To show Parenthèse readers how parents from across the province contribute to their school community, we’re publishing “portraits” of parents who commit themselves in various ways to the community.

Geneviève Deschamps, parent volunteer in Victoria

I have two children: Kalel, who is 9 years old and is in Grade 3 at l’école Victor-Brodeur in Victoria, as well as Philip, who is 3 months old (and isn't in daycare yet).

What I do for the school community:

I am President of the board of directors for the Saute-Mouton daycare and preschool in Victoria. I'm also a board member of the parents' association (APÉ) for l’école Victor-Brodeur.

Last November, I became the representative for the South Vancouver Island Region on the board of directors of the Fédération des parents francophones

Why/how I started:

I decided to get involved when my oldest began attending the Saute-Mouton preschool. For me it was natural to be there and to be involved with my children’s lives.

What I love the most about our Francophone school:

L’école Victor-Brodeur and the Saute-Mouton daycare are wonderful for the children. What's more, the daycare has a philosophy that resembles mine as a parent.

A dream that I hold for my children:

That they be proud to be bilingual, and they continue tradition by keeping their languages and cultures alive in our great country!