On Saturday, October 26, St. Albert Learning Centre received the prestigious Michael Monk Award along with a $4,000 grant, in recognition of its inspiring educational initiative, Strengthening Connections: Engaging At-Risk Youth through Community Outreach and Catholic Teachings. 

This award, presented by the Catholic Education Foundation of Ontario, honours a Catholic secondary school that exemplifies excellence and innovation in student learning. St. Albert’s program reflects that mission by offering students the chance to earn a religious education credit through dedicated community service, transforming learning into meaningful action. 

“We are deeply honoured to be recognized by the Catholic Education Foundation,” said Principal Christina Raso. “Our program not only serves the community but also addresses the needs of our students, many of whom are at-risk youth dealing with various personal challenges. It gives them meaningful ways to contribute, build confidence and feel a sense of purpose.” 

This year, St. Albert students will demonstrate their commitment to community stewardship by engaging in a range of impactful community activities. Students will provide companionship and support to elderly residents in local nursing homes, volunteer at the Blue Door Soup Kitchen, lead programs for students at St. Francis Elementary School, and craft items for sale, with proceeds benefiting Christ the King Church.  

The grant will strengthen St. Albert’s partnership with Christ the King Church, enabling the school to contribute more effectively to the Church’s events and activities. It will also support the creation of ‘blessing bags’ and food services for the homeless.

“Our students are incredibly proud of their work,” Principal Raso added. “This program has nurtured empathy, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility. We’re also seeing positive changes in their academic outlook and engagement as a result.” 

She added, “While there is still much work ahead, this recognition and grant has empowered our students and staff to continue their impactful work within the community, driving positive change and making a lasting difference in their own lives and of those they serve.” 

For more information about St. Albert Learning Centre, please visit https://st-albert.sudburycatholicschools.ca/. 

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Last week, the fifth graders at St. David Catholic Elementary School dove into the world of the skilled trades, and worked together in groups of five to build a set of hoverboards! From measuring and calculating in math to experimenting and problem-solving in science, they discovered how those essential skills weave seamlessly into their curriculum.

We would like to extend a big thank you to Mr, Mailloux for his encouragement and passion for hands-on learning. Mr. Mailloux, who also has carpentry experience, came up with the idea while searching for Science, Technology, English and Math (STEM) projects.

These young minds are not just learning; they’re developing 21st-century skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity! Whether they’re building, designing, or communicating their ideas, our students are gaining the confidence and competencies they need for the future.

Grade 11 students from St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School spent a day in the chemistry labs at Cambrian College, conducting experiments and having some hands-on fun. 

The chemistry class at St. Benedict is equivalent to a course the students would take at the post-secondary level, and the college has opened its labs to the students so they can complete the requirements of their course. 

“We want to make sure students have the chance to experience what chemistry is like at the college level,” said Hadi Fergani, a professor and program coordinator for Cambrian’s chemical engineering programs. “This has been such a successful program, and the students really seem to enjoy the day in our labs. We hope it encourages more students to pursue careers in chemical engineering.” 

In addition to spending time in the chemistry labs, students also enjoyed lunch in Cambrian’s Student Life Centre, as well as other activities around campus to demonstrate what Cambrian has to offer. 

To kick off the upcoming hockey season, the St. Charles College (SCC) boys’ hockey team will visit the Ford Ice Center on October 16, 2024, to watch the Nashville Predators take on the Edmonton Oilers. The team will also have the chance to meet NHL coaches and even a few players. 

Following the game, the boys will compete in a series of exhibition games against other competitive teams in the area, tour the Ford Ice Center facility, including the Predators’ official dressing room, and take to the ice for a practice led by former NHL player and current Assistant Coach Derek MacKenzie.  

SCC Athletic Director Darren Michelutti hopes the trip will inspire resilience and adaptability in his players. “I want them to understand the value of teamwork and communication, both on and off the ice. Playing exhibition games, watching a live NHL game and touring the facilities will show them the hard work and dedication required to become a professional athlete. Overall, it’s an opportunity for personal and athletic growth.”  

