#Teach English in Ontario

[jkenvs3000w25]

Prompt 2: Describe your ideal role of environmental interpreter. What might it entail? Where could it be? What skills might you need? 

An environmental interpreter has a distinct role in society and aims to translate concepts pertaining to the environment to different audiences using an array of different communication methods. Just as a linguistic interpreter might translate English into French for a francophone, an environmental interpreter does the same thing but uses information pertaining to nature. 

Just as mentioned in this week’s content, there are various different types of learners. There are visual, tactile and auditory learners; all of whom understand information using different methodologies. For instance, I am a visual learner who prefers to have information presented in the form of visuals as opposed to text.  

Despite being a visual learner myself, my ideal role as an environmental interpreter would be to ensure I am a teacher who integrates all three learning styles into their teaching methods. More specifically, this means it would be necessary to approach my teaching with the notion that individuals learn differently from one another.  

Ideally, I would need to be adaptable and ready to change teaching styles in an instance. Especially if the engagement I am receiving in response to my teaching is very minimal. This would be an indicator that my target audience is not understanding the concept I am teaching. Engagement is a substantial teller for understanding.  

An example of when I might need to adapt is if I am explaining a complex concept, such as climate change. Due to the complexity of the topic, I might need to communicate the information in an easier-to-digest fashion to ensure that my target audience is engaged. This might entail using different tools and resources.  

I would also need to be succinct and a strong communicator. Being succinct would ensure I do not overcomplicate a concept, while being a strong communicator would ensure that I am able to convey a message without needing to provide too much context.  

When picturing myself as an environmental interpreter, I see myself working at a provincial park or nature reserve within Ontario. I see myself surrounding my target audience in the nature to which we are specifically speaking about. If I were lecturing about the natural escarpment that separates Milton and Guelph, I would ensure I immerse my target audience in a trail-walk experience that provides the most context and information. I would cater to the learning styles of all individuals. For those who are auditory learners, I would lecture along the trail-walk and ensure to include very interesting facts. The use of interesting facts will help the audience to retain information. As for my visual learners, I would ensure I show very specific landmarks that are related to the concepts I am discussing. Doing so will help the audience to make self-to-world connections and will improve the retention of information. For the tactile learners, I would ensure I include lots of exploration. 

Furthermore, I see myself creating specialized sessions that are catered to different audiences. This ensures optimal retention of information. For instance, if the target audience is a group of children, I would discuss less-complex concepts. Whereas if my target audience was a group of undergraduate students, I would provide more scientific explanations of natural phenomena of the environment.   

[niibaataa]

Nishnaabe Nagamonan

Disclaimer: Some works deal with historical wrongs, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, colonialism, and residential/boarding schools. Exercise caution.

Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm is a member of Saugeen Ojibway First Nation. Akiwenzie-Damm has served as Poet Laureate for Owen Sound and North Grey. In 1993, she established Kegedonce Press, a publishing house devoted to Indigenous writers. She has also authored Without Reservation: Indigenous Erotica.

Works: (Re)Generation, My Heart is a Stray Bullet.

Marie Annharte Baker is a member of Little Saskatchewan First Nation. Annharte's work concentrates on women, urban, Indigenous, disability, and related topics. She critiques life from Western Canada. After graduating with an English degree in the 1970s, she became involved in Native activism and was one of the first people in North America to teach a class entirely on Native women.

Works: Indigena Awry, Miskwagoode, Exercises in Lip Pointing.

Lesley Belleau is a member of Garden River First Nation. She is noted for her 2017 collection Indianland. She has an MA in English literature from the University of Windsor and is working on a PhD in Indigenous Studies from Trent University.

Works: Indianland.

Kimberly M. Blaeser is an enrolled member of the White Earth Reservation. Blaeser served as Wisconsin's Poet Laureate from 2015-2016. She is a professor of English at the University of Wisconsin-Miluwakee. A contemporary of Vizenor, she is the first critic to publish a book-length study on his fiction. She has been writing poetry since 1993.

Works: Apprenticed to Justice, Trailing You, Absentee Indians and Other Poems.

Diane Burns was a member of the Lac Courte Oreilles band. Burns was Anishinaabe through her mother and Chemehuevi through her father. Burns attended the Institute of American Indian Arts and Barnard College (within Columbia University). She was also an accomplished visual artist. She is considered an important figure within the Native American contemporary arts movement.

Works: Riding the One-Eyed Ford (available online).

Aja Couchois Duncan is a Bay Area educator, writer, and coach. Duncan is of Ojibwe, French, and Scottish descent. Her debut collection won the California Book Award. She holds an MFA in creative writing from San Francisco State University.

Works: Restless Continent, Vestigal.

Heid E. Erdrich is a member of the Turtle Mountain band. Erdrich is a granddaughter of Patrick Gourneau, who fought against Indian termination during his time as tribal chairman from 1953-1959. Erdrich holds a PhD in Native American Literature and Writing. Erdrich used to teach, but has since stepped back from doing it full-time. She directs Wiigwaas Press, an Ojibwe language publisher.

Works: Cell Traffic, The Mother's Tongue, Curator of Ephemera at the New Museum for Archaic Media.

Louise Erdrich is a member of the Turtle Mountain band. Erdrich is a granddaughter of Patrick Gourneau, who fought against Indian termination during his time as tribal chairman from 1953-1959. She is widely acclaimed as one of the most significant writers of the Native American Renaissance. Owner of Birchbark Books, an independent bookstore that focuses on Native Literature.

Works: Jacklight, Original Fire, Baptism of Desire.

David Groulx was raised in Elliott Lake, Ontario. Groulx is Ojibwe and French Canadian. He received his BA in Literature from Lakehead University and later studied creative writing at the En'owkin Centre in British Columbia. He has also studied creative writing at the University of Victoria.

