Fall 2016 - EMSB BASE Daycare

Educators Get Physically Active at Annual Daycare Conference The Before and After School Enriched (B.A.S.E.) Daycare Program is prioritizing physical activity during the 2016-2017 academic year because as Canadian studies show, only nine per cent of five to 17 year olds get the recommended 60 minutes of heartpumping physical activity they need each day. Daycare offers children the opportunity to reach the minimum onehour of physical activity per day since they spend, on average, between 2025 hours in daycare per week. Motivating Children to be Physically Active was the theme of this year’s Annual Daycare Conference, which was held on Tuesday, August 30, 2016 from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm at Plaza Antique (6086 Sherbrooke Street East). The School Board is encouraging all daycare technicians and educators to provide increased opportunities where children aged four to 12 years old can be physically active. Some 170 daycare technicians and educators participated in an array of workshops

that enhanced their competencies in planning and leading physical activities with children. “Daycare educators are privileged to spend so many hours with students because it allows them to plan and prepare for different physical activities with the children in their care,” says Jennifer De Freitas, Project Development Officer for the B.A.S.E. Daycare Program. “Educators have a responsibility to promote active, healthy lifestyles in daycare students and it is only fitting that a conference of this nature be offered to daycare employees in order to support them in their work.” CONFERENCE SCHEDULE Daycare employees participated in three workshops amongst the eight that were scheduled for the day. The eight workshops were: My Daycare is Physically Active by Jennifer De Freitas, Project Development Officer See GET ACTIVE, page 2

Above: David Arsenault, founder of Champions for Life, teaches Rosa Lemme from Our Lady of Pompei and Milane Saliba from Dunrae Gardens how to do the hammerfist pose during the Taekwando Fit Break.

La Journée de la révolution alimentaire

Taylor Pratley, élève de 5e année du service de garde B.A.S.E. de l’école St. Raphael, exécute soigneusement la tâche que lui a confiée le chef Theo Lerikos du restaurant Tuck Shop.

Le vendredi 20 mai 2016, les services de garde B.A.S.E. des écoles primaires John-Caboto, General Vanier, St. Raphael, Sinclair Laird et Parkdale ont célébré la Journée de la révolution alimentaire en tenant un événement spécial à l’école primaire General Vanier. La révolution alimentaire est un mouvement créé par le chef anglais Jamie Oliver afin d’éduquer les gens, et plus particulièrement les enfants, à l’importance d’une saine alimentation, d’inciter les familles à cuisiner et de favoriser la sécurité alimentaire. Chaque année, des communautés, des écoles et des familles partout dans le

monde organisent leurs propres événements pour la Journée de la révolution alimentaire. En 2016, la conseillère en activités parascolaires du programme B.A.S.E., Melina Trimarchi, s’est engagée comme ambassadrice de la Révolution alimentaire pour Montréal. Elle a rencontré sur les médias sociaux des gens de partout dans le monde qui ont la passion d’enseigner aux enfants à adopter de saines habitudes alimentaires. Par exemple, Melina s’est mise en lien avec Mira, de Jordanie; elles ont toutes les deux publié sur les médias sociaux qu’elles avaient enseigné à leurs élèves à cuisiner des parfaits

au yogourt le même jour, chacune à leur bout de la planète! Voilà la preuve que la nourriture nous relie les uns aux autres! Melina anime des clubs de cuisine dans les services de garde tout au long de l’année. Neuf de ses élèves ont participé, de concert avec trois chefs de la région montréalaise, à l’événement organisé pour la Journée de la révolution alimentaire. Massimo Piedimonte, chef du restaurant Le Mousso, a accompagné l’équipe des ROUGES composée de Meghana, Bradley et Keshwan de l’école Parkdale. La chef Julia Dawson, rédactrice du blogue culinaire Julia Chews the Fat, a accompagné l’équipe des BLANCS formée de Gloria, Marcus et Keon de l’école Sinclair Laird. Enfin, Theo Lerikos, chef du restaurant Tuck Shop à Saint-Henri, accompagnait l’équipe des NOIRS formée de Taylor, Roland et Fabian de l’école St. Raphael. Toutes les équipes avaient sur leur table les mêmes ingrédients et matériel, tandis que d’autres appareils et ingrédients étaient à la disposition de tous. Une boîte posée sur chacune des tables contenait un ingrédient mystère : des mangues pour l’équipe des Blancs, des grenades pour l’équipe des Rouges et des dattes pour l’équipe des Noirs. Chaque équipe devait cuisiner des plats pour les juges dont la tâche consistait à évaluer le goût, la créativité et le travail d’équipe. Voir RÉVOLUTION, page 4

Let’s Celebrate! Completing community service hours is a cause for celebration, especially when it involves leading children to create community action projects (CAPS) that make their schools and communities more caring, inclusive and safe for all. The English Montreal School Board’s Before and After School Enriched (B.A.S.E.) Daycare Program and Spiritual Care and Community Involvement Services came together with Equitas—the International Centre for Human Rights Education—to celebrate the Supporting Children as Leaders Through Play it Fair! program. The celebration was held at Dante Elementary School on Friday, May 6, 2016 from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. More than 200 people attended the event, including B.A.S.E. students from Dante, Gerald McShane, Michelangelo International and Pierre Elliott Trudeau Schools, high school students from Vincent Massey Collegiate, daycare technicians and educators, school principals, School Board representatives and Equitas staff. See PIF, page 5

Inside Professional Dev. Page 2 In the Media Page 3 Food Revolution Page 4 Play It Fair Page 5 Activities Page 6 Daycare Week Page 9 Green Initiative Page 11

