Galileo Adult Ed. Centre partners up with SPVM for safety workshop

By Lisa Trotto

Several community partnerships and hands-on learning experiences were offered to Social Integration Services and Socio-Vocational Integration Services students at Galileo Adult Education Centre this past fall. 

Teaching community safety

In November, Officer Anne-Marie Gauvreau from the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) led an engaging workshop, which addressed topics such as personal rights, healthy relationships, consent and the law. Students participated in interactive role-playing activities and discussions, allowing them to explore real-life scenarios and develop a deeper understanding of community safety. The workshop was part of a broader initiative to foster relationships with local businesses, advocacy groups and service providers like McGill dentistry students – all which support student self-advocacy and social awareness. Another community-driven learning approach was planned with Project Iris (L’Anonyme).

Work skill initiatives 

Beyond workshops, Galileo students participate in structured work skills programs that build practical abilities essential for employment and independent living. Some recent additions include:

•  Delivery and logistics: Students learn how to manage orders, handle transactions and organize deliveries, all skills that aim to strengthen responsibility, problem-solving and time management. 

• Teacher Appreciation Week: Students prepared over 100 personalized pencil cases and school bags, which reinforced skills in organization, accuracy and quality control. 

• Library organization: By labeling and categorizing over 400 books, students improved literacy, attention to detail and classification skills. 

Lisa Trotto is a Social Integration teacher at Galileo Adult Education Centre, which is part of the English Montreal School Board.