IN THE LOOP 🌞
NEWSLETTER 5th Edition June 2026
Vocational Education in Quebec
Every two years, the QACVE (Quebec Advisory Council on Vocational Education) hosts a professional development conference for vocational education teachers in the Quebec anglophone education sector. This year, the conference was held on May 14 and 15 at the L’Esterel Resort. The theme of the conference was, Teaching Today for a Career Tomorrow. Attended by over 120 participants, the conference featured keynote speaker, Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe who spoke about resilience, stress and hope. Her message focused on the empowering theme of “we can all do hard things”. Our Director of Adult Services, Heather Halman was a member of the conference organizing committee. SWLSB was also represented by a team of 8 vocational training teachers from the health and commerce and administration sectors. The conference was a great success and will serve as a building block for future professional development activities.
Graduate Success Stories
On April 28, 2026, Andressa Reginato — a former international student shared her story with current LPN students. Andressa's determination and resilience led her to a successful career in healthcare.
Originally from Brazil, Andressa faced many challenges throughout her journey, including an Immigration Canada refusal, the uncertainty of COVID-19, and several unexpected delays. Despite these obstacles, she remained focused, positive, and committed to achieving her goals.
Today, Andressa is working in the Operating Room at the Jewish General Hospital, one of Montreal’s most respected hospitals — an incredible accomplishment and a testament to her perseverance.
Andressa opened up about her experience to inspire our new Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) students. Her story is honest, humble, and a powerful reminder that with determination and hard work, success is possible.
Career Exploration Days
On Friday, April 29, CDC Pont-Viau teachers visited Twin Oaks Elementary School’s Grade 5 and 6 classes during Career Week to give students a fun and hands-on introduction to some of our vocational training programs.
Students had the opportunity to participate in interactive activities, ask questions, and discover different career paths in a dynamic and engaging way. Our teachers enjoyed sharing their passion and helping students explore future possibilities at an early age.
It was a wonderful experience for both the students and our staff, and we would like to thank Twin Oaks Elementary School for the warm welcome and opportunity to participate in this special event.
National Mental Health Awareness
CDC Pont-Viau is dedicated to supporting mental health awareness and wellness initiatives within our school community. On May 12, our students and staff took part in a peaceful nature walk led by our Social Services Support team and teachers to highlight the importance of mental health and well-being.
The activity provided an opportunity for everyone to step away from their daily routines, connect with one another, and enjoy the positive benefits of being outdoors. It was a meaningful moment to encourage conversation, reflection, and self-care while reinforcing the importance of supporting mental health in our everyday lives.
We thank everyone who participated and helped make the event a positive and uplifting experience.
Community Partnerships in Action: May Wellness Activities
Maison Jean Lapointe / May 11
Workshop on Gambling with Information Technology Support students.
Groupe Promo Santé / May 13
Tasting of plant-based protein recipes in the cafeteria and meal prep tools with all students.
OASIS /May 27
Workshop on Obstetrics (STIs and Pregnancy) with Health, Assistance and Nursing Students.
Program start dates and registration procedures
Register now for our programs beginning in August 2026 at CDC Pont-Viau!
📢New fully ONLINE Secretarial Studies Program during the day. Get your diploma in 14 months!
Take the next step toward a new career with hands-on training, supportive teachers, and programs designed to help you succeed. Whether you are starting fresh or looking for a career change, we are here to help you reach your goals.
Spaces are limited — reserve your spot today!
Support for Assistive Services in Health and Social Services Institutions
This program replaces the Institutional and Home Care Assistance Program. It is only 7 months long, start your career in health in under one year! Admission requirements are: Secondary III credits or the equivalent in the language of instruction (LI), second language (SL) and mathematics!
Spaces are limited - reserve your spot today!
Mentorship for Teachers in Vocational Training
As a mentor, Cecile Padadac supports teachers in their first five years of the profession by providing guidance, resources, and professional support as they transition into teaching. Through mentorship, she helps new teachers integrate into the school community, develop effective instructional and classroom management practices, navigate school board policies and culture, and identify opportunities for professional growth. Her goal is to foster confidence, collaboration, and success in the early stages of a teacher’s career.