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professional development

Touching Base, Fall 2016

Get Active: B.A.S.E. Prioritizes Children Moving More in Daycare for the B.A.S.E. Daycare Program and Katherine Baker, Physical Education and Health Consultant for the EMSB; Providing Physical Activities to Children with and without Disabilities by William J. Harvey, Associate Professor for the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education at McGill University; Classroom Management in Physical Activity Settings by Nicolas LaFrance from Sportball Quebec, Fundamental Movement Skills that Develop Physical Literacy by David Arsenault and Suzanne Gouvril from Champions for Life; A Morning Physical Fitness Program Giving Children a Brain and Body Boost by Lynn Rizzuto from BOKS Canada; and Encourage Girls Ages 9—13 to Get Physically Active by Paula Bush, Academic Associate of the Department of Family Medicine at McGill University. The eighth workshop was a presentation of Heart and Stroke Foundation programs including Jump Rope for Heart, Heart Healthy Kids and Screen Smart and an organized games pedagogical day program presented by Krzysztof Kmiecik, Grassroots and Community Programming Coordinator of the Department of Recreation and Athletics from Concordia University. In addition to the workshops, daycare technicians and educators also had the opportunity to participate in a 45-minute “Fit Break” activity. Fit Break sessions included Taekwondo, Zumba, Yoga, stretching and strengthening and two walking groups. MDPA PROJECT The theme of this year’s EMSB’s Annual Daycare Conference—Motivating Children to be Physically Active—is a result of the My Daycare is Physically Active (MDPA) project, which is a two-year program offering daycare staff six workshops that encourage them to plan and implement practices that mobilize youth aged four to 12 years old to be physically active. It was launched in October 2015 in all five school boards on the island of Montréal. We are currently mid-way through the project. The project stems from the Montréal Physiquement Active action plan, in partnership with Québec en forme, which aims to implement environments conducive to physical activity and to encourage Montréalers to become and remain physically active. A grant of $60,000 is funding 18 schools participating in the project from the five school boards – Commission scolaire de Montréal (eight schools), Commission scolaire MargueriteBourgeoys (four schools), Commission scolaire de la Pointe-de-l’Île (two schools), Lester B. Pearson School Board (two schools), English Montréal School Board (two schools: Leonardo Da Vinci Academy and Cedarcrest). A committee of 11 members, two representatives from each school board and one representative from la direction de la santé publique, meet regularly to plan and create workshops for the My Daycare is Physically Active project. Jennifer De Freitas and Katherine Baker are the EMSB representatives on this committee. “This project is addressing a huge need that we see and hear about so often,” says Baker regarding the 60 minutes a day of physical activity children should be accumulating according to Canadian guidelines. “Animating kids in physical activity settings can be challenging, and providing support to daycare educators so they feel comfortable and competent doing so is an excellent initiative in working towards the goal of increasing physical activity levels.” The B.A.S.E. Daycare Program encourages all daycare personnel to increase the amount of time children spend engaged in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity during daycare hours.

Jennifer De Freitas Touching B.A.S.E. Editor Clockwise from top: Daycare educators warm up at the start of the Classroom Management in Physical Activity Settings workshop offered by Nicolas LaFrance from Sportball Quebec; daycare educators participating in the Stretching and Strengthening Fit Break led by Concordia University athletes; daycare educators striking a pose in the Adapted Yoga Fit Break led by a Concordia University representative; daycare educators participate in an organized game led by Krzysztof Kmiecik, Grassroots and Community Programming Coordinator of the Department of Recreation and Athletics from Concordia University; Leticia Niece from Sweat Factory leads a high-energy Zumba class with daycare educators during a Fit Break; Dr. William J. Harvey from the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education at McGill University animates his workshop Providing Physical Activities to Children With and Without Disabilities.

Photos Courtesy of Malama Photo: www.malamaphoto.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

in the media outlet also encourages students to get involved in decision-making, which helps them feel empowered and confident. Jennifer DeFreitas, the B.A.S.E. Project Development Officer, introduced this activity to Ms. Antonella four years ago when she facilitated the Journalism Club at Michelangelo International. Ms. Antonella has been carrying out the activity ever since!

Jodi Schwartz Touching B.A.S.E. Contributing Editor

LET’S TALK ABOUT CATS Yes, I would like to have a cat. Her name would be Ginger. She would be a big, fat, fluffy ginger coloured cat. I would want her to be playful and relaxed, like me, and a great companion. Brianna, Grade 5 Michelangelo International Yes, I have a cat. His name is Butterscotch. He is the cutest, especially when he wears my bandanas and when he cuddles next to me. It would be fun to get a second one. I suggest if you don’t have one, you should get one. Celtna, Grade 5 Michelangelo International I wish I would have one. My cat would be white and black and her name would be Bella. Marc Anthony, Grade 5 Michelangelo International

Yes, I have a cat and his name is Speedy, because at three years of age all he did was run around the house. He is a coal black cat. My uncle gave it to me because his cat was pregnant. That’s how I got my cat. Maxim, Grade 5 Michelangelo International I don’t have a cat and I wouldn’t like one because some of them are vicious and too independent. I already have a dog, so imagine my dog and a cat together. It would be crazy. Am I right or am I right? Veronica, Grade 5 Michelangelo International No, I don’t have a cat, and I wouldn’t want one because I am allergic to cats. Alessio, Grade 5 Michelangelo International

DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH HANDS? No, I don’t have enough hands because I go crazy sometimes with my homework. If I would have four hands, I’d be able to finish my homework a lot faster. Valery, Grade 5 Michelangelo International

I would like to have four or six arms because I would do many awesome things and would do many different things to make life perfect. Marc Anthony, Grade 5 Michelangelo International

If I had the opportunity to have more hands, I would want three. I would probably look like an alien. Therefore, I’m very happy with my two hands. Celtna, Grade 5 Michelangelo International

I would want to have six arms. Two arms can do my homework. One arm would hold my pizza. The other two can play Lego Dimensions. And my last arm can hold my Frutopia. Maxim, Grade 5 Michelangelo International

Above: The Michelangelo International School B.A.S.E. Daycare students’ published Gazette articles that discuss owning cats and whether or not they would like to have more hands.

B.A.S.E. Daycare Green Club

BANCROFT Principal: Dorothy Ostrowicz Technician: Monique Gaudreault

MACKAY & PHILIP E. LAYTON Principal: Patrizia Ciccarelli Technician: Maria Revuelta

CARLYLE INTERNATIONAL Principal: Anna-Maria Borsellino Technician: Angela Crescenzi

MICHELANGELO INTERNATIONAL Principal: Marisa Miniero Technician: Nancy Salituri

CEDARCREST Principal: Civita Tudino Technician: Georgia Stamatopoulos

NESBITT Principal: Antoinette Scrocca Technician: Giuseppina Santino

CORONATION Principal: Joanna Genevezos Technician: Priscilla Gervasi

OUR LADY OF POMPEI Principal: Steven Rebelo Technician: Agatina Nicita

DALKEITH Principal: John Wright Technician: Cynthia Racicot

PARKDALE Principal: Marylène Perron Technician: Filanthi Stavrianeas

DANTE Principal: Michael Talevi Technician: Angela Crispino

PIERRE DE COUBERTIN Principal: Ida Pisano Technician: Mary Simeone

DUNRAE GARDENS Principal: Elena Zervas Technician: Tina Lanni

PIERRE ELLIOTT TRUDEAU Principal: Anna Sanalitro Technician: Mara Filippone

EAST HILL: Principal: Myrianne Lusignan Technician: Connie Parry

SINCLAIR LAIRD Principal: Silvana Crigna Technician: Pina Portaro

EDWARD MURPHY Principal: Christina Celzi Technician: Giovanna Giuliana

ST. DOROTHY Principal: Sandra Lévillé Technician: Sandra Petrillo

ELIZABETH BALLANTYNE Principal: Michael Brown Technician: Melodie Charette

ST. GABRIEL Principal: Jim Daskalakis Technician: Maria Mattiace

GENERAL VANIER Principal: Joseph Schembri Technician: Maria Iacono

ST. MONICA Principal: Irini Margetis Technician: Paquita Nanton

GERALD McSHANE Principal: Christina Chilelli Technician: Pina Rinaldi

WESTMOUNT PARK Principal: Roberto Di Marco Technician: Deborah Mete

HAMPSTEAD Principal: David Lee Technician: Cathy Agnello

Deputy Director General: Angelo Marino

HONORE MERCIER Principal: Sonia Marotta Technician: Daniela Buttino JOHN CABOTO ACADEMY Principal: Lucy Buscemi Technician: Tina Nardolillo LEONARDO DA VINCI ACADEMY Principal: Nadia Sammarco Technician: Diane Cutrone

