicians are once again welcome to audition with instruments. Montreal is on the schedule for March 15 and 16 at a location to be announced. The 2008 Canadian Idol “Easy-Access” tour continues to make it easy to audition. As in 2007, there is no need to line up, as competitors can choose the day and time they want to try out. Registration is open between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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on each day of auditions. Auditions are open to all Canadians between the ages of 16 and 28 (inclusive) as of January 25, 2008. For more information log on to idol.CTV.ca. MyVIEW: Tony Borioni, who teaches video at some EMSB schools and runs the MyView project, organized a successful ReelYouth Film FestivaI in December. The audience voted on their favourite local films and three youth from the EMSB’s John Grant High School won ipods. Other prizes were given out such as digital cameras and t-shirts. Mr. Borioni wishes to thank American Apparel, Hype and Brault & Martineau for their support. In June, MyView will be hosting a local youth film festival at the NFB Cinema on St.Denis, open only to Montreal youth between the ages of 12 to 9. Videos cannot be more than six minutes long and must be under the category of short film, documentary, or public service announcement. Deadline to submit is April 1. There's more info at www.myviewproject.org. Recently Mr. Borioni began working with six deaf students at the Mackay Center School. In March, he will begin teaching video at Westmount High School. ROSEMOUNT ON TV: Principal Ginette Clarke and students from Rosemount High School are being featured on television commercials sponsored by the Quebec government focusing on healthy eating in school cafeterias. REVERSE INTEGRATION: Mackay Centre School in N.D.G. is celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Reverse Integration Program. Over the years, hundreds of students have benefited from this unique experience, learning alongside students with disabilities. Parents are encouraged to consider this opportunity for their child. Children who participate in the program for one year benefit from the low student–teacher ratio, become sensitized to peers with disabilities and get the chance to take on leadership roles. Recently, schools have received information to distribute to parents regarding this program.

They are encouraged to visit the Mackay Centre School website and complete the application to enable their child to be considered for the March 17 and 18 screening visits. All applicants will be screened and acceptance into the program is conditional. Students from pre-kindergarten to Grade 6 are welcome. For more information, call 514-482-0500, ext. 218 or log on to www.emsb.qc.ca/mackay. AUTISM WORKSHOP: The EMSB Advisory Committee on Special Education Services (ACSES) is organizing a workshop on autism March 20 (7 p.m.) at the Administration Building (6000 Fielding). This program is primarily geared to parents of special needs students. The workshop will focus on an overview of autism spectrum disorders, the role of in-school personnel, professionals and parents, political strategies for both home and school and services available both within and outside of the EMSB. The speakers will be EMSB Autism Spectrum Disorder Consultant Tania Piperni, Special Education Consultant Marylène Perron and Behavior Management Specialist Lori Rubin. Please confirm your presence by contacting Helen Dimakos by Fri. Feb. 29 at 514-483-7200, ext. 7295 BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Andrew Adams, a fifth-year English teacher at LaurenHill Academy’s Junior Campus in St. Laurent is known for galvanizing his students into creative action through annual group publishing projects. This year he tackled Black History Month his way. From the photographic poetry calendar “ABCity” to a graphic novel entitled “You Don’t Know Me,” Mr. Adams has gotten to know how Generation ‘i’ learns best, and is preparing to give them fresh insight into a movement they may think they know inside out. On Feb. 11, Hip Hop emcee James Sobers, a.k.a. BluRum13, wielded the microphone and lesson plan for a special workshop on one of today’s most popular, controversial and meaningful cultural movements.

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A working emcee for over 10 years, BluRum13 has toured the world and collaborated with various artists from Montreal’s own NinjaTune label (DJ Vadim, OneSelf, Kid Koala, Bonobo and more) and given workshops for college students from London to Bratislava to Marseilles. BluRum13, accompanied by DJ Soul. performing a live freestyle set (unwritten rhymes over various beats) followed by a workshop. For Mr. Adams, the event was about offering his Grade 8 students an intimate experience with Hip Hop in a live setting. GLEN CLARKE: As part of Black History Month, Gardenview Elementary School invited Glen Clarke and his orchestra for a dynamic show which included African percussion instruments combined with traditional African/Carribbean dance. The teachers got to show their fun side as they performed a dance for their students who cheered them on. AFRICAN STEP DANCERS: The students at St. Raphäel School in Ahuntsic celebrated Black History Month with Steve Blacket’s step dance troop, who were invited by the spiritual community animator, Nancy Pasquini. The students learned about the joy and resiliency present in the black community through story, song and dance. The troop communicated their dedication and spiritual focus as well as their desire to educate the students re: black history. They sang of their ability to rejoice in the most difficult of times and to praise and thank God for their blessings in the midst of the hardships of slavery. The students were caught up in the dignity and pride that the members of this dance troop brought to their craft. This troop left the St. Raphael’s students and staff with a sense celebration of black culture and a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome the past and to move forward with determination and hope. BOOK DISCUSSION: As part of Black History Month, Frank Mackey, author of Black Then, Blacks and Montreal, 1780s-

1880s, read from his book and answered questions at Vincent Massey Collegiate library in Rosemount on Feb. 25. Mr. Mackey is a former copy editor at The Montreal Gazette.

Yoga at Our Lady of Pompei.

INTRO TO YOGA: The students of Our Lady of Pompei Elementary School in Ahuntsic were introduced to yoga recently. Each class was given two introductory yoga sessions by instructor Georgia Tzavellas. She taught the children various poses to improve their flexibility, strength and relaxation abilities. The children responded with great feedback! ST. GABE’S TRIP: After months of fundraising, the Grade 6 students from St. Gabriel Elementary School in Point St. Charles went on their overnight grad trip to Camp Boute-en-Train. They participated in many activities such as snow-shoeing, cross country skiing, tobogganing and outdoor adventure games. One of the highlights was running through the giant maze and another was the hide and seek game in the forest at night. Though many of the activities were new to the students and harder than they looked, they were eager, enthusiastic participants.