Recently, CDC Lachute students Eloise Sabetta and Maike Georgeoff were recognized at the Regional DĂ©fi OSEntreprendre Gala as category winners for their Period Poverty project! The OSEntreprendre initiative supports the development of entrepreneurial spirit by shining the spotlight on students who carry out entrepreneurial initiatives. The project brought attention to the fact that many 25% of girls and women in Canada cannot afford menstrual products. The prize money was used to purchase menstrual products for the centre, helping ensure greater accessibility for all.
Due to a generous grant from our local Lachute MNA, Agnes Grondin, CDC Lachute students had to opportunity to visit various community venues in the area. The benefits of our interactions had a wide range, from students and staff enjoying a sense of belonging and identity that comes with engaging with each other and our citizenry, to one of our learners, JD, being offered a job! A gastronomical feast was enjoyed by all afterwards as a fitting conclusion to our outing
Mental Health Week
In recognition of Mental Health Week, CDC Vimont recently organized a variety of activities designed to promote wellness, connection, and self-care. Throughout the week, students and staff were invited to visit a mental health resource table, take part in Connection Bingo, and express their creativity through a collaborative art activity. We also enjoyed a movie viewing and popcorn fundraiser organized by our Student Committee, which provided a fun opportunity to relax and connect with others!
Student Testimonials
Être étudiant au CDC Vimont c'est une source de fierté pour la qualité, le niveau et l’empathie de ses enseignants. Il m'offre des outils linguistiques efficaces, des pratiques adaptées et une ambiance d’apprentissage agréable. Tout le personnel, ainsi que les activités programmées à l’intérieur comme à l’extérieur du centre, m'encouragent chacun à grandir, à m’adapter à la langue et à m’intégrer à la société québécoise. Rafael Méndez Morales, étudiant en francisation niveau 3
Upcoming start dates
Start of all daytime classes at CDC Vimont & CDC Lachute: August 31st
Start of all evening classes at CDC Vimont: Sept 1st
New! Our Francization classes will now be offered online three evenings per week! Our flexible schedule makes it easier than ever to learn. Click here to learn more!
Study from wherever you are! CDC Vimont and CDC Lachute now offer a range of online courses to help you attain your educational objectives. Call us today at 450-688-2933 and book an appointment with one of our counsellors.
CDC PONT VIAU
On June 16, we proudly celebrated the success of our graduates at our annual Celebration of Success ceremony. Students from the Accounting, Secretarial Studies, Information Technology Support, Professional Sales, and Health programs were recognized for their dedication, perseverance, and achievements throughout their training.
Congratulations to all our graduates on this important milestone. We wish you continued success as you begin the next chapter of your personal and professional journeys!
CDC VIMONT & CDC LACHUTE
On June 18, CDC Vimont and CDC Lachute proudly celebrated the achievements of its graduates from the Language Programs, as well as those who earned their High School Diplomas. The ceremony recognized the hard work, determination, and commitment demonstrated by each student throughout their educational journey.
Congratulations to all our graduates on this significant accomplishment. We wish you every success in your future endeavors!
Where Has Your Diploma Taken You?
We love hearing from our alumni! Whether you've started a new career, continued your education, launched a business, or achieved a personal milestone, we'd love to learn about your journey.
Share your story with us by emailing infopontviau@swlauriersb.qc.ca with the subject line "ALUMNAE." Your experience may inspire current and future students as they pursue their own goals.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Congratulations to our award winners at the SWLSB Laurier Gala 2026!
- Abbas Shneiaa – CDC Vimont, School Perseverance
- Annabella Calisto – CDC Vimont, Sports
- Cooper Scott – CDC Lachute, School Perseverance
- Sukhpreet Singh- CDC Pont Viau, Secretarial Studies, School Perseverance
- Ingris Cuesta Suarez- CDC Pont Viau , Secretarial Studies, Academics
- Alice Zghib- CDC Pont Viau , Accounting, School Perseverance