Sudbury Catholic District School Board

Sudbury Catholic Schools Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day with Mismatched Socks and Inspiring Posters

Today, students across Sudbury Catholic Schools celebrated World Down Syndrome Day by proudly rocking mismatched socks to show their support for individuals with Down syndrome. The day was filled with creativity and inclusivity as students created inspiring posters that promote acceptance, kindness, and the celebration of our unique differences.

Through this initiative, students are helping to build a community where every individual is valued, included, and embraced for who they are. This event is a testament to the dedication of Sudbury Catholic Schools and the Sudbury Down Syndrome Association in fostering an environment of inclusivity.

“We are so proud of our students for showing their support today. Celebrating our uniqueness is an important part of creating a strong, welcoming community,” said Erica Raymond, Superintendent of Education from Sudbury Catholic Schools.

The celebration is part of a continued effort to raise awareness and promote inclusion in schools and communities across the region. Sudbury Catholic Schools remains committed to creating spaces where all students are encouraged to express themselves and feel empowered.

Carousel Event 2025

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) invites parents, guardians, educators, and community partners to a night of collaborative learning focused on supporting the mental well-being of children and youth. The Mental Health Carousel Event will feature expert-led workshops designed to equip families with practical strategies for fostering resilience and overall well-being in children and youth. 

This interactive evening begins with a complimentary dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by a keynote presentation from Dr. Stephanie Price at 6:00 p.m. A clinical and school psychologist at MNDFL Collective, Dr. Price will share evidence-based strategies for helping children build healthy tech habits while fostering strong relationships and overall well-being. 

Following the keynote, attendees will participate in two rotating carousel-style workshops led by mental health professionals: 

  • 6:50 – 7:20 p.m. – Carousel 1 (Workshop) 
  • 7:25 – 7:55 p.m. – Carousel 2 (Workshop) 

The event offers families valuable insights, a chance to connect with the community, and actionable tools to support their child’s mental health journey. To support participation, free childcare and dinner will be provided. Water stations will also be available, and attendees are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles. 

Event Details: 

Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025 
Time: 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. 
Location: St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School | 2993 Algonquin Road 

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from mental health professionals and build on your toolkit in supporting the mental well-being of our children and youth.  

Register for free at https://www.sudburycatholicschools.ca/carousel-event-2025/

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St. Paul School Students Connect with Author Kathy Kacer

St. Paul Catholic Elementary School’s Grade 6 students had the unique opportunity to meet author Kathy Kacer virtually today as part of their Social Studies and Language curriculum. The students have been reading Kacer’s powerful book, To Hope and Back, which tells the story of the S.S. St. Louis and its journey in 1939, carrying 937 European Jews from Nazi Germany in a bid for safety.

The students engaged with Kacer, asking insightful and thought-provoking questions about the book, the historical context of the story, and the impact it had on her as an author. The conversation provided an invaluable opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of the history surrounding the Holocaust and the importance of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Kathy Kacer’s work has had a profound impact on young readers, encouraging them to explore history and consider the enduring importance of compassion, understanding, and tolerance.

“Today’s session was an incredible learning experience for our students,” said [Principal’s Name], Principal of St. Paul Catholic Elementary School. “It’s one thing to read about history, but to be able to interact directly with the author and ask her questions about her research and experiences was an enriching moment for all of us.”

The students at St. Paul Catholic Elementary School continue to demonstrate their commitment to learning about history in meaningful ways, and today’s virtual meeting with Kathy Kacer is just one example of their dedication to understanding the lessons of the past.

St. Charles Catholic Elementary School Choir Delights at Board Meeting

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board extends its heartfelt gratitude to the St. Charles Catholic Elementary School Choir for their outstanding performance at the recent Board meeting.

The choir’s incredible voices brought a sense of joy and warmth to the event, creating a memorable moment for all in attendance. Their dedication and talent were evident in every note, showcasing the spirit of community and creativity that the Board proudly supports.

“We are incredibly thankful for the time and effort the choir members put into their performance,” said [Director’s Name], Director of Education for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “It was truly a joy to hear their beautiful voices and celebrate the arts in our schools.”

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board appreciates the commitment and enthusiasm of the St. Charles Catholic Elementary School Choir and looks forward to more collaborations that highlight the exceptional talent within our school communities.

Marymount Academy Regals Shine on the Slopes at OFSAA 

Marymount Academy (MMA) Regals made their mark at OFSAA Skiing, securing an impressive 6th place overall in the High School Girls’ Giant Slalom. Leading the charge, Kate Bouchard delivered a stellar performance, capturing gold in the Individual High School Girls’ Slalom, while teammate Alexys Wagemann also delivered a strong performance, finishing 15th overall. 

Coach Dan Bartolucci had high hopes for his team this season, knowing they had the talent to compete at the highest level. 

“Alexys is in her final year of high school and has skied better year after year,” said Bartolucci. “I was so proud to see her dominate at both the city championships and NOSSA, medaling in both and earning her place among the province’s best at OFSAA. That’s where she belongs. She is an incredible athlete.” 

Bartolucci also praised Bouchard’s exceptional talent and leadership. 

“The best part of helping to coach Kate is that I get a front-row seat and can just be a fan— and I am a big fan,” he said. “She is one of the smoothest, most naturally gifted technical skiers I have ever had the pleasure of coaching. I am so proud of her accomplishments this season and the leadership she has shown to our amazing Regals’ Ski Team.”  

Though skiing is often seen as an individual sport, both athletes agreed that the camaraderie of competing as a team made the experience even more meaningful. 

