Sudbury Catholic District School Board

Marymount Academy Kicks Off Terry Fox Walk with Powerful Message

On Friday, September 25, Marymount Academy came together to participate in their annual Terry Fox Walk, carrying forward a powerful legacy of hope and perseverance.

Leading up to the walk, students took part in the “Toonies for Terry” fundraiser. For every $2 brought in, students earned an entry into a raffle draw for a chance to win a special prize basket – highlighted by two Yeti cups generously donated by Ramakko’s Source of Adventure. Through these school-based efforts and online donations, the Marymount community successfully reached its fundraising goal of $700.

The educational component of the week began on September 24, when Grade 7 and 8 classes, along with several secondary classes, attended a screening of the new Terry Fox documentary featuring unreleased footage from the Marathon of Hope.

On the morning of the walk, the school gathered in the gym for an assembly hosted by Marymount Catholic Charities (MC3) to reflect on Terry Fox’s impact. During the gathering, cancer survivor and student Lily Yeomans shared a powerful quote from Terry Fox to inspire her peers:

“As Terry once said, ‘It took cancer to realize that being self-centred is not the way to live. The answer is to try and help others.’ By doing ‘Toonies for Terry,’ it brings students together to care for others while also keeping Terry’s legacy alive.” – Lily Yeomans

Following the assembly, students hit the pavement for the annual walk. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and helped make this year’s event a success!

To explore more community initiatives across the board, visit the Sudbury Catholic District School Board website.

Sudbury Catholic District School Board Welcomes Toby Solarin as New Student Trustee

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Oluwatofunmi (Toby) Solarin, from St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School, as the incoming Student Trustee for the 2026–2028 term. The announcement was made by Board Chair, Michael Bellmore, during the September 22nd, 2026, Board meeting held at the Catholic Education Centre.

Toby officially began his role on September 22, 2026. Representing the voice of Sudbury Catholic students at the Board table, he will work closely with the Student Senate to foster an inclusive, supportive, and faith-centered learning environment.

Toby is a dedicated, highly driven student leader who brings a diverse array of extracurricular, entrepreneurial, and community service experience to his new role. At St. Benedict, he serves as a member of Student Council, a House Leader, co-founder of the Debate Club, an executive member of the Diverse Student Union, and a core member of the Robotics Team, which qualified for the FRC Canada Cup. Beyond the classroom, Toby has demonstrated strong initiative by establishing a successful local snow-blowing business and giving back through over 200 hours of community volunteering including food drives, support for local homeless initiatives, coaching youth flag football, and founding a local youth group to inspire action among younger students.

His background as a student leader and entrepreneur has deeply shaped his vision for student advocacy. Toby is particularly passionate about ensuring student education needs are met, integrating practical life-skills education, such as financial literacy, tax preparation, and mental health awareness into the curriculum, and amplifying student voices across the district.

“I am extremely grateful and honoured to be selected as the new Sudbury Catholic District School Board Student Trustee, I am excited and optimistic to start working with the amazing people at Sudbury Catholic Schools.” said Toby Solarin “Through this position I hope to make a real impact in the many schools under Sudbury Catholic. I want to be the voice of the underrepresented and make sure everyone feels heard. I am most looking forward to growing as a person, a leader, and becoming someone, people can count on to advocate for them.”

Chair of the Board, Michael Bellmore, shared his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to welcome Toby to our Board of Trustees team. His initiative, leadership experience, and dedication to community service and Catholic values are truly commendable. We are confident that he will be an outstanding advocate for students across our school board.”

Toby’s appointment reflects the Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s ongoing commitment to student leadership, voice, and engagement in shaping a positive and inclusive Catholic educational experience. For more information about the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, please visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca. 

Inspiring Resilience: Former NHL Hockey Player Jason Simon Connects with Sudbury Catholic Youth

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board was proud to welcome former NHL player and Indigenous speaker Jason Simon for a multi-school speaking tour from September 15 to 16, 2026.

Organized by the SCDSB Indigenous Education team, Simon’s interactive sessions reached students across four board schools, blending personal storytelling with vital conversations around personal growth, inclusion, and safety.

2026 School Tour Itinerary:

  • Monday, September 14: Marymount Academy & St. James Catholic Elementary School
  • Tuesday, September 15: St. Albert Adult Learning Centre & St. Charles Elementary School

Drawing on his personal journey from childhood to professional sports, Simon challenged students to embrace perseverance and surround themselves with positive support systems.

“Sometimes against all odds, through resilience, determination and discipline, great things can happen. I can’t stress enough that it takes that personal belief and to surround yourself with people that believe in you and your dreams,” Simon noted during his visits. “My whole objective is trying to bring the students along in my story – from a young child to an adult and show them that life is not easy sometimes. By working through the hardships in life and getting past those hard times you build resilience and confidence and self-esteem – the more we learn the more we are dedicated to our mission.”

