On May 21, Grade 5 and 6 students from St. David and Holy Trinity Catholic Schools came together at Terry Fox Field to play in a series of friendly baseball games, celebrating their success in the 2025 Jays Care Affiliate School Program. This initiative, led by the charitable arm of the Toronto Blue Jays, provides select schools with training, equipment, and access to inclusive baseball programming.
Thanks to the leadership of Principal Colin Lapalme and Teacher Louis Mailloux, both schools successfully applied for the program at the start of the school year — and everything that’s happened since has been a home run. Through their partnership with Jays Care, more than 100 students from St. David’s and Holy Trinity learned how to play baseball and received top-quality equipment and resources, including baseball gloves, balls, tees, bats, indoor bases, pylons, and more. This spring, both schools also delivered the RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) Program—a national program by Jays Care that focuses on making baseball more inclusive and accessible. The program, which aims to eliminate barriers so that every child has the opportunity to participate in sports, provides support from trained coaches, uniforms, and league play, enabling students to develop new skills, build friendships, and cultivate a love of the game in a safe and welcoming environment.
The end-of-year gathering on May 21 served as a happy finale to a season of teamwork, skill-building, and inclusive play—leaving a lasting impact on both school communities.
“We are very proud of the students and staff at St. David and Holy Trinity for their dedication and teamwork,” said Principal Colin Lapalme. “There is no doubt about it that participation in the Jays Care Affiliate School Program and RBI Program has had a meaningful impact on students’ lives—both on and off the field. Staff have seen an increase in engagement, with many students asking their families for gloves and continuing to play baseball with friends outside of school.”
“The program provided a great opportunity for all types of students to participate, regardless of previous experience,” said Louis Mailloux, Teacher at St. David Catholic Elementary School. “We have seen students take risks, build friendships, and fall in love with the game. Thank you to Jays Care Foundation for making this possible. We look forward to taking part in more baseball programs in the years to come.”
With their season wrapping up just as the MLB season begins, the Blue Jays may have gained a few new fans this year. As a school board that aspires to excellence, we are proud to celebrate the success of St. David and Holy Trinity’s budding baseball athletes as they stepped up to the plate and discovered their passion for the game.
May 25 to May 31, 2025, is National AccessAbility Week!
National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) is an annual initiative that celebrates, promotes, and showcases the diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in our country, and highlights some of the important initiatives aimed at creating an accessible Canada. Since 2019, Easter Seals Ontario has recognized the Wednesday of National AccessAbility week as the Red Shirt Day of Action for AccessAbility and Inclusion. Everyone is encouraged to wear a red shirt to raise awareness for accessibility and disability inclusion and make a pledge to help remove physical, attitudinal, and systematic barriers in their schools, workplaces, and communities.
Red Shirt Day
Red Shirt Day is an Easter Seals initiative and was first celebrated in 2019. In 2025, Red Shirt Day will take place on Wednesday, May 28. Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) students and staff are encouraged to wear red on Red Shirt Day to promote messages of support for people and families living with disabilities.
About Red Shirt Day
Red Shirt Day of Action for AccessAbility and Inclusion is a day when people across Canada come together and wear red in schools, workplaces and spaces everywhere in order to create a visible display of solidarity: to show their support for persons and families of those who are living with disabilities, celebrate the achievements of people living with disabilities, and to pledge their commitment to help create a fully accessible and inclusive society that honours and values the contributions of people of all abilities in all aspects of life in Canada. Learn more!
At Sudbury Catholic Schools, learning extends beyond the classroom, coming to life through real-world experiences that connect today’s learning to tomorrow’s opportunities and help students see where their learning can take them.
Our latest blog offers a glimpse into the hands-on, future-focused learning happening across our system. Through programs like Co-operative Education, OYAP, and SHSM, students are building practical and technical skills, growing in confidence, and exploring future pathways. From career fairs and STEM design challenges to learning alongside industry professionals, these experiences help students put the EDGE in their education by connecting their learning to real-world opportunities.
