PEARSON NEWS LESTER B. PEARSON SCHOOL BOARD

Volume X, No 3

FROM THE DIRECTOR GENERAL

November 26, 2007

Les élections de novembre Au nom de ceux et celles qui forment la communauté de la Commission scolaire Lester-B.-Pearson, j’aimerais remercier tous les candidats aux récentes élections scolaires ainsi que les citoyens qui ont voté dans les circonscriptions visées.

The November Election On behalf of all of us who make up the Lester B. Pearson School Board community, I wish to extend appreciation to all who presented their candidacy in the recent School Board elections and to those who cast their ballots in wards where a contest was held.

Aux commissaires sortants, MM. Eric Bender, Don Rae, Howard Solomon et Armando Jardim, j’exprime mes remerciements les plus sincères pour avoir contribué à guider la croissance et le développement de la Commission scolaire Lester-B.-Pearson. Vous nous laissez en héritage votre dévouement et votre excellence.

To out-going commissioners Eric Bender, Don Rae, Howard Solomon and Armando Jardim, I express most sincere thanks for your contributions in guiding the growth and development of the Lester B. Pearson School Board. Your legacy is one of commitment and excellence.

Mes meilleurs vœux aux nouveaux commissaires : Suanne Stein Day, Judy Kelley, Daniel Olivenstein et Craig Berger. J’espère que vous trouverez stimulant ce nouveau rôle. Aux commissaires qui reviennent en poste, merci de mettre votre dévouement au service de notre communauté. Finalement, bienvenue aux nouveaux commissaires parents : Mme Connie Held, représentante du primaire, et M. Jerry Moretto, représentant du secondaire. Notre communauté sera heureuse d’accueillir votre apport. Je voudrais également souligner l’excellente contribution de la représentante sortante pour le primaire, Mme Sue Williams-Rae.

...DU DIRECTEUR GÉNÉRAL

I wish the very best to our new commissioners: Suanne Stein Day, Judy Kelley, Daniel Olivenstein and Craig Berger. I hope that you find your role to be a challenging and stimulating one. To our returning commissioners, thank you for extending your commitment to our educational community. Finally, welcome to our newly elected Parent Commissioners Conny Held, Elementary Representative, and Jerry Moretto, Secondary Representative. Our community looks forward to your contributions. I would also like to acknowledge all of the contributions to LBPSB made by the past elementary school Parent Representative, Sue Williams-Rae.

...FROM THE DIRECTOR GENERAL

Salon des carrières à l’école secondaire Pierrefonds Comprehensive A Future that Fits, le 6 novembre 2007 C’est l’école secondaire Pierrefonds Comprehensive qui a accueilli cette année le Salon annuel des carrières, qui a remporté un franc succès. Une cinquantaine d’exposants de cégeps, d’universités, de collèges, de centres de formation professionnelle, d’organismes communautaires et d’industries étaient sur place pour faire valoir les différentes avenues qui s’offrent aux jeunes gens. Les finissants des écoles secondaires et les élèves des centres pour adultes ont eu l’occasion de rencontrer des représentants d’établissements postsecondaires pour mieux comprendre toutes les possibilités disponibles après les études secondaires. De plus, de nombreux partenaires de notre communauté étaient présents pour expliquer les exigences et les expériences quotidiennes de différentes carrières dans le commerce, l’industrie et les professions. Nous remercions les organisateurs et tous les participants qui ont ainsi aidé de nombreux élèves dans leur choix de carrière. Conférence provinciale de leadership Express Yourself, 16 novembre 2007 Notre Commission scolaire a été l’hôte de la Conférence provinciale de leadership étudiant 2007 pour les élèves du secondaire de partout au Québec. Plus de 300 élèves délégués provenant de 27 écoles du Québec ont assisté à la conférence du week-end, tenue à l’école secondaire Pierrefonds Comprehensive. Le but était d’aider les élèves à découvrir et à développer leur potentiel, et toutes les allocutions, les séances de groupe et les ateliers allaient dans ce sens.

...DU DIRECTEUR GÉNÉRAL

Career Fair at Pierrefonds Comprehensive High School “A Future that Fits”, November 6, 2007 The annual Career Fair was hosted by Pierrefonds Comprehensive High School and was judged to be an outstanding success. Over 50 presenters from CEGEPs, universities, colleges, vocational centres, community organisations and industries were to be on hand to showcase opportunities and pathways for young people. Senior students from the Board’s secondary schools and adult centres were given the opportunity to meet with representatives of post-secondary institutions to understand further the variety of educational opportunities offered after high school. In addition, our many community partners were present to explain the requirements and daily experiences of their varied careers in business, industry and the professions. Our deep appreciation is extended to the organizers and to all participants for helping so many students in the area of career guidance. Provincial Leadership Conference “Express Yourself”, November 16, 2007 The School Board hosted the 2007 provincial leadership conference for the secondary students throughout Québec. Over 300 student delegates from 27 different schools across Québec attended the weekend conference, which was held at Pierrefonds Comprehensive High School. The goal was to help students discover and develop their full potential, which was reflected throughout the conference in their keynotes, group sessions and workshops.

