Students, parents and staff at Our Lady of Lourdes French Immersion Catholic School in Elliot Lake took time out Wednesday to share exercise and community venues outside and inside the school as part of the school’s first ever Flames ParticipACTION Day.
Organized by vice principal Nadia Zanatta and principal Stephane Prevost, the events brought together students to explore and participate in a wide range of recreational activities hosted at the school and with community groups in Elliot Lake.
It was the first time the school has hosted such an event which originated at St. Mary’s School in Blind River last year when Zanatta was a Grade 7-8 teacher.
“It has been a proven success last year (in Blind River) …where the idea originated,” she told Elliot Lake today.
Parents were invited to attend the joint the event with their children who attend Lourdes and watched and helped out at the events and took part in a free lunch held at the school. Bus transportation to other venues outside the school property was provided at no cost.
“At the school level, we will offer yoga/meditation with Raquelle Farquhar, dance with Catharine Gear, singing with Jewels and Gents, basketball, baseball, ball hockey, and volleyball,” the vice principal said of the events planned. “In the community, we will offer archery at the Elliot Lake Rod and Gun Club, martial arts at the Korean Martial Arts Centre, swimming at the pool, tennis at the tennis court (golf at Stone Ridge) and hiking in the community.”
“This is a great way to promote parental involvement in the school – exposing the students to the offerings within the community. The selections were solely based on student interest. Busing is provided to shuttle all students. All activities, as well as lunch are free for all involved,” Zanatta said.
“It’s a great opportunity for the community and families to get together for these events,” Prevost added.
Both teachers are hoping to make the day an annual event.