As Director of Education, I want to emphasize that these stories are just a snapshot of the incredible work taking place across our schools each day. We are proud of all our students, staff, and communities. Together, we are creating environments where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to succeed, no matter where their path may lead. WE ARE BUILDING! 🛠️
Yours in Catholic Education,
Morris Hucal
Director of Education
Elementary Stories
Long before students step into a secondary shop class or begin exploring apprenticeship pathways, the foundation for skilled trades and STEM learning is already taking shape. In elementary classrooms, curiosity is sparked through lessons that promote hands-on learning, community connections, and exciting opportunities to build, create, and problem-solve. These early experiences help students develop confidence, creativity, and a strong desire to explore, setting the stage for the pathways they may choose to pursue in the years ahead.
Pius XII Catholic Elementary School recently welcomed families, students, and staff for an engaging STEAM Night during Catholic Education Week on May 6. The event transformed the school into a dynamic space for creativity, exploration, and hands-on learning, with students participating in a variety of interactive stations including LEGO design challenges, coding activities, and robotics demonstrations delivered in partnership with St. Charles College and Laurentian University.
A highlight of the evening was a robotics demonstration led by MC Lau and his team, who showcased their #snobots and introduced students to real-world applications of robotics. This experience provided valuable insight into emerging technologies while fostering curiosity and interest in STEAM-related fields.
Families were also invited to engage alongside students through literacy and numeracy activities, reinforcing foundational skills in meaningful and accessible ways. The Glow-in-the-Dark Space Art Exhibit, thoughtfully developed by staff, offered an immersive experience that highlighted student creativity while strengthening connections to STEAM learning.
Student leadership was further reflected through contributions such as the Bracelet Making Club, whose work demonstrated creativity, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of pride.
Overall, the evening reflects Pius XII’s ongoing commitment to experiential learning, supporting students as they build confidence, develop practical skills, and make meaningful connections between classroom learning and future pathways in STEAM and the skilled trades.
Grade 5 students at St. David Catholic Elementary School once again dove into the world of the skilled trades, working collaboratively in teams to build their own hovercrafts. Through this hands-on experience, students brought their learning to life, applying measurement and calculation in math, while exploring problem-solving and experimentation in science. Led by Mr. Mailloux, whose passion for experiential learning continues to inspire, the project reflects a thoughtful approach to STEM education. Drawing on his background in carpentry, he created an opportunity for students to see how classroom concepts connect to real-world applications.
This year’s experience was made more meaningful through the support of secondary student mentors. Bishop Alexander Carter Teacher, Mr. McKee and his trades mentors, along with student leaders helped guide and support students throughout the build. Their leadership created a positive and encouraging environment where St. David students felt confident to take risks, ask questions, and develop new skills.
On May 6, various elementary students from the Sudbury Catholic District School Board took part in an enriched experiential learning opportunity at the Cavern at Science North, as part of the SNOLAB SEEDLING program’s Celebration of Learning.
Through this national pilot initiative, Sudbury Catholic students joined peers from across Canada in a series of sessions led by SNOLAB’s Education and Outreach team. Over several months, students explored the scientific method, developed their own research questions, and designed experiments grounded in real-world scientific practice. This hands-on approach reflects the Board’s commitment to fostering inquiry, critical thinking, and student voice in meaningful and engaging ways.
The culminating hybrid event brought together both in-person and remote participants to share their learning and celebrate their achievements. Sudbury Catholic students confidently presented their findings, engaged in thoughtful discussions with scientists, and collaborated with fellow learners from across the country, demonstrating both academic growth and a deepening curiosity for science in action.
Supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, this initiative highlights the impact of strong partnerships in expanding opportunities for students. By connecting classroom learning with Canada’s leading scientific institutions, Sudbury Catholic Schools continues to provide innovative, future-focused experiences that empower students to explore their interests, build essential skills, and see themselves in pathways within STEM and beyond.
Kindergarten students at Holy Trinity participated in an Easter and spring-themed STEM carousel designed to support hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Throughout the day, students rotated through a series of interactive stations that encouraged exploration, problem-solving, and collaboration. Activities included building structures to protect eggs, comparing and weighing objects using early math skills, and designing baskets capable of travelling along a zip line. Students also experimented with stacking materials to create stable towers and used a variety of tools to develop fine motor and design skills. Each activity provided opportunities for students to test ideas, make observations, and refine their thinking through inquiry-based learning.
