John Abbott College is proud to announce that Maria Popica, teacher of French, has been awarded the Prix Ghislaine-Coutu-Vaillancourt - Prix d'excellence en enseignement du français langue seconde (FLS). The award is presented by the Association québécoise pour l'enseignement du français langue seconde (AQEFLS) in recognition of exceptional contributions by educators who advance French as a second language education in Quebec.
This prestigious honour bears the name of Ghislaine Coutu-Vaillancourt, founder of the AQEFLS, and perpetuates her legacy and lifelong dedication to FLS education. Awarded annually since 1984, the prize highlights the outstanding work, leadership, and commitment of pedagogues who have had a significant impact on the teaching and learning of French as a second language.
After several years teaching French as a foreign language in Europe, Maria Popica settled in Québec, where she has taught French as a second language at the collegiate and university levels for nearly twenty years. A language of adoption that has become second nature, French lies at the core of her professional practice and personal commitment.
Popica has made lasting contributions to FLS education as a member of the team that helped develop ministerial French-as-a-Second-Language competencies for the college network. She is actively engaged in FLS research and the creation of diverse pedagogical resources, while championing innovative approaches such as experiential learning.
Committed to bringing French beyond the classroom, she collaborates with cultural institutions to promote linguistic and cultural immersion, offering students authentic opportunities to experience French in meaningful contexts.
John Abbott College warmly congratulates Maria Popica on this outstanding achievement and thanks the AQEFLS for recognizing excellence that continues to enrich French language education throughout Québec.
For more information
21275, rue Lakeshore
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Québec
Canada H9X 3L9
www.johnabbott.qc.ca