Gerald McShane BREAKFAST TELEVISION On Tuesday, May 3, 2016, the Gerald McShane B.A.S.E. Daycare Green Club worked with Frankie Flowers from City Line on planting lavender plants for Mother’s Day gifts. Not only is lavender a lovely and fragrant herb, it is known to help with sleep, which is something we all know moms can greatly appreciate. The Green Initiative Advisor, Ms. Julia Gellman, beamed proudly about her students’ accomplishments. The Gerald McShane B.A.S.E. Daycare Green Club had a blast learning about the need for good soil, the importance of fertilizer and how to properly plant their lavender into ceramic pots. What a treat for their moms, and of course the students loved getting their hands dirty!

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The EMSB BASE Daycares

Michelangelo Michelangelo students published write ups One of the B.A.S.E. Daycare educators at Michelangelo International School, Ms. Antonella Laurito, has been encouraging her students to write into The Gazette every month. The 2015-2016 academic year proved to be very successful because many of the students’ write-ups have been published. Journalism aids with spelling and grammar, but it also gives students a chance to express themselves while allowing them to be heard. This creative


Daycare Manager: Rosa Fuoco Daycare Administrative Technician: Emily Meo Daycare Avant-Garde Technician: Teresa Federico Daycare Office Agent Class 1: Nadia Valluzzi

Produced by: B.A.S.E. Daycare Services English Montreal School Board 6000 Fielding Avenue, Montreal (Quebec) H3X 1T4 Website: www.emsbbase.com

The Gerald McShane Green Club and Ms. Julia Gellman, excitedly took a selfie with Frankie Flowers from City Line and Breakfast Television’s Catherine Verdon Diamond.

Editor: Jennifer De Freitas B.A.S.E. Project Development Officer [email protected] Contributing Editors: Jodi Schwartz, Léah Hendriks

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food revolution

Révolution alimentaire

SUITE DE LA PAGE 1 Les juges étaient Rosa Fuoco, régisseuse, services de garde, le chef Nathan Chettiar et Julian, un élève de l’école primaire John Caboto. Rosa tient le restaurant Les Délices de Rosa à Saint-Lin–Laurentides, qui sert le déjeuner et le dîner, ainsi que des soupers champêtres sur réservation. Tous les plats y sont concoctés à partir d’ingrédients frais qui viennent directement du jardin. Le chef Nathan, qui était antérieurement cuisinier pour le Cirque du Soleil, est originaire du Nouveau-Brunswick et adepte de la cuisine du marché, c’est-à-dire de plats préparés à partir de produits frais locaux. Julian, pour sa part, est un passionné de cuisine, et plus particulièrement de cuisine italienne. Les chefs et leur équipe avaient une heure pour cuisiner des plats à l’intention des juges. Dès que le signal du départ a été donné, le chef Theo a sorti une machine à faire les pâtes qu’il avait lui-même apportée! L’équipe des Noirs s’est donc mise à la confection de pâtes avec un oeuf, de la farine, du sel et de l’eau. Pendant ce temps, l’équipe des Blancs exploitait le côté sucré des aliments en coupant des mangues et des fraises et en les faisant sauter dans le beurre. À la table des Rouges, Meghana se transformait en créatrice de cocktails, mélangeant notamment jus de grenade et eau pour préparer les boissons qui allaient accompagner leur repas. Les élèves avaient beaucoup de choses à raconter au sujet de leur expérience : « C’était génial de travailler avec chef Massimo! » a dit Bradley, élève de 4e année à l’école Parkdale; « Je suis très habile avec un couteau, ce qui m’a beaucoup aidée pour couper tous les fruits, » a affirmé Gloria, élève de 3e année à l’école Sinclair Laird; « Savez-vous pourquoi ces pâtes seront si délicieuses? » a demandé Roland, élève de 6e année à l’école St. Raphael. « Parce que je les ai fabriquées moi-même. »

Le repas de l’équipe des Rouges, qui s’est distinguée pour sa créativité, était composé d’un sandwich ouvert à l’omelette, d’un parfait au yogourt et fruits, et d’un cocktail eau et jus de grenade. L’équipe des Blancs, qui s’est pour sa part distinguée pour le travail d’équipe, a préparé une compote de pêches et fraises ornée d’un croustillant aux biscuits Graham et d’une crème fouettée au basilic. Enfin, l’équipe des Noirs, se distinguant pour le goût, a cuisiné une salade de tomates et concombres avec vinaigrette au yogourt, des pappardelles maison avec sauce aux tomates cerises et basilic, et un gâteau au fromage déconstruit reposant sur une croûte aux dattes et aux biscuits Graham. La nourriture nous rassemble. Elle transcende les frontières et nous permet d’apprivoiser de façon saine différentes cultures. Elle amène les familles à se réun- En haut à gauche: Équipe noir de l’école St. Raphair pour préparer les repas et pour manger. Ce sont des el avec le chef Theo Lerikos. traditions qu’il faut préserver. Or, cette tâche incombe aux jeunes qui nous entourent, et c’est une tâche En haut: Des aliments extraordinaires créés par les colossale pour de si petites mains. élèves des trois équipes. La sécurité alimentaire est l’affaire de tous. Malheureusement, nous n’avons pas tous accès à des En bas à gauche et à droite: Équipe blanche de aliments sains, adaptés à notre culture et abordables. l’école Sinclair Laird avec Julia Dawson; équipe Nous n’avons donc pas la sécurité alimentaire. Dans rouge de l’école Parkdale avec Chef Massimo. un pays d’abondance aussi grand que le Canada, n’est-il pas troublant de constater qu’il y a des gens qui ne mangent pas à leur faim et qui se tournent vers cycle complet des aliments pour pouvoir faire le virage la malbouffe parce que c’est rapide et abordable? qui s’impose vers une alimentation durable et saine. Dans le cadre du programme B.A.S.E., Julia GellMelina Trimarchi, man et Ryan Oxley, conseillère et animateur de l’initiative verte, ainsi que Melina, sensibilisent les élèves Conseillère en activités parascolaires quant à l’impact environnemental de notre alimenta- programme B.A.S.E. tion, et leur montrent comment cultiver des aliments et Prochaine Journée de la révolution alimentaire: les conserver, et comment cuisiner le produit de leur 28 avril 2017 récolte. Nous croyons fermement que la génération montante doit prendre concrètement conscience du

play it fair


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PIF: VMC Mentors and B.A.S.E. Children Pride Their Community Action