What can a pair of snow goggles teach us? At St. Anne Catholic Elementary School, quite a lot.
Students in Mrs. Lawrence’s class explored the design and purpose of iggaak, traditional Inuit snow goggles, during an in-school presentation led by Inuit artist Vanessa Brousseau of Resilient Inuk Creations. As they learned how these goggles reduce glare from the sun on snow, students began to see clear connections to scientific concepts like light and reflection and how these ideas are applied in real-world ways. The learning didn’t stop there. Students had the opportunity to create their own snow goggles, applying what they had learned through hands-on design and problem-solving
At Immaculate Conception School, students in Mme Mundy’s Grade 5/6 French Immersion class had a true light bulb moment as they explored the world of l’électricité through a hands-on STEM workshop. Guided by STEM experts, students learned how electricity flows and how circuits come together to power everyday life. They put their learning into action by designing and building their own working circuits with lights — sparking both imagination and excitement along the way. As students tested, adjusted, and problem-solved, they gained a deeper understanding of electrical concepts while building confidence in their abilities.
Secondary Stories
At Sudbury Catholic Secondary Schools, specialized programming gives students hands-on experiences that connect learning to real opportunities beyond the classroom. As they build skills in safety, precision, planning, and problem-solving, students are preparing for their next steps, whether that’s an apprenticeship, post-secondary education, or the workforce, while discovering their strengths and interests along the way. Learn more about Secondary Specialized Programs.
Back on the Build:
St. Charles College Team Strikes Gold at 2026 Skills Ontario Provincial Competition
After an impressive showing at last year’s Ontario Skills Competition, four students from St. Charles College returned to the provincial stage last week; this time bringing home gold.
Carter Barron, Josh Hayes, Brody Mabbott, and Hayden Walsh competed in the Construction – Home Building (Team of 4) category under the guidance of teacher Mr. Kohut. Following their bronze medal finish in 2025, the team came back stronger, more experienced, and ready to elevate their performance, and did just that with a first-place finish in Ontario.
Over the past year, the students continued to refine their skills through hands-on learning, building their expertise in carpentry, construction techniques, and teamwork. Their dedication, combined with a commitment to growth and continuous improvement, set the foundation for this outstanding achievement.
The Ontario Skills Competition is the largest skilled trades competition in Canada, bringing together top secondary and post-secondary students from across the province. Competing at this level requires not only technical skill, but also the ability to collaborate, problem-solve, and perform under pressure; qualities this team demonstrated at every stage of the competition.
This gold medal win is a testament to the strength of skilled trades programming at St. Charles College, where students are provided with meaningful, hands-on opportunities to explore their interests and prepare for future careers. Sudbury Catholic Schools proudly congratulates Carter, Josh, Brody, and Hayden on this incredible accomplishment. Their success reflects the power of perseverance, teamwork, and a passion for the skilled trades, and serves as an inspiration for students across our system.
Fast Track into the Trades:
Co-operative Education Placements Gain Momentum with Generation Z
Co-operative education placements at Sudbury Catholic Secondary Schools provide students with valuable experiential learning opportunities that connect classroom learning to real-world experiences. Through these placements, students develop practical work skills, explore exciting pathways, and gain meaningful hands-on experience in authentic work environments. This type of experiential learning helps students build confidence, responsibility, and employability skills while strengthening their connection to school and their future goals. Co-operative education supports students in becoming engaged, skilled, and career-ready members of the community. Here are some of the Sudbury Catholic School students actively engaged in their co-operative education placements.
For Grade 12 student Liam Tousignant, co-op has been the opportunity to take his learning beyond the classroom and into a real-world setting. Currently completing his placement at Jamie’s Automotive, Liam is gaining hands-on experience in automotive repair while working toward an apprenticeship after graduation. “I’ve always been interested in how things work and fixing them, and this experience has really allowed me to turn that into something real,” said Liam. “Being in a shop where I’m trusted, supported, and learning something new every day has made me confident that this is the path I want to pursue.” Working alongside experienced technicians in a supportive, team-focused environment has helped Liam grow both technically and personally.
