Last year, around this time, the newly formed FIRST Robotics team at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School gathered around a box of parts and contemplated where to begin. With a group of students relatively new to robotics, and roughly a year ahead of them before their first competition, their first goal was simple: build a robot and get it to move, if only an inch. 

Fast forward to November 2025, and the team has far exceeded that humble objective. Not only did they successfully design and build a fully functioning robot, they built two of them, and their hard work, creativity, and persistence paid off in a big way as they captured first place at the FIRST Tech Challenge Regional Competition. 

Teams participating in the FIRST Tech Challenge work together to design, build, code, and operate robots that face off in alliance-style competitions. With support from coaches and mentors, participants strengthen their STEM abilities and apply real engineering practices, such as documenting their progress in an engineering notebook, to robotics challenges. Along the way, they gain an appreciation for collaboration, creativity, and the effort required to bring their big ideas to life. 

Teacher and Team Coach Loretta Cuda praised her team’s ability to work together and think quickly under pressure. “Our goal was just to get the robot to move, so to see them come together, mentor new grade 9s in our club . . . and score the most points out of all the teams there, I am extremely proud. Was I expecting to be slated for second and then become the winning alliance? No. I am blown away. This team is good at taking criticism and knowing where they need to improve, and I think the whole community is proud of this team and what they’ve done,” she said.  

Grade 12 student Michael Phillips shared how the experience brought the group closer than they ever expected. “Aside from learning more about robotics, I think we really came together and learned what it means to be a team,” he said. “It’s one thing to plan for what we’ll do if a problem comes up with the robot, but on the actual competition day, we learned to put everything aside and work toward a common goal. Each person thought about what they could contribute to help us win.” 

For many students, the competition also opened their eyes to the broader scope of skills required in robotics. Grade 12 student David Akero said the event pushed the team beyond just mechanical and technical work. “The thing about this competition is that it’s not just about how well our robot performs,” he explained. “It’s also about how our business team performs, what our outreach was, how our presentation goes, and how we can share more about our story. There’s a lot of documenting too, that was something we lacked before, but this time it’s something we’re really going to focus on.” 

Akero added that the structure of the challenge reflects real-world expectations. “The way they format the competition, it’s basically like running a business. Some people look for sponsors, others build specific parts. Some of us have to work on public speaking or take part in interviews or understand financial aspects. The organizers included all of that. There’s something for everyone here, and you come out of it better than when you started.” 

Director of Education, Morris Hucal, praised the team on their success. “Congratulations to the St. Benedict FIRST Robotics team on their remarkable achievement at the FIRST Tech Challenge Regional Competition. This win reflects the dedication, creativity, and problem-solving skills that define our Sudbury Catholic students. STEM education continues to be a key focus for our board, and it’s inspiring to see how initiatives like robotics are preparing students for the future. The continued growth of robotics programs across our schools highlights our commitment to hands-on learning and innovation. Congratulations once again to the students, mentors, and educators who made this success possible.” 

For more information on programs and teams at St. Benedict Catholic secondary School, visit https://st-benedict.sudburycatholicschools.ca/.  

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At its Annual Inaugural Meeting on Tuesday, November 19, the Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) re-elected Trustees Micheal Bellmore as Chair and Ray Desjardins as Vice Chair, demonstrating continued confidence in their leadership and vision for the Board. 

Michael Bellmore expressed his gratitude to his board colleagues for their support of his leadership and their dedication to good governance at Sudbury Catholic.  

Following his re-election as chair, Bellmore praised his colleagues for their commitment to student success and highlighted the efforts of the entire community in creating a welcoming and effective learning environment. 

“To the entire Sudbury Catholic community: thank you for everything you do. You truly set a gold standard by putting students first,” Bellmore said. He added, “Trustees on this board consistently show up, do the work, ask the important questions, and committed to good governance and student success. Thank you for answering the call and demonstrating true servant leadership.” 

Director of Education, Morris Hucal, expressed his support for the re-elections, stating, “Chair Michael Bellmore and Vice Chair Raymond Desjardins are exceptional leaders who consistently place students at the forefront of their work and champion the strength of Catholic education. I am certain they will continue to move our Board forward in meaningful ways this year. I also want to recognize our trustees, whose commitment to excellence and dedicated service truly strengthens our entire school community.”  

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board operates 17 schools across Greater Sudbury and Killarney and is committed to realizing each student’s potential by nurturing and developing their mind, body and spirit. 

Board meetings for the SCDSB are held on the third Tuesday of each month during the school year and are open to the public. For more information, visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca/board-meetings/. 

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Throughout October and November, students and staff across the Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) participated in a “Pilgrims of Hope” walk, joining Catholics around the world in recognition of the Jubilee Year 2025. 

A pilgrimage walk is a special journey taken by individuals and communities to grow closer to God. Rooted in centuries-old tradition, a pilgrimage walk invites participants to walk with intention, carrying Jesus in their hearts as they reflect, pray, and strengthen their spiritual connection. More than the distance travelled, it is a meaningful reminder that faith is a journey, and each step offers an opportunity for hope, peace, and renewal. 