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St. Gabe’s students enjoy the winter.

Meanwhile, Cycle 3 students from St. Gabriel recently participated in the reporting of the South West Games, which took place at the Centre Gadbois February 7-10. The focus of this event was to promote literacy. Four students from St. Gabriel l were journalists who worked as reporters or camera men, interviewing amateur athletes, writing up stories and having them published in the local papers. Others students participated in the actual sports and were interviewed by students from other schools.

Cedarcrest students hit the ice.

CEDARCREST SKATE: For 15 years students at Cedarcrest Elementary School in St. Laurent have been going out to skate, thanks to the work of resource teacher Deb MacTier and her team of volunteers. The program was originally started to give special needs students a chance to develop their skating skills, and build self confidence, but

now students from various grade levels also join in. This year is no different as students from various grades have participated, as well as a few students from nearby Parkdale Elementary School. The most recent outing at Raymond Bourque Arena (ice time donated free of charge) was held February 20 with 40 plus excited children participating. “For many of our multicultural students, this is the first time they have ever been on skates,” said Principal Terry Bell. “Over the years we have collected skates and helmets for our students, but we are always looking for donations of additional skates and helmets to replace the old and tattered pairs presently being used. Please contact the school secretary at 514-744- 2614 if you have a donation.

The LMAC staff.

LMAC APPRECIATION: It was Student Appreciation Day at Laurier Macdonald High School in St. Léonard recently. The staff donned their Laurier Macdonald “Rams” t-shirts and celebrated the pride they feel in working with their students. The students were treated to a free lunch, including fresh baked cookies served up by staff members. The day’s message was “We are proud of you … and together we are Laurier Macdonald!” The event marks the first in the school’s School Spirit initiative. DRAMA PROGRAM: The 2nd Act Program is a six-week Drama/Language program designed to build self-esteem in secondary students. This program provides for positive reinforcement for the participating secondary students, called 2nd Actors, while building their language arts competencies and allowing for creative self-expression. The program begins by asking elementary teachers which

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literary or historical characters they would like to see “come to life” in their classrooms. The 2nd Actors then research these characters, and prepare short plays based on their character’s life. Finally, after designing costumes and props and rehearsing with a drama student from Concordia, the 2nd Actors visit the elementary classroom to present their character and answer questions.

Students embrace the program.

This past January 10 students from Programme Mile End performed for at F.A.C.E. as part of the 2nd Act Program. These students wrote their own scripts and portrayed characters that have taken a stand for a cause, such as Terry Fox (Devon Small), Anne Sullivan (Melissa Rivest), Huey Newton (Zebe Neil), Rosa Parks (Andrea Ashaodool), Joan of Arc (Connie Psaradellis), William Wallace (Andrew Duncan), Amelia Earhart (Antonella Pascarella), Bono (Alex Vezina), Che Guevara (Karen McGuigan) and Maria Montessori (Stefania Bilotto). Marlene. Brownstein’s Grade 5 class at F.A.C.E. were a receptive and gracious audience and the performers were very much appreciated. GENERAL VANIER GREEN PLAN: Thanks to the incredible initiative demonstrated by some Grades 5 and 6 students, General Vanier Elementary School in St. Léonard is now “taking action” to help the environment. A new and exciting juice

box and plastic bottle recycling program has begun, and is here to stay. The lunchroom has recently been equipped with two large recycling bins, and these amazing students have toured the school, encouraging students to recycle. This initiative stemmed from an ELA unit, in which the class explored the notion of children as activists. These students were inspired by the unit, and worked diligently for four months in order to turn General Vanier into a more environmentally responsible place to learn!

Ron Morrish (third from the right) meets with parents. BUILDING DISCIPLINE: The EMSB presented an evening for parents at the Administration Building with guest speaker Ronald Morrish, an educator and behaviour consultant. His talk focused on building effective discipline with your child. More than 100 people attended. The event was so successful that registration had to be cut off a week earlier. Mr. Morrish holds a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Toronto. An international speaker and workshop leader, his first book, Secrets of Discipline, helped countless teachers and parents improve their skills for teaching children to be responsible, cooperative and respectful. Mr. Morrish provided participants with skills and techniques to effectively approach the problems related to discipline with children. His 12 Keys for raising responsible children were also part of the program.

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HYDRO FOCUS: Students from two EMSB elementary schools - St. John Bosco in Ville Émard and Michelangelo in RDP – played a critical role as focus groups for Hydro-Québec which provides classroom resources for schools to help children discover different energy sources. Hydro is undertaking the production of an environment-related game kit. During this process, they consulted Grades 5 and 6 students and teachers from the two schools to validate and refine the proposed activities using a formative research framework. Hydro mandated a communication firm, Carmocom inc., to organize and conduct focus groups. The focus groups lasted an hour and a half during which time the children provided their feedback on the game. They discussed the physical look of the game and took suggestions of how the game “looked” and its appeal. From St. John Bosco, the students were: Adriana Aktorosyan, Michelle Frate, Kimberly Cerullo, Tina Volpe, Dylan Callum-Swain, Gianna Di Rico, Evan Padula and Jaleel-Dion Cromwell.

St. John Bosco students play the game.

From Michelangelo, the students were Gregory Moscato, Giuliano Miele, Philip Maglieri, Christopher Bonofiglio, Cassandra Degni, Jennifer Rinaldi, Emma Trinci and Anastasia Karounos. “ I must say the students loved the experience and were very engaged with the monitors and the material they brought.,” said Vice Principal Joan MacMillan. “Hydro was also very

generous with gifts they had for the participants such as water bottles, frisbees and books.”