Noah is completing his cooperative education placement at Canarrni Kitchen, where he is developing his skills in cabinet making and carpentry. Through this hands-on experience, Noah is learning valuable trade techniques, using professional tools, and gaining real-world insight into the skilled trades. His placement is helping him build confidence, practical skills, and a strong foundation for a future career in carpentry.
For Bishop Alexander Carter student Kaitlin Lacroix, co-op opportunities are not only opening doors - but they are also creating platforms to lead and inspire others. Enrolled in the Manufacturing SHSM and participating in OYAP, Kaitlin is currently completing a welding placement at Metalec Sudbury Inc. With no prior exposure to the trades, her journey began by stepping outside her comfort zone and trying an automotive class in Grade 10, where she discovered a passion for welding. That experience has since led to new opportunities, including speaking at the Skills Ontario Young Women’s Conference in Toronto, where she shared her story and encouraged other young women to explore careers in the trades.
“Taking that first automotive class changed everything for me,” said Kaitlin. “I had no background in the trades and didn’t know if it was something I could see myself doing, but once I tried welding, I realized how much I loved it.” Through her placement, Kaitlin continues to grow her skills and confidence each day.
“What I love most about welding is being able to take an idea and turn it into something real,” she shared. “Every day I’m learning something new, and that’s what makes it so exciting.”
Gavin is completing his cooperative education placement at The Water Guys, where he is gaining hands-on experience in welding and water filtration system and maintenance. Gavin is learning how to weld metal components used in water tanks, prepare and clean materials, and assist with assembling and repairing systems. He is also developing skills in measuring, cutting, and safely using industry tools and equipment, while learning about proper installation procedures and safety standards. Through this placement, Gavin is building valuable technical skills, a strong work ethic, and practical knowledge that will support his future pathway in the skilled trades as a Welder.
Brock is currently completing his Cooperative Education placement at Mobile Parts, where he has gained valuable hands-on experience working in three key areas: the engine shop, machine shop, and welding area. In the machine shop, Brock operates a CNC mill machine, developing precision, technical skills, and an understanding of modern manufacturing processes. Throughout his placement, he has worked on heavy-duty axles, trucks, engines, and assisted on the assembly line. These experiences have allowed Brock to build strong mechanical skills, learn workplace safety, and understand the daily operations of the heavy-duty repair industry. Brock has demonstrated a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and enthusiasm for the trade. His cooperative education experience has helped prepare him for his future goal of becoming a heavy-duty mechanic.
For Grade 11 student Lily Yeomans, her co-operative education placement with the Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s Communications Department has provided an opportunity to extend her learning into a professional, real-world environment. Throughout her placement, Lily has been actively involved in supporting a range of communications initiatives, including creating social media content, designing graphics, capturing event photography, and assisting with video production. Through hands-on experience in a fast-paced and collaborative environment, Lily is developing practical skills in digital media, storytelling, and visual communication. Working alongside the Communications team, she is gaining insight into the planning and execution behind effective public engagement while continuing to grow both creatively and professionally.
For student Giancarlo Scopazzi, the Digital Media (Communications Technology) Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) has provided an opportunity to take his learning beyond the classroom and into a real-world setting. Currently gaining experience with Eastlink Community TV in Sudbury, Giancarlo is building his skills in live media production and broadcasting.
Through his work behind the camera, including filming school events and contributing to live sports broadcasts such as the Sudbury Wolves playoffs, Giancarlo is developing hands-on experience with professional equipment while strengthening his communication, collaboration, and technical skills.
Working alongside industry professionals in a supportive environment has allowed Giancarlo to continue refining his abilities while gaining valuable insight into careers in media and broadcasting.