Reflecting on overcoming hardship and adversity, Simon shared his hope that his story inspires every student to break barriers, build resilience, and pursue healing and growth. He spoke passionately about a future where all young people thrive, while highlighting the importance of remaining deeply connected to one’s culture, community, and foundational values.

“Simon’s journey is a powerful reminder of the strength, faith, and resilience that reside within each of us,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO). “His message resonates deeply with our mission to nurture the mind, body, and spirit of every student across our Catholic school community, empowering them to overcome challenges and lead with compassion.”

Indigenous Education Consultant Dawn Fielding highlighted the deeper purpose behind these visits, noting that as fourth-generation Residential School Survivors, both she and Simon ground their work in sharing truths that empower all students while carrying their history forward with strength.

“My core priority and unyielding commitment is to uplift, celebrate, and amplify Indigenous joy, knowledge, innovation, and achievements across First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Shifting our collective framework from survival to thriving brilliance honors the strength of those who came before us and illuminates a radiant path forward for the seven generations yet to come.” – Dawn Fielding, Indigenous Education Consultant

This message of strength and shared truth encourages thoughtful dialogue throughout our schools as staff and students prepare to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Wednesday, September 30, 2026

To explore more community initiatives across the board, visit the Sudbury Catholic District School Board website.

Sudbury Catholic District School Board Appoints Sabrina Grossi as New Mental Health Lead

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is excited to announce that Sabrina Grossi has been appointed as the new Mental Health Lead.

Sabrina will oversee student mental health initiatives, focusing on early intervention and accessible support for all students. In collaboration with School Mental Health Ontario and the board’s executive leadership team, Sabrina will direct the implementation of the Mental Health and Addictions Strategy and Action Plan.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sabrina Grossi to her leadership role as Mental Health Lead,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “Sabrina is a dedicated professional whose commitment to student well-being aligns seamlessly with our Board’s vision. Her expertise in student mental health and her passionate approach to early intervention and support will greatly enrich our school communities and foster environments where every student can thrive.”

“Every person who walks through our doors has a story worth listening to. My work has always been rooted in one belief; that hope is not something we wait for, but something we help build, one person, one conversation, one small act of support at a time. I am excited and honoured to step into this new role and I am ready to bring this belief into this next chapter.” – Sabrina Grossi, Mental Health Lead

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 information about the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, please visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca/

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Sudbury Catholic District School Board Launches 2026–2031 Multi-Year Strategic Plan Grounded in Faith, Belonging, Achievement, and System Excellence

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is proud to announce the official launch of its 2026–2031 Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP). Built on extensive feedback from staff, families, parish partners, and students, the new plan sets a comprehensive, five-year vision to ensure students, staff, and the broader board community grow spiritually, academically, and personally in safe and welcoming environments.

Grounded in provincial standards and centered on Catholic values, the 2026–2031 MYSP focuses on four strategic pillars: Living Catholic Identity, Welcoming, Safe, and Inclusive Schools, Achievement & Future Pathways, and System Excellence. Over the next five years, these pillars will serve as a roadmap to guide classroom instruction, operational priorities, and community partnerships across all elementary and secondary schools.

“This strategic plan is a collective vision for our future,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “When I look at our new MYSP, I see the real hopes, values, and ambitions of our entire school community. Every pillar represents a promise we are making to our students and staff: to deepen our Catholic identity, nurture safe and inclusive spaces, drive academic excellence, and hold ourselves to the highest standard of system excellence. Together, as a faith-filled community, we are building.”

The 4 Pillars of Success

The 2026–2031 strategic framework outlines key priorities across four core areas:

  • Living Catholic Identity: Nurturing Catholic identity as a daily, lived experience across all classrooms; strengthening student and staff faith formation anchored in equity and dignity; and deepening the Home-School-Parish triad through active parish partnerships.
  • Welcoming, Safe, and Inclusive Schools: Continuously strengthening student and staff well-being; ensuring consistent system-wide processes to address bullying, hate, bias, and discrimination; improving access to mental health and special education supports; and embedding Indigenous education and Truth and Reconciliation across all schools.
  • Achievement & Future Pathways: Closing achievement gaps in foundational literacy and numeracy; expanding hands-on, experiential learning opportunities including STEM and skilled trades; and preparing all students for post-secondary transitions through personalized pathway planning.
  • System Excellence: Building a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability; investing in professional growth and leadership development for staff; and modernizing operational systems, infrastructure, and technical resources.