Michelangelo students get their instructions.

MORE FROM HYDRO: With the planet’s future continuing to make headlines, this educational kit has been designed to help pupils in Cycle 3 (Grades 5 and 6) understand the environmental issues associated with using energy. The pedagogical approach focuses on inviting pupils to become cub reporters specialized in energy and the environment. Featuring the latest information and communication technologies, the kit is a great way to learn and have fun at the same time. On the program are a host of exciting activities, including watching video reports, taking notes like a real reporter, playing board games, presenting oral reports, reading articles and taking part in discussions, quizzes and role-playing exercises. Under the guidance of a cartoon news anchor and his friends, pupils conduct investigations and learn about the importance of energy in their lives. They discover that using energy has a substantial impact on the environment, and they develop their critical thinking in the process. Once they have completed all the exercises, pupils prepare a special report summing up everything they have learned. Their aim is to answer the following question: How can we use energy without jeopardizing the planet? The educational kit will be

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available to all teachers in Québec as of September 2008. You can order it on the Hydro-Québec website at www.hydroquebec.com/teachers. IN MEMORY OF FRANCINE: A ceremony was held February 21 at Holy Cross Elementary School in St. Laurent where the library was dedicated in the memory of Francine Jarret-Imhoff, the former principal who retired two years ago and passed away from cancer last summer. Her husband Keith, also a former EMSB principal and her mother were on hand. EMSB Assistant Director of Pedagogical Services Irene Konecny presented some new books to students for the library. Principal Michelle Stein prepared a cake and nice reception for the special guests. READERS FOR LIFE: Students at Holy Cross Elementary School in St. Laurent gathered for an assembly recently to welcome Veronica Schami from the Readers for Life initiative. Ms. Shami orchestrated a project which generously donated $500 worth of French language books to the library, in addition to giving the school a software package worth $1,500 from MaestroReading Inc. In addition to the presentation of the books for our library, the children enjoyed the lively story telling of Danny Iny who told a humourous short biography of Leonardo da Vinci. Pat Camozzi closed the assembly, and delighted the pupils with his rocking tunes for young people.

HEALTH FAIR: John F. Kennedy High School in St. Michel recently hosted a Health Fair put on by the Vanier College Nursing Students. The Vanier students set up approximately 20 kiosks were the students could get information and ask questions on health related issues ranging from diets and eating disorders to the effects of drug use. Thank you to all the organizers from both Vanier and J.F.K. for what was a very successful and informative event.

JFK High officials at the Health Fair.

Meanwhile, the Tolerance Foundation of Montreal recently visited John F. Kennedy with their Tolerance Caravan. All Secondary III through V students participated in this prejudice and discrimination awareness educational activity. Students discussed issues which included the dangers inherent in intolerance, prejudice, exclusion, racism, and prejudice in all its forms. Groups identified both problems and objectives. There was much positive participation in these sessions. This unique opportunity allowed students to interactively explore and discuss themes related to tolerance. The exhibit became a backdrop for students to come, listen, and discuss the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. During the session, students reflected on the consequences of prejudice in real life, as well as stereotypes they may hold about various groups. There were many positive comments from staff and students on this subject, as they all want to contribute to a just society that is more respectful of individual rights. The activities allowed students to understand the feelings of others and work with all in a positive caring environment. JFK celebrates diversity! FACE MOLECULES: Grade 3 students of teacher Paula Schuster at FACE School were recently magnetized by a presentation from university students Sabrina Beiba (BFA Art Education, Concordia) and Caroline Proulx (M.Sc., Université de Montréal) as they

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learned about the importance of iron in hemoglobin, the "protein of life."

FACE students study molecules.

This was part of the Molecules of Life Project (MLP). Sabrina and Caroline led a discussion that covered nutrition, the circulatory system and the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide by iron in red blood cells. The goal of this project is to promote art and science education in elementary school by building a curriculum around molecules, which is taught by teams of students studying art and science at the university level. Log on to www.smu.ca/partners/index.html for last year’s project.

Laurier Mac staff celebrate at the Huggies event.

HUGGIES GALA: The annual Laurier Macdonald/Holiday Inn-La Plaza Huggies Gala took place on February 9 at La Plaza.

The event raised $6,735 to benefit the Montreal Children’s Hospital Neo-natal Unit. Funds raised through the Huggies Project totalled $7,595. CHINESE NEW YEAR: Chinese New Year was animated at Holy Cross by Puynung Choy, spiritual community animator, and Mr. Chen – a calligrapher, who visited two classes where each student had their name written in Chinese. The assemblies were coordinated by Spiritual Community Animator Mike Shaw. Marriage and accompanying tea service were presented to students at Holy Cross together with a display of the Chinese calendar symbols and the singing, by the students of a Chinese New Year song – in Chinese! At LHA, the students were given a short sociological and historical overview of China, shown Chinese dancing, statues and Chinese New Year artefacts, and taught simple Chinese phrases of greeting and welcome. The assemblies at LaurenHill Academy finished with the teaching and singing of “Gonsi, Gonsi, Gonsi Nia” a Chinese “New Year” song. After the assemblies, fortune cookies were distributed. Meanwhile, the annual Chinese New Year celebration took place at Bancroft Elementary School in the Plateau. CELEBRATING NEW YEAR: Bancroft Elementary School once again held their annual Chinese New Year celebration on February 14. Helen Jong, as usual, organized the big event. Volunteer parents came into the school a few days before to prepare and cook 400 egg rolls for the children and our guests. Six weeks prior to our celebration, Johnny Wong, a martial arts master, began training several of our students in the art of the intricate manoeuvres of the lion dance. On the day of our celebration, Ms. Jong planned many activities for our children including storytelling, origami and the serving of Chinese tea, to name a few. The students were treated to egg rolls, fortune cookies and Chinese tea.

