Virtual Honouring our Zoothérapie learning volunteers voir page 13 see page 5 see page 6

Commission scolaire English-Montréal Volume 24 Number 2 SPRING 2021 xpress www.emsb.qc.ca e English School Board From to American vice president

While the big party took place invitation to Vice President Harris in Washington D.C. on January 20, to visit her alma mater during her the students and staff at Westmount time in office. High School held a special You can see the outstanding celebration as one of their own, video here: https://www.youtube. , was sworn in as com/watch?v=p4GjyE88iJc&t the 49th Vice President of the United States. To mark the historic The EMSB held its first ever day, while respecting all COVID- Zoom press conference, featur - 19 protocols, Westmount High ing EMSB Chair Joe Ortona. School students streamed the Commissioner Julien Feldman, inauguration in their classes. along with some staff members Students also created a commem- and students from Westmount orative video, which they shared High School. Principal with the community. The school Demetra Droutsas, Vice- also received items from the Principal Matthew United States Consulate General Shapiro, Guidance in Montreal to mark the occasion. Counsellors Karen At the age of 12, Kamala Allen and Mandy temporarily relocated to Montreal Moreno were joined by while her mother, Shyamala Secondary IV students Gopalan Harris, took a job Aaron Jay Itovitch, teaching at McGill University and Ava Oxilia, Diya Patel did research at the Jewish General and Secondary V Hospital. While living in Montreal, student A'Dejah Kamala attended FACE School Edouarzin Merriman. for one year before attending All of the major Westmount High School from media tuned in and 1978 until her graduation in 1981. asked questions. The EMSB and Westmount High School are preparing an official Newly elected American Vice President Kamala Harris has come a long way from her at continued on page 4 Westmount High School (see her year book graduation photo inset). EMSB schools adapt to the new normal with virtual open houses

VIRTUAL TOUR by Daniel Smajovits system, but prospective students and parents from high in the clouds. Gerald McShane as well. Elementary School in Montreal North went When COVID-19 Yet, with registration only months away for so far as to outfit a sports concentration forced educators both Kindergarten and High School, the student with a GoPro camera to truly let around the world EMSB needed a solution. Faced with the prospective students walk a mile in his shoes. to re-think how difficult task of replicating each school’s Yet, perhaps the most dynamic and they teach and unique environment in each and every home, interactive open houses came from three interact with their administrators and dedicated staff members gregarious high schools and eight elementary students, the English each sought to feature their school uniquely. schools. They replicated their school’s warm Montreal School For a few schools, this came in the form environment in real-time into the kitchens and Board (EMSB) realized that of beautiful video testimonials from current living rooms of homes across Montreal. the impact of the ongoing pandemic will not students and alumni. Others featured tours of only affect those currently enrolled in the their school, some even with a bird’s eye view continued on page 11 2 www.emsb.qc.ca EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 Chair’s Message We’re here for the kids When it became clear that A Unified Council classes would resume in person for Last fall, the Court of Appeal the start of the 2020-21 academic of suspended Bill 40 until year our administration made sure the Superior Court of Quebec hears that all of the necessary safety the case beginning in April. Bill measures were in place. For 40 would have transformed students who could not return to English-language school boards class due to medical conditions for into school service centres. We are themselves or a family member, very optimistic about our chances we launched a Virtual School with in court, and over the last few a principal, vice-principal and a months it has been made crystal full complement of staff at a cost clear why the present form of of $5 million. We also boosted our governance is necessary for the Home Schooling Division and well-being of our educational Joe Ortona received a significant increase network. You need only look at On Thursday, March 11 the in registration. Our own Shadd the French service centres, which English Montreal School Board Health and Business Centre in are being run by administrators. marked the National Day of NDG opened up new classes last The early results at that end are Commemoration in memory of June for groups of students for not encouraging. the victims of COVID-19. a special accelerated Institutional This was the third time the These past 12 months have and Home Care Assistance government has defended this been difficult and heartbreaking Program, entitled Support for We are proud of the academic success of our students. bill in the courts, and they have for people around the world. I am Assistive Care in Long-Term Care lost every round. It is my hope that so proud of how our entire team Centres, The students soon after ventilation systems are not in place of which I count our staff in the government works construc- at the EMSB has risen to the oc- began working as orderlies, also at a cost of $1.4 million. It should schools and centres. tively in the interests of the casion and faced this monumental known as PABs (préposé aux be noted that the infection rate for This is why on March 11 flags children's education, especially in challenge head on. bénéficiaires). all staff and students at our board at all of our schools and centres a pandemic, rather than to keep Last year at this time, with no After the Quebec Court of is at about 1.4 percent, probably were lowered to half-mast from imposing what we consider to warning, we had to shut down the Appeal granted school boards a among the lowest in the province. dawn to dusk. be an unconstitutional law. It was entire system and pivot to online stay related to Bill 40, which The world has faced a crisis We will all come out of this ill-advised to appeal this decision learning. Let’s be fair – nobody would have seen entities like the the likes of which we have never stronger than ever before as long in the first place, and it would be had a playbook on how to deal EMSB transformed into service seen before. We owe a debt of as we continue to work together! just as ill-advised to appeal to the with a pandemic of this scale at centres, a newly elected Council gratitude to all frontline workers, Supreme Court of Canada. We, the that time. In a matter of weeks, our of Commissioners assumed office EMSB, will continue to represent Educational Services Department in November. We have followed the English minority and defend had a virtual learning system in all of the Quebec government the fundamental freedoms of all place. By spring we were able to protocols. On our very own, one Here is a list of the 29 school buildings where air purifiers Quebecers, the English-speaking open schools for special needs of the first actions we took was to have been installed and the quantity per facilities: community, religious minorities services and at the adult level, purchase roughly 800 air purifiers • Bancroft Elementary School, The Plateau, 35 and others. vocational centres. in buildings where mechanical • Carlyle Elementary School, TMR, 22 The EMSB finally has a unified • Cedarcrest Elementary School, St. Laurent, 20 Council of Commissioners, unlike • Coronation Elementary School, Côte-des-Neiges, 40 the last mandate. “We’re Here For • Dunrae Gardens Elementary School, TMR, 23 the Kids!” is one slogan we feel • Elizabeth Ballantyne Elementary School, Montreal West, 21 describes our new team best. We • Galileo Adult Education Centre, Montreal North, 10 all know that good governance has • Gardenview Elementary School, St. Laurent, 43 a direct impact on student success. • Hampstead Elementary School, 20 Produced by the Communications and Operating a school board • Honoré Mercier Elementary School, St. Leonard, 29 Marketing Services Division of the during a pandemic is no easy task, • LaurenHill Academy, Senior Campus, St. Laurent, 51 and I would like to thank all staff, English Montreal School Board • LaurenHill Academy, Junior Campus, St. Laurent, 30 parents, students and volunteers 6000 Fielding Avenue, Montreal (Quebec) H3X 1T4 • International, NDG, 28 for working above and beyond the Phone: (514) 483-7200, ext. 7245 • Merton Elementary School. Côte Saint-Luc, 20 call of duty. Fax: (514) 483-7213 • Mountainview Alternative High School, Côte Saint-Luc, 17

