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:
Children’s Mental Health Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of children’s mental health and well-being. It typically focuses on promoting positive mental health, reducing stigma, and encouraging conversations about mental health issues among children, families, and educators.
Key Aspects of Children’s Mental Health Week:
Awareness: The week aims to inform parents, educators, and the community about the mental health challenges children face.
Activities: Various activities are organized, including workshops, educational sessions, and fun events to engage children and families in discussions about mental health.
Support: It provides resources for families, teachers, and children to better understand and support mental health needs.
Mental Health Week 2025 Theme:
Unmasking Mental Health
Living with a mental health or substance use challenge is hard enough; masking can make it even harder. Living with mental health challenges often forces people to hide behind a “mask” to protect themselves from judgment and discrimination. But the heavier the stigma, the heavier the mask becomes, and the more isolated we feel.
This May 5-11, we’re encouraging people across Canada to look beyond the surface and see the whole person. By embracing honesty and vulnerability, we open the door to deeper connections and the mental health benefits that come with it. In doing so, we can create a ripple effect of courage and understanding across the country.
Creating a supportive environment for children’s mental health is crucial for their overall well-being and development. By implementing strategies, parents can create a nurturing environment that supports their children’s mental health, helping them develop the skills they need to navigate challenges and thrive emotionally. Here are several ways parents can foster such an environment:
Teach Emotional Literacy: Help children recognize and label their emotions. Use books or stories to discuss feelings and coping strategies.
Model Emotional Expression: Show your child how you manage your emotions in healthy ways, demonstrating that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions.
Helpful Websites:
School Mental Health Ontario Website: https://smho-smso.ca/ School Mental Health Ontario aims to create a culture of mental health awareness and support in schools, ensuring that students have access to the resources and support they need to thrive emotionally and academically.
The Kids’ Health Hub Website: kidshealthhub.ca Provides resources focused on children's health, including emotional well-being and mental health resources for parents and educators
PBS Parents Website: pbskids.org/parents Offers articles, activities, and videos focused on emotional development and literacy for children.
Greater Good Science Center (UC Berkeley) Website: greatergood.berkeley.edu Provides articles, research, and activities focused on emotional intelligence, resilience, and well-being for children and families.
Encourage Resilience: Teach your child that setbacks are a part of life and emphasize the importance of learning from failures.
Celebrate Efforts: Acknowledge and celebrate their efforts and achievements, reinforcing a positive self-image.
Activities for Families and Classrooms
These activities can help strengthen bonds, promote understanding of mental health, and create a supportive environment for children during Mental Health Week.
Arts and Craft Day: Set up an art station where kids can create artworks that express their feelings. Use various materials like paints, clay, and collages.
Storytelling Night: Encourage families to create and share stories that focus on emotions, resilience, or overcoming challenges.
Nature Walks: Plan a hike or nature walk to explore the outdoors while discussing the importance of mental well-being and noticing the beauty of nature.
Gardening Projects: Start a small garden or plant flowers together, teaching kids about nurturing and growth.
Kindness Challenge: Create a list of simple acts of kindness that families and classrooms can complete throughout the week, such as writing positive notes for each other or helping a friend, teacher or student.
Gratitude Jar: Fill a jar with notes about things you/kids/families are grateful for and read them together at the end of the week.
Healthy Cooking Classes: Prepare meals together as a family, emphasizing the importance of nutrition for mental health.
Bake-Off Challenge: Host a fun baking competition where family members and/or classrooms can create healthy treats.
Baking A Kindness Cake
The term "kindness cake" emerged in recent years, inspired by movements promoting acts of kindness. This resurgence aligns with the SCDSB focus on mental health and community well-being, where the simple gesture of baking and sharing a homemade cake symbolizes care and connection. The tradition continues to thrive as a meaningful way to spread joy and strengthen bonds across diverse communities.
Each year during Catholic Education Week, we join together with Catholic communities across Ontario to celebrate the gift of publicly funded Catholic education. This year’s theme, “Catholic Education: Pilgrims of Hope,” invites us to journey in faith, guided by the hope we find in Christ, and to walk together in love, resilience, and purpose.
