Programs

LaSalle Community Comprehensive High School made history on May 24th, 2006, becoming the first high school in Quebec to receive accreditation as a member of the world-wide organization Peaceful Schools International (PSI). The school and its community partners honored the day at a school wide assembly celebrating peace and respect for diversity.

In attendance were Commandant Pierre Rousseau and Constable Giovanni DiLegge of Station 13, Nancy Hain Assistant Director of High Schools, Lester B. Pearson School Board, Richard Lucas, President of the LaSalle Canadian Legion, Mary Smigielski, member of the LCCHS governing board, Gavin Baugh of the LaSalle Boys & Girls Club, Mrs. Edy Guy-Francois, Principal of Caledonia Junior High School and Mrs. Hetty Van Gurp President and Founder of PSI and her husband Mr. Ward Carson.

Parent, student and teacher representatives on the LCCHS Peace Committee planned the event. Local television and print media documented the enthusiasm as students, staff and administrators assembled to witness PSI founder Hetty van Gurp present the official Peaceful Schools flag to school principal Paula Pedroso and student council presidents Jessica Foglietta(2005-2006) and Aarti Patel (2006-2007). Mrs. Van Gurp delivered a keynote address and students shared songs, speeches, peace garden plantings and a “hands of peace” celebration. The gathering was followed by a free hot dog lunch sponsored by a local community philanthropist.

PSI supports and encourages school communities who have declared a commitment to creating and maintaining a culture of peace and respect for difference. Peaceful Schools provides regional coordinators, access to consultation services and professional development workshops. Peaceful school members also receive subscription to the newsletter Peace Talks International.

LCCHS is very proud to become a member of Peaceful Schools International. We pledge to continue to work together to make our school and community a safer more peaceful place.