The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is thrilled to congratulate 2024 graduate Alexis Teixeria from St. Charles College, who has been awarded a $1,000 bursary by the Greater Sudbury Police Services Diversity Advisory Committee (DAC). Alexis has shown exceptional dedication to promoting diversity, inclusive practices, and cultural acceptance in her school and community.
Thank you, Alexis, for your inspiring efforts to make our world a more inclusive and welcoming place. Your commitment motivates us all!
Alexis Teixeria
“I would like to thank the Diversity Advisory Committee for choosing me as the winner of their Diversity Bursary; I feel honoured to have been selected as the Sudbury Catholic District Schoolboard recipient. I will continue prioritizing diversity and equity throughout post-secondary years, and even more so as a teacher someday.” – Alexis Teixeria
Thank you to Greater Sudbury Police Services and Gurpreet Singh Broca, Chair of the Diversity Advisory Committee, for recognizing and fostering leadership in our community.
St. Charles College student competitor Rena Flarity had an exciting opportunity this morning as she participated in the Skills Ontario Canada competition. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce were guests at the event, which took place next to Rena’s Graphic Design presentation boardroom.
During the event, Premier Ford and Minister Lecce met and spoke with Rena and her teacher, Ms. C. Thompson, about the rapidly evolving media industries. Premier Ford shared insights from his background in the print business, having worked with companies in both Canada and the US. Minister Lecce highlighted the swift evolution of media and shared anecdotes from his recent visit to Sudbury. He also took a moment to discuss Rena’s dream of becoming a teacher, showing support and encouragement for her future endeavours.
St. Charles College and St. Benedict students are participating in two events at the Toronto Congress Centre. Today, students are competing in the Skills Ontario Canada competition in Construction (led by Mr. Kohut), Automotive (led by Mr. Duncan), and Media (led by Ms. C. Thompson). Additionally, students are attending the FMNI (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Initiatives) Conference with Indigenous Studies Teacher, Ms. Petahtegoose, and Indigenous Graduation Coach, Mrs. Agowissa.
Make sure to keep your eyes peeled on St. Charles College’s social media for more information and photographs regarding their events!
In partnership with Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Limited, the Sudbury Catholic District School Board is excited to announce that St. Charles College has enhanced its learning facilities with cutting-edge resources and state-of-the-art equipment to help support student development in the skilled-trades.
In February, the school welcomed new equipment funded by Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Limited. The donation included three multiprocessor welders, two fume extractors, two pallets of welding consumables, safety gear, personal protective equipment (PPE), and four SMART TV monitors. In addition, the school also received six new garage bay doors for both automotive and construction shop areas that were recently installed over the March Break. These contributions will bolster the school’s learning programs and ensures students have access to state-of-the-art equipment that supports their engagement in areas such as welding, metal working, construction, automotive, and more.
Felix Lopes Jr., president of Lopes Limited, passionately encourages today’s youth to get into the trades, “As leaders in the trades industry, we believe it’s our social responsibility to remove barriers and create meaningful pathways for our youth to pursue a career in the trades.”
The newly added equipment aims to ignite an interest and passion amongst students in the skilled trades, potentially shaping the career paths of tomorrow’s workforce. The initiative, organized and generously funded by Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Limited, will help support students to engage in further hands-on learning opportunities that could potentially lead them to choosing a career in the skilled trades.
“St. Charles College is proud to work with such amazing local partners and is committed to providing its students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the skilled trades. The new resources installed at our school this year will make a massive difference in the learning experience for our students. We extend our deepest gratitude to Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Limited for their generous contributions.” Says Principal Aaron Barry.
Enhanced Promotion of Skilled Trades in Ontario schools:
The Ontario Government is taking proactive steps to boost awareness and engagement with skilled trades in schools, aiming to provide students with opportunities to cultivate interests and skills that pave the way for successful careers. Currently, there are more than 140 skilled trades in Ontario. They fall under four sectors: construction, industrial, transportation and service. The skilled trades present a compelling array of fulfilling and financially rewarding paths for students. Through specialized training and hands-on experience, these professions offer secure employment, excellent compensation, and personal satisfaction. Visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/skilled-trades-ontario-schools for more information about the promotion of skilled trades in Ontario schools.
