International centre expansion

The centre, which opened this fall in the former Seigniory school building, currently offers a residential facility for 42 students. After renovations are completed, there will be room for another 56 students. The funds for the project will come entirely from revenues generated from the centre, which attracts students from close to 20 countries, including China and Germany. The international students range in age from 12 to 18.

The international program, besides paying for itself, also generated about $200,000 for the school board, said Pearson chairman Marcus Tabachnick.

"That program provided additional funding that went back into our general funds," he said, adding the centre is a good investment for the board. "The returns could be substantial over time."

The centre will also provide a video-conference room that could be used for training and learning. "That's another revenue stream. There's a lot potential in this building," Tabachnick said. "We're constantly getting enquiries from overseas."

While the centre only opened this year, the Pearson board has operated an international studies program since 2002.

"Our teaching methods are highly regarded outside of Quebec," Tabachnick said.

For more information on the centre, check the Pearson website at www2.lbpsb.qc.ca.