EnglishMTL Podcasts

EMSB Podcast: Laurier MacDonald Career Centre Open House by EnglishMTL Podcasts

Rosemount High School recently launched its new Arts-études program, the first-of-its-kind amongst English high schools in Quebec. A total of 165 students across all grade levels (Secondary I to V) are taking part in the five-year program this academic year, with music now playing an integral part of the students’ daily class schedules. “It is about giving a holistic study in music, theory and practice,” said Anthony Cooperwood, Director of Bands at Rosemount High School, who is in his seventh year at the school. “We start from the very beginning. You will learn what a scale or a whole note is, and what the different keys are. From there, we will teach you how to read those elements and how to perform them on the instrument that you have selected. Students sometimes come here with no musical experience. We teach you everything.” While music instruction has long been a staple at Rosemount, the introduction of the much-anticipated Arts-Études program allows for music to be incorporated throughout the school day, as opposed to strictly after-school as a 75-minute extra-curricular course between 3 pm and 4:15 pm. Music classes are now interspersed throughout the day, with students having as many as three for-credit music courses in a single day. “Under the Arts-études program, we are asking the government for permission to allot a certain number of minutes throughout the school year,” said Mr. Cooperwood. “Under a regular music program, you can see the students, but for very short amounts of time. The Arts-études program makes it all possible.”

EMSB Podcast: On cultive le français...jour après jour! by EnglishMTL Podcasts

Balado CSEM: On cultive le français...jour après jour! by EnglishMTL Podcasts

Listen to the first EMSB Podcast of the 2023-2024 school year with special guest host Lianne Castelino! This podcast was recorded live from Carlyle School in TMR with EMSB Chairman Joe Ortona as well as two teachers: Sia and Daphne, Vice Principal Mario Benvenuto and two Grade 6 students.

Are you a parent looking to gain valuable insights and strategies to better support your child’s academic and emotional development? Look no further than ParentCon 2023! Join the English Montreal School Board Parents Committee (EMSBPC) for an unforgettable half day, in-person event featuring two keynote addresses from renowned experts in child psychology, followed by a weeklong series of informative and engaging virtual lunch and learns. Folks can register at: http://www.emsbparents.ca/ Guests on this podcast: Bill Yong - Chabad Lifeline. Dr. Victoria Talwar - Child psychologist Daniel Tatone- Parent Commissioner Merika Ramundo - Chair & Parent Delegate

EMSB Podcast: Honouring Our Teachers by EnglishMTL Podcasts

Five students from Royal West Academy in Montreal West shined at the annual Hydro-Québec Montreal Regional Science and Technology Fair held at  Laval Senior Academy.  Twin sisters Lauren and Cassidy Engo and their project entitled “Take a Bite Out of CO2” won the Bronze Medal (Senior), Canadian Meteorological and Oceanic Society Award, the Highest Distinction Award, the McGill University - Faculty of Science - Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences Award , the McGill University - Faculty of Science Award and the Super expo-sciences Hydro Québec (SESHQ) Experimentation & Design Award. They have qualified for the provincial competition April 21 to 23 at CEPSUM, the Centre for Physical Education and Sports of the Université de Montréal. Laura De Angelis and Elisabetta Iorio and their Project Can You Remember? won the Champlain College, St. Lambert Campus Science Award and the John Abbott College Science Award Emma Birlean’s project Anxiety for High Achievers won the Dawson College Science Award and the McGill University - Psychology Award

EMSB Podcast: Bill 96 Conference by EnglishMTL Podcasts

We'll chat with Secondary English Language Arts consultant at the EMSB, Anne Beamish. Eliane Goldstein "How I Started my Holocaust Podcast" - Westmount High School Alexander Luis-Kaminer "Quebec's Outrageous Bill-21" - Royal West Academy Raphalla Etienne-Krief "Voicing My Colours" - Royal West Academy

Balado CSEM: Le Mois de Français by EnglishMTL Podcasts

Balado CSEM: La culture à l'école by EnglishMTL Podcasts

The focus on community and comfort at the John F. Kennedy Adult Education Centre (JFKAE) rekindles its students' passion for learning. Listen here to hear how JFKAE sets itself apart from other adult centres in Quebec.

Industrial Drafting [Computer Aided Design], Machining Techniques, and Digital Graphics Technology (Printing) are just three of the programs offered at Rosemount Technology Centre, suitable for the creatively inclined. Listen here for a sneak-peek into each of the programs.