Works: From Turtle Island to Gaza, Rising With a Distant Dawn, Imagine Mercy.

Gordon Henry Jr is an enrolled member of the White Earth Reservation. Gordon Henry Jr holds a PhD in Literature from the University of North Dakota and is currently a professor of English at Michigan State University. He has authored several novels and poetry collections and is a celebrated writer in Michigan.

Works: Spirit Matters, The Failure of Certain Charms.

Jane Johnston Schoolcraft was Born in Sault Ste. Marie on Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Schoolcraft was given the name of Bamewawagezhikaquay ('Woman of the Sound that the stars make Rushing Through the Sky') in Ojibwe. Her mother was Ozhaguscodaywayquay, the daughter of the Ojibwe war chief Waubojeeg. Her father was fur-trader John Johnston. Johnston is regarded as the first major Native American female writer. She wrote letters and poems in both English and Ojibwe.

Writeup containing works.

Denise Lajimodiere is a citizen of the Turtle Mountain band. Lajimodiere is considered an expert on Native American boarding schools following her work Stringing Rosaries, published in 2019. She is a poet, professor, scholar, and the current Poet Laureate of North Dakota.

Works: His Feathers Were Chains, Thunderbird: Poems, Dragonfly Dance.

Linda Legarde Grover is a member of the Bois Forte Band. She is a columnist for the Duluth Tribune and Professor Emeritus of American Indian Studies at University of Minnesota (Duluth). She has written poetry, short stories, and essays.

Works: The Sky Watched, Onigamiising.

Sara Littlecrow-Russel is of Ojibwe and Han-Naxi Métis descent. Russell is a lawyer and professional mediator as well as a poet. She has worked at the Center for Education and Policy Advocacy at the University of Massachusetts and for Community Partnerships for Social Change at Hampshire College.

Works: The Secret Powers of Naming.

Jim Northrup was a member of the Fond du Lac Reservation in Minnesota. Northrup lived a traditional lifestyle in his early years. As a child, he attended an Indian boarding school where he suffered physical abuse. Later in life, he served in the Vietnam war and experienced PTSD. Much of his poetry comes from these hardships.

Works: Walking the Rez Road, Rez Salute: The Real Healer Dealer, Anishinaabe Syndicated.

Duke Redbird was born in Saugeen First Nation. He became a ward of Children's Aid at nine months old when his mother died in a house fire. He began writing to give words to his experiences as an Indigenous man raised by white foster families. He is recognized as a key figure in the development of First Nations literature.

His poetry is available on his site.

Denise Sweet is a member of the White Earth Reservation in Minnesota. Sweet served as Wisconsin's Poet Laureate from 2004-2008. She has taught creative writing, literature, and mythology at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Works: Songs for Discharming, Palominos Near Tuba City.

Mark Turcotte is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band. Turcotte is a visiting assistant professor of English at DePaul University. He has published two books of poetry. His chapbook, Road Noise, was translated into French.

Works: The Feathered Heart, Exploding Chippewas.

E. Donald Two-Rivers was raised in Emo Township, Ontario. He moved to Chicago at age 16 and became involved with the Urban Native community there. A playwright, spoken-word performer, and a poet, Two-Rivers had been an activist for Native rights since the 1970s. He was the founding director of the Chicago-based Red Path Theater Company.

Works: Powwows, Fat Cats, and Other Indian Tales, A Dozen Cold Ones by Two-Rivers.

Gerald Vizenor is an enrolled member of the White Earth Reservation. Vizenor has published over 30 books. He taught at the University of California for many years and is currently at the University of New Mexico. He has a long history of political activism and he is considered one of the most prolific Indigenous ironists writing today.

Works: Favor of Crows, Cranes Arise, Empty Swings.

[phonaesthemes]

What if a Monopoly game board featured names and places relevant to Kanien'kehá:ka (Mohawk) culture instead of Reading Railroad and Park Place? That's what Niiakohontésha Gray envisioned when creating resources in Kanien'kéha, or the Mohawk language. "Whenever I was going to school ... we had a lot of different resources but I noticed I don't really have any games or [more fun] resources that you could play," said Gray, who is from Akwesasne, on the Quebec, Ontario and New York state borders. "I know for me, it's a lot easier learning whenever it's more fun." Gray is a graduate of Ratiwennahní:rats, a two-year adult language immersion program offered by the Kanien'kehá:ka Onkwawén:na Raotitióhkwa Language and Cultural Center in Kahnawà:ke, south of Montreal. After she graduated, she began teaching children at a grassroots immersion school in Ganienkeh, a settlement near Altona, N.Y. She noticed her students would always grab board games in English to play during their breaks, and wanted them to have options in their language.  She began translating and re-creating prototypes of various popular board games to reflect Kanien'kehá:ka language and culture and is now producing copies for other educators, language learners and their families. "I'm not the best speaker but I have an idea of what I want to do," she said.

That meant, instead of railroads, kids can land on kanonhséhsne —  longhouses — in Ganienkeh, Kahnawà:ke and Akwesasne. Tekiatén:ros, a matching game, uses words from a dictionary of Kanien'kéha nouns that is produced by the Kanien'kehá:ka Onkwawén:na Raotitióhkwa Language and Cultural Center. Teiotién:taron River McComber, who teaches in Ganienkeh and worked with Gray before she left for a new job in her community, says it's a creative way to reinforce the curriculum that students in Ratiwennahní:rats and elsewhere learn.  McComber was also in Ratiwennahní:rats, in the cohort a year ahead of Gray. "All the schools that I've been to would love to have these things because when I was working there [we] didn't have anything quite like this," said McComber. McComber said there aren't enough language resources available beyond the classroom, especially for children and even for many grassroots schools, being creative with the curriculum falls on the teachers. "Everybody would love this to happen but nobody is kind of taking time out of their work space to do it," said McComber.  "She's doing what she can, and it's wonderful." For Gray, doing this has helped her break out of her comfort zone by having to approach former classmates and elders to help with translations. "I have to reach out to people; I have to talk to people," she said. "I have a hard time reaching out to elders ... just because I know they're real fluent and I know that I'm not…. [I] just feel like I'm going to mess up and I'm just gonna embarrass myself. But I ended up reaching out to a few of them, and talked to them and … they helped me."