As pilgrims of hope, we recognize that our path is rooted in faith, shaped by learning, and directed toward service. Through prayer, reflection, and community, we are reminded of the role Catholic education plays in nurturing the hearts and minds of students, staff, and families.
Throughout the week, schools across the Sudbury Catholic District School Board will be marking the occasion with special events and activities that reflect this year’s theme. These may include school liturgies, classroom reflections, acts of kindness, artistic displays, and service projects that express our shared mission.
The daily sub-themes for Catholic Education Week 2025 are:
Monday:By honouring human dignity
Tuesday:By caring for creation
Wednesday:By responding to the poverties in our world
Thursday: By serving in solidarity
Friday: By living as peacemakers
We encourage families and community members to take part in the celebrations and to reflect on the enduring value of Catholic education in nurturing faith-filled, hopeful, and compassionate citizens. Together, let us walk forward as pilgrims of hope.
Our Board’s Celebrations
Planned activities involving families and students include:
Catholic Education Week Mass
We are all invited to celebrate a Catholic Education Week Mass scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 11:00 am. You are invited to participate “virtually” in this celebration of the Eucharist.
To support our Toonies for Tuition fundraising efforts this year, Sudbury Catholic Schools will be selling Catholic Education Week Cookies (Nut Free) within our community. These limited-edition treats symbolize sharing the spirit of hope during Catholic Education Week and will help support Catholic education in provinces where it is not publicly funded. We extend our sincere thanks to the St. Benedict community for generously donating their time to help make this fundraiser possible.
Hands of Hope Activity:
Classrooms are participating in a reflective art activity where students trace both hands—one representing their past and the other their future. Through images, symbols, and colour, students will express how their faith has shaped their journey so far and share their hopes and dreams for the future. The completed hands will be shown together in a display at each school to represent our collective journey of hope. This initiative supports the Catholic Education Week theme and aligns with Children’s Mental Health Week by promoting self-expression, reflection, and emotional well-being.
We look forward to this special time of reflection, community, and faith. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff for creating such meaningful learning opportunities for our students.
Resources for Catholic Education Week:
Catholic Education Week Resources are available on the following website and include:
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!
On Thursday, April 24, St. Charles College proudly hosted its 5th Annual Cultural Food Fair, transforming their school gymnasium into a mouthwatering and eye catching celebration of culture, cuisine, and community.
This year’s fair featured an impressive 42 booths, each one offering a variety of delicious cultural dishes representing the diverse backgrounds of students and families at the school. The event also included a stunning fashion show, live music, and entertainment, showcasing the creativity and spirit of the student body.
Throughout the day, students from Grades 7 through 12 had the opportunity to tour the booths, sample foods, and experience the unique customs and traditions that make the St. Charles College community so special.
“This event is a meaningful way for students to come together, share different heritages, and learn from one another,” said Lori Holden, Vice-Principal of St. Charles College. “We are so proud of our students for the pride and passion they brought to the event and look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.”
The school would like to extend a special thank you to the staff volunteers as well as St. Charles College Student Council, whose dedication and leadership brought the event to life once again. Their efforts have made the Cultural Food Fair a cherished tradition in the school’s calendar. On behalf of the community, thank you for all your hard work in organizing this special learning experience.
SCC Event Organizers for Annual Cultural Food Fair
The Sudbury Catholic District School Board proudly recognizes St. Charles College for its ongoing commitment to celebrating diversity, fostering inclusion, and empowering student leadership through meaningful events like the Cultural Food Fair.
To learn more about St. Charles College and the vibrant opportunities it offers, we invite you to visit the school’s website or connect with the school directly: 📞 Phone: 705-566-9605 📧 Email:schl203@sudburycatholicschools.ca
The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Chairperson’s Award: Domenic Vicedomini, Cindy Lewis, Renata Pylatuk, and Sandra Ceccarelli. Each year, this award is presented to individuals who embody our Board’s mission and vision, living out our Catholic values and going above and beyond in service to our students, schools, and greater community. This year’s award winners will be honoured formally during Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s 2025 Employee Recognition Event on June 18th, 2025.
