LaurenHill Academy's Open House draws hundreds

By Mike Cohen

More than 600 people turned out for the LaurenHill Academy Open House on September 23 at its Junior Campus in St. Laurent.

The Junior Campus, located at the corner of Fraser Street and Decelles. It   caters to students  in Secondary I and II while those in Secondary III, IV and V are at the Senior Campus on Cote Vertu.

Prospective parents and students line up.

There were so many people in attendance that Principal Carmen Nicolas had to give more than one introductory session in the large auditorium known as the Agora. “We are driven by our mission,” she stated. “We provide an environment where students are motivated to achieve academic excellence. We are more than just a school; we are a real community. There is something for everybody here.”

Christy Tannous, one of the vice-principals, notes that work on organizing this Open House began the moment staff returned to work in late August. It continued with student leadership, who play an active role.

Math teacher Adriano Pagano with some of his students.

Prospective parents and students formed a long line to get into the building. Many arrived well before the 6:45 pm starting time. Upon entering they were each handed information sheets with a floorplan and a school brochure. Many parents booked guided school tours in advance while others joined them upon arrival. Students held large sticks with number signs on them.

Student leadership oversaw the tours.

The LaurenHill team visited feeder schools in the area in advance of Open House. Many of the parents I spoke to heard of the date through that activity on the website or the mass notification we sent out with the high school guide blog. There were many families I met from outside the territory, with programs like dance and the state-of-the-art two-year-old Aquatic Centre among the draws.

Student Council had a bake sale. There were also information tables for Top Marks (uniforms), Yearbook, Home and School and Registration.

Visitors get demonstrations in the Science Lab.

Following Ms. Nicolas’ address, the popular Dance Class put on a short demonstration.

The Dance Club performs.

As they made their way through the building, everyone seemed incredibly impressed. The students made terrific ambassadors and of course so did the staff.

There were plenty of opportunities to visit different curriculum tables, from math, English, French and more amd speak to the guidance counsellors.  In addition, those at the Computer and Science labs, Science wood shop, Makerspace and the Visual Arts Space were impressive.

Robotics on display.

At the Aquatic Centre, guests learned more about the swim and dragon boat teams and swim lessons. There was also a sweet scent coming from the room for the cooking club. In the library, the robotics students showcased their talents.

For more information log on to www.laurenhill.emsb.qc.ca