Public Speaking was held online on April 26th and 27th. Students were invited to prepare and deliver a speech that just might change a little part of their world. This year, they had a quotation to inspire them and guide them in selecting their topics: “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter.” - Martin Luther King Jr. Joining Mark Bergman on this edition of the EMSB podcast are some of our winners, along with Anne Beamish - Consultant for Secondary English Language Arts. Hala Taher - Secondary V - Lauren Hill Academy Stefano Vendittoli - Secondary I - Vincent Massey Collegiate Mathew Luong - Secondary II - Laurier Macdonald High School

Balado CSEM: La Robotique by EnglishMTL Podcasts

This episode focusses on the reality of exams, and the stress that comes with it. We'll hear from students, as well as school staff on tips & tricks on how to best best prepared. On this episode: Shayna - Sec V - Rosemont High School Clarissa, Anna Marie, Arianna & Vanessa - Sec IV - JFK High School Alexander Beckford - Guidance counsellor - JFK High School Jessika Neri- Teacher History & English - Rosemont High School

Mark Bergman joins Sport-Études program co-ordinator Casey Gagné, coaches Nick Romano & Gianni Cantini, as well as Midget AAA player Cristiano Spadafora to chat about the amazing Sport-Etudes hockey program at LBPHS!

Reporter Nicole Proano recently attended the St. Laurent Adult Education Career Fair. Here is her report.

Laurier Macdonald Career Centre students are taking their career opportunities to the next level with the Electric Vehicle Mechanics program. They're learning all they need to know about the vehicles of the future. To find out more about the program and the student experience, listen here.

It's all experience and passion at the St. Pius X Career Centre, where the next generation of hoteliers and chefs are being trained for their future careers. To learn more about the opportunities available through the Professional Cooking and Hotel Reception programs, listen here.

Three outstanding teachers were awarded at the 8th annual English Montreal School Board Teacher Recognition Day ceremony. On this report with Nicole Proano, you'll find out who they are and what they had to say about the honour.

The English Montreal School Board Parents Committee will present a virtual conference on Sunday, May 29th, with Mental Health being the focus of the opening session. Joining Mark Bergman on this episode are: Conference Chair , EMSB  Parent Commissioner Daniel Tatone. Dietician Giuliana Di Quinzio Teacher Paul Karpontinis. (Lester B Pierson) Briana Sansolone (Sec 5 at Lester B Pierson) Host Lee Haberkorn. Enjoy!

Students and staff at Leonardo Da Vinci Academy came together to help Ukrainian refugees, in an unbelievable way! Listen to how this initiative came together, as Mark Bergman speaks with school principal Nadia Sammarco as well as students Nino Fusco & Mia Campilii.

Balado CSEM: Chorale CSEM by EnglishMTL Podcasts

Students of Carlyle Elementary School, recently created a new song called A Little While. Listen, as host Mark Bergman chats with grade 6 students and their music teacher Christine Rahal Crawford, about how the song came to be. Plus, have a listen to the whole song at the end of this podcast!

Balado CSEM: Raconte-moi ton histoire by EnglishMTL Podcasts

Devon Packer, a Secondary V student at Royal Vale School in NDG, has won the grand prize at this year's Commonwealth International Composition Award (CICA). He was chosen by the organization, Commonwealth Resounds, which has as its mission to connect musical cultures and to promote initiatives and partnerships in Commonwealth countries. Devon joins Mark Bergman, along with his mother Paula Layman and Royal Vale music teacher Michele Smith, to discuss his music career, and how Royal Vale has played a major part in his success.

Cinq élèves du la CSEM ont récemment remporté le prix Robert Alfred Peck pour l’excellence en français. Les élèves Melina Aravantinos, Amélie Chambon et Helena Senécal de la Royal West Academy, Sophie Paradis de Royal Vale, Rita Petrecca de Laurier Macdonald et Stefania Teresa Zambardi du Vincent Massey Collegiate ont obtenu la note de 100 %. Chacun a reçu une médaille et un chèque de 100 $. Le défunt monsieur Peck a débuté sa carrière d’enseignant dans les années 1930. Il a été surintendant de français au sein du ministère de l’Éducation et a occupé des postes similaires à l’ancienne Commission scolaire Westmount de même qu’à l’ancienne Commission des écoles protestantes du Grand Montréal. Il a été responsable du département de français à l’école secondaire Lachine et directeur adjoint à l’école secondaire Riverdale de l’Ouest de l’île, après avoir enseigné en Afrique. Il est coauteur avec Elizabeth Buchanan du manuel d’enseignement du français langue seconde intitulé « Le français pratique », qui fut la référence par excellence dans les écoles protestantes du Québec pendant plus de 20 ans. Ce prix a été institué en son honneur par la famille Peck et la CSEM en 2002 Se joignent à nous aujourd'hui : Helena et Amélie, qui sont maintenant en 11e année à Royal West; et Rita, qui est maintenant au CEGEP.

Merry Christmas! We're checking in with some grade 6 students to see how they celebrated the holidays over the last few weeks, and to chat about what their schools were doing during this festive season! from Dante School, we talk to grade 6 students Eva Pereira & Nicholas Fussco, and from Dunrae Gardens, Leyla Fernandez & Julian Katz. Enjoy!

