Parent Spotlight: The Power of Volunteering

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The CFIS community is one of warmth, kindness, and unity—a sentiment echoed by Dominique, a proud member of the school family for over 10 years. Initially drawn to CFIS by her sister’s glowing experience, Dominique’s own journey with the school began when her daughter joined three years ago, in search of a francophone education. What she found was more than just a school; she discovered a true sense of belonging, one that mirrors a family.

The Heart of CFIS: Community and Kindness

What inspires Dominique most about CFIS is the deep-rooted culture of kindness that extends beyond the classroom. She describes how the children, from the youngest to the oldest, greet visitors with warm smiles and genuine curiosity. "Les enfants sont très gentils," she says. "When we arrive at school, they look you in the eyes and say hello. It's not something you typically see from older students, but it’s such a reflection of the school’s culture and the parents who make it possible."

It’s this level of respect, kindness, and openness that makes CFIS such a special place—a place where every member of the community feels seen and valued.

A Journey of Involvement

Dominique’s involvement at CFIS began with a desire to help out informally at Mom’s Night Out, but over the years, her role has expanded significantly. This year, she became much more involved, assisting with organizing events and coordinating with the teaching staff, as well as working with the marketing and IT departments. Dominique’s passion for supporting the school is also evident in her work on the 55th Anniversary Celebration this spring, an event she’s eagerly helping to organize.

In addition to her volunteer work at school events, Dominique serves as the parent representative for her daughter’s 5th-grade class, where she is able to coordinate with other parents and ensure that her daughter’s class is supported in the best way possible. Through these efforts, she’s not only been able to support her daughter but has also met new families and expanded her own social circle. "It’s so rewarding to bring the school life home, having new things to talk about, and seeing my daughter’s social circle grow with new playdates," she shares.

Memorable Moments of Connection

One of Dominique’s favourite memories of her volunteer experience was participating in the Secondary Da Vinci Day Career Program. She had the unique opportunity to invite CFIS secondary students to the Calgary Court, where they toured the office, met with media professionals and a judge, and learned about the world of law. "The students were so well-behaved, polite, and curious," she recalls. "It was a truly special experience for them, and I even discovered new aspects of my own job through their questions."

A Call to Action: Getting Involved

For parents considering getting involved at CFIS, Dominique’s advice is simple and heartfelt: “Do it! Time flies, and it’s a great way to be involved in your child’s life. I’ve seen firsthand how excited kids are to see their parents active at school. It’s a chance to better understand their experiences and to create memories that will last.”

Embracing Diversity for the Future

Dominique believes CFIS does an excellent job of embracing diversity, and she encourages parents to share their cultures more openly with the community. "The school is very welcoming and inclusive, but parents should feel comfortable stepping forward and sharing their backgrounds," she says. "Don’t be afraid to open up—this is what will make CFIS even more vibrant and reflective of the diverse world we live in."

Dominique’s journey at CFIS is a testament to the power of community, the importance of involvement, and the lasting impact of a supportive and welcoming school environment. Through her passion, dedication, and ongoing commitment, she exemplifies the very spirit of CFIS. As the school continues to grow and evolve, one thing is clear: the strength of its community will remain at the heart of everything it does.

Click here for more information about volunteering.