ELAWS was the first program of its type in the world, a model of how previously unheard of adaptations can be made by both a public school board and a religious minority. Janice will explore the creativity that was exhibited by both the public school board and the conservative Mennonite communities in the Elmira area as they worked together to develop educational opportunities which were mutually beneficial and acceptable to all the stakeholders.

Our presenter, Janice Harper, recently retired from teaching after more than thirty years at Elmira District Secondary School. She taught in the ELAWS program from 2009 to 2018. Janice completed a Master of Arts Degree in History, writing about the ELAWS program. She graduated from the University of Waterloo in June 2019.

Admission to Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario public events is free. A freewill offering will be taken. A brief annual meeting will precede the presentation.