[goldenbloodytears]

I would really like to know more about Sam, without spoiling the plot of future projects what can you say about her and Danny in the asks 2, 3, 9, 10, 14 and 15?

Also if Sam was a character of the scream franchise which one would she be?

Send by Mx. 👍

2. How do they treat themselves when they're feeling sad?

Sam's go to is to put on Elton John (most likely Honky Chateau—I can probably write a small piece on how Rocket Man can be seen as a metaphor for gay alienation) and then probably get a big tub of ice cream going. She’s not a stranger to depressive spirals, but sad and depressed are not quite the same thing—she deals with sad a lot better than depressed I would say.

With Danny… I think he tends to bypass sad and go straight to irritated. I’m a big believer in old man Johnson toxic masculinity indoctrination, so Danny probably lowkey thinks crying is for weaklings (and women). I think he might result to trying to calm himself with a couple drinks if for some reason he can’t immediately fix the problem that is causing him to be sad/irritated… however, said combo is more likely to lower his inhibition… and that’s when you’re probably more likely to get an impromptu murder (in comparison to his more planned stories).

3. What parts of themselves do they tend to hide?

Sam tends to hide her sexuality. Or at least attempt to. She lives in a small town, and the gossip mill would surely have a field day with the local English lady reporter turning out to be a “lesbian” (because bisexuals don’t exist in 1994 /sarcasm). The result is where she’s inoffensive enough to not cause outright homophobic drama, but she’s not exactly living the best life she could be either… especially when she’s partly trying to play nice for a family that aren’t nearly as accepting as they could be.

Danny hides himself. To be clearer, I’ve been considering whether his usage of personas happen to allow him to connect with an element of himself that has long been suppressed by his old man’s teachings. This is kind of a half-baked thought that I need to think about more. It’s a bit like being a method actor, an inherent element of performance. Think about how many seemingly outgoing and over confident performers are actually rather introverted (and not just because of paparazzi hounds)… also consider how people tend to act more freely when anonymous, for good or ill. Danny hides a lot of himself, he hides his literal self as Danny, but also other elements. His sexuality just like Sam, since being a bisexual man in the 90s is just… asking for trouble. However, he’s so strongly manifested in his expected gender roles as a masculine military brat that you wouldn’t even guess he might be queer unless you went for some crazy extreme like the fact he tends to dress well on average. I don’t think his personas suddenly act flaming (just to be clear) but he’s a little bit nicer, way more talkative, a little bit goofier/nerdier and I don’t think it’s entirely an act (although he believes it is and will tell you so).

9. What are their insecurities?

Sam is insecure about many things at the start of the story. This isn’t really a plot spoiler. She’s insecure about the fact both her brothers are married with kids, she’s insecure about the fact she’s queer, she’s insecure about her relationship with her girlfriend. She’s insecure about her future in the province she was born in—quick history lesson, in 1994 Quebec proposed a provincial referendum to decide whether the citizens of Quebec largely supported the idea of Quebec becoming its own sovereign country to be voted on in 1995. There was a major divide along language lines with English speaking Quebecers largely supporting the federalist Canadian position (No) while the French-speaking Québécois generally supported the sovreignist Yes side. There was a large exodus of English speaking Quebecers from the province around this time, settling in Ontario and Alberta primarily. You had small towns with flourishing English populations suddenly lose multiple families which had lived there for generations only for the towns to become much more French. This is the situation Sam finds herself facing, working as a local English newspaper which is now struggling as a result of less readership… so honestly she’s even kinda insecure about the future of her job too, period, lol.

I think Danny’s insecurities would require a whole post of their own, however, I’ve briefly touched on one of them in question 15.

10. What are their emotional triggers?

For Sam: curiosity, fear, frustration.

For Danny: boredom, frustration, praise.

I’m not entirely sure what this question is asking so I’ve kinda listed the emotions that I think are most likely to motivate them to do something for good or worse.

14. What kind of people do they tend to gravitate towards?

Sam tends to gravitate towards people with big personalities. She’s a much more subdued person and kinda lives vicariously through them. She’s intrigued by the promise of life outside small town Quebec, so it’s very easy to get her attention with stories of travel. She has a major obsession with this random cold case that happened when she was a teenager, to the point that everyone thinks she’s a little bit weird for it, and in this way she’s also drawn to people that will put up with this particular quirk. I think you can already see where I’m going with this.

Danny, like a true confidence trickster, is drawn to people most likely to believe his bullshit. This doesn’t mean he looks for idiots, he’s still a bit of a wannabe academic blowhard in spirit and as such I think he’s still drawn to people who profess at least a bit of a braincell…. But it’s the trust element. He’s looking for people who want to believe what he says. He’s also looking for people who think he’s cool. Even if he’s Jed or persona #632.

So when taking these tendencies together, you can already kind of start to see how Danny and Sam compliment each other in terms of the people they are seeking. They’re both looking for somebody who’s going to gas them up—feed their egos and hope for the future.

15. What do they like/dislike about themselves?

Sam likes her skills as a journalist, she feels like her stubbornness is a useful trait. She wishes she was better at being more traditionally feminine. She dislikes her height, at 5’10” she towers over a lot of guys and it’s worse if she wears heels.