E-mail: [email protected] • Nesbitt Elementary School, Rosemount, 28 Web site: www.emsb.qc.ca • Options Alternative High School, Ville Émard, 21 Top success rate • Parkdale Elementary School, St. Laurent, 29 I am proud to share that the • Perspectives I and II High Schools, St. Michel, 17 Editor: Michael J. Cohen EMSB has surpassed our record, • Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary School, Rosemount, 26 Communications & Marketing Specialist, EMSB set last year, for the highest success • Roslyn Elementary School, Westmount, 34 rate in graduation and qualification Proofreading: Kristin McNeill, Ivana Bahdo • , NDG, 47 among public school boards in the and Lisa Cohen • , Montreal West, 45 entire province of Quebec, based • Sinclair Laird Elementary School, Park Extension, 24 Translation: Manon Bourassa on a seven-year cohort at 92.5 • St. Monica Elementary School, NDG, 25 percent. These figures were Layout & design: Ponctuation Grafix Inc. • Westmount Park South Campus, Ville Émard, 17 released by the Ministère de www.ponctuation.com • Westmount Park, Westmount, 22 l’Éducation de Québec (MEQ). • Willingdon Elementary School While the majority of students Legal Deposit: Bibliothèque Nationale du Québec Junior Campus, NDG, 33 National Library of Canada • Willingdon Elementary School graduated after five years, the ISSN 1488-416X Senior Campus, NDG, 14 Ministry allows each cohort to be followed for an additional two continued on next page EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 www.emsb.qc.ca 3 DateBook EMSB Commissioners 2021 JOE ORTONA WARD 4 WARD 10 Chair Hampstead, Côte Saint-Luc Rivière-des-Prairies, March 28 to 31 May 6 to 10 [email protected] JAMIE FABIAN Pointe-aux-Trembles Member of Executive Committee (Chair), [email protected] PIETRO MERCURI Virtual Montreal Mental Health Comité de gestion de la taxe scolaire de Association and Audit Committee [email protected] Regional Science and Awareness Week l'île de Montréal and Quebec English Member of Quebec English School Boards Member of Executive Committee and Technology Fair www.mentalhealthweek.ca/ School Boards Association Transportation & Safety Advisory www.sciencetech.ca Committee WARD 5 May 10 to 14 WARD 6 St-Laurent April 7 BASE Daycare Employees St-Michel, Villeray, Plateau-Mont-Royal, JAMES KROMIDA Parent Ville-Marie East World Health Day Recognition Week [email protected] Commissioner AGOSTINO CANNAVINO Member of Audit Committee (Chair) Elementary Schools Holocaust Vice-Chair and Executive Committee MARIA CORSI Remembrance Day May 11 [email protected] [email protected] Member of Executive Committee and National Denim Day Member of Executive Committee April 12 Comité de gestion de la taxe scolaire de WARD 7 International Day l'île de Montréal (Alternate) Ahuntsic, Cartierville, Montreal North Terry Fox Day of Families SOPHIE DE VITO Parent Commissioner [email protected] Secondary Schools April 18 to 24 WARD 1 Member of Governance & May 30 to June 5 Côte-des-Neiges, Snowdon, Outremont, Ethics Committee TONY SPERANZA Volunteer Quebec Week for Town of Mont-Royal, [email protected] Appreciation Week the Handicapped Parc-Extension Member of Audit Committee (Vice-Chair) ELLIE ISRAEL WARD 8 and Transportation & Safety Advisory Committee April 21 [email protected] St-Léonard May 31 Member of Executive Committee and MARIO PIETRANGELO Governance & Ethics Committee Administrative World No-Tobacco Day [email protected] Parent Commissioner Assistants / Member of Governance & Ethics ACSES Secretary’s Day Committee (Vice-Chair) and Human June 15 WARD 2 Resources Committee (Advisory Committee on Special

International Montreal West, Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Education Services) April 22 Caretakers Day JOSEPH LALLA MUBEENAH MUGHAL [email protected] WARD 9 [email protected] Earth Day Member of Human Resources Anjou, Mercier, Member of Human Resources Committee

June 23 Committee (Chair) Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, May 4 Rosemount-La Petite-Patrie Last day of classes Parent Commissioner EMSB Teacher MARIO BENTROVATO *WARD 3 [email protected] at Large Recognition Day Westmount, Southwest, Member of Executive Committee (Vice- DANIEL TATONE Ville-Marie West Chair) and Human Resources Committee [email protected] JULIEN FELDMAN Member of Governance Council of Commissioners Meetings [email protected] & Ethics Committee Member of Governance & The EMSB council of commissioners Ethics Committee (Chair) and Human * Since more than one candidate has filed a nomination paper for Ward 3, the previously meets in public several times a year. Resources Committee (Vice-Chair) elected candidate, Julien Feldman, remains in office, pursuant to Decree 1039-2020 All meetings can adopted on October 7, 2020, until the election resumes. be viewed live at Stay tuned to our website for special meetings. The session for www.emsb.qc.ca the public convenes at 6 p.m. and is broadcast live on the web. At the Administration Building present time, due to COVID-19 safety at 6 PM: protocols, members of the public are • May 4 not permitted inside the administration building. To register for question period • June 29 please call 514-483-7200, ext. 7264. TERRY FOX CHALLENGE

Chair’s Message – continued from previous page On October 9, 2020, students at Willingdon Elementary School in years to ensure that students have every opportunity to graduate or obtain NDG once again rose to the Terry Fox a first qualification. In addition to having the highest success rate in the province, the EMSB is also number one in the public network and among challenge by raising thousands of English boards. The province-wide success rate, which includes both dollars and shaving their heads for public and private school results, remained stable for 2019 at 81.8 percent. cancer. Every year Willingdon students and/or staff selflessly cut Black History Month their hair to donate to cancer patients. Given the many high-profile acts of racial violence in 2020, Black This year, Lila Charbonneau (bottom left) History Month activities in February took on even more significance. and Maggie McKenzie (on the top right At a Council of Commissioners meeting in December, we adopted a and bottom right) cut/shaved eight to formal resolution to formally recognize Black History Month. Though 10 inches of hair in honour of Terry Fox. schools observe Black History Month every year, this year was Bravo to both of these students for particularly important. There were a number of events that occurred that having demonstrated true acts of make us seriously reflect on issues of race. Though many of the more widely reported events took place in the US, we have issues here as well. kindness and for inspiring others to These tragedies spark outrage among all people and all over the world. pay it forward! We are witnessing a coming-together of people to denounce racial injustice, and we wanted to show our commitment by voting on and passing a resolution, which we did unanimously.

Focus on the East End I am pleased to report that our Communications and Marketing Division and Parent Commissioner Maria Corsi have a new collaborative effort. Ms. Corsi's former “Save Our East End Schools" Facebook page has been changed to "Focus on East End Schools." Please like the page: https://www.facebook.com/EastEndMontrealSchools. A sub-committee of Michael Cohen and Daniel Smajovits from Communications and Marketing will work with Ms. Corsi, myself, Commissioners Pietro Mercuri, Mario Bentrovato, Agostino Cannavino, Sophie De Vito, Mario Pietrangelo and Parent Commissioner Tony Speranza. We also plan to take a close look at some of our West End schools. 4 www.emsb.qc.ca EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 Kamala Harris – continued from page 1 You can view the press conference here: https://vimeo.com /502758709 The United States Consulat General in Montreal Ana A. Escrogima produced a video in which herself interviewed Westmount High stu - dents about Vice- Kamala Harris is sworn in. President Harris. You can see the video here: https://bit.ly/3pPzeeq EMSB Chair Joe Ortona noted that every effort will be made to have Vice-President Harris visit her old school during the course of her mandate.

Westmount High students celebrate the Biden-Harris victory.

LAURENHILL GRAD A COVID MEDIA EXPERT

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Christopher Labos has been among the most regular physicians to be interviewed by the media coast to coast. When he spoke to the EMSB Express he was proud to recall his time as a student at LaurenHill Academy in St. Laurent and as part of the HOPS (Hospital Opportunity Program for Students). Dr. Labos is a cardiologist with a degree in epidemiology The 1981 graduating class and based at Hôpital Notre Dame. He is a freelance with Harris circled. contributor for the Montreal Gazette, CJAD, and has also appeared on CBC Radio and CBC Television. But since the pandemic started he was been sought after by media across SOME MEDIA COVERAGE LINKS the country. CTV Montreal: https://vimeo.com/503079215 At the start of this school year, Dr Labos, Dr. Gerald Fried CTV National: https://vimeo.com/503079050 (an alumni from Hampstead School) and parent Dr. Debbie Global TV: https://vimeo.com/503078716 Schwarcz were guests on the EMSB podcast. You can listen CBC: https://vimeo.com/503074615 to it at https://soundcloud.com/englishmtlpodcasts/ emsb-podcast-doctors-weigh-in-on-back-to-school Dr. Christopher Labos City News: https://vimeo.com/503077596

EMSB Express Quiz ENTER THE The answers to these questions can be easily CLUE: found by reading this issue of the EMSB Express.

EMSB EXPRESS QUIZ 1 At which school’s Virtual Open House was a sports A FROM concentration student outfitted with a GoPro? GIFT CARD ______2 In his message, how many schools did Chair Joe Ortona identify as getting air purifiers? OR ______CERTIFICATES Go to www.cineplex.com 3 Who is the vice-chair of the EMSB? TO SEE A MOVIE AT to find the location closest THEATRES to your neighbourhood ______™/® Cineplex Entertainment LP or used under license 4 What high school did newly elected US Vice-President Kamala Harris attend? OR ______PROMOTIONAL MASKS EMSB LIBRARY PROMOTIONAL FROM THE MERCHANDISE 5 How many students are enrolled in Virtual Learning? M4SK ARMY Go to www.schoollibrariesmtl.ca ______to find out more about our campaign. 6 At which two buildings are students at Westmount Park To find out more about OR EMSB PROMOTIONAL MERCHANDISE Elementary School currently housed while the main facility this brand, go to is being renovated? https://m4skarmy.com This includes the highly sought after COVID-19 contactless touch tool. ______7 What does EMSAC stand for? ______8 What do the letters FACE stand for as in FACE School?