The tradition of the Jubilee Year dates back to 1300, when Pope Boniface VIII proclaimed the first Jubilee, which is also known as a “Holy Year.” Its frequency has evolved over time. It was initially observed every 100 years, later every 50, and now typically every 25 years or as designated by the Holy Father. 

To honour the Holy Year, SCDSB students and staff proudly walked with banners and symbols of faith, pausing at seven prayer stations set up around their school grounds. At each stop, they reflected on themes of creation, service, peace, and God’s love. Students prayed together, performed small acts of kindness, and shared messages of hope. 

“We walked today to remember that Jesus is always by your side, and if you need help Jesus is always listening,” said Paisley, a Grade 5 student at St. Anne Catholic Elementary School. 

This year’s pilgrimage encouraged students to see their daily surroundings as sacred spaces and to recognize God’s presence in community and creation. 

Students shared some favourite moments from the experience: 

“I liked how we would pray while we were connected with nature. Our teacher told us to put our arms up in the air like a tree or baa like a sheep. That part was really fun,” said Paisley. 

“It was also fun to just be together and walk together as a school,” added Journey, a Grade 6 student. 

“The walk made me think of how grateful I am for the sun and nature and how everything is so beautiful. God created everything that we have, and we should enjoy it,” said Paisley. 

“Yes, it made me think of how grateful I am for God, the earth, the nature, the air,” shared Easton, Grade 6. 

Through prayer, reflection, and community connection, students across the board embraced the spirit of the Jubilee Year with gratitude and joy. As Joan Yawney-Matz, Religious Education and Faith Consultant, explained, “through our pilgrimage walks, students discovered that prayer is not just something we say, but something we live.” She emphasized how powerfully the event united the community, sharing that “our school, family, and parish communities came together to experience the joy of being part of a larger faith community walking together, on the road towards holiness.” 

“I am so proud of our students, staff, families, parish partners and everyone who helped make the Pilgrims of Hope Walk possible. This event is a wonderful example of how we live out our Catholic faith through both learning and action. Together, we have shown what it means to journey in faith and community,” said Morris Hucal, Director of Education for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. 

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Sudbury, ON – The Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) is currently seeking new representatives to serve a three-year term. SEAC is a standing committee that provides important recommendations to the Board on the establishment, development, and delivery of special education programs and services for exceptional students. 

The committee welcomes applicants who are affiliated with organizations or agencies that support children with special needs. Prospective members must be at least 18 years old, hold Canadian citizenship, and not be employed by the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. 

Applicants are asked to provide a letter of nomination from the director of the association they represent. Letters should be submitted to Erica Raymond, Superintendent of Special Education Services, via email at erica.raymond@sudburycatholicschools.ca. 

Interested individuals are encouraged to apply and help support inclusive education within our Catholic learning community. 

For more information on Special Education at Sudbury Catholic Schools, please visit https://www.sudburycatholicschools.ca/special-education/.  

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We were truly overwhelmed by the generosity of our students and families at St Francis Catholic Elementary School! Thanks to the incredible amount of halloween treats sent in, the Grade 6 students were able to assemble amazing treat bags to help bring a little joy to those in need this fall.

In collaboration with Kathleen and Father Ramesh Christy from Our Lady of Hope Parish, students packaged the donated treats and delivered them to the Blue Door Soup Kitchen ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a sweet treat this season.

Thank you to everyone who contributed, your compassion makes all the difference!

Sudbury, ON – Grade 12 student Elliott Boyles of Marymount Academy started the school year strong, capturing back-to-back golf championships at both the SDSSAA and NOSSA levels. Under her leadership as Captain, the Regals secured second place as a team at the city level. At last week’s OFSAA championship, Elliott placed 31st overall with an impressive score of 83 among the province’s best female golfers. 

When asked how it felt not only to win, but to compete at that level, Elliott said, 

“It was a great feeling, honestly, … it was such a big relief because I had been putting a lot of work into my game and getting better and it was kind of a good culmination of everything.” 

Elliott began golfing in Grade 9 and has seen steady growth ever since. 

“I started golfing in Grade 9, so it’s been about four years. It’s been crazy. I remember my first time golfing at NOSSA in Grade 10, I think I shot like 130 or something, and then to go this year and shoot, I think it was an 89 in North Bay. That was kind of the biggest growth I think I’ve noticed. The only way you can improve is to challenge yourself, and when it all comes together, it’s really a great feeling.” 

As team captain, Elliott encouraged her teammates to focus on just enjoying the experience. 

“I think for me it has always been about going and enjoying yourself and having a good time. I was nervous; everyone gets nervous, but the more nervous you are—it doesn’t translate well. So, I just told everyone to go out there and have fun. There was no pressure on anyone to perform. And so, when there isn’t [pressure], it’s just that much easier to relax and have a good time.” 