I feel like we all have a rough idea of what Danny “likes” about himself, so I’ll focus on what he dislikes. His emotionality. He knows he can be impulsive, and he thinks feelings like fear, anger, and sadness are not particularly useful for himself when he’s supposed to be this killer who goes around murdering in the night. If he could be a mindless killer, I’m sure he would do so.

Bonus: What character in Scream would Sam be?

Hmmm, that’s a very good question. I think I would need to do a complete series rewatch to really pin it down but I think she would kinda be a weird proxy if you were to mix Gail and Dewey together (she’s their forbidden baby). She has a lot of Gail’s tenacious journalism qualities but she’s a lot nicer, similar to Dewey. Her brother Chris is also a cop, so she’s a little bit functional to Tatum in a way.

[english-lessons-bolzano]

HOW TO SAY "SCUOLA ELEMENTARE" IN ENGLISH

1 ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (Canada, US, Philippines, historically UK, education) A school for children, typically older than toddlers and younger than adolescents. In the U.S., elementary schools cover grades 1 through 5, and the ages of the children are usually 6-11 years. At a minimum, elementary schools will teach basic reading, writing, arithmetic, and history.

2 PRIMARY SCHOOL

(British, Australia, sometimes Philippines, education) A formal, obligatory kind of school that typically begins with nursery school or first grade and ends at fifth or sixth grade.

3 GRADE SCHOOL

(US, Philippines, rarely Canada, education)

4 GRAMMAR SCHOOL

(US, rare, regional)

5 JUNIOR SCHOOL

(UK) A school providing education to children in Key Stage 2, i.e. for four academic years from September after a child's 7th birthday.

(Australia) Usually a part of a private school that educates children between the ages of 2 and 5.

(Canada, chiefly Ontario) A school teaching children from kindergarten to Grade 5; an elementary school.

6 LOWER SCHOOL or FIRST SCHOOL

(UK, education) In the three-tier education system, a school for children until the age of eight or nine.

Silvio Pasqualini Bolzano inglese ripetizioni English

[sipsofsecrets]

ˏˋ 𓂃 ( ana de armas. cis-female. she/her. ). meet amara morales cortez, a 36 year old, who has been in cloyne for 11 years. they are a teacher at clone high school, known for being graceful even in stressful situations and their home-wrecker reputation. they are often heard humming along to young and beautiful by lana del rey. residents would describe them as the mayor's mistress. ( klein, 29, she/her, est )

A U R A

soft rustling of silk as she walks through her home, a mixture of grace and purpose in every step. shadows cast by flickering candlelight during late-night reading sessions, a glass of red wine untouched beside her. scent of aged wood and books in her study, a space where she finds peace amidst the chaos of her life. quiet moments after a playful argument with her husband, his words still lingering in the air as she considers what it would mean to give up teaching. sound of her children playing in the background, their laughter a reminder of the family she’s built, though she longs for more. sharp click of her heels as she leaves the school after a long day, knowing her husband would prefer her home, but feeling too attached to the life she’s created for herself. late nights curled up with a book, one hand absentmindedly resting on her stomach, thinking about the possibility of another child. classical music echoing through the house while she cooks dinner for her family, an elegant façade hiding the fear underneath.

P R O F I L E

birth name: ana maria rojas, amara morales (given when she entered witness protection), amara morales cortez (she took the last name cortez after marrying victor).

nicknames: the first lady (a nickname among locals, acknowledging her position as the mayor’s wife), the mayor's mistress.

date of birth: april 30, 1988.

age: 36.

height: 5'6" / 167 cm.

gender: cis-female.

pronouns: she/her.

sexuality: bisexual heterosexual.

relationship status: married to victor cortez (the mayor).

birthplace: havana, cuba.

currently resides: cloyne, ontario.

husband: victor cortez, the mayor of cloyne.

children: 7-year-old twins (mateo and clara cortez).

step-children: emilio (21 y/o) and julian cortez (22 y/o) from victor’s previous marriage.

religion: catholic (non-practicing, more out of habit than faith)

education: undergraduate degree (history+ english literature), teaching certificate

languages: spanish (native), english (fluent), french (basic).

occupation: history + social studies teacher at cloyne high school.

A T T R I B U T E S

preferred hand: left-handed

blood type: O+ (universal donor, think the giving tree)

allergies: none

physical health: maintains an active lifestyle, balancing the demands of motherhood with self-care. practices yoga when she has time, but isn’t rigid about it.

mental health: occasional bouts of paranoia. deals with suppressed fear of her past catching up to her (especially regarding the safety of her family). compartmentalizes emotions and stress to maintain control. haunted by memories of her early life causes her sleepless nights or vivid flashbacks

P E R S O N A

taurus sun. intj. melancholic. 6w5 (the loyalist).

graceful (maintains her composure in every situation). intelligent (planning ahead to stay in control of her life). compassionate (deeply cares for her husband, children, students, and those closest to her). self-controlled (rarely acts impulsively).

secretive (she guards her past carefully). mistrustful (years of hiding have made her wary of others). perfectionist (she strives for flawlessness in everything she does, mistakes could unravel her life).

R E L A T I O N S

her husband: amara calls victor "mi sol," a term of endearment that signifies the steady, grounding force he is in her life. despite their deep connection, there is ongoing tension between them.

children: her relationship with her twins is loving, and she is a dedicated mother. however, her relationship with her step-sons is more strained. they remain wary of her, knowing she was once their father’s mistress. while she tries to play the role of a nurturing stepmother, there is a distance between them, and amara senses they don’t fully trust her.

students: as a teacher at cloyne high school, amara is respected for her compassion. she’s known for being firm but fair.

reputation in cloyne: amara is known for her composure, even in the face of scandal. despite being the mayor’s wife, many in town still refer to her as “the mayor’s mistress,” a label that follows her due to the circumstances of her marriage. she’s both admired for her elegance and whispered about for her past. her reputation as a home-wrecker hasn’t faded over the years, but she carries herself with dignity, never reacting to the gossip.

public persona: amara is the epitome of grace. she dresses impeccably and speaks carefully, always conscious of how she is perceived. while the town still gossips about her past, she never gives them fuel for new rumours. she attends town events as the mayor’s wife, playing the part of the supportive spouse.

