 | It’s been one week since St. Lawrence Secondary School (SLSS) opened its doors as a grades 7-11 school, and Principal Chris Boulay says the transition has been “tremendous and extremely smooth." “Our September start-up has been great,” Boulay said. | |
Cornwall - Sep. 14, 2011 - It’s been one week since St. Lawrence Secondary School (SLSS) opened its doors as a grades 7-11 school, and Principal Chris Boulay says the transition has been “tremendous and extremely smooth.
“Our September start-up has been great,” Boulay said. “You can feel the enthusiasm in the school. You can tell the students and staff are reenergized.”
SLSS, previously known as St. Lawrence Intermediate School, is one of two Cornwall schools that have introduced a grade structure transition this year. Cornwall Collegiate and Vocational School now welcomes students in Grades 7-12, and in September 2012 SLSS will do the same.
“There is a more mature presence within the school,” said Boulay. “The grade 11 students have come back to school as young adults, and they have a more sharpened focus. They are paying closer attention to post-secondary and future leadership opportunities. With the option of participating in co-operative education, I know our students will be excellent community ambassadors.
“In addition, the grades 6-7 transition has been smooth,” he added. “Our grade 7 Welcome Barbeque two weeks ago allowed incoming students the opportunity to get comfortable with their new school and surroundings.”
Boulay also said he was excited about the number of parents who approached him during the barbecue who said they were very impressed by the school’s mission, vision and beliefs.
“The new students seem happy, and I already see signs of them thriving,” he said.
This year, students can enjoy some new changes to school facilities including a new computer lab, hairstyling studio, Quality Daily Physical Education fitness room, dance studio, grades 7-8 wing, and new handicap accessible washrooms.
Also new this year is the Specialist High Skills Major in Hospitality and Tourism - complete with a brand new kitchen which should be completed second semester - as well as an open concept library with wireless Internet and comfortable seating.
Boulay said he and many students are also excited about the return of a junior boys football team. In fact, the team’s first game of the year will be against CCVS this Wednesday.
“What I’m most looking forward to this year is increased school spirit, student involvement, student ambassadors and student leadership as we get ready to become a Grades 7-12 school in 2012,” said Boulay.
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