St. Benedict Hospitality and Tourism SHSM Adds Flavour to Local Events
At St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School, Mr. Sipos and students in the Hospitality & Tourism SHSM continue to apply their cooking skills at local culinary events, including catering chili and soup for more than 300 participants at the Ontario Youth Championship at Walden Ski Club, and organizing school events like Campus Hot Dog Day. These experiences provide students with real-world opportunities to develop culinary, hospitality, and teamwork skills while celebrating culture and community. We are proud of their accomplishments, as reflected in the stories below:
International BBQ: SHSM students helped prepare a wonderful International BBQ to welcome our international students to SCDSB. Students gathered to plan, prepare, and serve a delicious meal, creating a warm and welcoming environment for new members of the school community. Through this hands-on experience, SHSM students demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and hospitality skills while making meaningful connections and helping international students feel at home. The event was a great example of experiential learning and the strong sense of community among our Bears.
Friendsgiving for The March of Dimes: SHSM students participated in a Friendsgiving event in partnership with March of Dimes Canada, where they prepared and shared a traditional Thanksgiving meal together. Students worked collaboratively to plan, cook, and serve the meal, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. This experience highlighted the true meaning of friendship, community, and giving back. The event provided a meaningful opportunity for students to connect with others and understand the importance of belonging and supporting one another using their culinary skilled trade.
Wikwemikong SHSM Retreat: Our Hospitality & Tourism SHSM class with Mr. Sipos, along with FNMI students from St. Benedict, traveled to Odawa Mnis also known as Manitoulin Island for a full-day visit to the traditional lands of the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. Students were warmly welcomed by Wiikwemkoong Tourism to participate in an Anishinaabe Cultural Experience and a Culinary & Tourism Presentation led by renowned Indigenous chef Joseph Shawan.
Gr.8 Tech Days: Mr. Sipos from St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School showcases the Foods program to our Grade 8 students during Tech Days. Students get hands-on experience learning a variety of cooking skills and have the opportunity to prepare a small treat, giving them a taste of what the program offers. This engaging introduction allows students to explore culinary techniques, develop practical skills, and see firsthand the creativity and learning available in the Foods program.
Round Dance @ Marymount Academy: The Hospitality & students catered another amazing event at Marymount Academy. A heartfelt thank you to the “Round Dance” organizing committee for inviting our classes to provide a feast for the elders and dancers. Students had the opportunity to apply their culinary and event planning skills, serving a delicious meal while gaining hands-on experience in hospitality. This event highlighted the students’ dedication, teamwork, and commitment to creating memorable community experiences.
Neo Kids Fundraiser: Mr. Sipos and his students dedicated an entire day to preparing and serving food at a huge BBQ fundraiser in support of NEO Kids Foundation. Their hard work and enthusiasm helped raise funds for children and families in need while creating a welcoming, fun, and community-focused atmosphere. This event truly reflected the fellowship of giving back, as students experienced firsthand the joy of helping others and making a meaningful impact through teamwork, service, and compassion.
New Carpentry Program Provides Bishop Alexander Carter Students Level 01 Carpentry Certification
The classroom looks a little different for four Bishop Alexander Carter students this semester. Instead of desks and textbooks, a large portion of their day is spent measuring, cutting, and building alongside other secondary students as they learn the foundations of carpentry through a new hands-on placement with Carpenter’s Union Local 2486 in Azilda.
Aiden Fredette, Logan Howe, Sabastian Maka-Greening, and Jacob Patey are among the students taking part in the new program, which allows them to earn three co-op credits while completing their Level 1 carpentry certification. For the students, one of the most rewarding parts of the experience has been the opportunity to learn together in a hands-on environment. From working side by side on projects to supporting one another throughout the day, they shared that the program has helped them build confidence, enjoy learning in a new way, and form strong connections as a team.
“One of the best parts of this experience is working alongside other students who are all learning at the same time,” said Logan Howe. “It’s a comfortable, hands-on environment where we can build skills, support each other, and grow together.”
“I’m learning a lot, but what I enjoy most is the teamwork. We are always helping each other and learning together, which makes the experience really rewarding,” said Aiden Fredette. “It has definitely pushed me outside of my comfort zone, but the more time I spend learning from our instructors, the more confident I feel about wanting to pursue carpentry in the future.”
Currently, students are studying framing, trim, and detailed techniques like joinery, while also developing a deeper understanding of the safety, precision and math involved in the trade.