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Everyone celebrates at the Bancroft event.

In the afternoon, we held a spectacular show which included the demonstration of Kung Fu by two young boys in Grade 3, Chinese dancing, and of course, the exciting and impressive lion dance. There were seven lions in all, with 2 students (one at the head and one at the tail) manoeuvring the lions. By the way, four of the students were girls. NEW YEAR ASSEMBLY: Sinclair Laird Elementary School in Park Extension celebrated the Chinese and Vietnamese New Years. The students animated a wonderful presentation. Pre-kindergarten children showcased what a Chinese wedding ceremony looks like. BRIDGE ACROSS TIME: Cycle 3 students at Elizabeth Ballantyne Elementary School in Montreal West experienced a voyage back in time with various senior citizens from the Town of Montreal West as part of an intergenerational project organized by M Angela Kabal, a cycle 3 teacher. The event was designed to foster the exchange of information between the two groups, on a number of relevant topics. The participants rotated through different tables, each having been assigned a subject, such as play, travel, technology, hobbies, Sspecial events in the family and fashion. Following the animated and informative discussions, lunch was graciously served by the students and the birthdays of three of the time travelers (including Kyran Thicke who turned 11) were celebrated. Students' reflections on the

event revealed that it was an eye opening experience for them and a wonderfully memorable day. GOLF TOURNAMENT: On Friday, June 27 the EMSB’s fifth annual Golf Scholarship Tournament will take place at Saint Raphaël Golf Club in Île Bizard. Joey Saputo will return as honourary chair. For profiles on the students who received scholarships at a banquet last fal,l go to the Foundation section of the website and click on Scholarship Recipients. To book a foursome for the 2008 tournament, call 514-483-7200 ext. 7434 or email dmendicino@emsb.qc.ca. EXPLORATIONS CAMP: Explorations 2008 is an enrichment day camp for all students aged four to 18. It takes place at Royal Vale School in N.D.G. and is a project of McGill University and the EMSB. The program provides interesting and challenging activities for kids by professionals in the areas of science, drama, art, computers, tennis, fencing, debating, comedy, cooking, guitar, radio, origami, band, robotics, etc. The dates are June 30 to July 11 and July 14-25. Registration has now started for this year's session. For details, call co-director Bertha Dawang at 514-398-4252, email bertha.dawang@mcgill.ca or log on to www.education.mcgill.ca/explorations for more information. MARYMOUNT ARTS: Last year, students in Julie Greto’s Secondary III visual arts class at Marymount Academy came to understand and appreciate abstract art through a unique learning and evaluation situation. After meeting with artist Katrina Bedregal, they used recycled materials to create their own productions, learning that abstract art is also about communicating. In Secondary III, most students do figurative or representational art. Greto’s objective, therefore, was to help students understand and appreciate abstract art and assemblage. She began by taking them to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and giving them the exercise of finding abstract works. “But even though we’d discussed it

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beforehand, a lot of students had trouble identifying abstract art,” said Greto. “This was a completely different direction from what they were used to.” Following the museum activity, Bedregal visited the class and talked about her work and her process. Under the theme “Found,” the goal of this first production was to make use of recycled materials. Greto had taken paper works leftover from previous years and cut them into small pieces, as well as discarded canvases from a previous student project; Bedregal brought in objects she had collected. After choosing one canvas, three objects, and five pieces of paper, students were free to create whatever they wanted. For more details go to the Marymount website (arts department section) at www.emsb.qc.ca/marymount.

TIP CORNER Editor’s Note: The Communications Department 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.

RWANDAN GENOCIDE: In Their Shoes is offering all high schools in Montreal free 50 minute presentations in either English or French on the Rwandan genocide, as well as other services designed to foster awareness of human rights amongst adolescents. In Their Shoes was founded by a group of Montreal university students in 2007. The organization is committed to bringing awareness of poverty, conflict and genocide to Canadian adolescents through interactive and engaging presentations that emphasize global citizenship and respect for universal human rights. In Their Shoes also focuses on creating

a mentor-relationship between interested high school students and university student volunteers. The local aspect of In Their Shoes means that volunteers who present in classes are always available on an extra-curricular basis to talk to high school students. By offering other means for adolescents to get involved - from helping students organize their own fundraisers to hosting a monthly conference on human rights - In Their Shoes hopes to further engage student interest. For more information log on to www.intheirshoescanada.org, email info@intheirshoescanada.org or call 514-586 3354. BARONESS AND THE PIG: Imago Theatre is welcoming schools to purchase tickets for its upcoming production of The Baroness and The Pig. As they re dedicated to building young theatre audiences and encouraging their participation, special group rates for school matinee performances are being offered. To further enrich the students’ theatre experience, an educational package about the play has been prepared. Guest speakers are available to come to the school to talk about the play as are a guided tour of the theatre to highlight design aspects of the production and, immediately following the play, a Q&A session with the artists.The performance will take place at Théâtre La Chapelle ( 3700 rue Saint-Dominique). The story takes place in at the end of the 19th century. An idealistic, and well-meaning Baroness searches for an enfant sauvage to ‘tame’ like that of her hero, Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The Baroness removes a wild-child raised in a pig-sty to live with her, following Rousseau’s formula, educates her to ‘fit into society’ as her maid, Emily. The Baroness is smitten with all the innovations of her time. Her world is based on social appearances, higher education and science. On the other hand, Emily, who has been raised by pigs, is so unsophisticated that she has never even seen a mirror! She satisfies her desires in a spontaneous – at times barbaric – manner. For more information, call 514-274-3222 or email lori@imagotheatre.ca.