H A B I T S

sips her coffee slowly, savouring it.

never rushing through mornings.

organizes her desk meticulously.

taps her nails against her glass or on her desk when she is deep in thought.

L I K E S

vintage perfume (prefers the scent of jasmine, sandalwood, and leather—her signature fragrance).

books (historical fiction and mystery novels and erotica).

fine cigars (especially if they're cuban).

rare, vintage jewelry

away from her children and husband's eyes: bourbon (prefers it neat, a reminder of her power and control).

hunting (another sport she does not like to indulge in around her children nor her husband).

D I S L I K E S

discussing her past or her family in cuba.

invasion of her personal space.

unannounced visits.

public scrutiny.

messes. especially bloody messes.

A P P E A R A N C E

so strikingly beautiful that her presence that commands attention, her features are soft but strong at the same time. light eyes, full lips, dark hair. her body is lean and tone, she walks with the grace of royalty.

S T Y L E

often wears tailored dresses, fitted blouses and slacks. at home she favours soft, comfortable fabrics like cashmere sweaters and silk robes but her wardrobe has always been stocked with elegance.

T A T T O O S

a small delicate sun tattoo on her ribcage just beneath her heart (mi sol). a delicate constellation on the inside of her right wrist with two stars representing her twins-- below each star are their birthdates in roman numerals.

S T O R I E S U N T O L D

1988: ana maria rojas was born in havana, cuba. her father was deeply involved in organized crime. despite this, he loved his children deeply, and when his criminal ties put them at risk, he made a deal with the united states government to become an informant.

1999: by age of 11, ana maria witnessed several heinous crimes due to her father’s criminal involvement. these experiences deeply affected her, making her develop a strong aversion to messes and blood. as the danger grew, her father arranged for her to be smuggled out of cuba to miami for her safety. ana had to leave her brother behind, who was only 9 years old because he had already been pulled into the gang, which has haunted her ever since.

2003: by the time she turned 15, ana maria was placed in the witness protection program and moved to canada, under the new identity of amara morales. the increased risk to her life prompted this move.

2003 - 2012: during her years in vancouver, canada amara lived with foster parents who gave her stability, but she always carried the trauma of leaving her brother behind in cuba. she feared that the criminal organizations her father betrayed might find her, so she stayed vigilant and distant from others. the memories of the crimes she witnessed in cuba continued to shape her, causing her deep discomfort with anything bloody or messy.

2012: after the mysterious death of her foster parents, amara felt the need to leave vancouver and start fresh. she relocated to cloyne, ontario, seeking a quiet, hidden life.

2013: amara met victor cortez, the mayor of cloyne, at a time when she was desperate for stability and security. she viewed him as her safety net in a world that constantly felt unstable. that is how their scandal began. though the town gossiped and even labeled her as “the mayor’s mistress," she clung to victor, seeing him as the foundation to the new life she had always longed for.

2017: amara and victor married, and she became amara morales cortez. they had twins, and amara found some peace in motherhood. perhaps this is why she longs for another child. she wants the peace and distraction of a baby's cry. or maybe it's because the rumours the town spreads have a deeper effect on her psyche than she cares to show.

present: amara lives a life of constant vigilance, even though she outwardly seems to have it all—a family, a husband, and a career. she is haunted by memories of her brother and the crimes she witnessed, forever torn between the life she’s built and the past she’s tried to bury.

W A N T E D C O N N E C T I O N S

THE JOURNALIST – there’s a local reporter who has always been suspicious of amara's past. they’ve been quietly investigating her for years, convinced there’s more to her than just being the mayor’s wife.

THE EX-LOVER - before marrying victor, amara had a brief but intense relationship with someone in cloyne. though the affair ended, there’s still a flicker of unresolved tension whenever they see each other.

THE STEP-SON - one of victor’s adult sons still harbours deep resentment toward amara for breaking up his parents’ marriage. their interactions are cold and hostile, but there’s an underlying tension of unresolved conflict between them.

THE BEST FRIEND – amara’s closest confidante in cloyne is a fellow teacher at the high school. they bond over their shared love of history and their ability to keep each other’s secrets, providing emotional support when needed.

THE FORMER STUDENT - amara remains close to a former student who has grown up and is now friends with her step-sons. despite their friendship with her step-sons, this person maintains a special bond with amara, often turning to her for advice and guidance.

THE PARENT FRIEND – one of the other moms from her children’s school has become a casual friend. they bond over school events and playdates, providing amara with a light, friendly connection outside her family drama.

[peblezq]

Weird personal tidbit: I attended Catholic school growing up. Where I'm from in Ontario, Canada, Catholic schools are run by another public school board. The main difference is just the inclusion of religion class and uniforms. We also had school masses in the gym that were painfully boring, but it always meant shorter classes that day, so we all accepted it as a breath of fresh air from the weight of schoolwork and responsibilities. I was in choir, and the curtains on the gym stage closed when we weren't performing, so it was easier for us to kinda look bored without being reprimanded.

Anywho, when Pope Francis was like sworn in or whatever it's called, our teachers were excited because our school was named after Saint Francis. Our school was different from the other Catholoc schools in the district. We had an LGBTQ club run by our openly gay English teacher. He's also the reason why I became a writer, but I digress. Having Pope Francis be a decent person was super normal for us, but when we heard about (mostly American) Catholics and Christians being upset about his open-minded views, it truly baffled us.