News of the trip has sparked excitement among the players as they prepare for another season on the ice. Brady Boucher, a senior member of the team, commented, “I’m most looking forward to experiencing a new culture of hockey and playing against American teams. It will be the most unique hockey experience I’ve ever had throughout my decade-plus of playing.” He added, “I think this tournament will also help us work out our kinks as a team. This will be some decent competition that will allow us to prepare for the rest of the season.” 

The St. Charles Hockey Program has been a source of pride among students, staff and alumni since its inception in 1952, significantly shaping the school’s culture by adding to its strong sense of community, teamwork, and school spirit. 

Darren Michelutti added, “Our hockey program is the most successful athletic program in the school’s history, built on a foundation of tradition and excellence. Playing hockey for St. Charles College is a privilege, and many students consider their experiences in this program among the best of their lives. Our hockey teams are supported by a large following, led by current and former students, community members, and fans from beyond Sudbury, all of whom take pride in being part of the SCC hockey program.” 

Carter Danyluk, also a senior member of the team, added, “There’s a rich history here. In the last four years, we have come home with City Championships and that has allowed us to really connect as a team. It will be nice to get out there and have some chemistry with this year’s team while making lifelong memories and having a great bonding experience overall.”  

His teammate Hayden Myre agreed, adding, “There is something about protecting our ‘rep.’ We want to keep the running streak going. We are one of the few schools that have a hockey class, so we have been able to get out on the ice a lot more and build on our chemistry”  

The success of the school’s hockey program led to the creation of the SCC High Performance Hockey Academy; a curricular program designed for all hockey players at the school. The academy includes four secondary classes and two elementary groups, with over 100 students currently enrolled.  

Later this season, St. Charles College will also have the honour of hosting the 2025 A/AA OFSAA Hockey Championship. The tournament will draw 32 teams and around 500 individuals including student-athletes, staff, family members and friends to Greater Sudbury. 

With plenty of exciting opportunities on the rise for the SCC hockey team, there’s one thing the players can all agree on: ‘Without a doubt, the best part of being on the team is the coaches and how much they care,” said Brady Boucher.  

For more information on St. Charles College, visit https://scc.sudburycatholicschools.ca/.

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On Thursday, September 26, 2024, The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) celebrated its 7th Annual Welcome BBQ for International Students attending SCDSB schools this year. 

The Board was pleased to welcome 36 international students, 11 more than the previous year.  

The objective of the International Student Program is to foster a genuine and enriching Canadian experience where students can enhance their English language skills and immerse themselves in a supportive community that encourages personal growth, cultural exchange, and lifelong friendships. 

“Students have travelled from far and wide to attend Sudbury Catholic Schools, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences that have truly enriched our school communities. We are blessed to welcome students from an ever-growing list of countries which enriches the experience for all,” said Peter Prochilo, Superintendent of Education. 

Studying in Canada also gives students the unique opportunity to explore different hobbies and extra-curricular activities they may otherwise not have access to in their home countries.  

Christie, a Grade 12 student at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School, expressed her excitement for the start of the sports season. “I play a lot of sports that I couldn’t really play in China. This year, I’m on the golf and basketball team!” 

Grade 11 students Olivier and Roberto, from St. Charles College, shared her enthusiasm. “We are on the football team, and we don’t really have that sport in Europe. It was something we were really looking forward to—along with learning how to ice skate.” 

They added, “We are also looking forward to winter. Our host family has a snowmobile that we are excited to try.” 

The International Student Program relies heavily on the generosity and support of local families who create a ‘home away from home’ for international students.  

Chair Michael Bellmore, a strong supporter of the program, added, “We are extremely grateful to our host families who make this program possible, and we are always eager to welcome more hosts to our growing community. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain new cultural perspectives, create lasting memories and even rediscover your local community.”   

This year the SCDSB has received students from China, France, Japan, Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. 

For more information on the International Student Program, visit https://international.sudburycatholicschools.ca/. 

For more information on becoming a host family, visit https://www.mlihomestay.com/hosts/the-homestay-experience/. 

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