Mark Bergman chat with students and staff about James Lyng High School's new RnB Cafe- run exclusively by the student body! Joining us are sec 5 students: Kia Legault-Thomas Nyzaya McLean-Gordon Leadership Course & Resource Teacher - Samira Chawki, And Vice Principal, Andrea Dillon

The Garden program at St. Monica Elementary School, is a favourite for both students and teachers alike. Listen, as host Mark Bergman speak with school Principal Silvana Crigna, teachers Carissa Valente & Suzanne Engle-Bretsen, Grade 5 student Camille Corbeil, and Ryan Oxley, B.A.S.E. Daycare Green Projects Facilitator Enjoy!

Robotics and Entrepreneurship are at the heart of RDP's Leonardo Da Vinci Academy! Join host Dino Sisto for a look inside this bustling East End school.

On this episode you'll hear first hand why Marymount Academy International is such a unique gem in the west end of Montreal. Leading up to the school's virtual open house on Tuesday, host Mark Bergman sat down with principal James Fequet, IB co-ordinator Maria Raskin, as well as Secondary V students Isabela Baida and George Bright. Enjoy! Marymount Academy International Virtual Open House: Meet the teachers and administrators online on September 21st @ 7:30 pm. https://www.emsb.qc.ca/emsb/schools/open-house/secondary-schools/Marymount

The students at MIND High School in the Plateau have embarked upon a new community engagement project. The theme is education for social justice and personal wellbeing while creating spaces for youth autonomy within an alternative school system. MIND, an alternative option for independent and motivated students, strives to create a unique educational experiences within an environment that fosters diversity, inclusivity and critical thinking. Joining Mark Bergman are: John Pannetta, MIND Head Teacher Marie Josée Katcho, baker Martha Wainwright, Ursa host, singer and songwriter Ana Milic, Project Coordinator, Concordia University, Simone de Beauvoir Institute Deaglan Murtagh, student Oliver Randy, student

Focus on East End Montreal: John Caboto School by EnglishMTL Podcasts

The annual EMSB’s teacher appreciation ceremony recognized some outstanding teachers from this past year. Winners included the team of Lea Zuravlyov, Mauro Corneli, Itzhak Raz, Patrick Bramm, Silvia Bilotto and Galina Gatsko (adult sector) representing the mathematics staff at John F. Kennedy Adult Education Centre in St. Michel. Listen, as Mark Bergman chats with Principal Elizabeth Lagodich, and teachers Lea Zuravlyvov & Galina Gatsko about what it means to win such an honor this year!

Join the Dino Sisto as he visits each EMSB school in the East End, shining a light on what makes their community so unique.

The annual EMSB’s teacher appreciation ceremony recognized some outstanding teachers from this past year. Winners included teachers Vicki Theophilopoulos from Sinclair Laird Elementary School in Park Extension (youth sector); Joseph Romano from John Caboto Academy in Ahuntsic (physical education) and others. Listen, as Mark Bergman talks to both Vicki and Joseph as well as Lucas Sasso, grade 4 at Sincliar Laird Elementary and Justin Blouin grade 5 at John Caboto Academy about what it means to be nominated- especially during this past year!

Children and teens face so many issues and parents often struggle with how best to help their children and that’s why the EMSB Parents Committee is holding its fourth annual Parent Conference this weekend On Sunday, from 9 am to 4 pm, join parents for a series of workshops on a variety of issues pertaining to both your elementary and high school students. To tell us more, EMSB Parent Commissioner, Daniel Tatone who is Chair of the Subcommittee to manage the Parents Conference joins me along with his two sons…Justin Tatone, a FACE graduate, currently at Dawson and 10 year old Isaac Tatone of Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary. For more details about the parent conference click here: www.emsbparents.ca

It’s been one year since the world changed. We take a look back at how the EMSB successfully kept students, teachers and staff safe and engaged in learning. Joe Ortona, Chair of the EMSB, Christy Tannous, Principal EMSB Virtual Learning, School Psychologist, Dr. Despina Vassiliou and Grade 5 student in Virtual Learning, Alessia Faucher-Nucera tell us what the year has been like for them.

During this year of the pandemic, another of the many victims has been Food Security. As people remain in their homes, many no longer working and needing help, food banks have been depleted. CASA Cares, a Concordia University organization, is helping out. Former EMSB student, Divya Aery, VP Involvement at CASA Cares is asking the EMSB community to help replenish the food banks…without even leaving your home on March 13. Divya, along with Honoré Mercier Principal Sonia Marotta and Grade 6 student Julianne Falbo tell us how to get involved, what is needed as well as what schools and students can and are doing. To register to donate food, go to: miraclemontreal.org

When the talented musicians of FACE School learned they would be unable to have their traditional live concerts due to the pandemic, they were devastated. But Instrumental Music Teacher String Section, Theodora Stathopoulos, had an idea to formulate a virtual concert. Through perseverance, passion and the ingenuity of students, techies and teacher the virtual orchestra came to life. Joining Suzanne are, Ms. Stathopoulos, FACE students Siobhan Kuzak, Grade 11 violinist and Ravi Jovanovic, Grade 10 cellist, pianist and audio technician for the orchestra to share their unique experience of working to play “together”.

Kindergarten Registration for 2021 has already arrived. This year, to avoid those weekend long lineups, the EMSB is going on-line. A pilot project involving 5 elementary schools goes live on the EMSB website at 7am Monday, January 25. Parents will be able to make a reservation online for their child’s registration. To explain more and how this all works, Principals from 2 of the schools in the pilot project, Rosana Caplan of Merton School and Libby Amato of East Hill School join me to provide the information parents need. Please be advised, all Covid-19 safety protocols are in place for kindergarten registration at all schools.

Another aspect of the EMSB’s comprehensive effort to provide education for all, is highlighted by what’s going on at the Wagar Adult Education Centre along with Giant Steps School. It’s a pilot project for people on the autism spectrum to receive hands on learning in business. In this case, it’s a mini-grocery store set up in Wagar’s cafeteria. Small perhaps, but an authentic store nonetheless. Offering not only hands on work experience, the project is opening up corporate eyes to the value of employing people on the spectrum. For more, here’s Wagar Adult Education Centre Principal, Nick Katalifos, Andre Pereira, Project Manager Employment Initiatives Giant Steps School & the Polaris, as well as Enterprise Initiative and student Alexis Despland.

If you love to sing, to perform and have a passion for your community…to help out other young people like yourselves, have we got an event for you! EMSB students it’s a chance to have your voices heard by experts and a way to have some fun over the extended holiday school break while doing some good for ER patients at the Montreal Children’s Hospital The annual Just For Kids Voices fundraiser and competition is going online. Go to: JFKvoices.com to get started with your crowdsourcing page and practice, practice, practice until you’re ready to record yourself and join the competition. This year’s judges are top-notch talents in their own right: Mark Bergman (The Beat 92-5), Jason Rockman (CHOM), Shannon King (Virgin Radio) and singer-songwriting duo Eric Dick & Celleste in Los Angeles. Cory Garfinkle, Just For Kids Foundation event manager, past participants & VCM teacher and Clef Notes coach, Stephanie Rossy along with VCM student Stephania Zambardi join me to talk about this annual event and how you can participate. JFKVoices.com JFKfoundation.ca

160 Shadd students met the incredible challenge of completing a condensed 375 hour course in patient support this summer, at Shadd Heath And Business Center. Listen, as Mark Bergman chat with school principal Joe Cacchione about what it took to put the course together. We'll also hear from 2 graduates, Maria Dhe Paganon & Dave Morin about their incredible experience in the program and on the field.

In this podcast, Mark Bergman speaks with the wonderful students and staff at John F. Kennedy High School. Rocco Speranza, JFK's Spiritual Care & Guidance counselor, set up a multitude of projects where the students can learn about why it's so important to remember and honour our veterans on November 11th and always. Grade 8 students, Sarah Chiby and Santhina Thaurairajasingam talk to us about some great school initiatives such as No Stone Left Alone, Faces Behind Our Freedom, and more!

COVID-19 has changed everything for everyone: there are so many questions on how to get our children back to school and how to keep everyone as healthy as possible. To answer these questions and to give parents the best current advice available, three doctors join the EMSB podcast: Gerald Fried, Professor of Surgery at McGill, MUHC Surgeon and Associate Dean Education Technology & Innovation, Dr. Debbie Schwarcz, ER physician at Lachine Hospital and Family Practitioner at Santé Mont Royal and Dr. Christopher Labos, Cardiologist and Epidemiologist. Flu shots? Masks? Buses? Testing? Tracing? And what about that second wave? The latest information on how best to keep children, families and school as safe as possible and how things may look and change as the school year progresses.

EMSB teachers have been doing triple duty during the COVID-19 shutdown: keeping up with their schools, their students and finding other ways to help out the community. Grade 4 French teacher, Edith Myriem Bouyer has been doing just that and her Willingdon Elementary student Leili Lencucha has been cheering on her on! Listen to their story here!

As we are all learning during this pandemic, science plays a huge role in our safety and our future. EMSB science teachers nurture their students’ curiosity everyday…curiosity that spurs their questions of how and why and why not? Science Fairs across the country were cancelled but student projects were not. Meet 15 year old Lauren Hill Academy student Harini Karthik and LHA Science teacher Magy Dimitry and hear how Harini’s science project evolved into a real time possibility for controlling the spread of a virus like Covid-19.

We all need some laughter to help us through these very difficult times. As we know, social distancing, masks, clean hands and laughter is the best medicine. This podcast is special: a reunion of sorts as three former colleagues catch up…once known as “Aaron, Tasso & Suzanne”.

It’s been a long couple of months for both students and teachers. Trying to keep students engaged with learning has been a priority for the EMSB through their website and the constantly updated Educational Websites & Resources page. LaurenHill Academy Grade 11 student, Jonah Kontolemos found a way, not only to remain engaged, but used this time away from school to make a huge contribution to frontline workers…doctors, nurses and healthcare workers…who have to live in life-saving masks while treating those inflicted with Covid-19. Using his Christmas present from his parents…a 3D printer…Jonah came up with an “Ear Saver” that removes the uncomfortable pressure from the mask’s ear elastics. His math teacher Sarah Ditchfield and Jonah Kontolemos join me for the story. https://www.facebook.com/canadaearsavers

School closures during the Covid-19 crisis have ripple affects on everyone. The EMSB Outreach Network has been creative ensuring their at risk students remain engaged, supported and if needed, nourished. Phone calls are made on a regular basis to check in with the students and if necessary one on one sessions for school work have been arranged. EMSB Guidance Counselor Paola Borzone and EMSB Counselor David Mills chose a one on one approach not just for their students, but for the students’ families as well.

Volunteers are an integral component of the EMSB family. Dedicating their time to assist students and teachers alike. Meet Penny Fenwick: Ms. Penny, as she is affectionately called, has been a sanctuary to students needing help at Willingdon Elementary for 50 years and counting. 50 YEARS! And Willingdon Principal Carmen Nicolas talks about the invaluable service volunteers and especially Ms. Penny provide to the EMSB.

Today, speaking to Jamie Quinn, EMSB Educational Consultant and a Board Librarian Alissa Rosellini, the EMSB website, set up for keeping students engaged in learning during this time, is explained. How to use it, what you will find and the importance of setting up routine use of these valuable resources. It’s all on the EMSB website: your most valuable tool for assisting your children’s education during the pandemic. www.emsb.qc.ca Here are some important links for parents and students, for parental feedback and further information: https://www.emsb.qc.ca/emsb/community/education EMSB Virtual Library: http://virtuallibrary.emsb.qc.ca/ Email inquiries or questions to: virtuallibrary@emsb.qc.ca To follow the Educational Services Department: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ESDEMSB Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ESDEMSB YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/ESDEMSBTUBE

Schools being closed does not mean the staff of the EMSB is not working. On the contrary, the entire staff has been working tirelessly to ensure the continued engagement and support of EMSB families and students. Keeping students engaged in learning during this difficult time of social distancing is what is motivating EMSB teachers and support staff. Children with Special Needs are not being left behind. Sabrina Petrocco, Asst. Director of Student Services and Patrizia Sansone, Coordinator, Student Services Dept. explain what assistance is available to parents and children with special needs on the EMSB website and offer solid advice to those families searching for some semblance of balance and reassurance.

The EMSB has the highest graduation rates among public schools in the province. But that doesn’t mean high school is an easy time for students. Academic pressures, home pressures, social media, “squads” and more. Students have a lot on their plates and it can be overwhelming. Adam Aktas knows exactly what that feels like, and then some. During Perseverance Week, Adam visited his alma mater, Lester B Pearson High School, to talk to students about his devastating life changing experience that could easily have led him down a dangerous path. He was attacked and viciously beaten while walking home one dark winter afternoon. The body healed…but the mind and heart took him through continued turmoil…to the brink. And he was only 14. Now, 5 years later and a student at Vanier College, Adam goes back to high schools to share his story and to impart that it’s decisions not conditions that will determine their futures. Meet Adam Aktas along with LBPHS Teacher Paul Karpontinis and Sec 1 students Sheldon Beaudry and Lianna Wallace to hear how Adam’s story impacted them. #overcominghurdles

The EMSB student body is bursting with not only academic but cultural and artistic talent as well. One Lester B Pearson High School Sec 4 student had the thrill of a lifetime for her 16th birthday when she was invited to sing the opening American and Canadian anthems at the Bell Centre on, what turned out to be on her birthday. Ariana Ianniciello has won numerous prizes for her singing and performs professionally. She uses the name Ari Skye as her singing alter ego. However, she is not leaning solely on her stunning voice for a future career. LBPHS provides her with many avenues to explore…and she is wide open to them. Enjoy the vocal renderings of Ariana Ianniciello in our EMSB podcast!

The Commitment to Success Plan is an evaluation of student life among all EMSB schools. Not only a reading of academic standing but of the quality of student life both in and out of school. With this information, the EMSB is able to adjust their programs to continue to support all aspects of student life; academically, physically, as well as respond to areas of anxiety and safety. Tracy Mangal is the Consultant for Commitment to Success and explains the participation of EMSB educators and students and what she has learned. Samantha Treville-Monroe, Gr 11 FACE, shares her experiences of school life and what she has obtained as a student and what life skills she will take with her upon graduation.

Libraries have come a long way since the Dewey Decimal System, and the EMSB has not only kept up with the times in transforming their libraries, but is forging ahead to be sure all students needs are met for reading, studying and yes, playing games. Turns out the new libraries are where students talk to each other, discuss and collaborate on projects and share ideas. Julia Stark, Librarian at Lauren Hill Senior has lived the transformation earning her Masters of Library & Information Science from McGill in 2005. Julia guides us through the changes. Students Auriane Gaffney, Sec 5 Laurier MacDonald, Rachel MacPhee, Gr 5 Willingdon Senior Campus and Seri Dudley, Gr 6 Nesbitt Elementary share their passion for reading and how they are using the New EMSB Libraries as their Space To Explore digitally as well as on paper.

In what has become a tradition, every year 10 lucky General Vanier students have the opportunity to spend one morning at the Ronald McDonald House in Outremont, preparing a holiday lunch for the patients and their families. From cutting vegetables, to washing the dishes, the students look forward to this unique chance to bring a smile to the faces of children and parents who need it the most. In addition to a hearty meal, the students come bearing gifts as well as arts and crafts supplies to make this an unforgettable morning for everyone involved. This episode of the EMSB Podcast is just a small glimpse into this wonderful day, click below to listen now!

The holiday season is upon us as we rush to shower our families and friends with food and gifts. The holidays bring warmth to our homes as we remind ourselves how lucky we are for our loved ones. As we all know, it’s not the story for everyone. At Lauren Hill Academy, the Junior campus is buzzing with ways to share their bounty with others who have to do with less. The annual CTV Spirit of Giving campaign is a conduit for the students of the EMSB to help those who don’t have as much. Lauren Hill Academy Vice Principal Alex Kulczyk along with Sec 2 student Sienna Corral and Sec 1 student Sydney Kaufman spearheaded this year’s campaign at the Junior campus as they discovered a new way to engage their classmates and help out.

Under the 30 year direction of the EMSB Chorale Executive & Artistic Director and Conductor, Patricia Abbott, the Children’s Chorus has evolved into 108 primary and secondary student voices creating a pitch perfect sound that, quite frankly, gives you goosebumps…the EMSB Chorale. Suzanne Desautels chats with Director Abbott and 2 choir members: Sec 4 student Amalia Taylor and Westmount High’s Sec 5 student Patrick Knowlton about their concerts, their love of music and how other EMSB students between Grade 4 and Sec 5 can get involved.

The Terry Fox Run is an annual event in Montreal area schools. One of the most prolific fundraisers is a Grade 6 student at Edinburgh Elementary in Montreal West. This year marked Avah Pennefather’s 11 th “run”. Her first was in her stroller pushed by her mother, Lauren. Avah is 11 years old and has spent her life raising funds for the Terry Fox Foundation, up to $11,000…so far. Her passion and dedication is inspiring and heartwarming and she’s only 11 years old! Her support has been her family, her school and her community. Principal Mauro Zampini is proud of all Edinburgh students for their support of the Terry Fox Foundation. But why is young Avah so fascinated by Terry Fox? She explains in our podcast when she is proudly wearing a T-shirt actually worn by Terry during his Marathon of Hope (still has dirt on the back!) and given to her personally by Terry’s brother Darrell.

The end of high school is on the horizon. So what’s next? There are several paths open to graduating high school students, but how do you find out what is the best fit for you? And what are those paths? The EMSB Annual Career Fair answers many of those questions for anyone over the age of 16. EMSB High Schools tour the Career Fair to get some ideas. Kiosks from CEGEPs, University, Vocational schools…covering anything from car mechanics, construction to hair dressing…as well as the Armed Forces, the Fire and Police Departments are in attendance. Mario Argiropoulos, Chair of the 2019 Career Fair and EMSB Asst. Director of Adult Education & Vocational Services Dept., Irene Kakoulakis, Academic Advisor for Dawson College share what various post-secondary choices are available. Lauren Hill Academy Grade 11 students Marco DeVito and Ilana Martin share their perspectives on what the Career Fair offers them. They found some surprises!

Suzanne Desautels is at John F Kennedy High School talking about Open Houses! Find out what the school does to prepare, what parents should be looking for, and we’ll talk to some students about their open house experience!

The bell has rung and school is back in session. The 2019-2020 academic year will bring about many challenges for EMSB administrators, teachers and the community. But those challenges will stay out of the classroom as the dedicated teachers and support staff get down to the important business of educating our young people. 6th Graders Anne Onjuru and Gavin Cupid join me along with EMSB Chair Angela Mancini and Westmount Park Vice Principal Giovanni Iammarrone on the first day of school at a new building. St. John Bosco has been brought back into service after 7 years to become Westmount Park South and house students whose heritage building is undergoing a 2-year renovation and update. Gavin and Anne are excited by the new building, seeing old friends, making new ones…and loving the idea of 2 recesses. Chair Mancini talks about what’s ahead and Mr. Iammarrone is focused on having a successful school year for all students.

A new school year is fraught with nerves and excitement for returning students. Catching up with classmates, meeting new teachers and regaining their footing for another academic year. For the first timers, kindergarteners, it’s a time of immense change, uncertainty and a big building with lots of new faces. Often parents are experiencing anxiety as their youngsters take this first giant step. Anxiety over separation, performance and the fact their little ones are on their own. Rest assured, the EMSB has the experience and dedicated professionals to help parents and students transition to the start of academic life. We get invaluable advice from Candice Madden, the Kindergarten Transition Agent for the EMSB and Kindergarten Teacher, Tina (Ms. Tina) Truffa of Westmount Park Elementary South. For further information, a video for parents and tips discussed in the podcast, follow this link: https://www.emsb.qc.ca/emsb/articles/supporting-your-child-transition-to-kindergarten

It’s the day Willingdon Grades 4 and 5 have been waiting for. Their first visit as a class to their new home at the Willingdon Senior Campus. Lot’s of excitement and anticipation filled the halls of Willingdon Elementary as students prepared to make the trek through NDG. What do they think? What will they find? As the Senior Campus will undergo updating over the summer break, students are asked to use their imagination and submit suggestions as to how their new school building will and should look. The adventure begins…

Westmount Park Elementary has been around for 105 years. A classic exterior that is in need of an updated interior. So what do you do with 700 students when a renovation from top to bottom needs to take place…and will take 2 years to complete? It’s a challenge that has been solved by the temporary move to two different schools. How does this work and how do teachers and students feel about it? I spoke to Westmount Park teachers Stephanie Napolitano and Marie Alexiou, Vice Principal Giovanni Iammarrone as well as 3rd grade student Alex Desmettre and 5th grader Gary Croxen to get the details and their perspectives. For Alex and Gary, it’s all about their friends…but they have plans!

The Willingdon expansion is a huge change not only for students and parents, but teachers as well. It’s an adjustment and a challenge especially for those who will travel from the Junior campus (original NDG Willingdon Elementary) to the Senior campus (Somerled & Coronation) to teach. So what do they think about the expansion? How will their students benefit? Speaking with Willingdon’s Phys Ed Teacher, Lara Belinsky (Ms. B) and Science Specialist, Kathleen Usher (Doctor Kat), who will be teaching at both campuses, the Willingdon community can rest assured the teachers have this covered! The positive effects the expansion will have for all students is assured by their knowledge, their planning, years of experience and the heartfelt care they share for their students. And their sense of humour is the icing on the cake!

In the Fourth of our series on the Willingdon Elementary Expansion (Jr & Sr Campuses) I speak with Grade 6 students who will not be attending the new campus, but still played an integral part in the planning of the Sr. campus layout. Willingdon 2019 Graduates Opal Phillips and Dario Tordini join me to explain what they told administrators would help the learning environment for future students. Very interesting perspectives…It’s about space, breathing time, caring for fellow classmates and…space.

Our special series of podcasts on the expansion of Willingdon Elementary to include a Junior and Senior Campus continues. Now, it’s the students’ turn to talk about their thoughts and feelings regarding the September 2019 changes. In their first podcast ever...meet Ariella Nayer (Grade 3) who will be the “senior” class at the Junior campus and she’s quite pleased about the extra space the classes will have. Quincy Philippas (Grade 4) is into music…excited about the new music room at the Senior campus and the stage for performances. Charlotte Meredith-Bergbusch, Grade 5, is wowed by the outdoor space and those soccer fields! Then there’s the story about the beehives and the turtles…!

Parents of future students of the Willingdon Senior Campus got their first look at the new home (Somerled & Coronation, NDG) to Willingdon’s Grades 5 & 6 as of September 2019. With their first impressions, joining me are Willingdon parents Cherylin Pierre, Aurora Flewwelling-Skup and Lucas Reindler. New classrooms, lots of space and most important…each student will have his/her own locker!

3 Royal West Academy students are heading to Fredericton, NB for the Canada Wide Science Fair following their top places finishes at the Hydro-Quebec Regional Science & Technology Fair. Their projects provide hope for future generations. And Royal West Science & Technology and Chemistry teacher, Andrea Dillon takes us inside the classroom.