I was in 12th grade philosophy class when our teacher told us all 50 states allowed gay marriage finally. We were all confused since we assumed it was already legal there.

When I was 6, I was a flower girl at two men's wedding. They worked for my dad's family business, and all employees were like family to us, so when they said they were getting married and invited us, I asked if I could be a flower girl. Everyone was on board. It was a normal wedding. I barely remember anything except throwing cake at one of the groom's nice beige pants, and he retaliated by throwing me in a pool in my nice dress.

Seeing the state of America now, and how it's deeply affecting Canada, but mostly where I'm from because Niagara Falls shares a border with the US, it's made things very weird here for us.

Some people are afraid that America will invade us. Some think Trump is a joke. Some agree with him, though that opinion is only shared through whispers since majority of us are just annoyed with how Trump ruined a very old and previously solid relationship between our countries.

Niagara Falls didn't have a strict border 100 years ago. We intermingled with Americans because we were neighbours.

Now, our job market has gotten somehow WORSE because businesses are holding back on employing anyone on fears of how the Tarrifs will affect their money flow. Now we have to wait as long as Americans for Switch 2 pre-orders and deal with price hikes simply because our neighbours were annoying. My brother, who wanted to visit LA, is now afraid to travel to a country that would insist he is a woman.

Pope Francis passing away reminded me of simpler times in our little bubble of a school, where we just kinda accepted people for who they were and didn't fully comprehend how awful the world could be sometimes. I was taught that Jesus accepted all the little freaks in the world and he was crucified for it, and yet people crucify the very people he would protect in his name? Look, I don't consider myself Catholic anymore. I haven't since I was 18. But I believe in following good messages from compelling stories to teach us how to treat each other and the world we share.

I'm not the praying type, and I only have certain skills, but I promise to continue to share my silly stories. Because at the end of the day, when I get a comment on an old fic I wrote, someone talking about how reading it made their day better, that is enough to keep me positive minded and to not allow myself to spiral in all this negativity.

On a slightly unrelated note, I also remembered that gay teacher spending an entire writer's craft class trying to convince us that Destiel would be Endgame. I had no idea what he was talking about at the time, but now I wanna message him and just say, "You were so right about Destiel, and it completely went over my head in highschool, dude."

(Source)

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[usca-academy]

How to Choose the Right High School in Canada: 5 Key Factors for Parents and Student

Choosing the right high school is one of the most important decisions in a student’s life — and for families planning to study in Canada, it can feel overwhelming. With so many schools offering different programs, environments, and teaching methods, how do you know which one is right for you or your child?

At USCA Academy, we’ve helped hundreds of students and parents make this life-changing choice. Here’s a guide to help you narrow down your options and make a smart, informed decision.

1. ✅ Make Sure the School Is Accredited

First and foremost, check if the school is recognized by the Ministry of Education in the province. In Ontario, for example, schools must be inspected and authorized to issue the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) — a requirement for applying to Canadian universities.

USCA Academy is an accredited private school under the Ontario Ministry of Education and proudly grants the OSSD to its graduates.

2. 👩‍🏫 Look for Personalized Support

A school that offers small class sizes and individual academic planning can make a huge difference. Personalized attention helps students stay on track, feel supported, and reach their full potential — especially if they are adapting to a new education system.

At USCA Academy, students benefit from dedicated counselors, flexible learning paths, and one-on-one support.

3. 🌎 Consider the School’s International Focus

If you’re an international student, make sure the school is prepared to support your transition. This includes offering:

English as a Second Language (ESL) support

Homestay options

Visa guidance

University application assistance

USCA Academy has a strong international program and welcomes students from over 25 countries.

4. 🎯 Check University Success Rates

One of the best indicators of a school's quality is the success of its graduates. Ask questions like:

Where do students go after graduation?

Does the school offer university prep or counseling?

Our graduates go on to study at top institutions like the University of Toronto, McMaster University, and York University, thanks to our structured university preparation services.

5. 🏙️ Think About Location & Lifestyle

Canada is a large country, so the city and environment matter. For example, Mississauga is a safe, modern city next to Toronto, filled with amenities, multicultural communities, and access to major universities.

Being located in Mississauga, USCA Academy provides both the safety of a suburban environment and the opportunity of a major metropolitan region.

Final Thoughts

The right high school can open doors, shape your future, and build lifelong confidence. As you explore your options in Canada, take time to evaluate the academic offerings, support systems, and community environment of each school.

If you're looking for a school that blends academic excellence, global diversity, and personalized learning, USCA Academy might be the perfect fit.

📍 Ready to learn more? Visit: www.uscaacademy.com 📧 Email: info@uscaacademy.com 📞 Call: +1 (905) 232-0411

[adrabas]

Bridging Tradition and Education: How Jewish Schools in Ontario Shape Bright Futures

Ontario’s Jewish education programs offer a dynamic blend of academic rigour and cultural enrichment, empowering students to excel academically while remaining rooted in their heritage. The Jewish education program in Ontario caters to students of all ages, from early childhood to high school, and provides a unique educational experience where faith, values, and learning intersect.

A Dual Curriculum for Holistic Development

At the core of Ontario’s Jewish education programs is the dual curriculum model, which seamlessly integrates general studies with Jewish studies. Students engage in standard academic subjects such as mathematics, science, and English while exploring Jewish history, Torah studies, and the Hebrew language. This approach ensures that students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for future academic and professional pursuits without compromising their cultural and religious identity.

For instance, Judaic studies courses not only focus on religious texts but also develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical reasoning. The rigorous general studies curriculum ensures students meet provincial educational standards, equipping them with the tools to excel in higher education and beyond.