“You don’t realize how much math and precision goes into carpentry until you start doing it,” said Sabastian Maka-Greening. “Once you understand it, it actually becomes really interesting and satisfying to see everything come together. Overall, I’m excited to keep learning and see where this path takes me. It’s given me a clearer vision of what I want my future to look like and for that I’m grateful.”
As Aiden, Logan, Sabastian, and Jacob continue to develop their skills, they are also building a strong foundation for their future rooted in confidence, teamwork, and a growing passion for the skilled trades. The program reflects Bishop Alexander Carter Catholic Secondary School’s commitment to hands-on, experiential learning that prepares students for life beyond graduation. By combining classroom learning with real-world experience, students are earning valuable certifications while discovering their strengths, interests, and future career pathways.
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Student Testimonial
“One of the best parts of this experience is working alongside other students who are all learning at the same time. It’s a comfortable, hands-on environment where we can build skills, support each other, and grow together.”
– Logan Howe, Bishop Alexander Carter Student
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Student Testimonial
“You don’t realize how much math and precision goes into carpentry until you start doing it,” said Sabastian Maka-Greening. “Once you understand it, it actually becomes really interesting and satisfying to see everything come together.”
– Sabastian Maka-Greening, Bishop Alexander Carter Student
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Student Testimonial
“One of the best parts of this experience has been the atmosphere and the teamwork. We’re always working together, supporting each other, and learning side by side, which makes it really enjoyable. Since we’re all new to the trade, I don’t worry about making mistakes, just learning from them. It’s helped me improve my skills and realize this is something I want to keep pursuing after graduation.”
– Aiden Fredette, Bishop Alexander Carter Student
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Opening Doors
Empowering Female Students in the Skilled Trades
Across Sudbury Catholic Schools, we are proud to be creating meaningful opportunities for female students to explore, experience, and thrive in the skilled trades. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world exposure, students are discovering pathways that are both rewarding and full of possibility.
Across Sudbury Catholic Schools, we are proud to be creating meaningful opportunities for female students to explore, experience, and thrive in the skilled trades. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world exposure, students are discovering pathways that are both rewarding and full of possibility.
And for students like Kaitlin Lacroix, these opportunities are leading directly to future careers.
A student from Bishop Alexander Carter in the Manufacturing SHSM and an OYAP participant, Kaitlin is currently completing a welding placement at Metalec. Her dedication has already led to remarkable opportunities, including being invited to speak at the Skills Ontario Young Women’s Conference, where she shared her story and encouraged other young women to explore careers in the skilled trades.
“I hope my story shows other young women that you don’t have to have a background in the trades to belong here. It can be intimidating at first, but if you’re even a little bit interested, it’s worth taking that chance. I want more girls to see that they can do this too, and that they have just as much potential to succeed.”
Congratulations, Kaitlyn, on this incredible achievement and for using your voice to inspire young women across the province.
This spring, our students took part in Jill of All Trades at Cambrian College, an initiative designed to inspire young women in Grades 10–12 to explore careers in skilled trades and technologies. Throughout the day, students rolled up their sleeves and immersed themselves in hands-on activities, gaining practical experience while building confidence in unfamiliar spaces. Beyond the workshops, they connected with industry professionals, learning firsthand about the wide range of opportunities available after graduation.
A group of female Grade 7 and 8 students from St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School recently visited Carpenters’ Union Local 2486, where they were introduced to the fundamentals of carpentry. From installing drywall to mudding, taping, and repairing, students experienced the kind of hands-on learning that brings the trades to life.
As Dan Levecque, SHSM/OYAP/College Link/Co-op Consultant, explains:
“Experiences in the skilled trades allow students to explore potential career pathways in a meaningful way, while programs like Co-operative Education, technology education courses, and OYAP provide the structure and support to help them turn that interest into a future career.”
MMA Student Organizes Career Fair Connecting Girls with Trades and Technology Careers
At Marymount Academy, students are not only participating in these opportunities, they are leading them. Grade 12 student Margot Poirier organized the Ready, SETT, Go! career fair, bringing together 35 industry professionals to inspire her peers to explore careers in Science, Engineering, Trades, and Technology.
