Laughter and excitement filled the hallways of École Arthur Meighen last week as students and staff returned for the first week of the school year. Principal Natalie Guimond-Low says it’s been a fantastic start, with students settling back into routines and rediscovering the joy of being at school.
“We have an incredible staff that has all been working very hard to prepare for our students,” Guimond-Low says. “Walking through the hallways, you can see the personal and creative touches that really build a welcoming environment. Students are getting to know their teachers, falling back into routines, and we’re seeing a lot of smiles and excitement to be back, which is just fantastic.”
As students explored their classrooms and checked out their new desks, Guimond-Low adds that one of her favourite parts of the new school year is seeing their excitement firsthand.
“They’re thrilled to meet their teachers, check out their classrooms, lockers, and new desks. For our kindergarten students, there’s just something so special about the pride they show when their first French words come out, which is usually ‘bonjour’ and ‘au revoir,’” she says.
The school community also welcomed some fresh faces this year. Megan Sloik, who started last year as an 80-per-cent vice-principal, now shares leadership duties with Kendra McKenzie in a 20-per-cent vice-principal role.
New teachers Riley Sveistrup and Rory Marr joined the staff this year, along with two educational assistants, Anna Jadeske and Jordyn Reddaway, both former French immersion students. Mr. Adam, from the Terriers program, also returned for another year.
Students have jumped right back into school life with intramurals, morning gym sessions, volleyball, and cross-country. Guimond-Low also encourages families to follow the school’s Facebook page for updates on the upcoming Terry Fox event.
The principal also highlighted the important role the home and school committee plays in supporting school activities and fundraising, and she thanked community members for speaking French alongside students.
“When visitors come into the school or we see families on crosswalk duty, hearing people say ‘bonjour’ and ‘ça va’ really connects our learning to the community, and our students just love that,” she adds.
With new staff, engaging activities, and a strong community behind them, École Arthur Meighen is off to another year filled with learning, growth, and plenty of smiles.
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