Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board launches Vimont Competency Development Centre

The Centre, whose fall semester opened August 27, offers course for students ages 16 or older who require credits to obtain their high school diploma and/or fulfill prerequisites for vocational or post-secondary education.

Officially inaugurated September 6, 2007 the Vimont Centre is now part of the vast network of adult education services offered by the Laurier Board throughout its extensive territory which stretches from Laval to Mont-Laurier.

"Ault Education represents, to many of us, a multitude of professionals whose efforts successfully deliver quality education and meet the needs of our varied student population," stated Laurier Board Chairman Steve Bletas at the official launch, adding that many people had worked hard to attain this new Centre whose students will feel a strong sense of pride in having their own place of learning.

In his address, Mr. Bletas lauded the efforts of Alain Guay, current Laurier Board Assistant Director-General, in seeing this accomplishment through to its successful conclusion. "I would like to personally thank Mr. Guay for his contribution in the Adult and Vocational Education sector. He has worked so hard, never counting his hours and never letting the obstacles he encountered discourage him. He is a great leader, a true optimist, and he has truly made a difference in this sector of education."

"There are few occasions where we celebrate school openings, so today is quite unique. The adult learners of Laval can now benefit from this stimulating and appealing learning environment offered to them where they will be provided with quality services," Mr. Auclair stated, thanking Chairman Bletas for his part in bringing the centre to life.

"I sincerely believe Mr. Bletas has made a difference for the Laval community, for his caring and for being so involved. It's no wonder that the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board ranks amongst the best of the province.

"I am extremely proud to celebrate this very special inauguration of the Vimont Centre, an Adult Education Service for the Laval population in a centre devoted specifically to general academic studies," Mr. Auclair concluded.

In the structured method, the teacher conducts the lesson in a traditional fashion, while in individualized learning the students work at their own pace, with a teacher's guidance, using modular materials. In structured learning the curriculum includes Math 416, French Second Language, Budgeting/Life Skills, History, Physical Science, Alcohol and Addiction Education, and Study Skills.

If using the modular (individualized) system, students have access to Math (Sec 1 to 5), English (Sec 1 to 5), Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Career Choice, Job Search, Microcomputers, Health & Fitness, Physical Science, Psychology I & II, and Film Appreciation.

All courses in these programs are taught in English. Those receiving benefits from Emploi-Québec may be eligible to study at the same time. To get more information about this eligibility, contact your local employment agency (Centre local d'emploi).

Through SARCA, resources and professionals will answer questions and help students find the information and services that will lead them toward the creation of a personal development plan.

"Our aim is to increase services to those in need of this kind of education, training and formation," Vimont CDC Interim Director Johanne Brabant told Courrier Laval Weekly News, adding that these adult education programs have been diversified in order to better meet the needs of the student clientele.

"Who knows?" stresses the literature issued by the Laurier School Board to prospective students. "Maybe you will find the motivation and the support needed to organize and put into play 'THE' action plan best suited for you … Come visit us and let us know what we can do to help you."

The Laurier Competency Development Centre – Vimont is located at 2100 boulevard des Laurentides, Laval, H7M 2Y6. It can be reached by telephone at (450) 688-2933, extension 3100 or by fax at (450) 663-1290.

For general information, the Laurier School Board can be reached at (450) 621-5600, or at www.swlauriersb.qc.ca

Photo:CDC

(Photo: Martin alarie)