An Inspiring First Edition of “Water4Future”

With water at the forefront of many global issues, eight of our students participated in the first-ever edition of the AEFE Water Convention in North America, “Water4Future,” from September 26-29. Organized by the Lycée Français de Chicago in partnership with the UNESCO International Center on Water ICIREWARD in Montpellier and the French association Tous Entreprenants, this major scientific and civic event took place over the course of four days in Chicago—bringing together 60 eco-delegates from 11 French schools across the United States and Canada. 

A Collaborative Effort for Clean Water

The convention brought together 17 teams of middle and high school students who, accompanied by educators from Tous Entreprenants and researchers from ICIREWARD, spent several months researching issues related to freshwater conservation and management in their hometowns or regions. Between Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, our city naturally offered a rich field of study for our eco-delegates:

• Our four seventh-grade students analyzed the impacts of global warming on Lake Michigan
• Our four 12th-grade students examined the city’s management of lead contamination in drinking water

Over the course of two days, all teams shared the results of their work with peers and a panel of specialists—through both scientific posters and presentations. The two groups from LFC demonstrated a remarkable ability to analyze complex issues, impressing the adults present with the quality of their work, as well as their energy and commitment. 

Expert Perspectives and Enriching Excursions 

Between expert lectures and discussion sessions, the experience proved to be deeply informative for students. Eric Servat, Director of the UNESCO International Center ICIREWARD, reminded them that “the issue of water is universal, but there is no single solution. Its management must be adapted to local contexts and draw on collective intelligence, beyond experimental science… Water should not divide us, but bring us together.”

The Water4Future Convention concluded with half-day excursions, allowing students to see future projects and possibilities firsthand:

• High school students visited WEFTEC—North America’s largest water trade show—at McCormick Place to explore industrial innovations from leading water treatment companies.
• Middle school students had the opportunity to visit the Jardine Water Purification Plant, located next to Navy Pier—which is the largest water filtration plant in the world and a site rarely open to the public.

The LFC Ignites Engagement

Under the leadership of Head of School Eric Veteau, LFC can be proud of having organized the first-ever edition of this highly successful event. The Water4Future Convention not only exposed young minds to a key issue in sustainable development but also strengthened their research, collaboration, and communication skills. Participants left with a clearer understanding of the challenges discussed—and with optimism about the possibility of meaningful change. It was a unique, powerful, and inspiring experience.

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Thank you to the following schools for their participation and engagement: Collège International Marie de France, Dallas International School, French-American School of New York, International School of San Francisco, Kennedy International School, Lycée Claudel d’Ottawa, Lycée Français de Chicago, Lycée Français de New York, Lycée Français de San Francisco, San Diego French-American School and Toronto French School. 

Thank you to all our partners for their support: Agence pour l’enseignement français à l’étranger (AEFE), UNESCO International Center on Water, French-American Chamber of Commerce, Consulate General of France in Chicago and Tous Entreprenants.