Studying French in high school?
French for the Future (Le français pour l’avenir) is holding its annual French essay contest and there is more than $250,000 in scholarships up for grabs.
This year’s theme is celebrating the 150th anniversary of Canadian Confederation by asking students in Grade 10, 11 and 12 to paint a picture of their hometown. (Not a literal picture though.)
Participating students are asked to write a portrait, in 750 words or less, of their city, town or village.
“From populations of four people to almost three million, the variety of Canadian cities is what makes them interesting. What’s yours like?” notes the rules.
Students have until Dec. 22 to submit an original essay (they must be in French) to be eligible. There are two categories, French-second-language and French-first-language, and students in both categories are welcome to enter.
Up for grabs are scholarships to nine post-secondary institutions, including: University of Ottawa, l’Université Sainte-Anne, l’Université de Montréal, l’Université de Moncton, l’Université de Saint-Boniface, Campus Saint-Jean of the University of Alberta, Glendon College of York University, le Collège Boréal, and the French Language Centre of the University of Lethbridge.
Prizes range from $12,000 to $1,000.
For full contest details, go to www.french-future.org/programs/essay-contest.
Vet students among the best
Local veterinary students are some of the best in the world, according to recent exam results.
In August, students from Douglas College’s veterinary technology program took the veterinary technician national exam, which features nine sections on topics like surgical nursing, anesthesia and dentistry.
Well, the results are in and once again, Douglas students surpassed expectations. This year, the vet techs scored 18 per cent better than the national average and 33 per cent better than the average student from the United States.
“Our students consistently have excellent results on the national qualifying examination. This year’s cohort performed exceptionally well and has set a new standard for Douglas (vet tech) students. The results demonstrate the commitment of our faculty and staff to provide the best possible learning experience for our students,” said Brian Chapell, dean of science and technology.
Keep up the good work!
Save the date
The Fraser River Middle School parent advisory council (PAC) is inviting anyone whose kids attend the school to the group’s upcoming annual general meeting.
The meeting is planned for Monday, Oct. 23 at 6 p.m. at the school, 800 Queens Ave.
The PAC is for any parent or guardian interested in getting more involved in the school community or who may have questions about the school and its programs.
Elections for positions on the PAC board will be held at Monday’s meeting and refreshments will be provided. Child minding is available.
Do you have an item for Class Act? Send news and happenings from local schools to Cayley, [email protected].