'Social development' and 'individual learning needs' at top of list of priorities at North Star Academy

This transition plan, as explained by director Josée Pepin of North Star Academy, at last week's orientation session for parents and students, is at the heart of the quality education this new Laval-based private English high school intends to offer families and children looking for an alternative to public education.

"Public education, despite its attempts to nurture and serve the needs of its clientele, is often at a loss as to how to effectively individualize learning, given the complex student population it is asked to educate and satisfy," says Mrs. Pepin.

At the orientation session, students and parents met their prospective teachers, exchanged information, and set the stage for a smoother entry into classes which officially started this past Tuesday, September 4.

"Realizing that the concerns often expressed by students about to enter middle school focus on the routine of the new school, finding their way around, and mixing with other students, we made sure that the friendly and enthusiastic teachers at North Star Academy quickly dispelled these concerns, at the orientation session," explained Mrs. Pepin.

The director of Laval's first English private high school reassured parents and students that every child will be provided with opportunities to experience social and academic success.

"We commit ourselves to the use of classroom strategies that promote social development as well as those that address individual learning needs," Mrs. Pepin told Courrier Laval Weekly News in an interview following the orientation session.

"Beautiful, very well organized! The teachers are so into it and full of life," said Mrs. Milena Di Maulo, whose son Joseph is now attending North Star Academy. "It's been a long wait for a private English school, but it's worth it," she told Courrier Laval Weekly News at the orientation.

Satisfying all of the concerns of parents and students, giving a detailed explanation about uniforms, curriculum, extra-curricular activities, and transportation, Josée Pepin affirmed her commitment to this dream she's had for many years: "This is my whole life! I live and breathe this!"

The orientation evening was concluded with a declaration by Mrs. Pepin that her approach to education is built upon a commitment to team work, in a cooperative and collaborative framework through which educators, parents, and students can live and learn together.

Photo:Gens

(Photo: Martin Alarie)

Photo:Christine

(Photo: Martin Alarie)