"We are more than just a high school, we are Mother Teresa Junior High!"

"It was a huge success," Interim principal Anna Villalta told Courrier Laval in a telephone interview, the day after 95% of the school staff had welcomed parents, children, and visitors in general to the Chomedey area school.

"Our staff was really proud to showcase our school and everything we have to offer," Mrs. Villalta stated, enthusiasm ringing in her voice. She added that "Teachers and students wanted to be there to answer questions about our programs, and most importantly to let everyone know what and who we are."

Mrs. Villalta addressed two full houses of visitors who were checking out the school for possible enrolment for the 2008-2009 school year. "It was standing room only, a great turnout, and we received lots of positive impressions from the families in attendance."

Mrs. Villalta, current Interim principal and second year vice-principal at Mother Teresa, said she and her staff were heartened to see many parents and children lingering for over an hour after the Open House was supposed to have concluded. "I think it showed that they liked what they saw and wanted to see more."

A special aspect of the evening was the 'Science Extraordinaire' display which showcased the flair, substance, and motivation of the teachers and students of the science department.

The brainchild of professional musician and veteran teacher Jacques Tardif, the school's music department featured hands-on presentations of instruments and programs, with several students expertly and creatively playing pieces they had learned in their music courses at Mother Teresa.

The atmosphere, says Mrs. Villalta, was positive and relaxed and everyone seemed happy with the unfolding of the evening. "The event was a metaphor of our staff here. We exhibited teamwork, cooperation, dedication, and of course, the on-going tradition of excellence. We are more than just a high school, we are Mother Teresa High Junior High!" Mrs. Villalta concluded.