...FROM THE DIRECTOR GENERAL

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Des élections à Saint Lawrence Academy

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l’école Saint Lawrence Academy Senior, les classes 603 et 604 viennent de terminer un projet sur les élections et le processus électoral. Chaque élève a fabriqué sa propre carte d’identité puis des candidats ont fait de la publicité en plus de prononcer un discours. Le jour des élections, des responsables ont fait voter les élèves à tour de rôle, derrière un isoloir. Le but était de leur expliquer le processus électoral et de les sensibiliser à l’importance du droit de vote. Félicitations à Alexander Fulford (603) et Joanna Ravelo (604) pour leur élection ainsi qu’aux viceprésidents Julie-Anne Desbiens (603) et Michael Grande (604).

At Saint Lawrence Academy Senior School, classes 603 and 604 just finished a project on elections. Each student started by making his or her own identity card and then, candidates campaigned with publicity and speeches. The day of the election, students voted behind a voting screen. The goal was to introduce the students to the voting process and its importance. Congratulations to Alexander Fulford (603) and Joanna Ravelo (604) for their election and to Julie-Anne Desbiens (603) and Michael Grande (604). Julie Rousselle

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WASTE MANAGEMENT PROJECT AT SUNSHINE ACADEMY The 3 R’s: RECYCLE, REDUCE, REUSE, will be at the heart of our waste management project this year.

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he 5/6 class as well as three classes in the younger grades will be studying the amount of waste material that is produced by a class during a set period of time, for example, 3 to 5 school days. The waste material will then be separated into 5 categories: paper, plastics, aluminium , organic matter suitable for composting, and organic matter that cannot be composted and must, therefore, be thrown in the garbage. We will chart these results. Sunshine Academy will soon be receiving large bins from the city of Dollard-des-Ormeaux for the recycling of paper and plastics. This will help to alleviate the large number of water bottles and milk cartons that, up to now, have been routinely thrown out with the garbage. The next step in the project will be to strongly encourage, initially for a week, Waste-Free lunches. The waste material produced will, once again, be separated and weighed, then compared to the initial findings. Our hope is to reduce the amount of garbage. In addition, we hope that Waste-Free lunches will become the norm rather than the exception. Sunshine is the first of three LBPSB schools to participate in Global’s “10th Anniversary” show “My Planet”. Jamie Orchard of Global TV will come to each school to film in the classroom for the promo of each school. A return visit with the program director will follow to film the story and then two students will go to Global to edit the news story and spend the day at the TV station.

We also plan to visit the Saint-Michel Environmental Complex to see recycling in action. Talking about recycling is one thing. Actually seeing it in action is quite another, and far more powerful than words alone. In today’s society people are very quick to talk about their RIGHTS. WE ARE ALL entitled to a healthy and a safe environment. With rights though comes RESPONSIBILITY. We all bear the responsibility for doing our part to help the environment. Let’s do more than talk about it – let’s get into action. I. Dumouchel, teacher

Both pictures show Jamie Orchard with Sunshine students

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Westpark Terry Fox Event

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n Friday, September 28, 2007 Westpark Elementary took part in the National Terry Fox Run. Canadian flags were flying & posters of the hero, Terry Fox saying “Perseverance”, surrounded the school as the event opened to the singing of O’ Canada.

As usual the entire school population participated. The Kindergarten students and Grades 1 & 2 did their run in the school yard and cycles 2 and 3 did theirs in the adjacent Terry Fox Park. What a sight to see, 617 students along with 40 staff members and 50 + parent volunteers all running in the same direction dressed in the traditional red & white Terry Fox colors. The students had a great time and ran with much “perseverance” and “pride”. At the end of the run their efforts were rewarded by being treated to delicious nutritional apples, compliments of the Home and School. Many thanks go to Gym teacher, Sabrina Leblanc for organizing and implementing this worthy event. Thanks also to Sharon Klar, Heather Honignan and Sylvia Lerman from the PPO and their parent volunteers for helping out. Also helping out were Leslee Frenkel & Bobbi Brown. Lastly, thanks to the Westpark community for its support, participation and encouragement. A big CONGRATULATIONS to all who participated. We should be proud of our school for raising over $7,000 in donations. GREAT JOB! Upon reflection, we will once again be looking forward to participate in next year’s Terry Fox Run. Giancarlo Crasci Vice-Principal