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STORYTELLER-PUPPETEER: Sheila Pinsky, a storyteller-puppeteer, animates imaginative and interactive fun-filled puppet stories to children from pre-K to Grade 3. While she has done animations up to Grade 6, her specialties are with the younger grades. Her adorable puppets and props are creative as well as being handmade from recycled materials! The suspenseful stories and the animated puppets always fascinate the children. Her topics cover an extensive range of all of the prominent holidays and seasons, and use animal puppets to depict stories covering themes of friendship, sharing, adventures, as well as dealing with important topics of bullying and sibling rivalry. She charges a fee of $60 an hour. Info: (514) 484-2730 or sheilastoryteller@hotmail.com. DINER’S DECK: Montreal has become the first Canadian city to offer the Diner’s Deck (www.dinersdeck.com). Linda Gal of Gourmet Promotions notes that when you buy a Diner's Deck you get 52, $10 off restaurant coupons. Given the fact the cost is only $27.50, that represents a saving of $520. The program originated in the United States and represents a great fundraising vehicle for schools, particularly because it has no expiry nor black-out dates. Should a restaurant go out of business, customers need only mail back the card and it will be replaced by a new one. For more details, call Linda at 514-626-3555, email progourmet@videotron.ca. FAMILY CONCERT: The Musicians of the World Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Joseph Milo, will present a concert called Fantasia Live on Sunday, March 30 (2:30 p.m.) at the Salle Claude Champagne at the Université de Montréal (210 rue Vincent D’Indy) in Outremont. Featuring the talent of Destination Danse, tickets are $25 for general admission and $10 for children aged 12 and under. With music from Disney movies, the Nutcracker’s Suite, the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Night on Bald Mountain and many more favorites it is an event for the entire family to enjoy. See the EMSB website

Press Room Section (Information Flyers) for more details, call 514-484-7428 or log on to www.musiciansoftheworld.ca. ADULT AND VOCATIONAL SERVICES

BARKER CALLS: Montreal Impact ambassador and former star player Lloyd Barker was invited to speak at the St. Laurent Adult Centre. “He addressed more than 200 18 to 20 year olds and you could have heard a pin drop, the room was so quiet.,” said Principal Cynthia Koomas “ He was excellent and entertaining and hopefully a motivation for our students.” BLACK HISTORY AT LYNG: Blace Mentor and several students of James Lyng Adult Centre organized an exhibit of African American artifacts, photos, biographies, inventions and posters to commemorate Black History. A group of students from diverse cultural backgrounds also staged a skit portraying the struggle of Rosa Parks through the oppression of the 50’s. The skit celebrated the strength of Rosa Parks and other African Americans during this period of segregation of Blacks and Whites. It demonstrated how one woman’s determination could make a nation pay attention and how an oppressed people can be brought together by standing up for what they believe is right. “Thanks to the Rosa Parks’ of that period we can all celebrate a future of growing acceptance and sharing, a cause that James Lyng students endorsed on February 20, 2008,” said Habza Shedlack. SHADD BLACK HISTORY: The Shadd Business Centre in N.D.G. will mark Black History Month February 28 with a number of speakers including Maureen Gittens of the Canadian Space Agency and Reverend Darryl Gray. Entertainment will be provided by violinist Chris Vaughn, the Marymount Academy Steel Pan Band and the Bootz steppers group. CHAPEAU LES FILLES: Jennifer Kaszel from the Furniture Finishing program at Rosemount Technology Centre (RTC) won at

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the local level of the competition. She will go on to represent the EMSB at the regional gala April 10 (10:30 a.m.) at the Centre de formation des métiers de l’acier in Anjou. LOCAL WINNERS: The EMSB took home a number of medals at Les Olympiades de la Formation Professionnelle 10th Gala Regional for the Island of Montreal, held at Salle Jean-Grimaldi of GEGEP Andre Laurendeau: Hairdressing, Stefania Simone (Silver Medal), Laurier Macdonald Career Centre, St. Léonard; Professional Cooking, Nadia Corallo (Silver), St. Pius X Culinary Institute in Ahuntsic; Cabinetmaking, Marek Berube-Klis (Silver), Rosemount Technology Centre; Automobile Mechanics, Nicolas Branco (Bronze), Laurier MacDonald Career Centre; Restaurant Services, Steven Lavoie (Silver) and Anoulch Mansourian (Bronze), St. Pius X Culinary Institute; Machining Techniques, Wolfgang Thaler (Gold), Rosemount Technology Centre; Numerical Control Machine Tool Operation and Duy Long Ngo (Bronze), Rosemount Technology Centre and Johnny Zeffiro (Silver), John F. Kennedy Business Centre in St. Michel.

DATES OF NOTE March 3-7, 2008 March Break March 10-14, 2008 Brain Awareness Week March 12, 2008 EMSB Council of Commissioners Meeting Resumption of adjourned meeting of February 27, 2008 7 p.m. March 14, 2008 Citizenship Ceremony Willingdon Elementary School March 15, 2008

Franco Di Giovanni Brain Tumour Social March 16-18, 2008 Bell Regional Science High School Science Fair Hosted by the EMSB Lester B. Pearson High School March 18, 2008 Brain Tumour Awareness Day March 20, 2008 EMSB Workshop on Autism Administration Building 6000 Fielding 7 p.m. March 26, 2008 EMSB Council of Commissioners Meeting 7:30 p.m. April 27 to May 3, 2008 National Volunteer Week April 30, 2008 Secretary’s Day EMSB Volunteer Appreciation Evening May 3, 2008 EMSB Chorale Spring Concert Oscar Peterson Hall (7141 Sherbrooke Street West) Loyola Campus, Concordia University 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Info: 514-483-7200, ext. 7234 May 25 -31, 2007 Daycare Week

PLEINS FEUX SUR FIELDING GYMNASE DE ROYAL WEST : La cérémonie de l’inauguration officielle du nouveau gymnase de l’Académie Royal West a eu lieu le 18 février. Une réception vins et fromages a été suivie par la cérémonie