“When I placed gold at the end of my race, it was so awesome having my teammates there cheering me on,” said Bouchard.  “You really have to cherish those moments. I’ll probably never forget that for the rest of my life because, in any high school sport, it’s your teammates who make those memories that you will remember 20 years from now.” 

She added that the support extended beyond just their team. 

“Even coaches from other schools cheer you on. When you reach OFSAA, it feels like they are cheering for Sudbury as a whole, so you are getting support from all angles,” she continued. 

Wagemann echoed the sentiment, reflecting on the significance of the team’s success. 

“I’m really proud of how our team finished. Everyone was so happy no matter how they placed,” she said. “Of course, I’ll remember the race and my placing, but what I will remember most are the memories I made with my friends.” 

Now in her final year of high school sports, Wagemann had a piece of advice for future Regals competing at this level: 

“It’s up to you to do your best, and no matter where you finish, remember that you still did amazing,” she said. “You made it to OFSAA. Even if you come dead last, you still made it there—and that’s an accomplishment.” 

With a season full of achievements and unforgettable moments, the Regals have proven they are a force to be reckoned with on the slopes. 

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Bishop Alexander Carter Student Honoured at Laurentian University’s President’s Reception

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Bishop Alexander Carter Catholic Secondary School student Cameron O’Daiskey, who was invited to Laurentian University’s prestigious President’s Reception for High Achievers this year.

This past February, Cameron was among only 56 students selected to attend this event, which featured a special brunch and reception with Laurentian’s President, Deans, and representatives. During the event, she had the honour of meeting Dr. Lynn Wells, President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University, as well as Dr. Joy Gray-Monroe, Dean of Science, Engineering, and Architecture.

As a testament to her academic excellence and dedication, Cameron has officially accepted her offer to join Laurentian’s Mining Engineering program this fall.

Reflecting on her journey, Cameron shared:
“My time at Bishop Alexander Carter CSS has been nothing short of amazing. I have worked to maintain a 95+ average while focusing on math and science. This work ethic has hopefully prepared me for the next step in my journey as I enter the Mine Engineering program at Laurentian University. The teachers at Bishop Alexander Carter CSS have been incredibly supportive, both academically and through extracurriculars, allowing me to thrive as both a student and an athlete, competing on over 12 teams each year. As I enter Mine Engineering, I am excited to apply my passion for problem-solving and I am also excited to continue my journey right here in Sudbury, a city known for its mining excellence. Bishop Alexander Carter CSS has given me the foundation to chase my dreams, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board congratulates Cameron on this remarkable accomplishment and wishes her continued success as she begins this exciting new chapter at Laurentian University.

St. Charles College Staff and Alumni Shine in YES Theatre’s ‘Groundhog Day’

On March 7, Staff and alumni from St. Charles College came together in support of YES Theatre’s latest musical production, Groundhog Day, a creative and dynamic show that is making its Canadian debut.

The production boasts strong storytelling, a talented vocal cast, and a special connection to the SCC community. Several current and former Cardinals are featured in the cast, including SCC teacher and actor Mr. Scruton, YES Creative Director alumni and actor Alessandro Costantini, alumni actor Max Cull, and retired SCC teacher and actor Mr. Sikora. (Mr. Sikora, Mr. Robeiro, and Max Cull were also recently featured in SCC’s Food Drive video!)

Also in attendance for the evening were SCC staff members Mr. Robeiro, Ms. Dagostino, Ms. Fraser, Ms. Boyd, Ms. Coyle, Mr. Kohut, and Mr. Van de Ligt, showing their support for the local arts community.

Moments like these exemplify the values embedded in the Ontario Catholic Graduate Expectations, encouraging students and staff to be Collaborative Contributors and Self-Directed, Responsible, Life-Long Learners.

SCC encourages all theatre enthusiasts to explore opportunities with YES Theatre, which frequently casts local talent. Aspiring performers can keep an eye out for future auditions by visiting YES Theatre’s website.

Bravo, Cardinals! 🎭

Laurentian University Experts Bring Geoscience to Life for St. David Students

Students at St. David School had an exciting opportunity to explore the world of geoscience during a special visit from Laurentian University experts. Geoscience Technologist Cailyn Morgan and Professor Tobias Roth engaged Grade 4 and Grade 4/5 students in a hands-on learning experience about rocks and minerals.

Through interactive exploration, students examined various geological specimens and even had the chance to try on the specialized gear used by geoscientists in the field—learning firsthand just how heavy the equipment can be! The session provided a deeper understanding of Earth Sciences and sparked curiosity about the natural world.

Sudbury Catholic Schools extends its gratitude to Cailyn Morgan and Tobias Roth for an engaging and educational morning that brought science to life for our students.

St. Charles Custodian Inspires Students with Interactive Recycling Scavenger Hunt

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is proud to recognize the outstanding efforts of Pekka Marttinen, a dedicated custodian at St. Charles Catholic Elementary School who continues to go above and beyond in supporting students and staff and fostering a positive school environment.

In addition to his daily commitment to keeping the school clean and organized, Mr. Pekka recently introduced a creative and engaging initiative—an interactive recycling scavenger hunt. By placing recycled materials around the school, he has encouraged students to explore, learn about sustainability, and actively participate in the cleanup process.

What makes this initiative even more special is the involvement of two students Joe and Benn, who have been collecting the materials while practicing their bike riding skills. This hands-on approach has not only promoted environmental awareness but also provided a unique opportunity for students to build confidence and independence.

“Mr. Pekka’s creativity and dedication to our school community make a lasting impact,” said Principal Christine McCracken. “He continually finds ways to engage our students and inspire them in meaningful ways.”

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Pekka for his hard work, innovation, and unwavering commitment to students. His efforts exemplify the spirit of community and learning that defines our schools. Thank you for all that you do!

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