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 B.A.S.E. children and their high school mentors took the lead during the event, which highlighted the collaborative environment and relationships between them. They presented their projects, led the other children through positive value-based games they had developed, shared how they were proud of their projects and sent postcards to the Prime Minister about their projects through a postcard activity. The 20 VMC high school students who participated in this yearlong pilot program received their Play it Fair! Activity Leader Certificate for their exceptional work at mentoring the B.A.S.E. children in creating their CAPS. COMMUNITY ACTION PROJECTS From January to May 2016, B.A.S.E. students identified an issue they would like to work on in their school or community and used new leadership skills to complete their CAPS focused on creating a safe school environment, anti-bullying, sharing, collaboration and teamwork, and respect for differences. Some 215 B.A.S.E. students created 15 community action projects. Twenty-five students in Grades 3 and 4 at Gerald McShane created four awareness-raising poster campaigns on children’s rights, schoolyard environment, anti-bullying and celebrating how we are unique and different. Pierre Elliott Trudeau’s group of 20 students in PreKindergarten and Kindergarten wrote and illustrated a storybook about respect for the environment and everyone’s responsibility for keeping it clean and safe. Fifty students from Grades 1, 2 and 5 at Michelangelo International produced four movie trailers using iPads. Topics included anti-bullying, respect for diversity, acceptance and respect. The biggest group of students to participate in this program was from Dante: 120 students in Grades 1 to 6 created their own toolkit of six Play it Fair! games promoting the values of teamwork, anti-bullying, respect and sharing. A video of the celebration documented the work of the children, and what they learned during their projects. The video will be disseminated widely across the EMSB and Equitas network both nationally and internationally as an example of innovative and good practices to support children and youth leadership, and how to organize a child-centered community celebration. LASTING BENEFITS In order to track the effectiveness of this project, the high school students and the daycare educators were surveyed twice throughout the process. 80% of daycare staff and 87% of high school mentors surveyed confirmed that the activities helped promote inclusion and respect for diversity among the B.A.S.E. children they worked with. As a result of participating in the project, the children gained new skills, learned how to work together and became better at making sure children who are often excluded could belong. The majority of high school mentors surveyed re-

ported that they felt they were a better leader because of the project, had more knowledge and understanding of human rights values and developed skills they will take with them into other areas of their lives. 100% of educators surveyed agreed that participating in this collaboration had a positive impact on their work as an educator. They feel confident in speaking with children about human rights’ values and they are not nervous to address certain problems and concerns that come up in the group. “The community action projects were an opportunity for children to work collaboratively and take leadership to make positive change in their communities,” said Adriana Greenblatt, Play it Fair! Program Officer. “Through their work together with their high school mentors, children learned about their potential to create change together while reinforcing their self-esteem, their decision-making skills and learning to include others, all in all strengthening their capacity to become change makers in their communities. It was amazing to witness what these children accomplished together!” MOVING FORWARD The B.A.S.E. Daycare Program is offering the Supporting Children as Leaders Through Play it Fair! program during the 2016-2017 academic year. Ten VMC students are facilitating the program at three B.A.S.E. centres: John Caboto Academy, Gerald McShane and Michelangelo International.

Jennifer De Freitas, Touching B.A.S.E. Editor

Clockwise from top left: P.E.T. student participates in postcard activity; Michelangelo student gives a peace sign; VMC mentors with EMSB and Equitas staff; Dante students showcasing game pieces on their back; Dante students playing the Respect game that they created; Roxanna from P.E.T. and Kaitlin from VMC introduce their picture storybook.

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activities


St Dorothy

St. Dorothy students perform a disappearing card magic trick for their peers. Miniature magicians in the making St. Dorothy Elementary School’s B.A.S.E. Daycare miniature magicians learned a few tips and many tricks on their February 26, 2016 pedagogical day.

B.A.S.E. Curriculum Advisor Ms. Jodi Schwartz, along with the help of B.A.S.E. Animator Mr. Ryan Oxley, facilitated a day long Magician Mayhem activity for all of the students that attended daycare that day. The students were separated into two groups: one group of Pre-K, Kindergarten, and Grade 1 students, and a second group of Grade 2,3,4,5, and 6 students. One group travelled to the school’s library to work with Ms. Jodi on four magic tricks, while Mr. Ryan remained in the main daycare with the second group constructing and decorating their magic hats and wands, all the while reciting special magic words. In the library, Ms. Jodi performed a trick for the students and then they had to guess how it was achieved. She then revealed her magician secrets and the students practiced performing the trick in front of the rest of their group. Students worked extremely well as a team and Ms. Jodi heard and encouraged the compliments towards one another. After practicing, the group moved onto the next trick beginning with Ms. Jodi performing the trick for them. Once all four tricks had been worked through, Ms. Jodi’s group headed back to the main daycare for a quick snack. Once snack time was over, Ms. Jodi took the second group into the library to do the same with a different set of four tricks while Mr. Ryan took the first group. Afterwards, the students had lunch while Ms. Jodi

and Mr. Ryan transformed the library into a magician’s stage complete with background instrumental melodies to set the mood. Upon returning inside, the students donned their magic hats and carried their magic wands tightly in tow. In pairs of two or more, the students demonstrated their newly acquired magician skills for their peers. Because the two groups each learned a different set of tricks, they all had a chance to “wow” their audience with tricks. After the tricks were performed, there was a big reveal “of secrets” for each trick. “I felt like an awesome magician after learning all those cool tricks,” stated Grade 2 student Anthony Savignac. “I liked the trick with four crayons and also the floating pencil! I really enjoyed performing for the other group. They looked amazed and shocked!” exclaimed Grade 4 student Joey Savignac. Once everyone had a chance to perform, Ms. Jodi and Mr. Ryan allowed anyone who wanted to attempt a trick they had just learned from their peers. Inspired by the performances, a few students even performed their personal tricks from home. Magicians, keep your inspirations alive, practice, and focus on distracting your audience…Abracadabraaaaaoooooh look, is that a bird?


BUTTERNUT SQUASH MAC AND CHEESE INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • • •

Half of a Butternut Squash 2 cups of any cheese that you enjoy (a strong cheddar is always a favourite) 500 grams (or one box) of macaroni pasta (you can use elbow pasta or penne too!) 1/2 a cup of water 1/2 a cup of milk 2 tablespoons of butter 1 sprig of thyme Chopped parsley to top Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS: 1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a tablespoon of salt 2. Meanwhile- grate the butternut squash and cheese with a cheese grater, remove the leaves of the thyme from the stem and set aside and chop the parsley 3. Heat the saute pan with one tablespoon of butter and add the thyme, butternut squash, and water. Season with salt and pepper and let the squash cook until soft. 4. Blend the squash together until smooth and creamy. 5. Cook the pasta al dente (usually 2 minutes less than the box instructions), strain the pasta and add back to the pot. 6. Add the rest of the butter, butternut squash puree and milk to the pasta and stir on low heat. Gradually add the cheese and keep on stirring until all the cheese is melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season again. 7. Serve hot and top with parsley and/or chilli oil if you are feeling adventurous! Enjoy!

