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École Du Sommet celebrates francophone culture with flag raising

École Du Sommet kickstarted Les Rendez-vous de la Francophonie (RVF) in St. Paul with a flag-raising ceremony of the franco-albertain flag on March 6.

ST. PAUL – École Du Sommet kickstarted Les Rendez-vous de la Francophonie (RVF) in St. Paul with a flag-raising ceremony of the franco-albertain flag on March 6. RVF is an annual celebration of the French language and Francophone culture, which takes place across Canada throughout the month of March. 

This year, École Du Sommet began its RVF in collaboration with the local ACFA Régionale de Saint-Paul, promoting the diversity and vastness of the French community. 

“[RVF] promotes [Francophone] culture and gives that sense of community and sense of belonging to the French and Francophone community,” said Lise Gratton, principal of École du Sommet. “So that’s what we’re telling our students here... to be proud of who you are... of this heritage,” and to be proud of being a part of the French community in St. Paul, in Alberta, and in Canada. 

The flag-raising event also featured speakers, including local artist Herman Poulin who spoke to the students about the banners created by members of the francophone community in St. Paul and their meanings. 

The banners honour the francophone community and francophone families in the area. Several fo the banners are now hanging on St. Paul’s main street. 

Noëlla Hébert, administrative assistant at the school, also spoke to students about the progress that has been made for francophone education in the area, and the province. Hébert was among the pioneers of pushing francophone education in St. Paul. 

“She’s a true ambassador of francophone education here,” said Gratton. 

While the flag raising normally kicks off a month of celebration, the school has already held its Cabane à sucre on March 3. 

“It is an annual tradition at École du Sommet to organize the Carnasucre every spring,” explained the principial. “Students of all ages participated in outdoor games, relays, tubing and horse drawn sleigh rides while enjoying French folk music and enjoying maple syrup taffy.” 

Different activities showcasing francophone culture will be held at the school throughout the month, including some focused on music and dance. 

In francophone schools, it’s not just about learning the language, explained Gratton, but “you’re learning all of the programs and studies in French, as well as instilling the sense of identify and culture of the French community.” 

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