Please cut out this form and ______bring it to the office of your NAME 9 What is the name of the former Montreal Impact (now school and ask that it be sent CF Montreal) player who has been giving in-class workouts via Zoom at Gardenview Gerald McShane Elementary Schools? to Room 109 of the EMSB Head SCHOOL Office at 6000 Fielding Ave. ______via the internal mail system. E-MAIL ADDRESS

10 At which adult centre is the work training program for those You can also access the form with autism taking place? www.emsb.qc.ca. The deadline is April 18, 2021. at ______# EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 www.emsb.qc.ca 5 EMSB Virtual Learning fills crucial education gap for students who need to stay at home by Kristin McNeill school level can continue in their prepare for their upcoming classes. courses in She also likes being able to easily With a stable enrollment of subjects such as chemistry, physics communicate with teachers and 545, the English Montreal School and calculus. staff. “What this experience has Board’s (EMSB) very own virtual EMSB Virtual Learning also meant to my family is that the time school, named EMSB Virtual has a “closed classroom” for and stress that otherwise would Learning, has been going very students requiring special environ- have been devoted to travel, not to well, according to Principal ments, such as those with autism mention the risks to health, is Christy Tannous. And it might even spectrum disorder or in Strength- instead permitting my kids the continue to play a crucial role ening Educational & Emotional extra time needed to complete their when the pandemic is over. Development System (SEEDS) homework in a timely manner, and Virtual learning at the EMSB classes. For students who have allow for dinner and valuable has been an innovative experiment an Individualized Education Plan family time before bed.” Her in teaching and learning outside of (IEP), there continues to be sup- son, in grade 6, also attends the the traditional bricks-and-mortar port outside of the classroom. The virtual school. school building. It continues to EMSB provides students with evolve under the leadership of Vice What are the challenges? Principal Réal Heppelle and Ms. Christy Tannous Besides the now familiar Tannous, who as a bilingual technology hiccups that can plague educator was previously a French is a “work in progress, and we are some online sessions, there are a teacher, vice principal at Pierre de constantly learning and adjusting few challenges that Ms. Tannous Coubertin Elementary School in based on the needs of our staff and her team are working to St. Leonard and vice principal at and students.” improve. Royal West Academy in Montreal “Our staff has had to revisit the West. Differences between way they were taught to teach as Though this was not how she EMSB Virtual Learning most of it cannot apply virtually. imagined her first position of and in-person learning Teachers evaluate differently in the principal would be when she With EMSB Virtual Learning, sense that more emphasis is placed started in early October, Ms. the teacher typically provides on multiple small evaluations Tannous said “I would never say instruction for a total of four rather than one big evaluation,” no to this position!” She admitted A student takes part in an activity from home. periods, each 45 minutes, separated she explained. Teachers have to it is a challenging opportunity for example, where mask-wearing

There was also a spike in proves impossible, this becomes ‘ “their school away from school.” applications‘ when masks became Other members of the Virtual Learning setting are students who mandatory in the classroom for live with a family member with certain grade levels later in the fall. immunity concerns, such a pregnant mother with gestational diabetes. The school community also has staff with compromised medical issues who, while they can’t currently be teaching in a general school setting, can teach from a distance, such as a pregnant teacher. Ms. Tannous said they do EMSB Virtual Learning has been a big success. accept new students during the school year, but enrolment has by 15-minute breaks. A lunch navigate the fact that students have remained steady after the initial break separates the morning from access to many tools normally not surge of incoming students early the afternoon session, which available to them in a physical in the fall. There was also a spike includes a remediation period and classroom, for example online in applications when masks one-on help when needed. translation tools, “tutors on call” became mandatory in the Nancy Amaral, mother of and adults in the house who can classroom for certain grade levels Secondary I student Mia Amaral- become a much called upon The teacher typically provides instruction for a total of four later in the fall. Sgouromitis, said what she most resource. periods, each 45 minutes, separated by 15-minute breaks. appreciates about the system is that For our complete feature story How well has it the scheduling is “well-thought and more information, visit and calls upon her professional computers and videoconferencing been working? out,” allowing for her kids to www.emsb.qc.ca/virtuallearning. experience at both school levels as equipment if they need it. “I am so proud of what we’ve well as ease in both languages for accomplished and how far we’ve working with teachers and parents. Who attends EMSB come,” Ms. Tannous said. Some From her “principal’s office” Virtual Learning? students who have trouble focusing based out of the EMSB’s admin- These are EMSB students who may learn and perform much better istrative building, Ms. Tannous normally attend EMSB schools but in virtual settings where there are shared in January how it had been who have obtained an official less distractions, she explained. going so far. medical exemption for in-person Students can play a part in With a current enrollment of school because of health risks designing their classroom setting 310 elementary school students associated with COVID-19 for by selecting the tiled option to from Pre-K to Grade 6, and 235 themselves or family members at see classmates or “spotlighting” For monthly updates high school students, Virtual home. EMSB students who must the teacher. Learning offers the same gamut of quarantine due to COVID-19 “Parents have shared with us and breaking news French programs as the board’s remain associated with their how happy they are to have been regular offerings. For those regular, in-person school and stay given this option to learn virtually, about the EMSB students who normally attend connected with classwork and their to keep their families safe,” French immersion elementary teacher via different online she said. She knew of several school and have been re-assigned classroom platforms. So, transience immunocompromised parents to Virtual Learning, they are is not an issue for EMSB Virtual were ready to move out of the log to our Focus Newsletter at: provided the same quality of Learning. Students enrol and stay house if it meant keeping their instruction and coursework. In for the duration of the school year. children in school. addition to the regular French For young people with autism Like anything unprecedented, options, students at the high or who suffer from severe asthma, the EMSB Virtual Learning setting 6 www.emsb.qc.ca EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 EMSB set to honouring volunteers virtually

The annual EMSB Parent Pierre Elliott Trudeau Volunteer Appreciation Evening Elementary School in will take place on Tuesday, April Rosemount, who for the 1 20. This year’s event is being held past 21 years continues virtually, and it will mark National to volunteer her time, Volunteer Week, which runs from energy and creative April 18 to 24 under the theme of talents to enhance the “Working Together: Meeting the school. “Mary, is a Challenge.” loyal, devoted and hard You will be able to access the work ing woman” said program via the EMSB website Principal Tanya Alvares. (www.emsb.qc.ca), Facebook page “She is the heart of (@EnglishMtl) and YouTube the school. Over the Channel (www.youtube.com/ years, Mary has helped EMSBTV). students, parents, and staff members.” Ambassador of the year 21st Century Jamie Orchard is this year’s Food Ambassador of the Year. She As a proud sponsor recently concluded a distinguished of our 2021 EMSB 23-year career with Global TV, Virtual Volunteer Appre - where she served as senior anchor ciation Evening, Joseph and news editor for the evening Mantagaris of 21st news. She previously covered Century Food would the news in Montreal for CTV like to say thank you to the entire and CBC. Recently she launched EMSB teach ing community by 4 The Second Act Project (SAP), offering his Gourmet Home Meal a blog that offers a safe space Delivery Service at 25 percent filled with inspiring stories of off. EMSB Express readers can courage, compassion and kindness. win some meals as well. Simply You can see it at www.thesecond participate in our quiz and specify actproject.ca which school you volunteer at. With Jamie as anchor, The Joseph supported Teacher Global Evening News was named Appreciation Week at Gardenview Best Newscast in Eastern Canada Elementary School in St. Laurent, by the Radio/Television News where his two children are Directors Association in 2007 and students. Two teachers were earned the award for best breaking presented with $50 towards our 3 news coverage in 2006. In 2004, Home Meal Delivery service. she was named one of city's most remarkable women by the Board Recognizing of Trade of Montreal and was a finalist for the YWCA Women of volunteers Distinction in 2007. An active This year’s virtual event will volunteer, in 2008 she won the include recognition of all volun- Izzy Asper Community Service teers, notably those with five Award for her work with the years of service or more. There Action Centre, an organization that will be formal presentations 2 provides help for physically and for Jamie Orchard, Mary Nitti, mentally challenged Montrealers. remarks by Joe Ortona and Since the inception of the Parents Committee Chair Caleigh (1) Parent volunteers gather last fall outside of Leonardo Da Vinci Academy in RDP. | (2) Leonardo da EMSB’s Volunteer Appreciation Saucier, and a representative from Vinci Academy Home and School members, Linda Terrigno and Melissa Fasulo, work at the frozen Evening, Jamie has been a regular La Capitale, and some student yogurt distribution day. | (3) Mary Nitti, this year’s Volunteer of Distinction. | (4) Jamie Orchard, this co-emcee. “Jamie also had a strong musical performances. year’s Ambassador of the Year. presence at our schools, not only as the parent of two students, The roles of a or gifts and cards delivered to the Principal of Leonardo Da Vinci classrooms, while music played on but in front of the camera,” parent volunteer in school. Rather than convening Academy elementary school a cart wheeled down the hallway. commented EMSB Chair Joe in the staff lunchroom for monthly in Rivière-des-Prairies, Nadia And there was even Santa, who Ortona. “We thank her for all of pandemic times Home and School meetings, it Sammarco, says it’s really a matter made a surprise appearance in the contributions she has made to The COVID-19 pandemic has has been sitting at the kitchen of thinking outside the box. For each classroom doorway. us over the years.” naturally curtailed the traditional table after dinner to meet via example, the festive and popular Please stay tuned to our website volunteer activities at schools. videoconferencing. What stands “Breakfast with Santa,” where and the next edition of the EMSB Volunteer of In place of lunch buffets served out in the parent volunteer some 25 parents would normally Express for Kristin McNeill’s by parents for teachers and staff community this pandemic year is be on hand to serve breakfast comprehensive look at volun- distinction during Teacher Appreciation the heartfelt will to continue to large groups of children, was teerism during the pandemic and The Volunteer of Distinction Week, there were lovingly assem- to help out and stay connected adapted so that individually boxed a recap of our virtual event. for this year is Mary Nitti from bled individually boxed lunches, with their children’s schools. breakfasts could be brought to

