Ecole Pointe Des Chenes in Ste. Anne is a candidate school for the United Nations Education School for Culture and Sciences.

There are only a few schools in Manitoba with this distinction.

Principal Brian Martel says, “To be recognized is not only special for the students and teachers, but the community as a whole will benefit from it.”

Martel says although he is new to the school, he noticed right away that the students and teachers are passionate about the school and community. “The school actively participates in collecting items for the local food bank.” Composting, recycling and reducing waste are a big part of what takes place at the school.

Martel notes when making a decision the board takes into consideration everything you do within the school from programs regarding culture, sports, humanitarian work, and environmental work done within the community and province.  

The UNESCO program was established by the United Nations in 1953, and has over 7800 member schools in 175 countries participating.

Drew Caldwell (Minister of Municipal Government) said, “UNESCO has played an important role on the global stage for many years, by becoming involved in this program, Manitoba youth will have an excellent opportunity to develop a global perspective and enhance their understanding of world issues.”

Martel says “To be recognized as a UNESCO school would be very special as a school that goes above and beyond the what the madate for schools are which is the curriculum and the social focus on schools. Being a UNESCO school would represent the fact that the students, staff and community are really engaged in making a better tomorrow for everyone.”