Each year, Freelandt Caldwell Reilly LLP (FCR) hosts an accounting case competition for secondary students, challenging participants to apply their knowledge to real-world business scenarios. This year’s competition tasked students with analyzing a case study based on a Sudbury theatre organization and challenged them to develop practical, implementable business solutions. 

The competition provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate creativity, professionalism, and problem-solving skills while applying accounting concepts to real-life scenarios. Participants also benefit from feedback and evaluation by practicing accountants, offering valuable insight into industry expectations. 

Among the 13 teams that participated, two teams from St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School achieved exceptional results, earning both first-place positions in the competition. Each team was awarded $1,000, for a total of $2,000, which was shared among the student participants. One of the first-place teams was led by student captains Zayle Boyuk and Wesley Wei. 

The outcome exceeded expectations for the St. Benedict teams, with both groups delivering strong presentations under the competition’s time constraints. While the students felt confident in their work, earning both first-place positions came as a proud and unexpected result that reinforced the school’s reputation for excellence in business studies. 

“I think honestly, for both our teams it was a little bit of a shock because we didn’t think we would both get first place, but then when we did it was a big moment of pride because I think St. Ben’s is known as more of an academically strong school especially in business. So, I think that reaffirms that we have that business excellence,” said Zayle. 

Both student captains have developed a strong interest in pursuing accounting at the post-secondary level, crediting their business education at St. Benedict as a key influence.  

“To be honest, this is all because of Mr. Politi. The first time I took a business class was in grade 10 and taught by Mr. Politi, and then it just kind of sparked an interest for me. So, I took grade 11 and grade 12 accounting classes and became interested in accounting,” said Wesley.  

Zayle agreed, and shared “For me, last year I had grade 10 business and it was the subject that clicked most. I like Mr. Politi a lot as a teacher as well. I learned that I have a business mindset, so I started pursuing things like marketing and accounting.”  

When reflecting on advice for future competitors, both students emphasized preparation and leadership. Zayle highlighted the importance of having a strong leader who can guide a team under pressure, while Wesley stressed the value of entering the competition with a solid foundation of knowledge. Preparation, they noted, was essential to success, with Zayle adding that reviewing past competitions and understanding what led to previous wins helped inform their approach this year. 

“Experiential learning opportunities like the FCR Accounting Case Competition allow students to explore career interests, develop practical, real-world skills, and gain valuable exposure to post-secondary and professional pathways,” said Morris Hucal, Director of Education. 

“We are proud of the work Mr. Politi and his students have done at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School, and we welcome opportunities like this that help prepare students for success beyond secondary school.” 

For more information on programs at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School, visit https://st-benedict.sudburycatholicschools.ca/.  

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Staff at the Catholic Education Centre were treated to a thoughtful and delicious surprise today, as students from the Learning Support Centre (LSC) at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School hosted a pop-up booth to showcase their latest project — Cookies in a Jar.

The initiative is part of an experiential learning opportunity developed in collaboration with the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board through their Limitless Ventures program — an innovative initiative that supports students in alternative education settings by fostering entrepreneurial and employability skills.

Each jar, carefully packed with pre-measured ingredients for homemade cookies, was designed, assembled, and prepared by the students. Through this hands-on experience, students have been involved in every aspect of the process — from measuring and mixing to decorating, promoting, and selling the product. The project supports the development of essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, organization, and creativity.

Proceeds from the sale of Cookies in a Jar will directly support LSC programming and future student opportunities at St. Benedict.

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board extends its congratulations to the students and educators involved in this initiative and thanks them for bringing such joy — and such a sweet treat — to the board office today.