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d’inauguration. Le Royal West Honour Band s’est produit tandis que l’équipe féminine de volley-ball a fait preuve de ses talents. Il y a de cela deux ans et demi, le gouvernement du Québec a annoncé qu’il allouerait un financement de 2,1 millions de dollars pour ce projet longuement attendu. La Commission scolaire English-Montréal (CSEM) a fait des représentations pour ce projet spécifique pendant de longues années. Les quelques 8000 élèves de Royal West occupent un bâtiment âgé de 70 ans. Le nouveau bâtiment séparé ultra moderne remplace deux petits gymnases qui seront maintenant disponibles pour des évènements spéciaux, des assemblées, des concerts, des présentations et productions théâtrales et il ne sera plus nécessaire d’annuler les classes de gymnastique pour ces occasions. Le coût actuel du gymnase à été de 2,5 millions de dollars incluant des contributions de 300 000 $ de la Fondation Académie Royal West et de 150 000 $ de la CSEM. Le bâtiment a été officiellement nommé Gymnase de la Fondation de l’Académie Royal West. Le député libéral provincial de N.D.G., Russell Copeman, qui a œuvré d’arrache pied à l’obtention du financement gouvernemental, faisait partie des invités d’honneur qui ont pris la parole au cours de la cérémonie. Le maire de Montréal-Ouest, Campbell Stuart, le directeur général de la CSEM, Antonio Lacroce, la présidente sortante de la Fondation de l’Académie Royal West, Margaret Wada, et la directrice de l’école, Mary Reynolds, ont aussi pris la parole. LANCEMENT DE LA SEMAINE DU CŒUR : La Fondation « Au Cœur de la Vie » a organisé sa cinquième Semaine annuelle du cœur par des célébrations avec l’appui de l’Hôpital de Montréal pour enfants et plus de 30 écoles anglophones et francophones de la région du Grand Montréal et des environs. Le lancement officiel a eu lieu à l’école secondaire John Paul I de Saint-Léonard, en présence de la skieuse médaillée olympique, Jennifer Bell, de Mauro Biello de l’Impact

de Montréal, de Paul Lambert, des Alouettes de Montréal, de Farrell Miller et de Martin Routhier, respectivement propriétaire de la franchise de Montréal et président de la Ligue de hockey junior majeur du Québec et, certainement, Caramel la mascotte de l'Hôpital. Les élèves et le personnel de John Paul I ont recueilli 2 000 $ pour cette cause. Rendez vous à la section Nouvelles/vidéos du site Web www.emsb.qc.ca pour voir les cérémonies qui ont été présidées par Rick Moffat de CJAD. Au cours de la semaine de la Saint-Valentin, il a été demandé à chaque élève avec un cœur sain de faire un petit don pour aider un enfant « au cœur brisé » tout en portant un vêtement rouge pour démontrer son amitié envers les enfants aux cœurs plus fragiles. La Fondation « Au Coeur de la Vie » a encouragé une approche pédagogique en unissant ses efforts à ceux des écoles pour faire la promotion de la Semaine du Cœur et inciter les enfants à adopter de saines habitudes de vie par le biais du département d’éducation physique et des enseignant(e)s de classes-foyer. La Fondation a été créée en 1997 par des parents d’enfants qui avaient subi des opérations complexes à cœur ouvert. Leur but est d’accroître la sensibilisation aux maladies du cœur chez les enfants. Un sur 100 enfants naît avec un défaut au cœur. Ce taux est 10 fois plus élevé que pour les autres maladies infantiles. Les fonds recueillis durant la Semaine du cœur permettront au département de cardiologie de l’Hôpital de Montréal pour enfants d’acquérir un équipement de pointe. La campagne de 2007 a recueilli 40 000 $ à cet effet. SERVICE COMMUNAUTAIRE : Les élèves de la prématernelle Imagination, située à Saint-Léonard, et leurs enseignantes Nancy Salituri et Nancy Maggiore, ont reçu la visite de 10 élèves dévoués de l’école secondaire du 1er cycle John Paul I et de leur animateur de vie spirituelle et d’engagement communautaire, Rocco Speranza, qui ont bravé les rigueurs de l’hiver pour offrir un

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estimable service communautaire aux plus jeunes membres de leur communauté. Les élèves ont consacré leur temps à aider les enfants de la prématernelle et leurs enseignantes à préparer les décorations de leur spectacle de Noël pour leurs familles et amis, qui a eu lieu le 21 décembre. Les élèves ont aussi remis des livres d’histoires dans le but de promouvoir l’alphabétisation. Ils retourneront pour une autre visite à la mi-février pour consacrer du temps à la lecture et encourager l’alphabétisation parmi les jeunes enfants. EXPLORATION DE CARRIÈRES : Deux élèves de 10e année de l’Académie LaurenHill ont récemment vécu une journée d’exploration de carrières au Cirque du Soleil. Keshia Parris et Whitney Connors-Isaa ont passé la matinée avec les danseurs du Cirque qui se préparent au nouveau spectacle, dont l’ouverture est prévue au printemps à Macao, Chine. Les élèves qui font partie de la troupe de danse de LaurenHill, ont observé les danseurs du Cirque et elles ont ensuite visionné, avec le chorégraphe, une vidéo de leur dernière répétition. Tout au long de la matinée, elles ont eu l’occasion de s’entretenir avec les danseurs et de poser des questions. Les deux élèves ont déclaré que cette expérience a été très intéressante et enrichissante. Le programme d’Exploration de carrières est coordonné par les Services aux élèves. SOIRÉE DE GALA : La quatrième soirée de levée de fonds de la Fondation Franco Di Giovanni aura lieu le 15 mars 2008 à la salle de réception Prima Luna (7301 Henri Bourassa est). Les cocktails seront servis à 17 h 30 suivis par un souper à sept couverts et un bar ouvert. Le divertissement musical sera offert par Goldstarr Entertainement. Il y aura aussi des prix de présence et une vente aux enchères de cadeaux et d’articles de collection de souvenirs sportifs dont un bâton de hockey personnalisé de Sydney Crosby, des tricots de hockey personnalisés de Sydney Crosby, Alexander Ovechkin, Robert Luongo, Wayne Gretzky, Saku Koivu, Martin Brodeur,