EMSB teachers: As a proud sponsor of our 2021 EMSB Virtual Volunteer Appreciation Evening, We appreciate you! st Joseph Mantagaris of 21 Century Food 25% off would like to say thank you to the entire Use promo code*: emsbteacher EMSB teaching community by offering * Deadline for this offer is April 30, 2021. 25% off their gourmet Home Meal www.21stcenturyfood.com Delivery Service Thank you for watching over our kids. EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 www.emsb.qc.ca 7 EMSB plans for reopening of Westmount Park Elementary School

Project managers at the EMSB remain optimistic that the extensive renovations, which began in summer 2019 at Westmount Park Elementary School, will be completed in time for the 2021-2022 academic year. At the present time, the EMSB is looking at three possible scenarios: • Students and staff, presently housed at the former St. John Bosco School in Ville Émard and Marymount Academy International in NDG, move back into the building for the start of classes. • Students and staff move back in, with the contractor completing any remaining work on evenings and weekends. • The move is delayed to sometime in 2021-2022, with the Ville Émard and Marymount facilities still available for use. While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused some delays, construction continues to proceed at a good pace. The major renovations at Westmount Park include, but are not limited to: roof, interior finishes, accessibility (elevator), mechanical (plumbing, CVAC, sprinklers), electrical (wiring, lights, telecom, fire alarm system, etc.) and exterior work (additional accessibility ramp, public utility works, drainage system and foundation waterproofing). Work began in the summer of 2019, and demolition was completed in February 2020. Since work on the ground floor and the basement remain the final portion of the building to be completed, in the event of a delay caused by the pandemic, it would be conceivable to temporarily relocate the Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten classes elsewhere in the facility or to another location until everything is ready. The EMSB will continue to provide frequent updates. The Westmount Park School building on Park Place. Parents Committee to host Virtual Conference

Building up children to help them bounce back from life’s challenges will be one of the workshop topics. The EMSB Parents Committee will host a Virtual Conference for Parents on Sunday, April 18. Dr. Earl Rubin, Director of The Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, will kick-off the event as the keynote speaker under the theme of “Resilience through the COVID Pandemic.” He will talk about the science, challenges and impact regarding COVID, vaccines for children and more. This will be followed by a panel and Q&A composed of Dr. Rubin, Dr. Debbie Schwarcz and Montreal Gazette health reporter Aaron Derfel. All three are EMSB parents. The conference will go from 9 am to 4 pm and focus on a wide array of subjects. Register now at www.emsbparents.ca Early Bird Registration (from March 9 to April 5) is FREE. As of April 5, the entry fee is $15. For an additional fee of $10, a meal delivery coupon (valued at $20) is available to the first 250 registrants. (one per user)

SOCIAL MEDIA @EnglishMTL www.emsb.qc.ca EXPRESS | vol. 22 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 8 ? ? ? Teen members of the English Montreal School Board’s Student Advisory Committee respond to some light-hearted questions

KAYLA NUNES-COSTA GARRYSON BÉLIZAIRE SCOTT Rosemount High School Secondary IV Secondary IV

The English Montreal School Board’s Student 1) I’ve been listening to older 1) A song I have been listen- Advisory Committee (EMSAC) is made up of songs from 2010 and on. ing to a lot lately is Say two student representatives from each high school 2) Lucifer and Grey’s Anatomy. so x Goodnight N’ Go. It is a remix of two songs made across the network and mentored by staff leadership. 3) Harry Potter and the by Dojo Cat and Ariana Sector Directors Nathalie Lacroix-Maillette and Pela Deathly Hallows. Grande. The remix just has Nickoletopoulos, Commissioners Jamie Fabian and 4) I think student leadership Joseph Lalla, Vice-Principals Andrea Dillon and Peter this nice slow, aesthetics is important because it feel to it, so definitely Mckelvie and Paul Karpontinis, a teacher at Lester B. shows kids not only that Pearson High School, serve as its mentors. something you should their voices should be listen to in your free time. Every month, students in EMSAC meet in order to heard, but also how to use their voice in the 2) I really enjoy binge-watching like Soul consider and deliberate upon topics that are important most productive way. to youth across the EMSB and beyond. As formal Eater and something I have recently been student representatives to the EMSB, members voice watching is Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure. their opinions and declare their recommendations on 3) I cannot remember any of my prize novels since matters received for consultation. In addition to I am not a big reader. I have been reading a lot empowering members as the student voice of the DAVIDE SANZARI of . The name of the manga is Beastars. EMSB, participation in EMSAC fosters leadership This anime really does have a good concept to development and networking for students. EMSAC has Laurier its story with the different characters shown in been in existence for just over a decade. Secondary V their comic/anime. EMSAC meetings have moved online for the 1) Currently, I listen to pop 4) Well I believe student leadership is important 2020-21 academic year. Every session commences music, with no specific because it gives some of the students the with ice-breaking activities and discussions, conducted artist being preeminent or chance to practice their leadership skills for their in parliamentary style. This year discussions have favoured. For instance, I future, showing that they can guide others and encompassed recent developments on Bill 40, fancy hearing certain songs put their ideas out there. I do believe that every COVID-19 and its impact on education and systemic from the artist, Tones And I. group needs a leader. racism and its implications in our schools, as well as 2) I hardly ever binge-watch the funding of education. movies, television, or YouTube videos, though We asked members a few light-hearted questions: one of my favourite types of movies (or movie ANASTASIA MARKOU clips) to watch would be superhero movies 1) What are you listening to on your playlist created by Marvel Studios. LaurenHill Academy right now? 3) The Alchemist would likely be my most prized Secondary V 2) What is your favourite thing to binge-watch? possession, as far as a novel. It was purchased 1) My playlist right now is lots 3) What is your most prized novel? during last year’s winter break due to my of Broadway soundtracks 4) Why is student leadership important to you? growing passion for reading. It contains and way too much Taylor numerous quotes that possess a direct Swift. relationship that can be applied to many 2) My favourite show to situations. binge-watch has been, and BRYANA CATEDRAL 4) I value student leadership due to the aspect of always will be, Gilmore Girls, possessing a “voice”. It is a place where diverse but I'm currently enjoying SANSALONE minds are able to express ideas on school Superstore and Grey’s Lester B. Pearson High School matters, usually with a common goal of Anatomy. Secondary IV improving education. Students can freely express 3) I don't know if i can pick just one! But recently matters they believe are fundamentals in 1) I’m currently listening to an amazing book I read was The Letter by ameliorating education, or are even bothersome BLEACH by Brockhampton, Katherine Hughes. to the student population. All of this is completed Supermodel by SZA, and 4) Student leadership is important to me because in a safe and amicable environment. See You Again by Tyler the it gives students an opportunity to have their Creator. voices heard! I love interacting with my other 2) My favourite thing to binge- like-minded peers. It's such a great opportunity watch is Grey's Anatomy. to come out of your shell and make new friends. 3) Do No Harm: Stories of Life, Death, and Brain Surgery by Henry Marsh. The SOFIA DEL RASO author does a great job at fulfilling my thrill of Royal West Academy what it’s like to stand beside a world-renowned Secondary V neurosurgeon. He gives readers a great ALIÉNOR TURREL 1) Mediterranea by Irama. representation of his fascinating yet terrifying James Lyng High School 2) Money Heist. vocation. Secondary V 3) The Subtle Art of Not Giving 4) Student leadership is important to me since 1) Mostly anime openings. a Bleep: A Counterintuitive leadership is the art of motivating and influencing Approach to Living. 2) Anime. others in order to achieve their goals. This is a 3) I don't read much, but very important part of school, seeing as though 4) Student leadership is the only novel that I ever it offers various opportunities for students to build important to me because really liked was the relationships with their team, improve their I've always been someone Little Prince by Antoine de discipline and communication skills, while who likes helping others. Saint-Exupéry. completing tasks effectively. In addition, being As a student leader at my school, I always try part of a leadership group offers its own kind of my best to be as helpful as I can and make the 4) I guess that having a class accepting family for so many kids. school environment more enjoyable for, not only that works well together my friends, but all students. brings me peace of mind in some way. EXPRESS | vol. 22 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 www.emsb.qc.ca 9