Angelina in Grade 5 at John Caboto prepping in Ms. Melina’s Garden to Plate Club. Students are exploring how they can use different types of squash.

Parkdale BUDDING CHEFS COOK AT PARKDALE On February 26, 2016, Ms. Melina Trimarchi and Ms. Julia Gellman animated a Cooking pedagogical day where the students learned about food and cooking through play. The children participated in three separate activities: Blind Taste Test, Sensory Adventure and Build Your Own Pasta Salad. The Blind Taste Test consisted of all the students putting on a blindfold and placing their hands out in front of them, then Ms. Melina and Ms. Julia gave them a bite size piece of a mystery food! They had to taste the food (no peeking) and guess what the food was. Students enjoyed the surprise of biting into a dried apricot but did not like the surprise of biting into a salty olive. Next, the students went on a sensory adventure! The students had to use their sense of smell to guess what was inside a container. A lot of students guessed onions or garlic but it was really BEETS! The next sense that was challenged was our sense of touch-in two black bags there was a secret vegetable. Everyone felt around both bags to see what was inside. Most people guessed carrots, and they were half right! One was a carrot but the other vege-

table was a parsnip. Parsnips feel like carrots but they look and taste different. The next senses to be challenged were our sense of taste and sight! Ms. Julia and Ms. Melina set out two tiny cups of yogurt-one cup was pink and one was yellow. The students tasted both kinds of yogurt and were asked what flavour was in each cup. Some students guessed peach for the yellow one and strawberry for the pink one, but the trick was on their eyes and taste buds because both were mango! Last, students tested their sense of hearing. They were all asked to close their eyes once more. Ms. Melina walked around the room and took a HUGE bite of something. The students had to guess what she took a bite of—this time most of the students guessed right: it was an apple! For the last activity, the students got to make their own pasta salad with all of the foods they tasted and smelled throughout the day. All in all, the students had fun and were able to eat, play and learn about food!

Melina Trimarchi, B.A.S.E. Extracurricular Activities Advisor

Darren Chery a Kindergarten student, and Avy Caltagirone a Pre-K student taste red and yellow yogurt that were both suprisingly mango flavoured.

activities Pierre Elliott Trudeau


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Sinclair Laird

Pierre Elliott Trudeau Pre-Kindergarten students Leon San Martin (left) and Roxanna Martineau proudly show off their chocolate treasures.

Tyler Jean-Francois Shoboyejo, a Grade 1 Sinclair Laird Daycare student, smiles proudly next to his minion finger puppet.

St. Patrick’s Leprechaun Fun On March 17, 2016, the legendary St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun paid a visit to the Pre-Kindergarten children attending the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary B.A.S.E. Daycare Program. No one saw the mischievous fellow, of course, but traces of him were left all around the classroom. The tricky little jokester entered the school through a forgotten open window and left a trail of tiny green footprints all over the furniture and floor, toppling over toys and wreaking havoc along his path. The children started their day in a burst of excitement as they followed the leprechaun’s path and discovered his chaos: shoes were hidden or left hanging in bizarre places, crayon boxes and smocks were switched around, glue sticks, scissors and paper were strewn all around the room. Even the teacher’s chair was found toppled over, right by the very window our neighborhood leprechaun chose to make his escape! Much to the children’s dismay, they were unable to capture the little man to inquire about his buried treasure. They were, however, quite pleased to find that our friendly visitor had left behind a gold coin for every child!

Puppet Play Performance At General Vanier, Sinclair Laird and John Caboto Academy, the B.A.S.E. Daycare students used their imaginations to conceive, then physically create their very own puppets and puppet show. Ms. Jodi Schwartz, B.A.S.E. Curriculum Advisor, led the activity. Puppets were constructed out of arts and craft materials such as paper bags, paper plates, pipe cleaners, felt, and googly eyes. There were also sock puppets and minion finger puppets made from dish washing gloves. The students had a great time and were happy with their puppets. While dedicating himself to Ms. Jodi’s puppet parade activity, Jadon Squires, a Sinclair Laird Kindergarten student, exclaimed: “My puppet looks even prettier than my picture! Can you believe it? There’s an iceberg up ahead! Watch out!” Students learned the art of improvisation, and focused on problem solving through using words to express feelings. With the aid of a decorated stage and a lot of teamwork, a collaborative story was thought up and performed as a live puppet show! Jodi Schwartz,

Angela Genovese, Pierre Elliott Trudeau B.A.S.E. Daycare Educator

Touching B.A.S.E. Contributing Editor

John Caboto Academy WORLDWIDE: THE BUILD YOUR OWN BOARD GAME CREATION Eight students at John Caboto Academy worked together every Thursday alongside Ms. Jodi Schwartz, the B.A.S.E. Curriculum Advisor who facilitated this program, to create their own board game. The Build Your Own Board Game program aims to have the students work in a collaborative environment while using their creativity and intelligence to come up with a game that they could play at the end of the session. The students came up with the designs of their pieces, dice and board, and then brought them to life by constructing them. Each child gave their own spin on their piece. There was even a Doctor Who themed piece. The game was named “Worldwide” because it dealt with countries. Ms. Jodi thought that this student conceived name was extremely clever. This game included trivia questions, mathematics questions, challenge cards and history cards. It used countries to separate their board. They’d roll the dice, move the corresponding number of spaces, and depending on which square they landed on, would either pick up a trivia, history, math, or challenge card. If they answered the question correctly, or completed the challenge properly, they would then collect a token. Once a player had collected all 10 tokens (one for each represented country), they would win the game. Ms. Jodi aided the students in creating rules for their game so that it could be played fairly. Students had a lot to say about their experience! “I liked planning out the game the best and can’t wait to see the finished product,” stated Kayla Sierra, a Grade 6 student. Katya Pacheco, a Grade 4 student, expressed some of the benefits of the Build Your Own Board Game program: “You learn how to cooperate with other people and learn new things,” she said. Grade 6 student, Isabella Cinquegrana, described the best part to her: “I’m really enjoying answering fun questions while playing our board game. The 7 rules for Worldwide: 1. Play the game fairly! Take turns! 2. Roll the dice and move the number of spaces indicated. 3. Pick up a corresponding card depending on which square you land on (his tory, trivia, challenge, math, Doctor Who, or country). 4. When it is your turn, someone else will read your card to you. 5. Receive a token when you answer a question correctly. Collect all 10 tokens (one for each country on the board) to win the game. 6. If you land on “GO,” answer a question of your choice. 7. If you land on a square with a Doctor Who face, pick up a Doctor Who card. Do you want to come play?