Maurice Richard, Guy Lafleur et Gump Worsely. Les souvenirs de soccer incluront une photo encadrée et autographiée de Buffon, des tricots autographiés de Del Piero, Cannavaro, Totti et Beckham. Le grand prix sera un voyage pour deux, tous frais payés à Acapulco, Mexique. L’invité d’honneur sera le Dr Rolando Del Maestro, directeur de la clinique du Centre de recherche sur la tumeur de cerveau du Centre neurologique de Montréal. Les billets au coût de 100 $ sont disponibles actuellement. Toutes les recettes de la soirée seront versées à l’Institut neurologique de Montréal et au Centre de recherche sur la tumeur du cerveau. Pour des informations supplémentaires, appelez Linda Di Giovanni au (514) 494-6831 ou Mike Talevi au (514) 352-6730. CARRIÈRES DE DÉCORATRICES : Le 13 février, Alessandra Di Maio (Collège Vincent Massey) et Kristen Whalen (Académie LaurenHill) ont rencontré Marilena Tricarico, décoratrice interne du programme de télévision « Décore ta Vie ». de Canal Vie. « Ce sont de jeunes femmes passionnées et inspirantes » a déclaré Mme Tricarico à Lori Guarino des Services aux élèves qui a organisé cette visite. « L’on peut constater qu’elles ont toutes deux un sens profond de la décoration et qu’elles réussiront si elles décident de poursuivre cette carrière. J’ai commencé par leur montrer mon portefeuille et quelques projets que j’ai réalisé à l’école pour cette émission et d’autres contrats. Elles ont posé des questions au sujet de l’école que j’ai fréquentée et des projets auxquels j’ai travaillé par le passé. Je leur ai aussi donné une petite introduction du programme informatique Autocad et j’ai expliqué l’importance de savoir bien utiliser ce programme. Nous avons ensuite magasiné chez Home Sense pour mon prochain projet. J’ai demandé leurs opinions au sujet de certains choix que je faisais et les deux jeunes filles ont fait de très bons commentaires et elles ont compris ce que je recherchais. Les trois heures de notre rencontre ont passé très rapidement. J’aimerais définitivement

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considérer à les engager si elles choisissent ce domaine ». CÉRÉMONIE DE CITOYENNETÉ : L’école primaire Willingdon de N.D.G. organisera sa première cérémonie de citoyenneté le jeudi 20 mars (10 h) sous la présidence de la juge Gordana Caricevic-Rakovich. Trente nouveaux immigrants seront assermentés. LECTEURS POUR LA VIE : Les élèves de l’école primaire Holy Cross de Saint-Laurent se sont récemment réunis en assemblée pour accueillir Veronica Shami de Readers For Life. Mme Shami a lancé un projet qui a généreusement fait don de 500 $ de livres français à la bibliothèque en sus de remettre à l’école un logiciel de MaestroReading d’une valeur de 1 500 $. En sus de la présentation de livres, les élèves ont apprécié un récit animé de Danny Iny qui a présenté une courte biographie humoristique de Leonardo Da Vinci. Pat Camozzi a clôturé l’assemblée pour le plus grand plaisir des élèves en interprétant des chansons pour jeunes. ATELIER SUR L’AUTISME : Le comité consultatif sur les services d’adaptation scolaire de la CSEM (CCSAA) organise un atelier sur l’autisme le 20 mars à 19 h au centre administratif (6000 Fielding). Cet atelier vise principalement les parents d’enfants ayant des besoins particuliers. L’atelier portera sur une vue d’ensemble de l’autisme, le rôle du personnel de l’école, des professionnels et des parents, les stratégies pour la maison et l’école et les services disponibles au sein et à l’extérieur de la CSEM. Les animatrices seront Tania Piperni, conseillère en autisme, Marylène Perron, conseillère en adaptation scolaire , et Lori Rubin, spécialiste en gestion du comportement. Veuillez confirmer votre présence en appelant Helen Dimakos, au plus tard le 29 février au (514) 483-7200, poste 7295. GLEN CLARKE : Dans le cadre du Mois de l’Histoire Noire, l’école primaire Gardenview

a invité Glen Ckarke et son orchestre a donné un spectacle dynamique combinant des instruments de percussion africains avec une danse traditionnelle afro/caribéenne. Les enseignant(e)s ont eu l’occasion d’interpréter une danse sous les applaudissements de leurs élèves. INSTAURER LA DISCIPLINE : La CSEM a présenté une soirée pour parents au centre administratif avec le conférencier invité Ronald Morrish, éducateur et conseiller en comportement. Sa présentation a été axée sur l’instauration d’une discipline efficace pour les enfants. Plus de 100 personnes ont assisté à cet évènement qui a remporté un si grand succès que les inscriptions ont dû être interrompues une semaine à l’avance. M. Morrish détient une maîtrise en sciences de l’éducation décernée par l’Université de Toronto. Conférencier international et leader d’ateliers, son premier livre Secrets of Discipline a aidé un nombre incalculable d’enseignant(e)s et de parents à améliorer leurs habiletés d’enseigner aux enfants à être responsables, coopératifs et respectueux. M. Morrish offre aux participants les habiletés et les techniques visant à aborder efficacement les problèmes reliés à la discipline avec les enfants. Son 12 Keys for raising responsible children fait aussi partie du programme. M. Morrish a présenté des ateliers à diverses occasions aux écoles et groupes de parents de la CSEM et a toujours été un conférencier exceptionnel livrant un excellent message. NOUVEL AN CHINOIS : Le Nouvel An chinois a été animé à Holy Cross par Puynung Choy, animatrice de vie spirituelle et d’engagement communautaire, et M. Chen, calligraphe, qui a visité deux classes dont le nom de chaque élève a été écrit en chinois. Les assemblées ont été coordonnées par l’animateur de vie spirituelle Mike Shaw. Le mariage et le service du thé ont été présentés aux élèves de Holy Cross ainsi qu’une exposition des symboles du calendrier chinois. Les élèves ont chanté – en chinois ! – une chanson du Nouvel An chinois, ont assisté à une courte vue d’ensemble historique et

