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Some weeks leave a mark, not because of their media coverage, but due to the human, educational, and collective intensity they convey. The Excellence Week of the program of the same name, held at Lafontaine and Dominique-Racine high schools in Saguenay, clearly belongs to this category.
More than a hundred participants, aged 12 to 16, presented their projects, each reflecting curiosity, rigor, and scientific boldness in their own way. Anchored in a demanding pedagogical approach, the event revealed something essential: science can be experienced as a profoundly human, inclusive adventure that encourages personal growth.
Throughout the week, students were guided by dedicated teachers who orchestrated a program that was both structured and inspiring. Among the highlights, a lecture by scientist Yannick Bergeron offered an engaging perspective on research and its real-world impacts. Chemistry labs sparked wonder and curiosity, while the public open house brought science closer to citizens—allowing students to proudly share their passion with parents and friends who came to visit.
80 Volunteers and a Buzzing Atmosphere
On Thursday, an outdoor day reminded everyone of the importance of balance before the big finale on Friday morning, judged by nearly 80 volunteer parents. This was a memorable experience on many levels, especially for those who were evaluating, questioning, and encouraging young participants full of dreams and talent for the first time.
“The winners explored topics as varied as screen exposure, artificial intelligence, brain development, DNA, tornadoes, recycling and composting, the blob, and much more.”
In an electrifying, even high-energy atmosphere, Friday afternoon’s gala at the auditorium crowned the projects that will represent the region at the regional level in March. Each winner, each project, was met with cheers, laughter, and shared joy. Among them, Lana-Wan and her teammate Arianne’s project, both accessible and ambitious, posed a fundamental question: Are natural rays good or bad? Their inquiry focused on radioactive radiation. The winners tackled issues ranging from screen exposure, artificial intelligence, brain evolution, DNA, tornadoes, recycling and composting, the blob, and beyond.
Beyond the medals, this week was a celebration of collective effort. It also became a touching moment of intergenerational connection. Thirteen-year-old Lana-Wan, participating for the second time, was able to share her achievement with her great-aunt—the eldest in her family at 102 years old—whom she visited the day after her experience. That presence alone was a reminder that knowledge, perseverance, and pride extend far beyond the classroom walls.
Indeed, there was more than one medal to share that week: the medal of living science, the medal of engaged education thanks to teachers who find creative ways to inspire youth, and the medal of a community of parents who deeply believe in their children’s potential and take the time to support their success.