Reflecting on her OFSAA experience, Elliott said competing at that level was both challenging and rewarding. 

“It’s kind of overwhelming because there’s like 130 of the best golfers in the province, but luckily, I had other people from Sudbury there and friends that I knew that I had played with in previous provincial events. I felt comfortable and just have a really good trust in my game and I think it made it just that much more enjoyable. It’s not a guarantee that you will play well when you get there, so it’s important for me to just have fun and see where the day goes.” 

Elliott credits much of her success to the supportive environment at Marymount Academy. 

“It’s just such a great supportive community here. Anything you accomplish is kind of a result of the support that you receive from the school and your peers and the people around you.” 

She also shared that her family, especially her grandfather, has been a major influence throughout her golf journey. 

“My family has been very supportive, and it’s just been really fun to play with them too. My grandpa was the one who first introduced me to the sport. When I was younger, playing a couple rounds here and there with him was really how it all started.” 

When asked what she loves most about golf, Elliott said,  

“Golf is a very challenging game in the sense that every day is different. It’s a matter of the tiniest little tweaks that decide if you have a good day. It’s really the mental challenge that comes with it too. You really have to stay disciplined and focused because if you don’t, then things can get out of your control pretty quickly. But I think just to roll with it and see where it goes is what I really like. And then also the camaraderie – I’ve made so many friends in the sport.” 

As Elliott enjoys her senior year at Marymount Academy, she looks forward to the many opportunities golf has to offer in post-secondary. Her advice for younger students is to find joy in what they do. 

“Make sure what you’re doing is what you really enjoy. When you get that enjoyment aspect out of it, it doesn’t feel like a challenge. Everyone will find something that they do like, and when they do it’s really special.” 

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A piece of local history came full circle at St. Francis Catholic Elementary School when Ontario’s current Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Edith Dumont, visited the school and added her signature beside that of former Lieutenant Governor Pauline Mills McGibbon, who visited the school in 1975. 

The discovery was made as part of the Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s (SCDSB) Hall Pass to History campaign, an initiative that highlights memorable moments and milestones throughout the Board’s history. While looking through archival materials, staff at St. Francis Catholic Elementary School uncovered an old visitor sign-in book from 1975 containing the signatures of Lieutenant Governor Pauline McGibbon, Ontario’s first female Lieutenant Governor, and Sudbury Mayor Joe Fabbro. 

Nearly 50 years later, Lieutenant Governor Dumont’s visit created a remarkable link between past and present. Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefebvre also took part in the event, signing his name beside the 1975 entry made by Mayor Fabbro. 

During her visit, Lieutenant Governor Dumont toured classrooms, met with students and staff, and learned about the SCDSB’s Indigenous Education Program. 

Through the guidance of Elders, Knowledge Carriers, and the Board’s dedicated Indigenous Support Team, the Indigenous Education Program provides all students with meaningful opportunities to learn about Indigenous peoples from both historical and contemporary perspectives. The Indigenous Support Workers at the school and across the Board work directly with students to promote cultural understanding, build connections, and support the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of every child. 

The Honourable Edith Dumont also spoke with Kylie Simpson, a graduate of St. Francis who published her first thriller novel at the age of twelve, about her writing journey and plans for a sequel. 

The visit marked a proud moment for students and staff at St. Francis Catholic Elementary School, provided a meaningful connection between generations, and served as a reminder of the school’s longstanding place in the community. 

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On Wednesday, October 1, Marymount Academy was honoured to welcome back one of their own: The Honourable Donna Skelly, Speaker of the Ontario Legislative Assembly. As a proud alumna of Marymount, Speaker Donna Skelly delivered an inspiring address to our students about leadership, civic engagement, and the power of education.

Following her remarks, students took part in a dynamic 90-minute session exploring topics such as the three levels of government, the legislative process, and how young people can actively participate in our democracy.

The day concluded with an interactive mock debate in the Chamber setting, giving our students a firsthand look at the responsibilities and procedures of Parliament under the guidance of the Speaker herself.

A special thank you as well to MPP France Gélinas for joining us and highlighting the importance of encouraging more women to pursue leadership roles in politics and public life.

We are so grateful to Speaker Donna Skelly for sharing her wisdom and passion with the next generation of leaders!

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Elementary School proudly took part in the Terry Fox School Run once again this year, continuing their strong tradition of supporting cancer research. Over the past 12 years, the school has raised more than $26,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation.

This year, students set out with a fundraising goal of $1,000, and more than tripled it, raising an incredible $3,430! A special shoutout goes to Grade 5 student Jake, who raised an outstanding $750 on his own.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated teachers and staff who make this event such a success each year. The Sudbury Catholic District School Board also wishes to recognize St. Paul staff members, Lisa Dubien and Julie Hayes, who have been leading this initiative for the past eight years. And a big thank you to Sudbury’s Pure Country for coming out to support the event and cheer on the students!