“At the heart of this multi-year strategic plan is a commitment to the growth and well-being of every student we serve,” said Micheal Bellmore, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees. “Whether through deepening our faith, expanding pathway options like STEM and skilled trades, or enhancing mental health supports, this plan reflects our dedicated promise to guide, inspire, and empower our students for success both inside and outside the classroom. I look forward to seeing its positive impact unfold over the next five years.”

Throughout the 2026–2027 school year, the board will feature ongoing spotlight stories and classroom updates demonstrating how elementary and secondary schools are bringing the goals of the MYSP to life.

For more information about the Multi-Year Strategic Plan or to view the full document, please visit the Sudbury Catholic District School Board website at https://www.sudburycatholicschools.ca/public-reports/multi-year-strategic-plan/

About Sudbury Catholic District School Board

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board provides inclusive, faith-based educational programming across the Greater Sudbury region, emphasizing academic excellence, community partnership, and student well-being.

Sudbury Catholic District School Board Appoints Lisa Lamoureux as New Superintendent of Education

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is excited to announce that Lisa Lamoureux has been appointed as the new Superintendent of Education, effective Monday, August 31, 2026.

Lisa brings more than 28 years of experience serving in Ontario’s education system, having held a wide range of roles throughout her career. Career milestones include positions as an Educational Assistant, classroom teacher, school principal, Acting Superintendent of Education, OPC Provincial President, and System Principal with the Near North District School Board. Each of these roles has provided Lisa with a comprehensive and grounded perspective on senior leadership, supported by a diverse portfolio focused on student achievement and well-being. Her leadership experience encompasses special education services, equity, Indigenous education, student mental health, and French as a second language (FSL). She is also deeply passionate about mentorship and developing others, believing firmly in supporting and empowering educators and leaders as they grow in their careers.

Beyond her professional work, Lisa has strong personal connections to the Sudbury area, as her father grew up in Chelmsford and she continues to have many family members in the region. Outside of work, Lisa is the proud mother of five children. Family is very important to her, and she enjoys spending time with them at their family’s cottage in Kipawa, Quebec.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lisa Lamoureux to our executive leadership team as Superintendent of Education,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “Lisa is an exceptional leader whose extensive background across Ontario’s education sector reflects a steadfast commitment to student success and well-being. Her expertise in special education, mental health, and French as a second language, along with her passion for mentoring staff, aligns seamlessly with our Board’s vision. I am confident that her collaborative approach and extensive experience will greatly enrich our school communities and inspire those she leads.”

“I am honoured and deeply grateful to step into the role of Superintendent of Education with the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, I look forward to working closely with our dedicated educators, staff, and families to build vibrant school communities where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. By prioritizing special education, mental health and well-being, and French language learning, alongside academic excellence, we can create strong pathways for student growth rooted in our shared Catholic values.”

– Lisa Lamoureux, Superintendent of Education

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 information about the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, please visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca.

Sudbury Catholic District School Board Announces Principal Appointments for Upcoming School Year

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is pleased to announce the placement of school principals across its secondary and elementary schools for the upcoming academic year.

These dedicated educational leaders bring a wealth of experience, passion, and commitment to faith-based learning, ensuring student success and well-being remain at the forefront across the region.

“We are deeply grateful for the strong leadership and unwavering dedication of our school administrators,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “Our principals play a vital role in fostering inclusive, high-achieving learning environments grounded in Catholic values. We look forward to seeing their continued impact as they guide our students, staff, and school communities into a successful school year.”

The SCDSB announces the following administrative appointments:

Secondary School Administrators

  • Bishop Alexander Carter Catholic Secondary School: Principal Kim Coluzzi
  • Marymount Academy: Principal Stephanie Venturi
  • St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School: Principal Beverley Belanger
  • St. Charles College: Principal Lori Holden
  • St. Albert Learning Centre: Principal Christina Raso

Elementary School Administrators

  • Holy Cross Catholic Elementary School: Principal Megan Murphy
  • Holy Trinity Catholic Elementary School: Principal Colin Lapalme
  • Pius XII Catholic Elementary School: Principal Merrill Sanowar
  • St. Anne Catholic Elementary School: Principal Jody O’Daiskey
  • St. David Catholic Elementary School: Principal Julie Blahey
  • St. Francis Catholic Elementary School: Principal Jennifer Connelly
  • St. James Catholic Elementary School: Principal Tricia Dowdall-Cirelli (acting)
  • St. John Catholic Elementary School: Principal Christine McCracken
  • St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School (Killarney): Vice-Principal Sheila Tuhkasaari
  • St. Paul Catholic Elementary School: Principal Derek Radey
  • St. Charles Catholic Elementary School: Principal Angela Polischuk
  • Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School: Principal Jodi Cunningham

For more information about Sudbury Catholic District School Board schools and educational programs, please visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca.

About Sudbury Catholic District School Board

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board provides inclusive, faith-based educational programming across the Greater Sudbury region, emphasizing academic excellence, community partnership, and student well-being.