Above: John Caboto Academy Grade 4 students, Victoria Taflan and Giada Milano work in tandem to create the dice for their boardgame “Worldwide.” Below: The Completed Build Your Own Board Game “WorldWide.”

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activities


Sinclair Laird PET EMPATHY PROGRAM AT SINCLAIR LAIRD This year at Sinclair Laird, B.A.S.E. Daycare has teamed up with the Montreal SPCA to create a new pilot program called Pet Empathy. The goal of the program is for the students to learn about the meaning of empathy and how we can transfer our empathy for humans to animals and vice versa. Ms. Colleen and Ms. Emily from the SPCA came to Sinclair Laird with a special surprise—a dog named Ocean. Ocean went around and met everyone by smelling their hands, but all of the snacks and crumbs on the floor distracted her right away; before we knew it, Ocean was the new vacuum cleaner! Once Ocean settled down, the students learned about the Montreal SPCA and what they do for animals in the city. We learned that the Montreal SPCA stands for “Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.” The students found it hard to believe that people would be cruel to animals, but they were happy that there was someone there to help: “I love the SPCA because they help animals,” said Aniha, Grade 3. “I love the SPCA because they give animals a voice that don’t have one,” said Gloria, Grade 5. The students were asked to brainstorm reasons why they think animals ended up in the care of the SPCA. One of the reasons the students came up with is that sometimes people who have a pet don’t realize how much work a pet can be and can’t take care of their pet properly. Another idea was that sometimes a pet owner moves into a new apartment that doesn’t allow pets. Other reasons the students came up with were as follows: not being able to train the animal, developing allergies or that the animals are strays. One week we had a very special surprise—three kittens visited our class! Before we played with the kittens, we learned a few things about cat behaviour: When a cat’s eyes are almond, ears facing forward and tail up it means that cat is willing to play, whereas if the cat has its ears back, tail wrapped around itself and its back arched we know that the cat is not willing to play. We look forward to the new furry friends we are going to meet in the upcoming weeks!

Melina Trimarchi, B.A.S.E. Extracurricular Activities Advisor

Above Right: Sinclair Laird students listening attentively to the speakers from the SPCA. Bottom Right: Sinclair Laird students playing with a kitten and Ocean, the dog.

Carlyle International

Our Lady of Pompei CreatiVE COMIC BOOKS A Comic Book Adventure Creation program was offered to the Grade 5 and 6 B.A.S.E. Daycare students at Our Lady of Pompei last spring. The children had fun working together on the writing and drawing, using a comic generator software. They also learned about character development, story charts, consistency in illustrations and story morals.The project was a collaborative and creative success!

Carlyle International students create cars using Styrofoam balls, balloons, skewers, and empty soda cans as part of their pedagogical day activity. DINOVERSAIRE On March 29, 2016 Carlyle B.A.S.E. Daycare students were treated to a special pedagogical day activity with Dinoversaire. In the morning, the children built a car and in the afternoon they observed and touched different animals. Soda cans, Styrofoam balls, tape and skewers were used to create the car. We used the skewers to attach the Styrofoam balls to one another, the wheels were taped to the can and a variety of materials were used to decorate the car. After lunch, the animator showed us different animals. We touched the chinchilla and Emma Wahhab thought that it was the softest animal ever. Callaway Kritsidimas really liked the tarantula that turned green when a special light was shone on it. “The ferret was so cute and funny,” said Lui Jeong. The tarantula looked really happy when the animator moved him around and played with him. We saw all sorts of different lizards. Vivian St-Jean really liked touching the snake, especially its tail. “The frog was slimy when I touched it,” thought Kira Hecker. We also got so see fossils that had imprints of leaves on them. “DINOVERSAIRE was very special because the activities were diverse, educational and fun,” said Ms. Angela Crescenzi. We are looking forward to what new and exciting ideas we can get for our professional days next school year!

Pre-Kindergarten students and Ms. Angela Crescenzi Carlyle International B.A.S.E. Daycare Technician


Our Lady of Pompei Grade 6 student Alessia Ignoto reads her comic book creation.

Dunrae Gardens YOGA FOR CHILDREN This fall, B.A.S.E. Daycare is offering yoga at several of its elementary schools. Students learn breathing techniques and yoga postures that we incorporate into familiar games that get the children moving and working together. The session begins and ends with a short meditation, and is built around movement and play. Yoga practice encourages present moment awareness and helps children learn how to steady their minds and relax their bodies. Children are natural yogis, and they have an incredible ability to be fully in the present moment, and that is what yoga is all about.

Léah Hendriks Touching B.A.S.E. Contributing Editor

Grade 3 students meditating after early morning yoga activities at Dunrae Gardens Elementary.

daycare week


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Festival des services de garde : des partenariats gages de réussite!

ON CÉLÈBRE LA SEMAINE DES SERVICES DE GARDE Les élèves des services de garde B.A.S.E. de plusieurs écoles primaires se sont réunis pour célébrer la Semaine des services de garde qui avait cette année pour thème « Des partenariats gages de réussite ». L’événement a eu lieu à l’Institut culinaire St. Pius, rue Papineau, de 11 h à 14 h 30. Les parents, élèves et membres du personnel y ont tous été conviés. Un dîner léger composé de pizza froide, de jus et de melon d’eau a été offert aux élèves. Six stands de présentation éducatifs étaient montés dans le hall du centre sur les thèmes suivants : arts créatifs, activités physiques, sensibilisation aux médias, conscience environnementale, devoirs et collations, et programmes spéciaux. Pendant que les invités circulaient d’un stand à l’autre, 18 petits magiciens de cinq écoles différentes, encadrés par la conseillère du programme B.A.S.E. Jodi Schwartz, exécutaient des tours de magie appris dans le programme Magician Mayhem tout au long de l’année. Les invités, impressionnés par les capes et les baguettes magiques des élèves, ont eu droit à neuf tours de magie. Les élèves étaient très fiers de présenter leur numéro aux parents et aux autres élèves, se sentant comme de véritables magiciens. Suivait un spectacle, animé par Melina Trimarchi, conseillère aux activités parascolaires du programme B.A.S.E., de concert avec deux élèves de 6e année de l’école John-Caboto, Anastasia Markou et Leila Mota. Au programme : présentation de projets médias réalisés avec iPads et différentes applis, chant choral en espagnol, chorégraphies de danse hip-hop, et interprétation par les Clubs Glee de chansons populaires d’aujourd’hui. Les conseillers pédagogiques des Services éducatifs et de la technologie de la CSEM ont accompagné les élèves des services de garde des écoles Coronation et Our Lady of Pompei dans la création de projets à l’aide de iPads. Les élèves du service de garde B.A.S.E. de l’école Coronation ont réalisé une bande dessinée tandis que ceux du service de