SHAUN PEARCE REBECCA ROMANO LIVIA SANTINI Royal Vale High School LaurenHill Academy Royal Vale High School Secondary V Secondary IV Secondary V 1) Currently I am listening to 1) In general, I usually listen 1) Recently I have been hip hop/rap songs by artists to different genres of listening to Folk Punk and like Drake. music, but lately I’ve been the Front Bottoms. 2) I like to binge-watch listening to Drivers License 2) Grey’s Anatomy. by Olivia Rodrigo. comedic sitcoms like The 3) My most prized novel is Office or Brooklyn Nine-Nine. 2) My favourite show to Catcher in the Rye. It looks 3) My most prized novel would binge-watch lately is inside a character’s mind, be the Harry Potter series by Gilmore Girls on . heart and soul like no other J.K. Rowling. It was the first 3) I cannot just pick one book book I’ve read. novel I read when I was young, and I loved the that I love, however I did love the Harry Potter 4) Student leadership is important to me because entire series. series by J. K. Rowling. it brings people together, and it makes school 4) Student leadership is important to me because 4) Student leadership is important for us to voice a more welcoming environment. I believe it teaches young people how to be leaders, and our opinions and express ourselves. Student making the world a better place starts in it helps us socialize with others. leadership is important because we get the schools. It gives the opportunity to speak chance to take the lead in our educational to other students, enriches and broadens system. Overall, I think student leadership is very our views and gives a chance to participate important to teens. and take action in things that matter and benefit all. I believe the student body should have a voice, not only in schools, but in the VANESSA SHAHINI greater community. Vincent Massey Collegiate Secondary V 1) For the past few weeks EMMA POMPONI I have, oddly enough, Lester B. Pearson High School KALEESIA BAILEY listened to the same song Secondary V on repeat. The song is Westmount High School 1) I have been listening to a Secondary V 867-5309/Jenny by Tommy lot of songs from Tik Tok Tutone, released in 1981. lately, but I have been 1) At the moment I’m listening 2) The last thing I binged- obsessed with Good Days to Little Women and Moon watched was the entirety by SZA! Sweater Weather by Camilla Covington and of Game of Thrones. by the neighborhood is Last Words of a Shooting 3) My most prized novel would be my copy of also really good, but Star by Mitski. S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders. This was the first I honestly listen to anything 2) My favourite thing to binge- book that I absolutely fell in love with. on the Teen Beats playlist watch is Charmed (1998). 4) Student leadership is important to me on Spotify! 3) My most prized novel is because of multiple reasons such as it helps 2) I love Supergirl and Brooklyn Nine-Nine! They Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas. the student body in general by offering them are my two favourite shows, other than Grey's 4) Student leadership is important to me because the chance to use their voice and be heard by Anatomy and the Twilight series! I feel as though it’s important that students are people who can actually make changes. It also 3) The Divergent series, but specifically the able to share their opinions and viewpoints, helps the student leaders by helping them Allegiant book!! especially in regards to things that personally build self-confidence and making them feel 4) Student leadership allows students to have affect us. like their thoughts and feelings are important an input on what happens in the school and that they matter. Finally, it helps all of us they attend. And who better to organize forge lasting relationships with our classmates, activities and make change than the ones who other student leaders, and even teachers experience it day by day? I find student and administrators. leadership let’s me go from a shy girl to the AMAYA SEALY-LEPAGE one who is able to effectively voice my ideas FACE and opinions. It gives a voice to people who Secondary V may struggle on finding ways to communicate, 1) I listen to many different but student leaders become a little family of kinds of music, but I like its own as well. If I wasn’t in student leadership, soundtrack music quite a BLAIRE LALONDE I have no idea what type of version of myself bit. John Powell’s sound- Westmount High School I would have become. track for How to Train Secondary V Your Dragon is one of my 1) I listen to many different favourites. kinds of music, but recently 2) I don’t have a favourite I have been finding myself show to binge-watch, but listening to Mr. Loverman ALYSSA MIRARCHI I would say cartoons are what I binge-watch by Ricky Montgomery and most often. Shows like Steven Universe, Achilles Come Down by Royal West Academy Ducktales and others are very binge watchable Gang of Youths. Secondary V in my opinion. 2) My favourite show to 1) A lot of older music from 3) If I have to pick one, I can’t, so I will say two. binge-watch is RuPaul’s so many different genres I like both the Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Drag Race. I specifically enjoy season six. (Queen, Billy Joel, Frank Rothfuss, and Hyperbole and a Half by 3) I don’t read too often, but a novel I enjoyed Sinatra). Allie Brosh. reading was A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. 2) Brooklyn Nine-Nine. 4) I think student leadership is important because Gaines. 3) Audition by Michael without it, a school is a prison of rules. This is 4) Student leadership is important because as Shurtleff. not to say that school tries to be as such, but we grow we have to learn how to express our knowing that a student voice exists creates 4) It is important to me opinions and how we will be able to change a better environment among students. because it’s crucial that things for the better. Beginning the process of Having the ability to change the way of things the student community hears positive things being a leader when we are students teaches was something my school’s student council about their school and gets encouraged to us these skills young, so we are able to express cared most about. It also gives students the participate in events hosted by their school, our opinions confidently and eloquently in opportunity to develop organization, leadership especially from fellow students. the future. and social skills. 10 www.emsb.qc.ca EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021

TEACHER INTEGRATES TECHNOLOGY Accolades INTO LESSONS Nahal Derayeh, better known to parents and children SPIRIT OF GIVING as Madame Nahal, is a French CTV Montreal has Kindergarten teacher at Dante extended a big thank Elementary School in St. you to the EMSB and Léonard, who has been everyone involved for teaching at the EMSB for 18 making 2020’s virtual years. Over the past four years campaign a great she has been innovatively success! “Our strategy integrating technology into her had to change quite a bit teaching. By posting YouTube for this edition of the videos she records of herself in Spirit of Giving, where the classroom and on a private as in past years, food Facebook group called “Mme drives were the main Nahal et Ses Amies,” she Mme Nahal focus,” a CTV statement manages to stay connected to reads. “Considering it parents and children in and out of the classroom. It started four was a first real attempt years ago when Ms. Derayeh attended an EMSB workshop to learn at driving all our efforts new skills on how to integrate technology into her teaching because Dunrae Gardens students take part in the Spirit of Giving. to online donations, we she felt that she was not “tech savvy.” She said she was inspired consider this year’s efforts a huge success. These funds will be evenly divided among our 10 deserving to use the Facebook medium to communicate with parents because recipients. The charity partners are thrilled as these funds give them exponentially much more buying that is what she uses to feel close to her friends and family. So far, power than receiving canned goods: Batshaw; Share the Warmth; West Island Assistance Fund; Sun she never had a parent who did not want to participate, and her Youth; Renaissance; Nazareth House; La Mosaique; MultiCaf; The Depot Community Food Centre; and Facebook groups have been a huge success, increasing her Mile End Mission. popularity with parents and students alike. “As a working mom of four children, I always wanted to see what is going on when my children are at school, wishing I could be a fly on the wall," she said. "I felt like I was missing an important part of their life because they spend so much time at school. I saw a Facebook OPERATION group as an opportunity to help parents feel connected with their children even when they are at school and to help parents and ROSIE children with homework.” CHEEKS Students at four east-end JFK FOOD DRIVE EMSB schools were busily preparing cards and holiday With the ongoing pandemic stretching community resources decorations for “Operation to capacity, the team at John F. Kennedy High School in St. Michel Rosie Cheeks Holiday Cards for decided they were going to do their part to help ease the load on Frontline Workers,” an initiative local food banks and charities. The team began meeting in October to bring some cheer to two and started collecting donations at the beginning of November. Montreal-area hospitals. East The team started the project with the goal of providing at least Hill Elementary School in $100 worth of products to the families. With the help from Rivière des Prairies and Edward the JFK and LMAC communities, as well as over 30 corporate Murphy Elementary School in Students display their holiday decorations. and community donors, the team was able to create baskets Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, as that were estimated at a value of $300. Overall they created well LINKS in Ahuntsic and John F. Kennedy High School in St. Michel participated in making festive 40 baskets for needy families (36 JFK and four LMAC), as well creations to hang in the elevator and in common areas on the sixth floor at the Hôpital Notre-Dame and as providing food to St. Brendan’s Parish, Second Chance Café in an area at the Jewish General Hospital. The idea started in the fall and was promoted by Spiritual and and The Old Brewery Mission Patricia Mackenzie Pavillion. Community Animator Rocco Speranza, who named the project “Rosie Cheeks” after Hôpital Notre- Families from the EMSB's Edward Murphy, LINKS, and Our Dame’s head nurse Rosie. The idea was “to brighten up the days” of doctors, nurses, hospital staff and Lady of Pompei schools. patients.Mr. Speranza said he had positive feedback. An orderly with Hôpital Notre-Dame, Liliane, told him during the “heavy days” of the second wave of COVID-19, “it gives me a ray of sunshine and makes my day” when she sees the decorations on the wall. Another staff member, nurse Abdel said, “It makes me smile knowing that the kids are thinking of me.” DONATION OF SCARVES Edna Janco of Côte Saint-Luc donated a bag full of beautiful brand new men’s scarves to students at James Lyng High School in St. Henri. Principal Lino Buttino expressed his MS. PIA thanks for her generosity. During the pandemic, Our Lady of Pompei KINDERGARTEN Elementary School day- Edna Janco AMBASSADORS care educator Pia Di Bacco-Falconi has been For this year’s EMSB Ele- absolutely amazing at mentary School Registration keeping her students in Week, we introduced our three Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Ambassadors: Kindergarten safe and Mia Fanzolato from Our Lady entertained. Despite every- of Pompei Elementary School thing going on, she en- in Ahuntsic; Maharli Musgrave sures that the students sing from St. Monica Elementary songs about positivity, and Ms. Pia School in NDG and Yebom Suh keeps them moving to catchy tunes that all the students enjoy! from St. Gabriel Elementary Ms. Pia is also well-known for her catchy phrase "We don't want School in Pointe St. Charles. any double bubble trouble." This phrase reminds the students that Their images appeared on everyone should stay in their bubble, in order to avoid trouble! The promotional billboards and youngest students at Our Lady of Pompei are able to maintain social Principal Lino Buttino and some of his staff information flyers. See the back distancing while having fun! The school also purchased Ms. Pia a accept the scarves. page of this edition. t-shirt with her famous slogan. EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 www.emsb.qc.ca 11 FACE string students produce virtual concerts during the pandemic Following the lockdown last had to record themselves and March, FACE (Fine Arts Core send the recording for montage. Education) School’s students and The montage of the individual music teachers were devastated recordings is a long and difficult that the traditional series of instru- phase of the virtual orchestra mental and vocal concerts at process and requires additional the end of the year could not tech support. take place. Ms. Stathopoulos deems that Desperate to reconnect with her the resources and efforts to create string students and eager to provide the virtual orchestras, and produce motivation for them by making a virtual concert, have numerous music together, string department advantages in the present context, teacher, Theodora Stathopoulos, including flexibility to return launched a virtual orchestra project to live rehearsals/concerts if the in May 2020 that she named “A distancing conditions lift, to Ray of Sunshine.” The pilot project continue virtually for as long as the was a great success and has situation remains status quo or to attracted close to 1,000 views since continue with hybrid teaching. June 2020. Although a click track can never The restrictions in the schools, replace the richness of the due to the pandemic, continued orchestra ensemble experience, a into the 2020-2021 academic year virtual orchestra concert is a and instrumental music was put to tangible product, a souvenir of the a halt with minimal performance perseverance and determination to opportu nities. Ms. Stathopoulos engage in musical expression and launched the Virtual Orchestra make music with others in spite Project, with an objective to tremendous challenges. involve more students and produce For the students who submitted two concerts: one in January 2021 an audiovisual recording, it is an and another at the end of the year. incredible achievement. Most of In spite of the fact that partici- them worked with a click track/ pation in this project is voluntary, metronome for the very first time over 40 string students from and the time spent learning to play Grades 5 to 11 responded to the with it offers many advantages to call to participate in September instrumentalists! 2020. The students were placed Most importantly the virtual in a “virtual” orchestra of their orchestra creates a connection to technical level regardless of their classmates and orchestra members age or grade. Following orchestra, and gives a sense of unity and the students were provided with collaboration. Above all, the a pre-recorded track of their part virtual concert provides partici- and were given several weeks to pating students with a tremendous Images of the performers. practice using it with occasional sense of pride and satisfaction support from teacher and/or a tutor, and a “concert” that they can share if required. When they had learned with friends and family anywhere their part, the participating students in the world. EMSB schools adapt to the new normal with virtual open houses continued from page 1