Please join us in congratulating this year’s recipients:
Domenic Vicedomini
Early Childhood Educator, Holy Trinity Catholic Elementary School
Domenic Vicedomini is an exceptional Early Childhood Educator who goes above and beyond to create a warm, inclusive, and faith-filled environment at Holy Trinity Catholic Elementary School. Known for his creativity and service to others, Domenic leads fundraisers, decorates the school for every season, and volunteers to support system wide events. He is known for always bringing joy to those around him. He manages the school’s Facebook and Edsby groups to keep families informed and engaged, and he works closely with colleagues to support student success. A true role model, Domenic exemplifies Catholic virtues through his kindness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to making every child feel seen, valued, and loved.
Cindy Lewis
Teacher, St. Charles Catholic Elementary School
Cindy Lewis exemplifies the values of faith, respect, community, and learning in her role as a teacher at St. Charles Elementary School. Since joining the Board, her unwavering commitment to Catholic education has been evident year after year. At St. Charles, Cindy founded a student choir that leads music at school masses and virtue celebrations, while also nurturing students’ spiritual growth. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom, as she coaches all school sports teams, and creates dynamic, engaging lessons for her students. Whether she’s organizing events, welcoming families, or mentoring students, Cindy’s leadership and passion shine through—making her a true role model who leads with both heart and unwavering faith.
Renata Pylatuk
Office Lead, St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School
Renata is the heartbeat of the St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School office, balancing professionalism with deep care for students, staff, and families. As the office lead, she is a pillar of support, always ready with a smile and a solution. From organizing major school events like Open House and parent-teacher interviews, to assisting students with first aid or preparing lunches, Renata leads with kindness and grace. Her expertise, particularly in budgeting and school operations is exemplary. As is her commitment to the well-being of others. Renata’s dedication and calm presence ensure the school runs smoothly and with a spirit of compassion.
Sandra Ceccarelli
Teacher, Holy Cross Catholic Elementary School
Sandra Ceccarelli is a dedicated teacher at Holy Cross Elementary School whose compassion, faith, and creativity have made a lasting impact on students, staff, and the broader school community. A true model of Catholic education, Sandra weaves scripture into every aspect of her teaching, from daily prayers to bringing Bible stories to life through drama and storytelling. She nurtures each student’s unique gifts with love, patience, and unwavering support. Known for her energy, attentive listening, and commitment to others, Sandra creates a classroom where faith and imagination thrive. Her leadership and heartfelt connections continue to shape lives and strengthen the Holy Cross community and beyond.
“Each year, the Chairperson’s Award provides a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the remarkable individuals who bring our mission to life through their faith, compassion, and unwavering commitment. This year’s recipients truly exemplify the spirit of Catholic education—serving with humility, excellence, and love. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend my deepest thanks and heartfelt congratulations to Domenic, Cindy, Renata, and Sandra for the profound impact they have on our school communities and the light they bring to their roles each and every day.”
– Michael Bellmore, Chair of the Board
The Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s mission is to realize each student’s potential within an inclusive Catholic Learning Community by nurturing and developing students through mind, body, and spirit. For more info on Sudbury Catholic District School Board, please visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca
A small act can make a big difference. Staff from the Sudbury Catholic District School Board proudly rolled up their sleeves to donate blood through Canadian Blood Services, demonstrating their commitment to wellness and community care.
Organized by the Board’s dedicated Wellness Team, this meaningful initiative brought staff together in support of a cause that saves lives every day.
“We are incredibly proud of our team for stepping forward to help others in such a powerful way,” said Joan Yawney Matz, Religious Education & Faith Development Consultant at the Sudbury Catholic DSB. “Their generosity reflects the spirit of service and compassion that defines our Catholic community.”
Sudbury Catholic District School Board extends its heartfelt thanks to all who participated and to Canadian Blood Services for their vital work.
Read the full blog here: 