Instilling Jewish Values

Beyond academics, Jewish education programs in Ontario place a strong emphasis on instilling values such as compassion, community responsibility, and ethical conduct. These values are rooted in Jewish teachings and are woven into the fabric of daily school life.

Students learn the importance of Tikkun Olam, which inspires them to engage in community service and social justice initiatives. Additionally, they are encouraged to embody traits like honesty, humility, and respect, fostering character development alongside intellectual growth.

Fostering a Strong Sense of Identity

A key goal of Jewish education programs in Ontario is to nurture a strong sense of Jewish identity and pride. This is achieved through the celebration of Jewish holidays, the exploration of Jewish history, and the study of the Hebrew language. Students develop a deep connection to their heritage, understanding the significance of their traditions while also appreciating the global Jewish experience.

Programs often include experiential learning opportunities such as school trips to Israel, which offer students firsthand experiences of Jewish culture and history. These immersive experiences strengthen their sense of belonging to the global Jewish community while enriching their educational journey.

Preparing Students for the Future

Ontario’s Jewish education programs also prioritize preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. Schools leverage technology and innovative teaching methods to enhance learning, ensuring students are equipped with 21st-century skills. College and university preparatory programs are integrated into the curriculum, helping students transition seamlessly to higher education.

The Jewish education revolution fostered by ADRABA embodies the perfect balance between academic excellence and cultural enrichment. By combining rigorous academics with deeply rooted Jewish values, these programs prepare students to thrive in a rapidly changing world while staying true to their heritage. As a result, graduates emerge as confident, capable, and compassionate individuals ready to contribute to their communities and beyond. Call 437 777 2372 to learn more about their courses.

[qwschoolcanada]

Choosing the Best International Online High School In Canada

QW Language School in Brampton specializes in providing a wide variety of language classes to students in Ontario. Our highly trained staff is aimed to enable students to grow in their careers through English language pedagogy. QW School teaches English ensuring that, after gaining command of English, our learners are able to reach communication fluency and provide them a stronger professional skillset. As one of the best international online high schools, we offer flexible and effective language learning opportunities for students worldwide

[qwschool-1]

The Best High School Online In Brampton 

QW School leads the league of the best high schools online in Ontario, Canada. Complete focus on teaching students to achieve credit courses to get their OSSD (Ontario Secondary School Diploma), opportunities for all students, Preparatory language classes, English Language Program, University Preparation and Placement Assistance, and a range of part-time and full-time courses are some reasons for it. Visit our official website to know in detail about it.  https://www.qwschool.ca/

[rickanderson123]

Why Truck Driver Canada Immigration is a Top Choice for Skilled Workers

Are you looking for a rewarding career in Canada? The Canadian trucking industry needs skilled drivers like you. With thousands of open positions and great pay, truck driver Canada immigration offers a clear path to a new life. Companies across the country are ready to welcome international drivers who want to build their future here.

Moving to Canada as a truck driver makes sense right now. The country needs more drivers to keep goods moving between cities and provinces. This has made truck driver Canada immigration one of the fastest ways to start a new life in Canada.

Essential Requirements and Licensing

You don't need perfect English to start. Many companies help new drivers improve their language skills while working. They also teach you about Canadian roads and weather. The first step is checking if your driving license meets Canadian rules. Most provinces offer simple steps to switch your license to a Canadian one.

Provincial Immigration Programs and Opportunities

Each province has special programs to bring in truck drivers. Ontario and Alberta need drivers the most. They often speed up truck driver Canada immigration papers for qualified drivers.

You can start by looking at which province matches your skills and goals. Think about things like weather, city size, and job options.

Comprehensive Benefits and Compensation

Canadian trucking jobs come with valuable benefits. Most companies offer health insurance from day one. You get paid vacation time and sick days too. Many drivers earn extra pay for long trips or working at night. Your family can also get health care once you settle in.

Canadian roads are well-kept and safe. You'll learn new skills like driving in snow and using special safety gear. Companies teach you everything you need to know.

Settlement Support and Community Integration

Moving to a new country is a big step. That's why many trucking companies help with housing and paperwork. They can connect you with language classes and community groups. Some even help your family find schools and doctors. This support makes your move much easier. You'll find many other drivers who came from your country, ready to share tips and help you settle in.

Career Growth and Business Opportunities

Trucking jobs in Canada offer clear paths for advancement. You can become a trainer, or manager, or even start your own trucking business.

Many drivers who came through truck driver Canada immigration now own their trucks or run small fleets. Your hard work and skills can lead to excellent opportunities in this growing industry.

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What makes Onlinepteielts stand apart is its structured curriculum along with effective teaching methods directed at improving your English language skills. Regardless of the IELTS test type-General or Academic-they have prepared online coaching sessions that assist you in your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.

The online site makes it convenient to learn anywhere, thus learning at one's own pace while receiving expert guidance. You'll also get mock tests with feedback to track your progress and confidence before sitting the exam.

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[mariacallous]

As 350 Jews with roots in the former Soviet Union gathered recently for a weekend conference at a Canadian Niagara Falls resort, Montreal was experiencing one of the worst outbreaks of antisemitic violence in Canada in this century.

Hundreds of protesters smashed shop windows, attacked police officers, set fire to cars, and waved Hamas and Hezbollah flags. The violence sent chills through Canada’s Jewish community—at over 330,000, the Diaspora’s third-largest after the United States and France.

“This is a clear warning sign that demands a decisive response from all who uphold democratic values,” Raheli Baratz, head of the World Zionist Organization’s Department for Combating Antisemitism and Enhancing Resilience, said of the Niagara Falls conference organized by Limmud FSU Canada. “We must unite in the fight against hate and protect the safety of all Canadian citizens.”

