In September 2014, in light of the necessity of transforming the land surrounding the school, a widespread consultation was launched regarding the landscaping for a dream yard. The consultation began with the personnel and subsequently included parents. The project got underway with each class preparing a proposal which would be evaluated by a panel of judges. The proposals had to be original and realistic, and had to take into account our four seasons and the large number of children from 5 to 12 years of age who would use the yard. The contest was spread out over six weeks, and there was a real sense of anticipation in the air!
In February, the jury awarded the prize for the best project to a kindergarten class. However, when the professionals responsible for the dossier moved to their drawing boards to develop the final project, they took into account the proposals of the other students as well.
The project proposed by the professionals rallied teachers, pupils and parents, but the support of other parties was also needed. The members of the Board of Directors of the Corporation got on board quickly and, in a tangible way, supported the school administration. Then, the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary offered its support through a significant financial contribution . And, the Externat Mont-Jésus-Marie Foundation contributed by soliciting the parents for a special contribution. It was also necessary to get all the compulsory permits from the municipality within the time required so as not to delay the start of the work.
In order to achieve our dream yard in about 12 weeks, everyone had to join forces, from the professionals to the laborers, including all the collaborators. Weekend work was necessary in order to complete the project before the students arrived.