April has been a month of impressive student events, celebrations, holidays, recognitions and significant local and political decisions. Commissioners have been busy with commitments to their constituents, governing boards and school board committee work. There is so much happening at our schools and centres. Thank you to every person who has made a difference in the lives and learning of our students at our schools and centres.

Today, some LBPSB students and invited guests had an opportunity, with approximately 600 other students and organizers, to attend a meeting for Montreal island youth engagement on governance and democracy. Such events, like the Model UNs held at some of our schools this month, promote youth participation in democracy, what it means to have a voice and how to contribute to society as change-makers and in positive ways. At the model UN I attended with Pierrefonds Community and John Rennie high school students taking on roles of UN delegations from around the world, two of the topics of debate I observed were about freedom of the press and fast fashion. The research, work and behind the scenes organization to produce such an event is admirable.

Other special events I had the honour of attending, along with other commissioners, were, for example, The Battle of the Books held here at head office and a Senior’s tea at John Rennie High School. A highlight of the month was a wonderful celebration of the LBPSB’s Adult Learners, also held here at the board just last week. To celebrate learners who have decided to take giant steps in order to continue their education and to hear the testimonials of certain honoured students is humbling and amazing. To hear the stories of students who have overcome overwhelming situations to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others reminds me of the exceptional work that takes place in our Adult and Vocational Education programs and how the LBPSB centres become like second homes and families to a great number of adult learners.

The LBPSB was also in St. Polycarpe this month. We are hoping to build a new school in this community, so in collaboration with the the City of St. Polycarpe, the LBPSB participated in promoting our project at a community open house. The LBPSB representation at this event engaged in many rich and lively exchanges with citizens who were curious, concerned and interested in potential changes to their small town and in this part of the process and consultation. Having the opportunity to meet some members of the community was an enriching experience for all of us.

On a personal note, it was my distinct honour to meet with the Pearson Teachers Union representatives and our LBPSB representatives to sign the Local Agreement Between the Lester B. Pearson School Board and The Pearson Teachers Union: 2023-2028. The work that has taken place to fine tune and deliver this agreement is exceptional. Congratulations to all who were part of this hard work and the final agreement.

At the beginning of the month, on April 3rd, the QESBA received the news that the Quebec Court of Appeal (of three judges) upheld a ruling against Bill 40, an act to amend mainly the Education Act with regard to school organization and governance – February 2020, where part of the law aims to replace school boards with service centres. A decision like this reinforces that the English-language minority community has the right to manage our education system, run in school board elections and manage our funding. Our rights are guaranteed in Section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. In this political climate, whether provincial or otherwise, standing up for our rights and democracy is of paramount importance. Will the government apply to appeal to take this ruling to the Supreme Court? This is an unknown at this point, but an appeal would be unwelcome and unnecessary.

We have been witnessing the trials and tribulations of challenges to democracy and the vital need to remember that we do have protected rights and freedoms. That we should not take those rights and freedoms for granted. Many of us have just participated in a Federal Election knowing that the outcome of such an election will shape the future of our great country. This brings me back to local democracy, and student participation in this process. Students, you will also be shaping the future of this great country one day. The LBPSB is in a position of privilege to be part of preparing you for that future. This is something to celebrate.

Be kind. Be the best you can be.