The Westwood band performance we have just had the honour of listening to this evening showcases for all of us the dedication of LBPSB students under the direction of truly a special educator and winner of a Regional Certificate of Achievement for the 2024 Prime Minister’s  Award for Teaching Excellence, Steve Dubinsky. To quote a statement from our Director General, Dr. Cindy Finn, “Steve’s love for teaching is truly inspirational. Over the years he has fostered a love of music in his students and has earned the respect of his colleagues. His commitment to excellence in music education makes him truly deserving of this prestigious award,” said Cindy Finn, Director General of the LBPSB. What we know is Steve Dubinsky is a devoted teacher who does what he does for the love of his students and teaching, and not because of extra recognition. But, that extra recognition and gratitude is so well deserved. Thank you, Steve. We wish you all the best in your retirement.

We are all here to oversee the delivery of resources to ensure the best education possible for the LBPSB students in whatever role we fill.  The leadership and commitment to her work with the Independent Association of Support Staff, the IASS, has been Allison Provost’s work as President for, I understand, the last 14 years. Allison has shared her concerns for her members with the Council of Commissioners frequently, and passionately. Her enormous heart, compassion and support for the work of the LBPSB support staff is exemplary. Allison, we also understand that you decided to step away from running for the position of President for another mandate. We will miss your visits to the Council of Commissioners but your voice will resonate with us. Thank you, Allison.

Commissioners also are very committed to their work and one has been a part of the LBPSB Council of Commissioners for many, many years (since the beginning of the formation of the LBPSB English board). As part of our role, some of us also serve on committees related to, but external to, the LBPSB. One of our faithful commissioners, Frank di Bello, Commissioner for Electoral Division 2, has had a seat at the Quebec English School Boards table for many years and served the Association in different capacities, but in particular with his position on the Professional Development Committee. This year Frank di Bello chose not to run for a Board position representing the LBPSB to open it up for someone new. Frank’s last QESBA board meeting as our representative, was on October 24^th.  Thank you Frank for your years of service on the QESBA board of directors. Likewise, also for several years, Frank di Bello has been one of the LBPSB delegates to the Central Tax Management Committee for the Island of Montreal (the CGTSIM) serving as member and President. Effective October 30, 2025, the tax management committee was replaced, after the adoption of Bill 94 (An Act to, in particular, reinforce laicity in the education network and to amend various legislative provisions) by the Directors General (or delegated Assistant Directors General) of the school boards and service centres representing the island of Montreal. The loss of council representation on this board was an unexpected development, but Frank, while you were there, for many years, your voice and leadership was so appreciated. Thank you.

While the politics of these times can sideline us and redirect our focus to issues outside of the LBPSB, the work of the LBPSB council continues with great conviction. As you will see from the committee reports this evening, and the resolutions under consideration, there is much that occurs behind the scenes as we work with our tireless administration and communities at the schools and centres we represent in our districts and across the entire school board. This school year started on shaky ground because of a new budget reality. The ground may still be shaky (and even snow covered as of late) but we have confidence the students of the LBPSB will be served as best they can be with the resources available and the entire LBPSB team who does the work, I repeat tirelessly (even when exhausted!)

On a personal note, I had the pleasure last week to attend Black Girl Magic at LaSalle Community Comprehensive High School. It was a powerful and engaging event and all of the girls who participated were awesome. I also visited the LBPSB Post-Secondary Education and Training Fair hosted by JRHS where so many students, and in some cases families, were there to explore possibilities for their future education. There is so much happening! I’d also like to remind our community to read The Pearson News. You’ll find the link on the website to read about the incredible events across the board. A huge thank you to all who create opportunities and events to celebrate and enrich educational experiences at the LBPSB.

And last, another personal, but sad note, I would like to acknowledge the recent passing on November 17th of a remarkable champion of English public education, David Daoust. David started his career as a teacher and eventually became a Director General (at the New Frontiers School Board). He was also an ADM (Assistant Deputy Minister) at the MEQ for our sector, until retirement. He then went on to become a commissioner, a school board chair, and eventually the President of the QESBA, as well. Quoting from the obituary for David Daoust, “He had the gift of seeing the good in every person he met, and his warmth made people from all walks of life feel valued, understood, and welcomed.” He led by example. We have much to learn from his humanity, leadership and commitment to education. Our sympathy is extended to David’s family.