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PEACE BEGINS WITH ME Beautiful white peace doves adorn the walls, ceilings, hallways and bulletin boards at St. Anthony School to mark International Peace Day, September 21. The youngest students made cut-out doves, older students added wings to their cut-out doves. The senior students folded origami doves. Each dove carried an individual students message or wish for peace. Students have begun to understand that “Peace begins with me”. Each month during the school year we will be choosing a new virtue to help us focus on our journey towards peacefulness. Maria de Souza Spiritual and Community Animator

BEURLING GIRLS ORGANIZE RUN FOR THE CURE!!!

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rade 11 girls, Alicia Cross and Victoria Lee organized Beurling Academy’s CIBC Run for the Cure in support of Breast Cancer. The run took place Sunday September 30 th where over 80 BA students took part in raising money towards the cause. Alicia and Victoria made posters, solicited participants, collected monies, registered all the Beurling participants at CIBC this past Friday, distributed T-shirts, monitored & walked with the BA students. Over $3,500 went to help fight Breast Cancer. Way to go girls!!! 6

Jubilee’s Peace Pals

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n an effort to promote a peaceful and happy environment at Jubilee, Mrs. Sandra Miller, one of our staff members, created the Peace Pals.

This group of Gr. 5 and 6 senior students takes a very active role as mediators among students experiencing difficulties during recess and lunch. The Peace Pals intervene with youngsters in crisis and help them find positve solutions to minor conflicts erupting on the playground. The Pals also help lonely students make new friends, coordinate games outdoors and generally assist teachers who are on duty on school grounds. Diane Gornicki, Secretary Jubilee Elementary School

Certificate in Inclusive Education – McGill University Offered in conjunction with Lester B Pearson School Board

Beginning January 15 th , a course on Teaching Students with Behaviour Difficulties will be offered as part of this Certificate program at John Rennie High School. Elana Bloom, a psychologist with Student Services, will guide the class to increasing their understanding of the characteristics of children and youth with behaviour difficulties using a diverse set of conceptual frameworks and theories from an ecological perspective. This course is part of 30-credit program at McGill and is offered locally as part of our Board’s initiative to provide educational opportunities to staff at a convenient location. Many of the Lester B community have completed the Certificate through this initiative. The course will run from January 15th until April 15th from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Flyers have been distributed to each school and centre with detailed registration information. For more information, contact Maureen Hunt, 422-3000, extension 4312 or Dean Thomas at the Faculty of Education at McGill at 398-4248.

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HAUNTED HOUSE!

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t St Patrick School, we found a haunted house in the basement!

Even though St. Patrick School has been around since 1962 we had no idea that there was a haunted house in the building!!!! Students enjoyed the many activities organized by our Halloween committee, made up of our grade five and grade six students. Lots of fun was had by all and the costumes were great. The Haunted House was even a little scary!!! Special thanks to Mrs. Pompeo, Mrs. Hardinge and Mrs. Murphy. Jad Deegan, Principal

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SJF Jr. School teacher Expertise Goes Abroad!

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n January of this year, France Bourassa, a French immersion Kindergarten teacher at SJF Jr. School, welcomed in her classroom two administrators from Escola Cidade Jardim / Playpen, a bilingual school in Saõ Paulo, wishing to observe immersion classrooms in the Montreal area. Following this visit, she was invited to give two workshops at the 2nd Brazilian Bilingual Conference in Saõ Paulo. Thanks to funding from the LBPSB PIC, the LBPSB, her hosts in Brazil and a grant from Éducation internationale, she was able to travel to Brazil to share her savoir-faire with her South-American colleagues. Her two workshops, “Implementing proactive form-focused instruction in content-based preschool and early elementary immersion classrooms” and “Implementing reactive form-focused instruction in content-based preschool and early elementary immersion classrooms” were presented in conjunction with two plenary sessions given by Dr. Roy Lyster of McGill University. Her grant also gave her the occasion to visit two immersion schools, one in Rio de Janeiro and one in Saõ Paulo. What a great opportunity to exchange expertise at the international level and see a wide variety of applications for the immersion context! Ms Bourassa remains availalable to present her workshops to anyone interested and wishes to thank all those who supported her, financially and professionally, for this trip. To know more about Éducation internationale and Escola Cidade Jardim / Playpen, please visit their websites at, respectively: www.education-internationale.com and www.playpen.com.br Steven Colpitts Principal St. John Fisher Junior

From left to right: Gernot Grube (HumboldtUniversity, Berlin), France Bourassa, Janice Festa (HRSDC, Gov. of Canada), Guida Machado (Director, Escola Cidade Jardim / Playpen), Roy Lyster (McGill University).

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The Rona Cupak Memorial Library at Evergreen

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n October 26, 2007 Evergreen Elementary School was very proud to hold an evening celebrating the reopening of their recently renovated library. The renovation was made possible with the support of our Home and School who not only contributed $10,000 towards the shelving, but also contributed a great deal of labour, including packing up and then reshelving our entire collection of books. Many dedicated volunteers contributed to this wonderful initiative. The evening was made even more special as the library was dedicated in Memory of Mrs. Rona Cupak, Lester B. Pearson School Board Commissioner. Rona Cupak was a very strong advocate for the off-island school community. Her family was very honoured to accept this recognition. Kim Meldrum Principal

Ms. Meldrum was very pleased to welcome Mr. Robert T. Mills, Director General to Evergreen Elementary School to present to the Cupak-Deslauriers Family; The Rona Cupak Memorial Library. 10

Jubilee Elementary School

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he Cycle 2 students from Jubilee Elementary School presented the musical Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory on Thursday, October 25th to students and parents. The cast were given their lines over the summer in order that the 80 students could assemble early in the year to put the play into production. Every student in the Cycle had a part to play; whether it be as lead characters such as Charlie, Willie, Charlie’s family or as children from the town, factory workers, a newsboy or members of the choir. There were several dance numbers as well. The three lead characters, Amanda Nordquist as Charlie, Sierra Carpentier as Willie and Sierra Légaré as Grandpa Joe demonstrated the ability to act, sing and connect solidly to their audience. A duet by Amanda Nordquist and Sierra Légaré wrought strong emotions from the audiences. The production team of Elizabeth McCullough and Kim Gromko, both staff members and volunteers such as Mrs. Gromko Senior, who made all the costumes and Ms. Linda Roach who designed and produced the backdrops devoted many hours in-school and outside school time to getting this show on the stage early in the school year. The next production will be Peter Pan for Cycle 3 students, followed by How Does Your Garden Grow for Cycle 1 students in the late Spring. Congratulations to all!!! Marti McFadzean Principal

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Social Change Awards Presented by Prince Edward

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n October 10th, Grade 5 students from Margaret Manson School were among the honoured guests at the Queen Elizabeth Hotel to receive the “Social Change Award” from the Free the Children International Organization. Presenting the award to our young students — Nykolas Bringolf, Luca Brown, Liborio Ciccarello, and Julia Ciriello — was Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex. The Prince spoke to each group of students and congratulated them on their efforts to make a difference in the world. Eleven Quebec groups were present, and shared their experiences of raising awareness and money to help needy children in developing areas of our globe. Lester B. Pearson students from Margaret Manson and Wilder Penfield schools shared their important accomplishments of raising enough money to build one-room schools in Kenya. Since the opening of Margaret Manson School in 2003, Grade 3 students have undertaken yearly entrepreneurial projects to raise money to help various charitable organizations. At that time, Free the Children International Organization, founded by social activists Craig and Marc Kielburger, was among the recipients of the students’ fund-raising efforts. After learning that the gift of a goat for a family would provide an additional income and thus make it possible for a child to attend school, Grade 3 students raised enough money in 2004 to purchase 13 goats. In 2005, an important decision was made to attempt a daring project of raising enough money to build a oneroom school in Kenya. Supporting the Grade 3 and 4 students in their entrepreneurial efforts was the Margaret Manson Home and School Association, which raised money at a highly successful Comedy Night. Two years later, the Margaret Manson community has raised more than twenty thousand dollars, enough to build and furnish two one-room schools in Kenya. In Spring of 2007, enough money was made to also purchase 30 goats for a community in the Maasai Mara Region. After being involved in fundraising efforts in Grades 3 and 4, Luca, Nicolas, Julia, and Liborio were happy to share their experiences and thoughts with Prince Edward and the media, who were covering the very special event in Montreal. Their teacher and parents looked on with pride and satisfaction as these youngsters spoke not only for themselves, but represented the thoughts and beliefs of a whole school community that has come together as proponents of global citizenship. Nykolas said, “It was exciting to meet the Prince because he’s royalty!” Julia thought that it was cool to meet and listen to Craig Keilburger, the co-founder of Free the Children. “It was a great opportunity to meet the Prince and I felt honoured when he handed us the Social Change Award,” said Luca. “I know that we really helped children with everything that we did.” Liborio added, “I felt a tingle in my heart when I was talking with the Prince. He listened to us and was interested in our fundraising. He wanted to know if we sold buttered popcorn or plain for our Popcorn Sale, and how much we had to make for the whole school!” We told the Prince that we sold organic popcorn and made about 400 bags. But we did a lot more than sell popcorn to raise $20,000!

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When enough people have the desire and will to make something happen, it can be done. I’ve learned that if you really believe in something, the support you need will be there. And I believe that as educators, it’s hard to remain indifferent or passive to the fact that a whole generation of millions of young people can miss the opportunity to improve their lives by getting an education. Most of all, I believe that you can awaken in young children the desire to become activists, and make a real difference for others in the world. The Social Change Award is for each and every person at Margaret Manson School who supported, in a big or small way, our project to promote “children helping children.”

Lucy Rinaldi Grade 3 Margaret Manson School

Ms. Lucy Rinaldi, Mr. Marc Kielburger, Liborio Ciccarello, Nykolas Bringolf, Luca Brown, and Julia Ciriello

Ms. Lucy Rinaldi, Mr. Craig Kielburger, Liborio Ciccarello, Nykolas Bringolf, Luca Brown, and Julia Ciriello

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REMEMBRANCE DAY MESSAGES

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t. Edmund and Clearpoint Schools, both members of Peaceful Schools International, honoured the memory of our soldiers by having Remembrance Day assemblies which focused on the Virtue of Courage and, at the same time, communicated messages of love and peace.

ST. EDMUND: LOVE ONE ANOTHER... During our Assembly, the school community welcomed back a very special veteran. Mrs. Jean Brodsky, mother of Principal Susan Greenberg, revisited our students and spoke of her wartime experiences as a teletype operator in the Armed Services stationed outside of London. Mrs.Brodsky described how she transmitted information for the pilots, many of whom were not more than 18, who took off on night time bombing raids, never to return.

Jean Brodsky outside her billet, 1940.

Jack Tasker, forefront, embarking for Training Camp, August, 1939.

In response to the question if she had relatives in the war, she spoke of her brother Jack, just 24, who died of starvation in a Far East POW camp. When asked, in closing “Do you have anything else to add?”, Mrs. Brodsky spoke slowly, clearly and with heartfelt conviction,

“Always love one another. Never, never hate. Work hard in school, apply yourselves and grow up to be good citizens.” In view of her wartime experiences and her own loss, all present felt truly touched by the spirit of love and forgiveness in her poignant words.

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CLEARPOINT: STAND BY ONE ANOTHER... Part of our assembly included a skit by Grade 5 students during which two classmates practised courage by stepping forth to ‘stand by’ another who was being intimidated by a group. The ‘bystanders’, inspired by their classmates’ moral leadership, pledged to follow their example in the future. Students also spoke of how courage could be practised in other situations, such as inviting a friend who is being excluded to play. To further encourage our students to ‘stand by’ one another, we introduced our 10 newly trained Peer Mediators. Grade 6 student Nathalie Germain explained their role and how they will be present to support students and help them resolve conflicts peacefully. As the final notes of the Piper’s Lament sounded, children in both schools observed a moment of silence. It was a special tribute to the memory of our soldiers that their reflections included those brief but powerful lessons just learned on courage, peacefulness and love. Clearpoint students honour soldiers’ memory.

Linda Choinière, Spiritual Animator

St. John Fisher Sr. and the Veterans

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he five past years have seen our Grade 6 students at St. John Fisher Sr. School working closely with veterans of Branch 57 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Pointe-Claire. Each week three students, along with their school Spiritual Care and Community Involvement Animator – Margaret Galley, go to the Legion to help serve lunch to veterans and seniors from the Pointe-Claire and surrounding communities. The veterans cook a hot lunch weekly and for a minimal sum of money, the seniors get to eat great food, free groceries and an opportunity to socialize with each other as well as with the students. This Intergenerational Program is so successful and rewarding for all those involved. It teaches our students the true meaning of giving and the importance of volunteering. Both students and seniors look forward to spending this time together from September to June each year. 15

“Make the Right Choice” A Community Lunchtime Fair for Crime/ Drug Prevention Friday, November 23, 2007 — LaSalle Community Comprehensive High School along with their community partner, Police Station 13 hosted a lunchtime fair, “Make the Right Choice”. The CLSC Lasalle, Lasalle Boys and Girls Club, and the Lasalle Community Prevention Project (Batshaw) were also active partners in the event. The event took place in the student mall area of the school at 240-9thAve. in LaSalle. The purpose of the fair was to make students aware of the need to “Make the Right Choice” in order to make something of themselves. CJAD’s Kim Fraser held her show at LCCHS and spent the time talking to eight students about the issues faced by teenagers today. Sponsors of the event include; Subway, Il Gabbiano Reception Hall, McDonalds, Pasta Tutti Giorni, Reno Depot, IGA Beck, Club Richelieu, Casa Grecque, Best Buy LaSalle, and Boutique 1850, and Chartwells. These organizations donated money in order for the students to eat a free pizza lunch, prepared by Chartwells, in the school cafeteria. Tim Horton’s provided coffee and sweets for visitors.

