Students return to class at Dorval Elementary as new school year begins
Posted August 29, 2025 6:37 am.
Last Updated August 29, 2025 2:39 pm.
It was back to books and backpacks Friday morning as students returned to Dorval Elementary School to kick off the new school year on Montreal’s West Island.
Dorval Elementary is one of several schools under the Lester B. Pearson School Board, which serves more than 19,000 youth sector students across the West Island — stretching from Verdun to the Ontario border. The board also supports more than 6,000 adult learners.
Families gathered early, sharing hugs and words of encouragement before the bell rang. There was excitement in the air — but also some first-day jitters.
“It’s the first day back to school for my two daughters,” said parent Jinny Conte. “We’re always excited. Just happy that they’re at such a wonderful school, but also nervous. The start of the school year brings on excitement and nerves all at the same time.”
A new beginning for the principal
For Principal France Poirier, it was also a first day — her very first at Dorval Elementary.
“Today is a very special back to school for me as it is my first day here at Dorval Elementary as the principal,” she said. “So I just feel like the little kindergarten students — a little anxious, a little nervous, but really excited for a great school year.”
Poirier emphasized that collaboration will be the key to success.
“I work in collaboration with my staff, with my teachers. We also work with our professionals, our consultants, and we have nice projects…. It’s all a team effort.”
Students share first-day feelings
Inside the school, students were excited about getting to know their teachers, organizing supplies and settling into their routines.
“Today is just going to be getting to know the kids in our class,” said Milania, a Grade 5 student. “I’m excited to see all my friends, play with my friends, to see my teachers. Welcome back, everyone.”
Her younger sister Aviana, in Grade 2, was just as ready.
“I’m excited to see my friends, play and go inside and work and have those fun memories back,” she said.
The sisters had also planned their first-day outfits with care.
“We always love to be matchy every time in school so that people could pick us up — okay, those are the two yellow sisters or the green sisters. So we like to match every day,” Milania explained,
Teachers focused on student well-being
Marc Traversy, who teaches in the school’s maker space, said the first day was about easing into routines and building trust.
“Today is a big day. It’s back to school day,” he said. “Teachers are nervous…. Kids are also nervous. So yeah, we’re going to make this day as easy as possible and smooth.”
Traversy, who teaches visual arts and media, said relationship-building is a top priority.
“Just making sure that the well-being is taken care of. I think relationship goes a long way,” he said.
Looking ahead
Conte said she hopes her daughters will have “fun, learn, and grow into strong, independent children” this school year.
“We feel so grateful that my kids are part of such a wonderful school with amazing teachers and staff,” she added. “I think we’re really lucky and privileged to be part of it.”
Poirier shared a similar wish: “I hope everyone has a wonderful school year.”