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sociologique de la Chine. Des danses chinoises, des statues et des artefacts du Nouvel An chinois leur ont été présentés et ils ont aussi appris de simples phrases d’accueil en chinois. Les assemblées à LaurenHill se sont terminées par l’enseignement et l’interprétation de « Gonsi, Gonsi, Gonsi Nia » une chanson du Nouvel An chinois. Après les assemblées, des biscuits chinois ont été distribués. TOURNOI DE GOLF : Le vendredi 27 juin, le cinquième tournoi annuel de golf aura lieu au Club de golf Saint-Raphaël de l’Île Bizard. Joey Saputo sera, à nouveau, le président honoraire de l’évènement. Pour le profil des élèves qui ont reçu des bourses d’études à l’automne dernier, visiter la section Fondation du site Web (en anglais) et cliquez sur récipiendaires de bourses. Pour réserver un quatuor pour le tournoi de 2008, appelez au (514) 483-7200, poste 7434 ou adressez un courriel à : dmendencino@emsb.qc.ca. CAMP D’EXPLORATION : Explorations 2008 est un camp d’enrichissement de jour pour tous les élèves âgés de quatre à 18 ans. Il a lieu à l’école Royal Vale de N.D.G. et c’est un projet conjoint de l’Université McGill et de la CSEM. Le programme offre des activités intéressantes et stimulantes animées par des professionnels de divers domaines : sciences, théâtre, art, informatique, tennis, escrime, comédie, cuisine, guitare, radio, origami, robotique, etc. Les dates du camp sont du 30 juin au 11 juillet et du 14 au 25 juillet. Les inscriptions ont commencé pour la session de cette année. Pour des informations supplémentaires, appelez la co-directrice Bertha Dawand au (514) 398-4252 ou adressez un courriel à bertha.dawang@mcgill.ca ou encore www.education.mcgill.ca/explorations. GÉNOCIDE RWANDAIS : « In Their Shoes » offre à toutes les écoles secondaires de Montréal des présentations gratuites de 50 minutes, en anglais ou en français, sur le génocide rwandais ainsi que d’autres services visant à renforcer la sensibilisation aux droits

de la personne parmi les adolescents. « In Their Shoes » a été fondée en 2007 par un groupe d’universitaires montréalais. Cette organisation est engagée à sensibiliser les adolescents canadiens à la pauvreté, le conflit et le génocide par le biais de présentations interactives et engageantes qui mettent en relief la citoyenneté globale et le respect pour les droits universels de la personne. « In Their Shoes » vise aussi la création d’une relation de mentor entre les élèves intéressés du secondaire et des universitaires bénévoles. L’aspect local de « In Their Shoes » signifie que les bénévoles qui font des présentations en classe sont toujours disponibles pour parler aux élèves du secondaire. En offrant aux adolescents d’autres moyens de s’impliquer en aidant les élèves à organiser leurs propres levées de fonds et à organiser un colloque mensuel sur les droits de la personne - « In Their Shoes » espère engager plus profondément l’intérêt de l’élève. Pour plus d’informations, allez à www.intheirshoescanada.org, adressez un courriel à info@intheirshoescanada.org ou appelez au (514) 514-586-3354. SERVICE DE L’ÉDUCATION DES ADULTES ET DE LA FORMATION PROFESSIONNELLE VISITE DE BARKER : L’ambassadeur de l’Impact de Montréal et ancien joueur vedette, Lloyd Barker, a été invité au Centre d’adultes Saint-Laurent. « Il s’est adressé à plus de 200 personnes âgées de 18 à 20 ans qui étaient si attentifs que vous auriez pu entendre une épingle tomber à terre » déclare la directrice Cynthia Koomas. « Sa présentation a été excellente et nous espérons qu’elle motivera nos élèves. » DATES À RETENIR 3-7 mars 2008 Relâche du printemps 10-14 mars 2008

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Semaine de sensibilisation À la tumeur au cerveau 15 mars 2008 Cérémonie de citoyenneté École primaire Willingdon 16-18 mars 2008 Foire régionale Bell de sciences Organisée par la CSEM École secondaire Lester B. Pearson 18 mars 2008 Journée de sensibilisation à la tumeur au cerveau 20 mars 2008 Atelier de la CSEM sur l’autisme Centre administratif 6000 Fielding 19 h 27 avril au 3 mai 2008 Semaine nationale des bénévoles 30 avril 2008 Journée des secrétaires Soirée d’appréciation des bénévoles de la CSEM 3 mai 2008 Chorale de la CSEM Concert du printemps Salle Oscar Peterson 7141 Sherbrooke ouest Campus Loyola, Université Concordia 19 h3 0 Billets : Adultes 10 $, élèves et aînés 5 $ Informations (514) 483-7200, poste 7234 25-31 mai 2008 Semaine des services de garde Submissions should be made to Michael J. Cohen preferably by e-mail (mcohen@emsb.qc.ca) or fax (514-483-7213). Deadline for next edition is March 28, 2008