Motivated by her own experiences overcoming barriers, Margot created an event that focused on representation, mentorship, and empowerment. With keynote speaker Jamie McMillan sharing her journey in the skilled trades, students were encouraged to see challenges as opportunities for growth. The day also featured hands-on design challenges, including building electric cars and creating water filtration systems, activities that sparked creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving.
"Opportunities like this truly changed the trajectory of my life. The Career Café by Women in Science and Engineering Sudbury was the first time I met female engineers, tradespeople, and scientists, and saw myself reflected in those roles. That sense of representation and support is incredibly powerful. When students know there’s a community behind them, it changes how they see their future. That’s what makes experiences like this so important, helping young women build confidence, feel inspired, and see what’s possible.” – Margot Poirier
Students from St. Albert Adult Learning Centre had the opportunity to explore future pathways during a recent visit to the Women in the Trades Open House. The event, presented by the Sudbury Regional Labour-Management Health and Safety Committee in partnership with Infrastructure Health & Safety Association (IHSA), the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), and Cambrian College, gave students a chance to learn more about careers in the skilled trades.
Throughout the day, students tried hands-on activities, met women working in the trades, and connected with mentors. These experiences helped students build confidence and consider new opportunities for their future.
Conclusion
With the support of dedicated educators and valued industry partners in the skilled trades and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), our students are turning their curiosity into action, growing as innovators, learners, and leaders. On behalf of the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, thank you for your continued partnership in helping us put the edge in education and ensure every learner is equipped to thrive, wherever their path may lead. together, we are creating meaningful opportunities that extend beyond the classroom and into the world our students are preparing to shape.
Join us for a summer filled with learning, laughter, and lasting memories!
The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is hosting a FREE Summer Learning Camp, open to all Sudbury Catholic School students currently enrolled in FDK Year 2 (SK) through Grade 6. Taking place from July 7 to 25, 2025 from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM at St. Francis School, the program is designed to support students in bridging learning gaps and preventing summer learning loss through fun, interactive activities.
Sudbury Catholic District School Board
Elementary Summer Learning Camp
📅 July 7–25, 2025
⏰ 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 St. Francis School – 691 Lilac Street
How to Register?
Registration is open until June 6, 2025, and full attendance for all three weeksis required. Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. To register click the link below.
This half-day camp will focus on building essential skills in literacy and mathematics, while also promoting creativity, physical activity, and cultural learning. Here are just a few of the exciting experiences campers can look forward to:
Literacy and math skill development (English and French Immersion)
Physical activities that promote teamwork and sportsmanship
Music, drama, and visual arts
Indigenous cultural learning experiences
Use of engaging technology tools like iPads and robots
Opportunities to build confidence and make new friends
Help shape the future of Sudbury Catholic Schools! Share your voice in our community-wide engagement campaign and help guide our priorities for the next five years.
This week, the spirit of Catholic education lit up St. David School—both figuratively and literally—as students in Ms. Toffoli’s Grade 4/5 classroom took part in a meaningful hands-on activity: creating Lanterns of Hope. With creativity, care, and faith guiding each design, the students spent a beautiful afternoon reflecting on themes of light, hope, and community.
Adding to this already engaging activity, the class was honoured to welcome Mr. Ray Desjardins, Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees with the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. Mr. Desjardins joined the students for the activity, rolling up his sleeves to help bring the lanterns to life. His visit made the experience all the more memorable and highlighted the strong connection between our schools and the broader Catholic education community.
Thank you to Ms. Toffoli for organizing such an inspiring and faith-filled opportunity, and for inviting Mr. Desjardins to share in the moment. Activities like these reflect the heart of Catholic education—where creativity, faith, and community come together to light the way forward.
Marymount Academy is proud to announce that Grade 11 student Alexia Hall has been selected to attend CampMed at NOSM University this summer from July 7 to 11, 2025.
Through a highly competitive application process, Alexia demonstrated her strong interest in health care and was chosen to participate in this immersive, week-long experience designed to inspire youth in Northern Ontario to pursue careers in the health sciences.