With the school year winding down, most are setting their sights on summer vacation. But, bursting at the seams and loosing specialty rooms to student classrooms, at Willingdon Elementary in NDG, they are gearing up for the creation of a new Senior Campus to house Grades 5 and 6 for September 2019. Over the next several weeks our podcasts will take you through this huge undertaking. An undertaking that has happened quickly and with full support from Principal Carmen Nicolas, Teachers, Parents, Students of the Willingdon Community and importantly, the EMSB. You’ll be hearing from Staff, students and parents. Plus our podcasts will be enhanced with lots of pictures and video as we visit the 2 campuses. First up, Principal Carmen Nicolas, Governing Board member, Cynthia Quarry and Grade 5 student Sam Yeager who will be moving to the new Senior Campus in September, take us through the early steps of this process…the plusses and the space to be gained for both students and teachers. Sam might not be too excited about the great new soccer fields…but he is excited about the new science rooms!

The EMSB's annual board-wide Public Speaking Competition is not just a "speech contest" but a showcase for students to get out a message that is both personal and important to them. The quality of the speeches is astounding, well researched, focused and confidently presented - and these students are only in high school. Congratulations to all the students who pushed aside their fears to participate, you are all winners. And to the top speakers for this year's competition: Royal West Sec III Cameron O'Hare, Lauren Hill Sec IV Siena Blier and FACE Sec V Linnea Sander. Meet them now and hear their passion for what they have accomplished, accompanied by the very proud Coordinator Anne Beamish (EMSB Pedagogical Consultant Secondary English Language Arts)

You think putting together a Broadway production is complicated? Imagine having to corral over 225 students ages 4-12 for an elaborate production of the musical "The Little Mermaid". Bancroft Elementary Principal Dorothy Ostrowicz and Director Francois Lukawecki have taken on the task...with just a "little" help from some 60 volunteer parents PLUS faculty. Put it all together and "the little school with a big heart" has a smash hit on their hands. Dazzling scenery, staging and costumes bring the Disney classic alive on the Bancroft stage April 9, 11 and 16. Shows begin at 7 ($15) with dinner sittings each night at 6 ($25) Tickets are available between 3:45-5:30 at Bancroft (4563 St. Urbain St.)

Every April we honour those who consistently donate their time and energy for the sole purpose of benefiting others. Every year, the EMSB honours their volunteers (some 1,500 across the school board) with the Volunteer Appreciation night. 2019 honorees include St. Gabriel's Carol Clifton as Volunteer of Distinction as well as Adrian & Natalie Bercovici, founders of the Generations Foundation as Volunteer Ambassadors of the Year for their organization which began at St. Gabriel Elementary. Why do they work so hard? What motivates them? They tell us and St. Gabriel Principal, Jim Daskalakis on what their and other's ceaseless work brings to the students of the EMSB.

With the evolving focus in education on STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math) the EMSB has teamed up with the world renowned Research Institute (RI) of the MUHC to provide students with mentoring and the unique opportunity of hands on experience in developing a project in coordination with its lab specialists. The EMSB’s Anna Villalta (Asst. Director of Educational & Technology Services) EMSB Lab Technician Nancy Vervuurt and Jenny Koulis (Research Administrator, Academic Affairs & Community Outreach Programs for the RI-MUHC) tell us the plan and how it all came about. And you’ll meet Laurier Macdonald Sec 5 student Stephanie Wang who is passionate about finding her passion through this one of a kind experience!

Vince Lacroce, Spiritual and Community Animator, finds unique ways to integrate learning about our diverse world with a challenge and even some fun. On this occasion of Black History Month, Vince found by imitating parts of the reality based TV show “The Amazing Race”, students absorbed more of the personal stories, accomplishments and histories of our Black Canadian and American heroes. Not only their stories, but how their courage changed the way our world is today.

Although she started her post-secondary education in Commerce, Katherine soon realized where her passion lay. As the full time Physical Education & Health Consultant for the EMSB, Katherine is guiding our children to enjoy and appreciate what an active lifestyle brings. Physical Literacy programs incorporate movement throughout the student’s day. But are the students able to take these notions home from school with them? Katherine believes so and her passion to seeing that happens is infectious!

While Michelangelo International Elementary School in RDP might be tucked away at the eastern edge of Montreal, Principal Marisa Mineiro will soon be thrust into the national spotlight as she was recently named as one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals. The announcement was made by the Learning Partnership. Suzanne Desautels recently sat down with Marisa to discuss the incredible honour.

EMSB Podcast: STEAM (Sara Iatauro and Brian Ewenson) by EnglishMTL Podcasts

EMSB Podcast: Toy Tea by EnglishMTL Podcasts

EMSB Podcast: Sexual Education by EnglishMTL Podcasts

EMSB Podcast: Assisted Accessible Technology by EnglishMTL Podcasts

EMSB Podcast: Tony Lacroce by EnglishMTL Podcasts

EMSB Podcast: Pius Culinary Centre by EnglishMTL Podcasts

EMSB Podcast: Laurier MacDonald Mental Health Resource Fair by EnglishMTL Podcasts

EMSB Podcast: Substance Abuse by EnglishMTL Podcasts