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TERRY FOX SCHOOL Peaceful Schools International Invited guest Judy Grant of Peaceful Schools International visited Terry Fox on November 6th. A special assembly organized by Theresa Bigland featured inspiring songs of Peace, such as “We are the World”. Thanks go out to Mrs. Bigland, Mme Éve-Marie & the students for their most memorable contributions at this meaningful event. Remembrance Day was celebrated on Monday, November 12 th (at the school). Everyone got together to honour those who “fell and are falling” during the many Wars (ongoing and not) on our behalf. “Lest we never forget ...” Malawi & Zambia Campaign Starting Wednesday, November 14th, we’ll be collecting a mountain of school supplies and used Scholastic books for elementary aged students attending schools in Malawi & Zambia. Knowing that we are giving to those without ... miles away from where we are, is reason enough to choose to take part in this grand endeavour! “WATER CAN” FUNDRAISER & AWARENESS CAMPAIGN 12,000 KILOMETRE BIKE RIDE THROUGH AFRICA Marissa Likoudis is to be commended for being the driving force behind this very unique fundraiser. The “Water Can Foundation” raises funds for Africans living in arid lands who are without water. There is a need for this valuable resource for growing crops and providing these people with fresh water! Members of the Likoudis family will be going on a three month adventure of a lifetime. They will be cycling 12,000 kms through Africa. Their route will take them from Cairo, Egypt to Cape Town, South Africa. Students were given the chance to hear about this rare experience in an assembly last week. They learned about the issues of famine, drought and disease that is affecting many parts of Africa. The Likoudis family will be cycling with thoughts of “Water Cans” in their minds! Terry Fox students will be following their progress and raising funds in the process for this important cause. More details to roll on in ... John Torunian Principal

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Grande nouvelle à l’école Westpark

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ne nouveauté écrit par une de nos enseignantes vient de paraître aux Éditions Chenelière : « Créer un livre collectif, une page a la fois ».

La création d’un livre collectif au primaire est un projet emballant tout autant qu’enrichissant. En plus d’encourager les élèves à lire et à écrire, une telle activité leur fournit un moyen privilégié d’exprimer leurs idées et leur créativité. Les livres sont conçus par eux et pour eux. L’auteur, Mme France Turcotte, fait l’expérience de ce type de projet en classe depuis plusieurs années. Portée par l’enthousiasme des enfants et par la fierté qu’elle voit naître dans leurs regards, elle a décidé de partager sa passion. Rendre cette aventure accessible au plus grand nombre et en faciliter la planification et la réalisation : voilà ses objectifs ! Créer un livre collectif, une page à la fois propose donc de très nombreux repères qui simplifient la tâche des enseignants. Bien détaillée et abondamment illustrée de réalisations d’élèves, la démarche présentée est simple ; elle permet une grande souplesse d’exécution. Un journal de bord, des suggestions d’exploitation pédagogique et d’enrichissement sont aussi prévues. Le cédérom qui accompagne l’ouvrage comporte sept jeux pratiques à imprimer ainsi que bon nombre d’exemples en couleur tirés de livres collectifs déjà réalisés. Cette référence est pleine de ressources pour dynamiser l’enseignement de la langue et de la littérature jeunesse à tous les niveaux.

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n Friday September 21, Allion Elementary School and Lasalle Community Comprehensive High School shared the first of what will become an ongoing series of joint activities. The peace garden in front of our shared building was filled with spinning pinwheels as we joined schools around the world in marking International Peace Day with Pinwheels for Peace. Students in Adam Albert’s and Ms. Wills’ classes at L.C.C.H.S. and the daycare at Allion, under the supervision of Linda Aubertin, created the beautiful tiny windmills as a symbol of both schools commitment to peace. The pinwheels will continued spinning when Allion celebrated peace day and held its Terry Fox run with the help of L.C.C.H.S. students. Thanks to Cynthia Shyngera, William Grant, and Mary Rutherford who coordinated this activity and all the students for their beautiful work. 18

Sunshine Academy’s Grand FinaleThe Terry Fox Experience, 2007!