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Sudbury Catholic District School Board and Greater Sudbury Police Service Partner for another Successful BURST Summer Camp!

SUDBURY, ON – The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB), in partnership with the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS), is proud to announce the successful continuation of BURST (Building, Understanding, Resilience, Strength, Together) Summer Camp. Designed to empower local youth, the community-focused program equips students with critical personal and leadership skills to support a smooth transition into the upcoming academic year.

BURST combines outdoor physical activities, hands-on team challenges, and cultural learning experiences. Through strong community collaboration, the camp helps students navigate personal challenges, foster creativity, and build resilience before returning to the classroom.

“BURST is more than just summer fun, it’s a transformative experience,” said Child and Youth Care Work, Michelle Gideon. “Every activity is thoughtfully crafted to empower our students, equipping them to navigate personal challenges and hit the ground running for the upcoming academic year.”

“BURST Summer Camp is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when schools, community organizations, and local partners come together with a shared commitment to supporting young people,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “Through experiences that build resilience, leadership, confidence, and meaningful connections, students are gaining skills that will serve them well both in school and in life. We are grateful to the Greater Sudbury Police Service and all of our community partners for helping create opportunities that empower our students to succeed.”

Program Highlights & Curriculum

The multi-week program serves distinct student groups each week, tailoring activities to support key educational transitions:

  • Indigenous Cultural Teachings: Visiting Elders and guest speakers lead students through traditional Indigenous teachings. As part of this cultural immersion, all participating students craft their own traditional medicine bags.
  • Skill-Building & Outdoor Education: Campers participate in visits to the ARC Climbing Gym and engage in practical workshops, including paracord bracelet making, where students learn practical functions and uses of paracord in outdoor and survival settings.
  • Team-Building Challenges: Campers develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills through interactive group activities, including the Egg Tower Challenge, the Box Challenge, ping-pong ball activities, hula hoop challenges, and group jump rope exercises.

The ongoing success of the BURST program is made possible through the continued partnership and dedication of educators, members of the Greater Sudbury Police Service, and a network of valued community partners, including the Elizabeth Fry Society, Restorative Justice Workers, MHAN nurses, and Northern Youth Services, who work directly with campers to inspire, support, and uplift local youth. The program is also supported by Jumpstart, whose sponsorship helps make these meaningful experiences possible for participants.

For more information about BURST or upcoming educational initiatives, please visit the Sudbury Catholic District School Board website at www.sudburycatholicschools.ca.

About Sudbury Catholic District School Board

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board provides inclusive, faith-based educational programming across the Greater Sudbury region, emphasizing academic excellence, community partnership, and student well-being.

About Greater Sudbury Police Service

The Greater Sudbury Police Service is committed to community safety and well-being through proactive partnerships, youth engagement, and collaborative community programs across the City of Greater Sudbury.

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St. Charles College Percussion Ensemble Strikes Gold with First-Place Provincial Win

The St. Charles College Percussion Ensemble hit a high note this year, capping off a remarkable season defined by exceptional musicianship, dedication, and leadership.

The ensemble’s successful run began at the Sudbury Music Festival, where their precision, artistry, and performance skills earned them a Gold Standing performance from impressed adjudicators. Their accolades continued at St. Andrew’s Place, where they were awarded a scholarship at the Stars of Excellence Awards Ceremony in recognition of their outstanding contribution to music education and commitment to excellence.

As a result of their remarkable success, the ensemble received a personal invitation to represent the Sudbury region at the Ontario Music Festivals Association Provincial Competition, one of the highest levels of music competition in the province. Competing against some of Ontario’s finest young musicians, the Percussion Ensemble delivered an exceptional performance and earned First Place in Ontario, an achievement that reflects countless hours of rehearsal, perseverance, and teamwork.

“I am incredibly proud of the students and Ms. Demore, whose immense dedication made this outstanding achievement possible,” stated Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO), for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “Music is such an important subject in school, as it fosters collaboration, deepens personal expression, and nurtures the mind, body, and spirit within our learning community. The hard work and passion demonstrated by this ensemble are a true reflection of the excellence we strive for every day in our Catholic schools.”

Instrumental Director and teacher at St. Charles College, Ms. Patty Demore says “It has been an absolute pleasure to work with this remarkable group of young leaders. Their dedication to excellence, positive attitude, and unwavering commitment to the music program have left a lasting impact on our school music community. They have represented our school with Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge and have set a standard of excellence that will inspire future generations of musicians.”

Congratulations to our 2026 Percussion Ensemble on an incredible year of achievement and provincial recognition! To learn more about the programs and opportunities available at St. Charles College, please visit: https://scc.sudburycatholicschools.ca/

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