Hosted at NOSM University, CampMed introduces students to a wide range of health-related professions through hands-on learning opportunities, including anatomy labs, simulations, and mentorship from healthcare professionals. The program places a strong emphasis on Indigenous and Francophone cultures while fostering collaboration and leadership among participants.
“I am incredibly honored to have been accepted into NOSM University’s CampMed program,” said Alexia. “From a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a career centered around helping others—whether as a veterinarian, nurse, or doctor. Through my CO-OP placement and current job at Northwood Medical Clinics, my passion for healthcare has only grown.”
She added that the opportunity aligns closely with her long-term goals. “My dream is to attend Laurentian University for my undergraduate studies in science and eventually pursue family medicine at NOSM to become a family doctor. CampMed presents an amazing opportunity for me to explore the healthcare field further, gain valuable insight, and develop skills that will benefit both my academic journey and everyday life. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity and excited for what lies ahead.”
“We are incredibly proud of Alexia and all that she has accomplished,” said Stephanie Venturi, Principal of Marymount Academy. “Her passion for health care, commitment to learning, and enthusiasm for helping others are truly inspiring. We can’t wait to see where her journey leads.”
Alexia will join other high school students from across Northern Ontario in this transformative experience that blends education, cultural awareness, and career exploration.
Red Dress Day, officially recognized each year on May 5, is a National Day of Awareness and Action. It raises awareness of the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirited people and calls on all Canadians to stand up for justice and safety in every community.
In the weeks leading up to Red Dress Day, students and staff at St. Charles College with the guidance of the school’s Indigenous Support Worker, Lina Dokis Gagnon, and Indigenous Graduation Coach, Shannon Agowissa, have been engaging in learning, reflection, and meaningful action to honour the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirited people (MMIWG2S+). This included:
Red Dress Day Information Sessions
Throughout the school, students in Grades 9 through 12 participated in information sessions focused on breaking the silence around MMIWG2S+. These sessions opened up powerful conversations about injustice, systemic violence, and the need for advocacy and allyship. Students also had the opportunity to discuss and explore the significance of the REDress Project—an art installation started in 2010 by Métis artist Jaime Black—and what it means to take action as a school community.
Grade 10 Student, Hannah O’Bonsawin shared:
“We don’t just have to be one voice—we can be many.”
Lina Dokis Gagnon, Indigenous Support Worker, guides students through a beading activity while teaching about the significance of Red Dress Day.
Red Dress Day Pins
Beading activities took place in English classes, giving students from Grades 9–12 the opportunity to create beaded pins that they proudly wore on Red Dress Day. The beading process sparked thoughtful dialogue about the lived experiences of Indigenous women, families’ ongoing fight for justice, and how students can be allies both in school and beyond.
Lina Dokis Gagnon (Indigenous Support Worker) with SCC students showcasing their handmade red dress pins.
Red Dress Day Display
Grade 10 students joined Indigenous Support Worker, Lina Dokis Gagnon in creating a powerful Red Dress Day display in the front foyer of the school. The installation featured red dresses, the Sacred Medicines, and a handmade mask co-crafted by Lina and a Grade 7 student. The mask, bearing the image of a red hand over the mouth, is a poignant symbol of the movement to honour and amplify the silenced voices of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S). It serves as a reminder of all the sisters whose voices were never heard. #NoMoreStolenSisters
As we reflect on the significance of Red Dress Day, Lina shares what the red dress represents:
“Each dress symbolizes an Indigenous woman who has been missing or murdered, but we are standing together—reclaiming space for our Sisters.”
Red Dress Day Display at St. Charles College, honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People.
Through education, art, and collective action, St. Charles College is fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous issues and stands united in the call for justice, safety, and respect for all. To learn more about Red Dress Day and how you can support this important movement, visit the following resources:
Rooted in faith and strengthened by community, Sudbury Catholic Schools are helping students grow into compassionate, resilient leaders—ready to care for themselves, each other, and the world around them.
Our latest Director’s Corner Blog, Together in Hope, shines a spotlight on some interesting ways we are fostering positive mental health and well-being within our schools. Thanks to the dedication of passionate committees, caring staff, generous volunteers, and strong community partners, hope and well-being are thriving at Sudbury Catholic!
Read the full blog here: