Local school board holds final meeting before summer break
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
On June 25, the latest (and final for the year) meeting of the Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) Council of Commissioners revealed several updates and initiatives that will benefit students and engage parents across the district. From leadership changes to innovative projects, here are the key need-to-know highlights.
Appointment of the Assistant Center Director
In a significant leadership update, the ETSB announced the appointment of Steve Walker as the new Assistant Center Director of the Eastern Townships Adult General Education (ETAGE). This temporary one-year position, effective July 1, is expected to bring fresh perspectives and initiatives to the adult education sector.
“Steve’s qualifications and experience make him an ideal fit for this role,” noted a commissioner during the meeting. The appointment aims to enhance the administration’s ability to provide quality education and manage the various programs effectively, ensuring that adult learners receive the support and resources they need to succeed.
Farnham Elementary School’s addition
Farnham Elementary School is set to benefit from additional resources and facilities with the introduction of new programs and improvements. The board highlighted the ongoing renovation of the school’s foundation, drainage, and insulation systems. This initiative is part of a larger effort to enhance the learning environment for students and ensure the school’s infrastructure is well-maintained.
During the meeting, it was noted that the budget for the renovation project is $1,673,374, with $907,114 already allocated for modifications and additional work. The total cost, including taxes and professional fees, will be approximately $5,474,427. The remaining funds will come from the “Maintien des Bâtiments” program over multiple years.
Sutton Elementary School Greenhouse Project
One of the most notable new projects is the Greenhouse Project at Sutton Elementary School. Funded through multiple grants totaling $104,866, this initiative aims to provide students with hands-on learning experiences in sustainability and agriculture.
“The greenhouse will allow us to teach and produce a large quantity of vegetables and fruits year-round, benefiting both our cafeteria and the community,” said an ETSB representative. The project has already attracted significant community support, underscoring the importance of environmental education.
The greenhouse will be built by Athena Construction Inc., the lowest bidder, with a contract worth $99,975 excluding taxes. The total cost, including professional fees and taxes, will be $114,947. This project will teach students about sustainable practices, horticulture, and the importance of local food production. Plans for a honey sale are also in the works, and the school hopes to expand the project by adding more hives over time.
Parental choice in secondary education
A heated discussion took place regarding the policy allowing parents in the western sector to choose whether their children attend Secondary 1 at Massey-Vanier High School or continue in an elementary school. Concerns were raised about the quality and comprehensiveness of education in the elementary setting. “Students in elementary school miss out on the full curriculum and specialized instruction available at the high school level,” noted a concerned (recently retired) teacher, Gail Klinck.
Klinck highlighted several issues, including the fact that students miss out on parts of the curriculum, particularly in science, and other opportunities such as band, dance, and sports. She also pointed out that Secondary 2 teachers face additional burdens in addressing the educational and social gaps of these students.
The Board acknowledged these concerns but emphasized the importance of parental choice and the varying maturity levels of students. “We have addressed the issue and maintain a policy that favors parental choice,” responded a board member. They noted that progressively, students have been moved to Secondary School as parental choices have evolved, and stringent conditions have been placed on the viability of Secondary 1 in elementary schools.
Recognition of excellence in schools
The meeting also highlighted several achievements and ongoing projects within local schools. At Knowlton Academy, students are buzzing with excitement over their new beekeeping project. Led by science teachers Heidi Neil and Matthew Quesnelle, the initiative teaches students about bee combs, honey production, and environmental stewardship. “This hands-on living experiment has been a year in the works and has brought incredible enthusiasm to our students,” shared a teacher involved in the project.
Heroes’ Memorial Elementary School recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary with a community-wide event. Students created displays and projects reflecting the school’s history and their visions for the future. “It was a festive and happy event, showcasing the deep connection between our school and the community it has served for the past century,” said a school representative.
The celebration included activities such as a giant birthday card, collections of 100 objects displayed by four and five-year-olds, and historical projects by older students comparing school life in the 1920s to today.
Additionally, the ETSB organized a Sports and Fun Day at Alexander Galt Regional High School, bringing together 200 elementary students from nine different schools for a day of activities and camaraderie.
“This event was a fantastic opportunity for students to meet their future classmates and enjoy a day of sports and fun,” reported Frank MacGregor, a participant in the event. The day included sports such as soccer and kickball, aiming to foster friendships and ease the transition to high school.
Additional projects and updates
Several other important projects and updates were discussed during the meeting. The Board approved the yearly inspections of fire alarm systems and emergency lights across all schools, ensuring student safety. This project will cost $105,461 and will be carried out by Alarm Superior Securities.
At Alexander Galt Regional High School, an underground drainage project and renovation of the parking and drop-off areas are planned. The budget for this project is $1,022,374, with the contract awarded to E. W. Excavation, the lowest bidder. This renovation aims to improve the infrastructure and safety of the school’s grounds.
Parkview Elementary School will undergo Phase 2 of its hallway ceilings demolition, preparing the surface for the installation of ventilation ducts. The budget for this phase is $563,263, ensuring the school meets safety and health standards.
Sunnyside Elementary School will replace its 10-ton ventilation unit with new heat pumps, costing $97,729. This upgrade will improve the school’s energy efficiency and provide a better learning environment for students.
The meeting concluded with a reminder that the next Council of Commissioners meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 27. Parents and community members are welcome to attend and stay engaged with the ongoing developments in the ETSB.