Leveraging technology and Whether they were social media, these schools students, parents, Listen to our podcast: hosted the EMSB version of a teachers or admin- live talk show, where over the istrators, each https://soundcloud.com/englishmtlpodcasts/facevirtualconcert course of an hour, in lieu of an school’s commu- in-person open house, parents nity came together The YouTube videos of FACE’s virtual orchestras were treated to all the highlights to ensure that de- are already going viral! that their prospective school had spite the pandemic, to offer. the best of their institu- Ray of Sunshine https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcHkDKP9Zco&feature=youtu.be As is the case with any live tion was on display. production, bloopers were not To watch any of the virtual Allegro Virtual Orchestra only to be expected, but simply open houses for LaurenHill ementary School, Pierre Elliott https://youtu.be/luraGyGF0Zw added to the fun and excitement Academy, Westmount High Trudeau Elementary School, of the hour. School, Marymount Academy Dunrae Gardens Elementary Vivace Virtual Orchestra Questions? They were as International, Merton Elemen- https://youtu.be/dyzc9amsRdY School and Carlyle Elementary simple as writing a comment on tary School, Leonardo Da Vinci School, please visit: https:// the Facebook or YouTube feed Academy, Willingdon Elemen- Presto Virtual Orchestra www.youtube.com/c/English https://youtu.be/-4OGoXrm354 and always answered in real- tary School, Gardenview Ele- MTL/videos. time by those most qualified. mentary School, Edinburgh El- 12 www.emsb.qc.ca EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 In conversation with Caleigh Saucier, chair of the EMSB Parents Committee by Kristin McNeill you no choice – you have to talk, you have to tell us something: Elected as chair of the what school and area are you English Montreal School coming from? What are you Board Parents Committee passionate about? Every single person attending can really take for the 2020-21 academic in that information and hear year, Caleigh Saucier from others. If I do nothing else comes into the position but go through the agenda the rest with an impressive history of the year, that’s a win for me. of parent involvement. Because we’ve never successfully done that. For nine years, on and off, Ms. Saucier has been a parent volun- How have you organized teer, attending monthly meetings the sub-committees of the EMSB Parents Committee this year? (PC), which she now chairs. She We’ve formed sub-committees started out on the Parent Partici- with people who are passionate in pation Organization (PPO) at Sin- certain areas. Everyone here seems clair Laird Elementary School in to have the best interests in mind Park Extension, from the time her Caleigh Saucier with her children. for all the children. For example, son started Kindergarten until if one parent can figure out virtual Grade 4. She continued the PPO affecting education that been a humbling, human experi- people’s expressions. I can see enrolment so that no other parent work at Parkdale Elementary the EMSB is currently ence. People seem to take less when they’re passionate about has to camp out for registration, School in St. Laurent, where he things for granted. something! I can actually have the arguing in court? they will have contributed to a graduated. She helped form its opportunity to hear, see, under- No, it was really to have the better way of doing things. The Governing Board, where she was What are some of the stand – these are not necessarily parents’ voices heard. The govern- parents on the sub-committees chair for one year and delegate for challenges you are ready things we had time for in physical ment can pass bills or not pass have a passion about the topic, another, as well as assuming the meetings. The first official meet- them. My view on the bills is that to tackle in this job (if you and some have the background to position of its parent delegate for ing in November was so efficient. the law will be in good faith, de call it a job)? support their work. All are willing three years. I made enough time on the agenda bonne foi. That’s my assumption, This is definitely a job! It takes to go the extra time for all EMSB Ms. Saucier’s son, 13, is to hear from each individual about right or wrong. However, my pur- time each day. There are lengthy families. They’ll have their own currently in his second year at their school. It was really a won- pose to coming to that table is to meetings and connecting with meetings and present back to the Marymount Academy International derful experience. Regardless of make sure everyone there who people, and we do this on Zoom, PC, which is monthly. Normally in NDG, where she sits on its who sits in this position next, even wants to put in time, contribute, which makes it efficient. At the all those meetings would be done Governing Board. She is also 20 years from now, I hope that the say something – that we’re able in person. I don’t know about president of CSAssurance et Parents Committee continues to to hear them, that we’re able to others, but with my business and Associés, where she works as a take the time – even if it’s extra help. We have huge agendas and my kids, it’s not always physically financial securities advisor and time – to really make sure every many things to cover at these I want to see possible to be outside my house damage insurance broker. She person around the table has an op- meetings, but it’s also an opportu- in the evening. Virtual meetings is also mother to twin girls, age 3. ‘this community portunity to speak. nity to learn from parents from save participants from commuting, In the Fall, we asked Caleigh other schools – what’s working, whether sitting in traffic in your Saucier some questions about growing. There’s How is it going, meeting what’s not – so we can be in a car or taking public transport, to what motivated her to take on this via video conference position to offer solutions. It’s the meetings. We’re volunteers! highest level in parental involve- no reason why we community – we’re help to help instead of the traditional In my personal experience, the ment in school governance and each other, west or east, north should be losing large, in-person meetings? balance is so much better. I can what she hopes to accomplish or south. It’s not always easy to stand be having a meeting at the office, during her one-year mandate. I want to see this community schools. Aside up in a big room in front of many or at home. Depending on the

growing. There’s no reason why people to say something: People situation, I can be on my laptop at Why did you run for we should be losing schools. Aside from eligibility, are murmuring in the background; home listening to someone while the position of chair of from eligibility, there’s no reason there’s no reason texting each other across the room; cutting up vegetables. My kids are the Parents Committee? to go outside what I consider the someone gets up for coffee. In happy I’m at home. I don’t have

