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:
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 (SCDSB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lily Yeomans, Grade 10 student from Marymount Academy, as the incoming Student Trustee for the 2025–2027 term. The announcement was made by Board Chair, Michael Bellmore during the April 15th Board meeting held at the Catholic Education Centre.
Lily will officially begin her role on August 1, 2025, joining Co-Student Trustee David Akero. Together, they will represent the voice of Sudbury Catholic students at the Board table, working to foster an inclusive, supportive, and student-focused learning environment.
Lily is a dedicated advocate for youth and brings a wide range of leadership experience to her new role. She has led and participated in several community initiatives, including fundraising efforts for NeoKids and Northern Ontario Families of Children with Cancer (NOFCC), volunteering at events like Conquer the Crater with Miles Against Cancer, and serving as a Teen Ambassador for SickKids. A confident and compelling public speaker, Lily has shared her life journey and inspired others at events such as the Terry Fox Run, Grade 8 graduation ceremonies, and university-level lectures on genetic counselling.
Her personal experience advocating for her own health during cancer treatment has deeply shaped her commitment to student voice and wellness. Lily is especially passionate about expanding access to mental health supports, creating more opportunities for student engagement in decision-making, and increasing real-world learning experiences in schools.
“I am incredibly honoured to have been selected as the new Student Trustee,” said Lily Yeomans. “I am excited for what the future holds and to work alongside so many amazing people at Sudbury Catholic Schools. Through this experience, I am most looking forward to growing as a leader, working with students from other secondary schools, advocating for the needs of my peers, and learning more about myself as a person. It is a tremendous privilege to be the next Student Trustee, and I look forward to what lies ahead in this position.”
Chair of the Board, Michael Bellmore, shared his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to welcome Lily to our Board of Trustee team. Her courage, compassion, and commitment to student well-being are truly inspiring. We are confident that she will be an exceptional advocate and leader for students across our system.”
Lily’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.
Marymount Academy is proud to announce that the Junior Concert Band has received a silver medal at the Sudbury Music Festival, scoring an impressive 84! This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of all the musicians involved.
A special thank you goes out to all the musicians and their families for their support and commitment to rehearsals since September and congratulations to the Junior Concert Band on their achievement!
We can’t wait to see the Junior Concert Band in action once again at their Spring Concert on Wednesday, June 4th in what promises to be another memorable performance.
April is Earth Month, and students at St. James School are putting their faith into action by learning how to care for the environment. As part of the school’s focus on stewardship (April’s virtue of the month), Mme Hagen’s Full-Day Kindergarten French Immersion class led an engaging lesson on waste sorting, teaching their peers how to properly use the green bin, blue box, and recycling bin.
The activity highlights the school’s commitment to responsible environmental practices and aligns with April’s virtue of stewardship. Through hands-on learning, the young students demonstrated how small actions—like sorting waste correctly—can make a big difference in protecting God’s creation.
“Our Kindergarten students did a wonderful job leading by example and reminding us of the importance of caring for our common home,” said Jody O’Daiskey, Principal of St. James School. “By fostering these habits early on, we are helping to build a generation that values sustainability and environmental responsibility.”
Throughout Earth Month, St. James School will continue to promote stewardship through a variety of eco-friendly initiatives. The school community is encouraged to take inspiration from the Kindergarten students and make environmentally conscious choices every day.
Bishop Alexander Carter Catholic Secondary School’s Bishop Elite Sports Training (BEST) Program continues to provide students with unparalleled opportunities to grow as athletes and leaders. As part of the program’s commitment to holistic athlete development, students participated in a special Zoom presentation on the importance of multi-sport participation and its benefits for both physical and mental health on March 26.
The event featured NHL Hall of Famer Eric Lindros as a guest speaker, sharing his insights and experiences with student-athletes. Lindros, known for his outstanding career in professional hockey, discussed how engaging in multiple sports can enhance athletic performance, prevent burnout, and promote overall well-being.
The BEST Program is designed to help student-athletes achieve excellence in academics, leadership, and sports. Key benefits of the program include:
Enhanced skill development in athletics
National and international connections within the sporting community
Academic accommodations to support the unique demands of elite student-athletes
Leadership training to foster self-confidence, perseverance, resilience, and communication
SAT preparation for student-athletes pursuing post-secondary opportunities
A cross-curricular approach promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle
“At Bishop Alexander Carter, we strive to provide our student-athletes with experiences that inspire and prepare them for success in all aspects of life,” said principal, Karl Dreger. “Having a legendary athlete like Eric Lindros speak to our students about multi-sport participation is an incredible opportunity to reinforce the values of versatility, resilience, and overall well-being.”
Students in Ms. Langlois’ class at St. Francis School took a creative approach to exploring Canadian identity by designing their own unique cereal boxes. Each box highlights symbols, values, and fun facts that represent what makes Canada special.
From iconic landmarks to cultural traditions, the students thoughtfully incorporated elements that reflect Canada’s rich history and diverse heritage. This hands-on project encouraged creativity and critical thinking while deepening their understanding of national identity.
“We are so proud of our students for their creativity and effort in this project,” said Ms. Langlois. “It was wonderful to see them express their ideas and showcase what Canada means to them.”
Sudbury Catholic Schools celebrates the innovative ways students bring learning to life. Congratulations to these future designers and storytellers on a job well done!