garde B.A.S.E. de l’école Our Lady of Pompei ont présenté six bandes-annonces de films. Rocio Tamez, animatrice du programme B.A.S.E., a monté avec les élèves de la prématernelle de l’école Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau et les élèves de 1re année du programme international de l’école Carlyle international, un petit spectacle de chant choral en espagnol. Chaque groupe d’élèves a interprété trois chansons accompagnées de gestes et de pas de danse. La faculté des enfants à mémoriser toutes les paroles et chorégraphies a grandement impressionné les spectateurs. Les groupes des écoles Cedarcrest, Nesbitt, Elizabeth-Ballantyne, Hampstead et St. Raphael ont ensuite présenté, vêtus de costumes de circonstance, des chorégraphies de danse hiphop. Le programme B.A.S.E. a retenu les services professionnels de l’organisation Jeunes Étoiles pour offrir le programme de danse dans les services de garde. Les élèves des Clubs Glee des écoles St. Monica, Gerald-McShane et General Vanier ont montré leur immense talent et fait entendre leurs superbes voix dans un spectacle de chansons populaires. Ils ont su interpréter leurs rôles avec brio. Tout le monde a eu beaucoup de plaisir, tant les artistes que les spectateurs. Le programme B.A.S.E. a retenu les services de la West Island Music Academy pour l’animation de ses Clubs Glee. Bravo aux membres du personnel, aux élèves et aux alliés du programme B.A.S.E.! Les partenariats ont rendu cette réussite possible. Chaque année, nous

vivons une nouvelle aventure remplie de rires et de joie. Nous avons très hâte de connaître le thème et le contenu que nous réserve le prochain Festival des services de garde!

Jodi Schwartz Collaboratrice à la rédaction de Touching B.A.S.E.

Dans le sens horaire, à partir du haut à gauche : Minions en papier mâché (école Edward-Murphy) posés sous un chandelier fait avec des bouteilles d’eau recyclées (école John-Caboto) et devant des planètes Terre en filtres à café (écoles Carlyle et Hampstead); élèves du programme Magician Mayhem (école Dalkeith) vêtus de leur cape de magicien B.A.S.E. exécutant des tours de magie dans le hall avant le début du spectacle; chorale des élèves de prématernelle du service de garde B.A.S.E. de l’école Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau interprétant des chansons en espagnol avec l’aide de l’animatrice Rocio Tamez; masques en papier mâché fabriqués par les élèves du service de garde B.A.S.E. de l’école Hampstead; un des six stands de présentation, devoirs et collations, offrant de l’information sur le club de cuisine; élèves de l’école Cedarcrest montrant leurs talents de danseurs de hip-hop.

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daycare week

Cedarcrest

Maria-Isabella Fercher, Kindergarten, gets moving during Daycare Week at Cedarcrest B.A.S.E. Daycare. Cedarcrest stays fit Cedarcrest B.A.S.E. Daycare students got moving to celebrate Daycare Week! Keeping in stride with society’s love of staying fit, educators planned a week full of physical activities that maximized body movement and fun. To encourage student participation and stimulate interest, a “Get Moving” challenge was adopted. This challenge allowed class groups to earn an energy block once their activity was completed. Each block represented a 30 minute activity. A scoreboard was set up to tally the blocks earned by each group. Kindergarteners had skipping rope and basketball dribbling relay races. Grade 1 groups were jumping rope, throwing hoops and playing tag. Grade 2 students showed great stamina by walking for 30 minutes and recording 3000 steps. They also had their pulses racing by playing a running Tic Tac Toe game. Competitive games like Dodge ball, Four Squares and Cross-over were played by Cycle 3 students. High energy sports were also played, such as soccer and soccer baseball. Energy blocks were accumulated and a great time was had by everyone. Cedarcrest daycare students stepped up to the challenge!

Silvana Natarelli Cedarcrest B.A.S.E. Daycare Educator

Our Lady of Pompei

Kindergarten student Luka Costa (left) and Grade 1 student Luca Palermo delight in some free play outside on a bright and sunny day. Daycare Week Poem Daycare Week was very fast, but at least we could remember the past! We had so much fun with Daycare Week, and LOOK, here is a little sneak peak: On Monday we had a Magic Show. We would giggle, laugh, and we would glow. Tuesday was our Science Fair. We would behave polite and fair. Wednesday was the Variety Show. We would be brave while acting and then go. In the show, we performed “The Pranksters.” Everybody in the audience burst into laughter. Thursday was the Movie Night. We brought chips and took big bites.

Kindergarten students Emma Rossi, Olivia Santella and Alexia Reis enjoy the outdoors inbetween Daycare Week activities. Fun-tas-tic Week A variety of Daycare Week activities were held during the week of May 16 to May 20, 2016 at Our Lady of Pompei B.A.S.E. Daycare. From the spectacular magician to the amazing mad scientist, the children were extremely excited and thoroughly amazed. Our talented children sang in pairs and acted out their very own creative scenes. All of the students and staff were in awe of such great performances. This wonderful week ended with a Carnival Day compilation of different activities, and a yummy vanilla ice cream treat. Oh, what a fun-filled week the students had! A huge thanks to Ms. Agatina Nicita, the Our Lady of Pompei B.A.S.E. Daycare Technician, for making this week a memorable one and putting such huge smiles on all of the children’s faces.

On Friday was the activity-filled Carnival Day. We danced, ate ice cream, and got to play. We are all sad that Daycare Week ended, but at least we were never offended!

Gianluca Pece and Zachary Johan, Grade 4 Our Lady of Pompei B.A.S.E. Daycare

Ida Pirone Our Lady of Pompei B.A.S.E. Daycare Educator

Hampstead Daycare Appreciation Week For Daycare Appreciation Week, from May 16 to May 20, 2016, Ms. Cathy, daycare technician, treated the Hampstead B.A.S.E. Daycare students like kings and queens. Monday, May 16, 2016 The daycare was decorated with all the beautiful masks that we made on Monday, balloons, and a lot of colourful streamers that hung everywhere! Tuesday, May 17, 2016 On Tuesday we had an amazing ice cream bar filled with more candy toppings than you could dream up! We gave the sundaes our own twist and, using Kosher ice cream, turned them into unique and delightful creations. The daycare educators helped out and had fun too. Wednesday, May 18, 2016 On Wednesday, we all got to eat a giant chocolate cake with the most beautiful frosting flowers and tasty blue icing. The cake had a special “Happy Daycare Week” written on it in icing. Quite a few students had second helpings, and some even had thirds! Everyone was happy. Thursday, May 19, 2016 On Thursday, dinner was hosted at Hampstead’s B.A.S.E. Daycare. All of the students and educators were served a hamburger and fries meal, and we enjoyed our meals together at 3:00pm in the lunchroom. All the meals were Kosher. For dessert, we cooled off with some mini freezies.