I attended the large PC meet- best English school board. When to go outside what a videoconference call, all that to drag my son to the meetings! ing, which was done on Zoom. It’s you look at our numbers, our background noise has been muted. The sub-committees this year not always easy to be heard in a students are doing really well. I consider the ‘ Noise and distractions were not include making the parent confer- videoconference, but it was here It should encourage people to problems. Everyone who wanted ence virtual, and a subcommittee that I became committed to mak- come to the English sector, if they best English to listen to every word had the for enrolment, making it easier for ing sure that every single person can. Why aren’t you here? We can opportunity to really hear what parents to register. Another one is – who takes time away from their have Français Plus; we have school board. someone else was saying. At a for high school and for elementary family to come to that table to French Immersion, English Core. regular physical meeting, you schools – equally split between speak for the parents at their We have schools in every sector; can blend in, observe, not say west and east – to see how we can school – is really heard. I feel in class sizes are good; activities moment, there is a lot of waiting anything. At this meeting, it gives better promote them. my position I can make that pos- are good. I haven’t seen a school for answers. When we get it, we’ll sible. I don’t have any motivations in the EMSB that isn’t welcoming want to digest that information and of being on any of the committees, and that isn’t a safe place for figure out how can we make the other than to make sure the future a child to go. For me, it makes best of the situation and how do of the children eligible to go to sense to be here, and do my best we keep our children safe, our Information on the English school have English to make sure parents’ and stake- teachers safe, our communities EMSB Parents Committee schools to go to, and that the pop- holder voices are heard. safe. Once we have some answers, ulation is well represented. That’s we’ll need to turn our attention to The EMSB Parents Committee (PC) represents all What would you like next year’s enrolment and how we all I want: to have the voices parents at every EMSB school. Its members are made up can boost our numbers – which is heard; to make sure our children to accomplish during two delegates from the Governing Board of each school, a topic every year. are treated fairly; and that our your term? which is made up of parents elected by their school’s grandchildren and their grandchil- I’m concentrating on having general assembly. These are volunteer positions. dren still have an EMSB school Though early in your voices heard. It seems to be a The chair of the PC is elected at the general assembly to go. tenure as chair, what is different environment this year. of the Parents Committee by the parent delegates It’s been great so far. As much satisfying about working in Did something in and serves in the role for a one-year term. as COVID-19 is an issue, this this role? particular spur you to The PC currently represents the families of more pandemic has brought us back In an in-person meeting, you than 19,000 youth sector students. move to this higher level of to the basics. What’s important? can’t necessarily see everyone’s engagement, for example It’s the basics: Health, family, faces and expressions, but because any of the provincial bills enjoyment of life, and education. we’re meeting on Zoom, I can see My view of these times is that it’s EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 www.emsb.qc.ca 13 Gagnants du concours La diversité parmi nous

de la CSEM

Les lauréats ont reçu chacun un chèque de 500 $, tout comme leur école et l’enseignante Gloria Koyounian.

Deux élèves de l'Académie Royal West de Montréal-Ouest ont remporté le concours d’écriture littéraire La diversité parmi nous (Diverse Minds) de B'nai Brith Canada, tenu à Montréal en 2020. Dans la catégorie création anglaise, les corécipiendaires du premier prix sont Liem Yip et Gabriel Morin, deux élèves de 4e secondaire à Royal West. Ils sont coauteurs de leur livre The Eggnapper, lequel aborde la nécessité d'être aimable et compréhensif envers les autres et de s'abstenir de porter des jugements. Les livres gagnants, sélectionnés par un jury composé de célébrités, ont été publiés professionnellement et seront distribués gratuitement dans les écoles primaires et les bibliothèques publiques de Montréal. « À mon sens, chacun des élèves qui a pris part à ce concours Semaine de lecture est gagnant », s’est exclamée Adriana Glikman, coordonnatrice du programme national de B'nai Brith Canada. « Nous avons été ravis de voir autant de talents dans la région du Grand Montréal et nous sommes Les élèves de tous les niveaux ont créé un Mur de lecture. impatients de voir ce que l'avenir réserve à cet important concours Pour célébrer la fin de lecture, ont participé à la dans le cadre de divers concours d'écriture ». Les lauréats ont reçu chacun un chèque de 500 $, tout comme l’année 2020, l’Académie John réalisation d’une chanson et et les parents se sont eux aussi leur école et l’enseignante Gloria Koyounian. Caboto à Ahuntsic a organisé à d’une vidéo sur la littératie, ont impliqués en envoyant des Le concours La diversité parmi nous vise à encourager la diversité la grandeur de l’école l’activité regardé des pièces de théâtre photos d’élèves en train de et l’inclusion au Canada par l’entremise de récits et d’illustrations. Cette de littératie : Lights, Camera, virtuelles présentées par des faire de la lecture à la maison. toute première compétition à Montréal s’est déroulée dans les deux Read! Il s’agissait de faire troupes de théâtre, ont organisé Cette semaine de lecture fut langues officielles. Les élèves du niveau secondaire ont été invités à participer les élèves à des en classe une activité de lecture planifiée et animée par une écrire et à illustrer une histoire destinée aux élèves du primaire, puis à activités quoti diennes de dans le noir (avec des lampes équipe d’enseignants afin la soumettre pour courir la chance de remporter des prix en argent pour lecture. Les élèves de tous les de poche), et plus encore. Des de promouvoir l’amour de eux-mêmes, leur école et leur enseignant. niveaux ont créé un Mur de prix ont été décernés aux élèves la lecture. Pour infos : https://www.bnaibrith.ca/dpm/

La zoothérapie pour diminuer le stress et apaiser les élèves Les élèves de l'école primaire Edward Murphy dans Hochelaga-Maisonneuve ont eu droit à des ateliers interactifs et éducatifs sur la zoothérapie/l’animation. Rocco Speranza, animateur de vie spirituelle et d’engagement communautaire, a fait équipe avec le personnel de l'école, l'administration et les animatrices en zoothérapie, Mme Audrey et Mme Ann Sophie, afin de présenter des ateliers interactifs. « Ces ateliers sont une façon efficace pour les élèves de s'engager, s'amuser et d’apprendre à prendre soin des animaux et d'eux-mêmes. Un lien particulier se crée avec les animaux et les élèves qui y participent. Dans le contexte actuel de la COVID-19, aller à l'école s’accompagne d’un certain niveau de stress cette année. La zoothérapie est un excellent moyen de remédier à cela et d’apaiser les élèves », de dire M. Speranza. Ces ateliers font désormais partie intégrante de la culture à l’école Edward Murphy et appuient son programme de persévérance scolaire. Ils aident les élèves à travailler Ces ateliers sont sur les capacités d'attention conjointe, la mémoire, le développement du langage, les une façon efficace émotions, le travail d'équipe et la relaxation. Les deux grandes vedettes des deux ateliers pour les élèves présentés – un lapin doux, apaisant et affectueux de même qu’un adorable chiot de six mois de s'engager. – ont fait sourire les élèves et les membres du personnel. Plusieurs d’entre eux ont affirmé que ces petites bêtes poilues leur ont fait vivre une journée inoubliable.

Listen to the EMSB in-house radio show with Suzanne Desautels https://soundcloud.com/englishmtlpodcasts Google: • Launch the “Google Play Music” app Apple: from your Home screen or from the app drawer. • Launch the “Podcasts” app • Tap the menu button on the top left of the screen Here’s how: from your home screen or (three horizontal lines). download it the App Store • Tap “Podcasts” • Search “EMSB” • Search for “EMSB” • Click on the EMSB • Click on the EMSB Podcasts logo Podcasts logo Apple

• Tap “Subscribe” • Tap “Subscribe” Google 14 www.emsb.qc.ca EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021

Former Impact player launches “stay active” program

It may be nine years SPORTS since Rocco Placentino last suited up for a professional soccer game. Many of the CAPSULE memories, however, are still fresh in his mind, as if they happened just yesterday. Mr. Placentino still thinks back fondly on his six years Gerald McShane sports concentration spent playing for Italian th soccer clubs and his program continues in its 4 year experience representing Canada at the Under-20, Under-23 and Senior levels. There were also, of course, his two separate stints playing for his hometown Montreal Impact, winning a USL First Division league championship in 2009, and playing a CONCACAF Champions League quar - Rocco Placentino terfinal match against Mexican club Santos Laguna in front of over 55,000 people at the Olympic Stadium Gerald McShane students on the ice. on Mr. Placentino’s 27th birthday, among other highlights. He attributes much of that success to his time spent at the The Sports Concentration at which allow students to practice Rolland Arena, swimming at the EMSB’s Gerald McShane Elementary School and, later, Gerald McShane Elementary and compete in a sport. The school Complexe Sportif Marie-Victorin Lester B. Pearson High School in Montreal North. As a way School in Montreal North, now in presently offers hockey, soccer, or playing soccer on our very own of giving back to the school board, he is offering free live its fourth year, is designed to assist gymnastics and figure skating. soccer fields in our school yard, Zoom sessions with EMSB students, with the goal of student athletes from Grades 4 to However, they are able to the options are just steps away. For promoting physical literacy and keeping them active, despite 6 in their search for academic and accommodate other sports upon more information, please contact the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The in- athletic excellence. The goal of this request. In addition to Gerald Mauro Di Ciocco (Sports Coor- class workouts have been offered weekly at Gardenview program is to allow students to McShane’s own gymnasium and dinator) at [email protected] Elementary in Saint-Laurent, with the ultimate goal of balance the demands of their sports sports equipment, the Sports to help you determine whether expanding the program to other EMSB classrooms. He training program and their Concentration Program has quick your child meets the eligibility recently started at Gerald McShane as well. Schools interested academic program. It provides for access to fantastic sports facilities requirements for the program. can email [email protected]. a personalized daily schedule, daily throughout the city of Montreal. Efforts are being made to expand study hall and flexible deadlines, Whether it’s playing hockey at the this to Grade 3 as well.

