On Friday, Oct. 25, Deering High School will have the extraordinary honor of welcoming three ambassadors from French-speaking countries: Laurent Bili, ambassador of France to the U.S., Noel Nelson Messone, ambassador of the Gabonese Republic to the U.S.; and Martial Ndoubou, ambassador of the Central African Republic to the U.S. This event will celebrate the French language and heritage in Maine and provide a unique opportunity for students, educators, and community members to engage with high-level diplomats.

DHS Principal Jake Giessman has invited nearby high schools – not only Casco Bay and Portland high schools, but also Falmouth, Westbrook, Cheverus, Baxter, Waynflete and South Portland high schools – to participate in this momentous occasion. “Deering is a proudly multilingual, multicultural community, and we're excited to be able to enrich students' learning experiences while also playing a small role on Friday in promoting positive international relations,” Giessman said.

Alexis Kanamugire, a Deering French teacher, played a key role in bringing this event to the school. As a native French speaker with a passion for teaching the language, Kanamugire was instrumental in connecting with the French Embassy and securing the ambassadors' participation.

The conference will feature presentations, discussions, and a question-and-answer session with the ambassadors. Participants will explore the importance of French language education in Maine, the rich history of French heritage in the state, and the potential for future collaborations with French-speaking nations.

Students will have the chance to ask questions directly to the ambassadors, gaining valuable insights into international relations, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. The event will also include a campus tour for the ambassadors, allowing them to experience firsthand Deering’s educational environment and its commitment to global understanding.

The conference, scheduled to last about an hour, will begin at 11 a.m. It will feature a variety of speakers, including school administrators, French language teachers, and representatives from the Maine Department of Education.

The Portland Public Schools is Maine’s largest school district, with more than 6,600 students, and it’s also the most diverse. About one-third of the district’s students come from homes where languages other than English are spoken—a total of 53 languages. Approximately 48 percent of the district’s students are white and 52 percent are students of color. Nearly half of PPS students qualify for free or reduced-price school meals.