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school-wide assembly was held on October 22nd to highlight the success of “La Journée Terry Fox” held on October 1st. Students from various levels shared their thoughts and feelings about Terry and the student body listened with great interest and respect. Prizes were also awarded to 9 students for the “Guess How Much We Raised for Cancer Research this Year” contest. They each received a 2007 Terry Fox T-shirt for their nearest guess. The actual total raised is $13,491.85, and a symbolic cheque was presented to Peter Sheremeta, president of the Quebec Foundation. Peter told the student body that they, too, were heroes to have collected such a big amount for a worthy cause. A draw for several Terry Fox posters also took place. I must thank our Principal, Mr. Chechile, for his wholehearted support, our secretaries and caretaker for their help and all the parents who have contributed money, time and effort to make the Terry Fox Run a successful and fun-filled event. Also, thanks to the staff for their extraordinary collaboration to ensure that the Run was so successful. Finally, congratulations to all the students for collecting lots of pledges and spending lots of energy running and walking. You have made the difference! Claire Néron Terry Fox Run Organiser

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Interior Decorating and Display Testimony of Success

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raduates form the Interior Decorating and Display department returned to the West Island Career Center for a motivational talk about their work experiences since graduating. Some graduates are designing and some are in sales, and all are very happy with their career choices. This was a great opportunity for current students to ask questions about Life after graduation. Lory Watkins, teacher West Island Career Centre

These children all won prizes from the Saint John Fisher Home and School for their participation in the annual fund raising activity. Every child who participated was given a ballot for each item sold. The students then voted for the prize of their choice. The ballots were then used to draw the winners for each prize. The Home and School raised over $10,000. What team work! Chuck Poirier Principal Saint John Fisher Elementary School

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Central Parents’ Committee * Educate - Communicate - Participate * The Central Parents’ Committee met on November 8, 2007 There are presently several consultations that the committee is busy responding to: • • • • •

Consultation on the Deeds of Establishment Consultation on Use of Computer internet Policy Consultation on the Policy on the Enrollment Criteria Consultation on the Policy on Safe and Caring Schools On the subject of the Meeting of the General Council of the Quebec Federation of Parents’ Committees, (topic: Integration of students with disabilities or difficulties into regular classes: What do Parents’ Committees think?)

The FCPQ General Council is a meeting of the Chairpersons of the Central Parents’ Committees from across the province of Quebec. This group meets twice per year each year. Parents have the opportunity to voice concerns in regards to educational issues as a body which represents parents from across our province. The members of CPC are gathering input, from parents, on these topics and will be working on formulating responses and providing feedback to the committee for our December meeting. The Central Parents’ Committee would like to take the opportunity to congratulate our Parent Commissioners, who were elected from our committee. These two members of CPC have been elected to represent the interests of parents at the Council of Commissioners. • •

Conny Held, Parent Commissioner Elementary Jerry Moretto, Parent Commissioner Secondary

We look forward to an interesting year with several new members elected to this committee. Committee Representatives: Transportation Advisory: Mark Bray, Isabelle Langelier Education Committee: Elisabeth Tosi Adult Education: Richard Rajotte Parents are an important piece of the puzzle!! Elisabeth Tosi Chairperson, CPC Lester B. Pearson School Board 21

Children’s World Academy Remembers

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J.O.Y. AT SHERWOOD FOREST

n Wednesday November 14, CWA had a special assembly to acknowledge the courage and sacrifice of those who served our country. Many veterans from the LaSalle, Verdun Legion attended. The children greeted them with our national anthem led by M. Clahane. Grade 6 students animated and recited the poem “In Flanders Fields”. Throughout this special assembly, students paused in a silent moment of remembrance in honour of all those who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace. Mr. Nunez, a military dad from our school, spoke to the children about the difficult times of war and how we should always remember by wearing a poppy. In remembering all those who have suffered, grade 6 students lit candles while singing a song. The students were actively involved and demonstrated much empathy and appreciation.

On October 17, 2007, a group of ten Grade 6 students donned their costumes to attend the Halloween SeTania D’Alessandro niors’ Café at Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue. The monthly PYP Coordinator Café is organized by Volunteer West Island. Each month, thanks to the generous support of volunteer parents and the co-operation of the administration and staff at the school, a small group of students will be able to develop friendships with seniors in the community. This is also a wonderful opportunity for the students to gain experience in community service. The students were enthusiastic, courteous and respectful. They enjoyed the experience, and the seniors’ commented on how the presence of the young faces made them feel young again. “We hope you will come back!” was the comment we heard over and over again. Kelsey Crone, our talented Irish dancer, amazed the seniors’ with a short impromptu performance. When the students became comfortable in their new roles, they confidently stepped up to the DJ and volunteered to perform group songs and dances for the seniors. J.O.Y. (Joyfully Old and Young) will continue at Sherwood Forest throughout the school year. Grade 5 students in Project Love Bug will provide cards, gifts and tokens of friendship for the seniors. This is Project Love Bug’s sixth year and last year it was the proud recipient of the Lewis Peace Prize. In the meantime, our very gifted music teachers, Diane Martello and Cathy Malone are volunteering their time coaching a choir to sing at a seniors’ residence in mid-December. Maria de Souza Spiritual and Community Animator