Several speakers at the event focused on the problem of antisemitism. The conference was hosted by Limmud FSU, the nonprofit organization that caters to the 60,000 or so Canadian Jews with roots in countries like Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and others that once comprised the Soviet Union. Since the first conference in 2005, at least 90 events across the globe have been hosted by 13 volunteer teams with over 80,000 participants.

The Nov. 22-24 gathering at Ontario’s White Oaks Resort & Spa also coincided with a sharp escalation of the Russian war in Ukraine, now in its third year. Shelly Pisarenko, 32, has roots in both countries. In 1989 her parents moved to Israel, where she was born. Now married, Pisarenko attends Toronto’s York University, where she says antisemitism is pervasive.

“I don’t feel physically threatened, but it’s dangerous to disclose who you are,” said Pisarenko, a psychology major also studying for her Ontario teaching license. “You have to be very careful with whom you share your Jewish identity. Really, I try to avoid any sort of protests on campus.”

Pisarenko leads Limmud FSU Canada’s Young Professionals committee, whose focus this year was on responding to Jew hatred and verbal abuse, whether on campus or at the workplace.

The festival’s theme was “We Will Dance Again,” a tribute to the 364 people massacred by Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7, 2023 at the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Re’im in southern Israel.  

Workshops in English and Russian covered weighty topics such as “God and the Holocaust: Can They Coexist?” and “Wars in Ukraine and Israel: Against a Common Enemy.” Lighter fare was on the agenda too, such as a lecture on the history of Jamaica’s Jews, a halachic analysis of artificial intelligence, and a debate on the relative health benefits and risks of drinking coffee.

Pro-Israel social influencer Rudy Rochman offered a seminar on understanding and combating antisemitism. Mayor Jeremy Levi of Hampstead, a heavily Jewish upscale suburb of Montreal, spoke on what it’s like to be a politician and a Jew in Canada post-Oct. 7. Uzi Dayan, former head of the Israeli National Security Council, spoke on “What happened on Oct. 7: First 24 hours and beyond.”

Melissa Lantsman, 40, the first Jewish woman ever to serve as a Conservative Party lawmaker in Canada’s House of Commons, also spoke. Elected three years ago, she represents the Toronto suburb of Thornhill, home to more than 10,000 Jews of ex-Soviet origin.

One of the most powerful presentations came from Maya Regev, 22, and her brother Itay, 18, who were kidnapped from the Nova festival, dragged to Gaza and held hostage there by Hamas. The siblings were released in a hostage deal and returned home 59 days later.

Vicky Sirkovich, 19, a Canadian-born business technology student whose mother is from Russia and father is from Moldova, said, “It was difficult for me to listen to them, but everyone should have been at that lecture.”

This was Sirkovich’s first Limmud FSU event; she had planned to volunteer at last year’s conference, but it was cancelled after the Oct. 7 attack. 

“It was so nice to see everybody together,” Sirkovich said. “I don’t attend conferences very often, but everyone there had the same background: Jewish and Russian-speaking. And any event where I can be among Jewish people is a great event for me.”

Participants came not just from Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa but also from Atlanta, New York and Boston.

“Despite the challenges facing Israel and the Jewish world, we see a real enthusiasm for Jewish learning, for community and for being together,” said Limmud FSU founder Chaim Chesler. “It’s an incredible thing to witness.” 

Co-founder Sandra Cahn added, “Our amazing Canadian team continues to inspire and impress with its dedication and impact.” 

Key supporters of Limmud FSU in Canada include the Conference on Jewish Material Claims against Germany, the Jewish National Fund (KKL), World Zionist Organization, UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, the Canadian Forum of Russian-Speaking Jews, and philanthropists Harry Rosenbaum, Diane Wohl, Shoel Silver, Warren Kimel, Henry Koschitzky, Mickey Blayvas, Alex Shtein and Bill Hess, among others. Besides Chesler and Cahn, the organization’s leaders include Matthew Bronfman and Malcolm Hoenlein. 

Sergey Petrenko, president of Limmud FSU Canada, learned about Limmud FSU from his son Dan, who attended his first Limmud conference in 2015 along with friends from the Jewish summer camp where he’d worked. Petrenko and his wife Ella, both from Odessa, immigrated to Israel at a young age and moved to Canada 18 years ago for business reasons.  

“A huge part of the Russian-speaking Jewish community was robbed of its Jewish roots while living in the Soviet Union,” Petrenko said. “The main goal of Limmud FSU is to gain it back.”

Limmud FSU festivals generally feature kosher food, klezmer music, Russian-language comedy shows and a cheerful atmosphere. 

“But this year it was different,” Petrenko observed. “We gathered under the very heavy shadow of the events of Oct. 7. The whole community is heartbroken over the hostages.”

Petrenko said Oct. 7 was a turning point for his family. His son Dan, 26, and his daughter Michal, 24, found themselves blocked on social media by non-Jewish friends in the weeks following.

“Our daughter said she didn’t feel safe in Canada anymore and started to look for a job in Israel, which she eventually found,” he said. “Hate has increased enormously in all countries where Jews live, and Canada is no exception.”

Amid these challenges, Natasha Chechik, the executive director of Limmud FSU, expressed a sense of hope and trust in the strength of the community. 

“Canada has rapidly become one of our flagship events, with so much potential for growth,” she said. “Despite the antisemitism on the rise, this incredible team and community continue to shine as a beacon of resilience, and we cannot wait to see what 2025 has in store for them.”

[qwschoolca]

Exploring The Best Private Online High Schools In Canada

QW School tops the list of the Best Online Schools in Canada. It is in this league for several reasons. Our English Language Learners Policy is a big reason for it. Our teachers develop and implement effective teaching and assessment strategies to help English learners succeed in their online courses. Please visit the official website and see everything. Have any questions? Let's make a call!