Dear MacMillan Families,
As we enter our last few days of the 2019-2020 school year, I would to take a few moments to acknowledge everyone who is moving on next year:
Graduates - Usually at this time of year we are celebrating your completion of 10 years of elementary education. This celebration usually includes a formal ceremony for Graduates to receive their graduation certificates, awards are handed out for outstanding accomplishments, and our Valedictorian would share an inspiring address to the Graduating class. When the ceremony ends, our Graduates would then come back to MacMillan for a fancy dinner and party with their classmates and our staff. While this event was postponed due to the pandemic, it is important for our Graduates to know that they WILL have a very special graduation ceremony in the fall when it is safe to do so (Invitations will be sent out in September once we set the date). It will be an extra special event because, by then, our Graduates will have exciting stories to share about their high school experiences, and it will provide us an opportunity to come back together one last time to say goodbye properly. In short, Graduates, the Staff at MacMillan are extremely proud of each and every one of you and we are very thankful that we had the opportunity to work and learn with you. Take care of yourselves, and each other, and always be confident that you can and will make a positive difference in this world.
Mr. Huang and Mr. Lee - Both Mr. Huang and Mr. Lee did wonderful jobs in their respective teaching assignments this year. Both teachers were very popular with the students and became actively involved in co-curricular activities, especially in music. I am confident that both of these excellent teachers will make a positive difference at whatever schools they go to in the fall. All the best, Mr. Huang and Mr. Lee!
Mr. Marshall - Mr. Marshall has decided to retire after 28 years of inspiring teaching. Kind, thoughtful, patient, and dedicated are just a few adjectives I’d use to describe Mr. Marshall. Not only has he been an outstanding French Immersion teacher, he has also been a role model to the students, teachers and me. I have regularly sought out Mr. Marshall's perspective and advice on very important issues, especially in the areas of equity and fairness. I also want to thank him for his leadership as a teacher mentor and for his yearly commitments as a basketball and track coach. All the best to you, Mr. Marshall!
Mrs. Tarascio – 22 years ago, Mrs. Tarascio changed schools and landed here at MacMillan. Ever since that day, she has been universally loved by her students and the staff. While she skillfully taught many subjects over the years, students always loved being in Mrs. Tarascio’s amazing art classes. Her commitment to social justice has also had a huge impact on our school, especially for the girls who participated in TLC (The Ladies Club). Other passions for Mrs. Tarascio included Harmony Week and, of course, Career Day. She worked tirelessly to make sure that both of those events were carefully planned and meaningful to the students. Mrs. Tarascio was also a highly skilled Guidance Counsellor. While end her career teaching English and art at MacMillan, she continued to be sought out by students and staff (and me!) for guidance and support. Her ability to listen without judgement afforded others the opportunity to openly share their feelings and challenges. We will all miss that special gift when she starts this new chapter of her life. Congratulations on your retirement. All the best to you, Mrs. Tarascio!
Thank you,
Mr. McNeill