Friday, May 20, 2016 The cherry on top of the week was the trip to the Cosmodome for Friday’s pedagogical day. We were able to experience machines that made it feel as though we were in outer space. We also learned about rockets and the layers inside a space suit. Can you believe that there are 18 layers? Learning facts about outer space is so interesting! We learned a lot about planets, rockets, space shuttles and manned machines used in space to do missions. Some of the students got to use the machines and have a really awesome experience. It was fun, and we all learned a lot. After this amazing week, we’re grateful for all that Ms. Cathy and the B.A.S.E. Daycare staff do for their students. Thank you for everything and for making Daycare Week so memorable!!!

Corey Coombs, Grade 5 and Shayana Shimansky, Grade 6 Hampstead B.A.S.E. Daycare

Above: Joshua White, a Hampstead B.A.S.E. Daycare student in Grade 1 poses proudly for a photo as an astronaut in the cardboard cut out on a pedagogical day outing to the Cosmodome. Above Left: Happy Daycare Week cake.

green initiative


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Harvest Parties FALL HARVEST FUN IN THE GARDENS Green Clubs from eight different schools hosted their annual harvest party. The events were held in the gardens to showcase and share the year’s bountiful harvest. Green Club members took initiative decorating, designing and running activities for all daycare students to enjoy. Some of the activities included a photo booth, a harvest challenge relay, ball toss, a scavenger hunt and scarecrow-building. Along with the games, there was delicious food to feast upon such as soups, salads, snacks, muffins and tea. The parties were a huge success due to the hard work of the Green Club members. Below is what several Green Club members had to say about the Harvest Parties: At Dalkeith Elementary School, Kylie Nguyen said, “I had fun helping and explaining all the games. Everyone was laughing and having fun so I was really happy.” Emilia Ricco at General Vanier said, “What I enjoyed from the Harvest Party was hearing all the compliments from the students and teachers saying how much they enjoyed themselves.” Olivia Mejia from Pierre de Coubertin said, “I had fun taking pictures with my friends because we got to do funny faces and have fun altogether.” Green Club happens weekly at 14 EMSB schools and runs throughout the school year. Students are provided fun and engaging opportunities to explore gardening and environmental sustainability.

Ryan Oxley and Van Ferrier B.A.S.E. Green Animators

Students enjoying Harvest Party activities with B.A.S.E. Daycare Green Club. (Clockwise from top: General Vanier, John Caboto Academy, St. Monica, Edward Murphy, St. Monica, Edward Murphy).

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green initiative Our Lady of Pompei

General Vanier

Gregory Lynch from Miel Montreal allows students to taste different varieties of local honey.

Buzz About Bees! General Vanier Green Club students welcomed a special guest on May 6 and May 27, 2016. Gregory Lynch from Miel Montreal delivered two interactive workshops that had students engaged in all aspects of bees. The bees we see in our gardens are not here to sting us. They play an important role in our ecosystems, pollinating plants and producing honey. Students enjoyed holding dead bees at the different stages of their life cycle. They were able to see up close the larva stage and then a developed bee with wings and eyes. Honey is the food of the bee’s labour and we enjoy it as much as the bees do. The students tasted several different types of local honey that Greg had brought along. The students noticed the honey had different tastes and textures depending on the season and location it was produced. Zakary Dussault, a Grade 4 student who enjoyed himself at the workshop said, “Eating the honey was fun and tasty. I discovered new flavours and textures from the wax and honey. I learned bees feed royal jelly to the queen!” Good fun and learning was had by all!

General Vanier B.A.S.E. Green Club

École Edward-Murphy LE VERGER COMESTIBLE Ce printemps, l’équipe de l’initiative verte du programme B.A.S.E, grâce à une subvention de la Fondation Alcoa par l’entremise d’Arbres Canada, a eu la chance extraordinaire de planter des pommiers et des poiriers, des arbustes à petits fruits et des fines herbes comestibles dans la cour de l’école EdwardMurphy. Dans ce nouvel espace d’apprentissage en plein air, les élèves ont pu découvrir des plantes indigènes comestibles. La communauté de l’école entend récolter les fruits et en faire de succulentes recettes. Le 3 juin 2016, nous avons organisé une fête à l’école Edward-Murphy pour souligner le lancement du projet. Les élèves ont pu participer à une visite guidée du jardin comestible et y apporter la touche finale en plantant des fines herbes et des fleurs. Ce projet éducatif en plein air vise à sensibiliser les élèves et la communauté au respect de l’environnement et à leur faire découvrir et apprécier des aliments locaux.

Julia Gellman Conseillère de l’initiative verte du programme B.A.S.E. (2015-2016)

Our Lady of Pompei B.A.S.E. Daycare students created art made of recycled plastic water bottles. Earth day recycled art The Grade 5/6 students in Ms. Rosa’s class at Our Lady of Pompei B.A.S.E. Daycare got creative in honour of Earth Day. We made flowers using recycled water bottles. How did we do this, you ask? We cut the tops of the bottles, and then painted them different colours. When they were finished, we drew an outline of a basket and we cut and weaved the remaining pieces of the bottles to make it look like the basket was made of straw. Those pieces were also painted and glued to the outline. It took us a few weeks to put it all together, but we think the end result is pretty impressive. I am sure you will all agree after you look at the photo.

Jeffery Corbie, Grade 5 Our Lady of Pompei B.A.S.E. Daycare

Sinclair Laird & St. Raphael Un élève de l’école Edward-Murphy apporte la touche finale au verger comestible en aidant à planter des fines herbes et des fleurs.

St. Gabriel

SEnsory Adventure In the garden This spring, Sinclair Laird and Saint Raphael students have a new garden to experience and enjoy. Five wooden raised planters were constructed and put into the ground in front of Sinclair Laird Elementary School. The garden was built with a theme of the five senses so that students are able to touch, taste, see, hear and smell their way through the garden. It’s an excellent place for students to explore plants and feel calm. Green Club students from Saint Raphael grew seedlings for the garden and planted them in their respective sensory planters. Some examples of plants grown are basil, corn, poppy, daisies, nasturtium, sunflowers and milkweed. Students from both schools have been enjoying the sensory gardens this fall.

Ryan Oxley B.A.S.E. Green Animator HERBS, HERBS, HERBS! St. Gabriel School is getting greener! Four new planter boxes were built this spring with the help of Van Ferrier, Green Intern, and Julia Gellman, Green Initiative Advisor. The Pre-Kindergarten students planted herbs and flowers in the boxes: we planted oregano, thyme, parsley, mullein, rudbeckia and alyssum. One of our Grade 6 students, Mikeal Mayson Champagne, helped us decorate the boxes. Mikeal said he enjoyed working with us, meeting everyone and seeing how all the kids interacted. During our Green Club workshops we grew nasturtium flowers to provide some colour to the boxes. St. Gabriel B.A.S.E. Green Club

Above Left: Pre-Kindergarten students carefully plant flowers and herbs into their new planter boxes at St. Gabriel. Above: Other St. Gabriel students help to decorate the new planter boxes for aesthetic appeal. Right: Green Intern Van Ferrier and Green Initiative Advisor Julia Gellman admire the five newly built raised planters at Sinclair Laird.