In Honor of Remembrance Day

I am very pleased to announce that Princess Margaret Public School has once again secured a presenter through the Government of Canada’s National Speakers Program to visit our school.

In previous years, we have welcomed a military intelligence officer and a radar technician. This year, we are excited to welcome Private Concepcion, an Army Reservist. In his civilian career, he works as an accountant, while also serving in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve. In his military role, he works in procurement and logistics, helping to sustain frontline operations by ensuring troops have the food, water, equipment, and supplies they need.

During his presentation, Private Concepcion will speak about:

• The meaning and importance of Remembrance Day and what it means to remember.

• The different pathways that led him to both his civilian career and his role as a Reservist.

• Possible career opportunities for students who may be interested in similar fields.

• His responsibilities within the Army Reserve.

• The personal sacrifices involved in balancing military service with civilian life, including training commitments on evenings and weekends.

• The importance of maintaining both physical and mental well-being and strategies for navigating challenging times.

All presentation content will be developmentally appropriate for students. The presentation will include a slideshow, which I will review before it is shared with students.

Private Concepcion will be visiting our school on November 9th, and the presentation for students in Grades 2 to 8 will begin at approximately 11:00 a.m. There will be no handouts provided.

We are especially excited that this will be an in-person presentation. Private Concepcion will bring several items used in his role, including a rucksack, winter and summer uniforms, and other equipment that Reservists rely on. These materials are intended to support student learning and will not include anything inappropriate for elementary-aged children.

I hope you will join me in being excited about this opportunity to learn from Private Concepcion and to deepen our understanding of Remembrance Day, service, sacrifice, and citizenship.

Sincerely,

Andrea Papavasiliou

Principal

Princess Margaret Public School