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Lakeside Academy in the News Discover the Stars Congratulations to Tracey Richards, a graduate of Lakeside who was recently recognized this fall at the Discover the Stars gala at CEGEP Gérald Godin. Tracey earned a $1000 scholarship from Bombardier Aéronautique to pursue her studies at John Abbott CEGEP this year in Pure and Applied Science. Third from left, Tracey Richards Bombardier Aéronautique Scholarship

Aboriginal Youth Career Fair First Nations and Inuit students from Lakeside participated at the Blueprint for the Future (BFF) Aboriginal Youth Career Fair at the Palais des congrès last month. This was an exceptional day that received 1600 aboriginal youth from across Canada. As Aboriginal youth are the fastest growing segment of the Canadian population, the objective of the day was to attract students to a wide array of potential careers and opportunities in all employment sectors. Students visited 4 out of a possible 60 career seminars and all 80 exhibitors featuring educational institutions, government agencies, corporations and other professions. Students met with representatives of various employers and found out more about their fields of interest. The Chronicle’s Young Achievers Awards Congratulations is extended to 7 of our senior students, who were recognized and won the top prizes at THE 8th annual Pfizer Canada Young Achievers Gala this month at the Dorval Hilton. Honourable mention went to Arielle dePagter and Jennifer Sewell. In the age 16 to 17 category, Diana Pinnell and former Lakeside student Aliza Zafar were two of six finalists, earning $100 each in prizes. Third place winner went to Shauna Overbury, earning a scholarship of $ 500. Second place winner was Trina Bird earning $1000 and first place and overall Young Achiever for the evening, went to Lisa Hanash, who won a $2000 scholarship. A very memorable evening for forty of our West Island Youth. Special thanks are extended to Pfizer,The Chronicle and Scotiabank who hosted and sponsored the evening. Victoria Pinnell Spiritual Life and Community Involvement Animator

(L to R) Lisa Hanash, Arielle dePagter, Diana Pinnell, Shauna Overburry, Jennifer Sewell, Trina Bird

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Commissioners’ Phone Numbers Below is a list of Commissioners along with their home telephone numbers and school board locals. Ward 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 CPC CPC

Communities Verdun/Nuns’ Island LaSalle South LaSalle Northeast LaSalle West/Ville St-Pierre Lachine Dorval Dollard-des-Ormeaux East Roxboro/Pierrefonds East Pointe-Claire East Pointe-Claire West Dollard-des-Ormeaux Center Pierrefonds/Île Bizard Dollard-des-Ormeaux Center/West Dollard-des-Ormeaux W./Kirkland E. Beaconsfield North Kirkland West Pierrefonds West Ste-Anne/Baie d’Urfé/Beaconsfld S./Senneville

Île Perrot Les Cèdres/Vaudreuil-Dorion Hudson/St-Lazare Elementary Representative Secondary Representative

Commissioner Douglas Flook Sergio Borja Ruben Fazio Frank di Bello Patrick Whitham Barbara Freeston Rosemary Murphy Craig Berger Allan Levine John Killingbeck Marcus Tabachnick Sylvia Di Donato Martin Sherman Joe Zemanovich Ralph Tietjen Suanne Stein Day Luisa Bulgarelli-Vero Judy Kelley Susan Bartlett-Lewis Angela Nolet Daniel Olivenstein Conny Held Jerry Moretto

Home Phone # 514-293-2417 514-368-1001 514-365-1638 514-951-5834 514-637-5209 514-636-9315 514-620-8012 514-421-6570 514-683-6671 514-695-3787 514-684-6429 514-233-9393 514-684-2742 514-624-2376 514-630-5909 514-630-9824 514-694-0475 514-697-7619 514-453-6650 514-453-5462 450-458-1413 514-630-0047 514-365-3582

422-3000 Local 4001 4002 4003 4004 4005 4006 4007 4008 4009 4010 2322 2299 4013 4014 4015 4016 4017 4018 4019 4020 4021 4026 4027

DATES TO NOTE PUBLIC MEETINGS – DECEMBER 2007 The following meetings will take place at 1925 Brookdale, Dorval (unless otherwise indicated) Central Parents’ Committee Executive Committee Council of Commissioners

Marcus Tabachnick Tel.: (514) 422-3000 ext. 2322

...FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

December 13, 2007 December 10, 2007 December 17, 2007

Fax: (514) 422-3016

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Board Room Board Room Board Room

Email: [email protected]

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