Welcome to the Sharks: John Caboto Academy brands its athletic department

John Caboto Academy in Ahuntsic celebrated Hooked on School Days in February with the unveiling of their newly branded athletic department and mascot, the JCA Sharks! Shark Day was preceded by weeks of student voting to first select the shark as their new school mascot and then a second series of voting to officially name the new mascot. The choice was “Jawsy”, and he spent a morning circulating the hallways and visiting the classrooms to greet the students and give out temporary tattoos of the new athletic logo. In class, students worked on an arts-and-crafts activity making special shark hats. An educational component included each class being assigned a specific type of shark, where students researched their type and created an information sheet, which has been compiled to create a display board in the front entrance of the school. John Caboto Academy will also be adopting a shark through the World Wildlife Foundation in honour of John Caboto Academy students are thrilled Shark Day at JCA. with their new mascot. EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 2 | Spring 2021 www.emsb.qc.ca 15 ADULT EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL SERVICES Work training program offers opportunity to those with autism by Jordan Stoopler Mr. Katalifos is hoping a new pilot project at Wagar, resulting During his many years as a from a partnership with Giant principal, vice-principal and Steps, the Transforming Autism teacher in the education system, Care Consortium (TACC), Weston Nicholas Katalifos has heard his and the federal government, will fair share of misconceptions bring these traits to the forefront. surrounding those on the autism The program recently had its spectrum. official launch and you can see it “A lot of people automatically here: https://youtu.be/PfYzUP9 assume that a person on the mNaA spectrum can’t work,” said Mr. Nine Wagar students, ranging Katalifos, Principal at the English in age from 21 to 62, are enrolled Montreal School Board’s Wagar in an intensive nine-month Adult Education Centre and chair bilingual work training program. of Giant Steps School and Students meet daily with a Wagar Resource Centre. “That is just teacher and two job coaches as completely wrong.” they integrate and prepare them for To the contrary, Mr. Katalifos future employment opportunities says those with autism offer added within the retail and supermarket benefits to their employers. distribution centre setting. Students at the makeshift grocery store in the Wagar cafeteria. “Most companies find they are In addition to the theoretical exceptional employees,” said Mr. training in the classroom, students at a Maxi store or one of two Steps School and program coor- and products in the cafeteria, but Katalifos, who is also the father of are able to practice working the distribution centres. If all goes dinator, also notes intrinsic bene- also volunteered their time to set an 18-year-old son on the spec- cash or stocking the shelves thanks well, a job offer with full pay and fits to the initiative. it up. They are very supportive and trum. “They do their jobs well, and to the installation of a mini-super- benefits may be given. “We don’t just prepare them to are very excited about the whole they are happy doing their jobs. market in one corner of the Wagar “It’s a good program because find a job, but we’re looking at thing. It wasn’t so much about the They might need different kinds cafeteria. There are even virtual it’s practical and it’s real,” said their personal development,” said monetary donation, but their do- of support, but they’re excellent reality goggles students can wear Mr. Katalifos. “It can truly change Mr. Pereira. “We’ve seen, so far, nation of their time. Everybody at employees. They are very reliable, to fully immerse themselves in the the life of a person. We’re excited some have evolved in terms of Weston has been amazing.” very loyal and they’re happy to store. Other highlights of the pro- about it.” their independence. It’s the first For Mr. Pereira, it has been an work, which helps the atmosphere gram include online workshops, Andre Pereira, Project Manager- time for many that somebody has “eye-opening” experience thus far. at any company or organization.” guest speakers and an internship Employment Initiatives at Giant asked them to make decisions. Since the program first began in One of the big things we want to late August, he says participants do is build up self-esteem.” are “listening to others” and show- The program draws inspiration ing “more respect to one another.” from one initiated by retired He also has seen many come out Galileo reopens its Sensory Room Walgreens senior vice-president of their shells in the class setting, Randy Lewis in the United States. which has since translated to their Since the Galileo ventilation period before Mr. Lewis, who has a son on the home environments. Adult Educa tion Centre another class (bubble) en- autism spectrum, presented an in- “One mother has e-mailed me in Montreal North has ters. In addition, the number clusive business model to the com- to say her son is more present welcomed back their of visitors allowed in the pany’s board, outlining the impor- at home and helping out with Social Integration Serv- room at once is limited to tance and benefits of hiring not chores,” said Mr. Pereira. “There ice (SIS) and the eight (seven students/one only those with autism, but other is that direct effect of the program, Socio-Vocational Inte- staff), and everyone must types of disabilities as well. Since where already he feels more em- gration Services (SVIS) wear a new blue medical the program launched 11 years powered about himself. That was students, the focus of mask in addition to disin- ago, thousands of individuals with pretty rewarding, to hear her say teachers and staff has fecting their hands upon disabilities have been trained by how much he is enjoying the pro- been the safety and secu- entering the room. While Walgreens, with nearly 12 percent gram and helping at home.” rity of all. Incorporating not all sections of the room of employees at the company’s Researchers at TACC are and reinforcing health are being used because of distribution centres currently self- monitoring the progress of the rules has become part COVID-19 risks, students identifying as having a disability. program, with the hopes of scaling of the daily practice and do have access to a weighted Mr. Katalifos is grateful for the it and adding more students next remains a priority at the bag, vibrating pillows, rock- support and commitment from year. Guides for both autistic school. Students re- ing chairs and mats, which Weston CEO Richard Dufresne adults looking for work and for sponded to these new di- are all wiped down and dis- and all those within the Loblaw employers in search of hiring rectives with resilience infected daily by the class. Company and their help in autistic adults are also to be and tremendous effort. The Sensory Room is a special The relaxing music, bringing the program north of created in an effort to promote However, during the place for these students. soothing lights and imagery the border. autism-inclusive hiring practices month of November, the all positively contribute “The people from Maxi have beyond the pilot project. school realized that the students again! Providing access to towards students’ mental health been superb,” said Mr. Katalifos. Please see the official Polaris would greatly benefit from their students put a spotlight on and well-being. This room “They came in voluntarily and not Program press release: sensory room to help cope with necessary adaptations, to pre- allows students to refocus their only donated all the equipment https://bit.ly/3cSFizj the many changes that COVID- serve the environment, in line energy from stress, anxiety, 19 set upon them. The secure with health and safety guide- fear, anger and sadness to re-opening of the room soon lines. SIS students practiced regaining control of their became a priority for the mental cleanliness by disinfecting all emotions and calming their A word from our Shadd PABs health of the students – now the equipment used during their thoughts. Since the re-opening more than ever. A sensory room visit to the room. This was of the sensory room, we have A total of 160 Shadd Health and Business Centre students met the can help deal with both stress beneficial to all. SVIS students had overwhelming success with incredible challenge of completing a condensed 375-hour course and anxiety, two conditions af- have been positive role models, the participation from our in patient support this past summer to become PABs. Listen to our fecting many individuals during inspiring others to follow in classes. Students look forward podcast as Mark Bergman chats with Principal Joe Cacchione about the COVID-19 pandemic. their footsteps. Some of the to their time to unwind and what it took to put the course together. You will also hear from two After careful planning and new protocols that we have escape into an environment that graduates, Maria Dhe Paganon and Dave Morin, about their incredible organization, the SVIS team, applied include limiting the use inspires tranquility and a sense experience in the program and on the field. Here is the link: with the help of students, made of the room to one class per of freedom. https://soundcloud.com/englishmtlpodcasts/graduating- it possible to use this room once day and allowing a 24-hour orderlies-from-shadd-health-and-business-center EXPRESS | vol. 24 | Nº 1 | Spring 2021 www.emsb.qc.ca