This school year, St. Gregory the Great Academy in Vaughan brought the world into the classroom through the innovative eTwinning Program, or Gemellaggio, as it’s known in Italian. As part of this international collaboration, students connected virtually with partner schools in Italy, engaging in rich, cross-cultural learning experiences that nurtured both academic growth and personal discovery.
In today’s interconnected world, global citizenship is no longer a concept reserved for textbooks, it’s a lived experience. Through virtual meetings, collaborative classroom projects and shared storytelling, students at St. Gregory the Great explored customs, traditions and worldviews that both complemented and expanded their own.
“eTwinning has been a transformative journey for our school. By placing students at the heart of the experience, it supports both their academic and personal growth through meaningful, real-world connections. For many, it’s more than cultural exchange: it’s a way to honour their heritage and build lasting bonds that enrich their identity as global citizens.”
— Didi Cammalleri, Principal
The eTwinning experience has been especially meaningful for students with Italian roots, offering a proud connection to their heritage and an opportunity to deepen their language and cultural fluency. But even more broadly, the program has sparked curiosity, empathy and a profound sense of community among all participants.
“What makes the eTwinning program truly special is the energy and excitement it sparks in our students. There’s something powerful about watching them look forward to connecting with their peers in Italy—sharing experiences, exploring each other’s traditions, and learning side by side. Their curiosity is sincere, their joy is real. eTwinning goes beyond academics; it’s a deeply human journey that shapes character, encourages empathy, cultural awareness, and a lifelong love of learning.”
— Maria Rita Romualdi, International Language Instructor
The eTwinning Program at St. Gregory the Great has exemplified:
- Stronger ties with peers across borders
- Broader learning experiences beyond traditional classroom walls
- A deeper respect for cultural diversity and inclusion
- An enriching, cooperative learning environment
- A living connection to students’ cultural heritage
As we celebrate the success of this year’s eTwinning collaboration, we look ahead with gratitude and excitement for future opportunities to learn, lead and grow together.