“The ongoing promotion of the skilled trades within our schools is essential. By 2026, one in six job openings are projected to be in the skilled trades. This inevitable outcome means ensuring we have cutting-edge learning environments to promote the skilled trades within our secondary schools is now more important than ever.” Says Dan Levecque, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program and Specialist High Skills Major Secondary Consultant with Sudbury Catholic. “The newly added resources will encourage students to cultivate a genuine passion and skills for the many thrilling opportunities awaiting them in the skilled trades sector.”
Peter Prochilo, Superintendent of Education adds, “Not only will these new resources enhance the facilities in one of our largest school communities, it will further support our students in reaching their full potential, which always remains a top priority.”
St. Charles College students showcased their skills and musical prowess at the 2024 Sudbury Music Festival. Among the standout performances, the Elementary Choir captured hearts and acclaim, earning a Silver Award for their performance. Congratulations to the St. Charles College Elementary Choir for their remarkable achievement, marking another milestone in St. Charles College’s rich tradition of artistic excellence.
Black History Month is a time to reflect on and celebrate the contributions and experiences of Black individuals both in the present and throughout history. It’s a time to recognize the barriers they have faced and continue to face, while also celebrating their resilience, achievements, and rich cultural heritage. While we understand that inclusivity, diversity, and equality are ongoing priorities within our communities, February is a month that serves as a poignant reminder to actively engage in learning and advocating for these values.
This year, Sudbury Catholic Schools took meaningful strides to commemorate Black History Month through a series of enlightening events, dynamic presentations, and engaging activities. From welcoming inspiring guest speakers to establishing new clubs and orchestrating enriching cultural celebrations, these initiatives were designed to foster understanding, unity, and profound appreciation for the depth and significance of Black history and culture. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team and our valued partners for their unwavering commitment to fostering enriching experiences across all Sudbury Catholic School communities. Your dedication and contributions are invaluable, and we deeply appreciate all that you do.
St. Charles College
In honour of Black Heritage Month, St. Charles College (SCC) hosted Rico Phillips, the Director of Cultural Diversity and Inclusion for the OHL, who delivered a significant message from the Carnegie Initiative. Students from St. Charles College, including members of the school’s Black Student Association, and Holy Trinity, joined forces with players from the Sudbury Wolves to welcome Phillips for a special event addressing Black History in sports. During the event, students watched a film highlighting the struggle against systemic racism in hockey, followed by a panel discussion focusing on racism and inclusion in sports. This event was an opportunity for students to engage in discussions about supporting one another and promoting inclusivity for all.
Rico Phillips at SCC
Sudbury Wolves and Holy Trinity Students
Live Panel with Sudbury Wolves
Crowd Questioning
Student Speaking
Rico Phillips and President of SCC Black Student Association Kemi Toki
Card Students
Holy trinity students autograph
Kemi-Toki
Sudbury Wolves Players Provide Autographs
Autograph signing
Holy Trinity Students
Jersey Signing
Autograph signing
School thanks Rico Phillips and OHL
Beginning Presentation
Jennifer Freelandt-Humphrey (Right) and Kristy Hebert (Left)
“SCC is a big school, but we recognized that all our students could really benefit from getting the message conveyed by Rico. As the event only allowed for 200 participants, we strategically prioritized selecting representatives from various groups, clubs, and extracurricular activities, including the hockey teams to serve as ambassadors that could help disseminate Rico’s powerful message across our entire student body.” – Kristy Hebert, SCC Grade 12 Health Teacher
Kemi Toki, President of St. Charles College’s Black Student Association, played a special role in organizing Black Heritage initiatives at the school throughout February. Reflecting on the event, Toki emphasized its significance in initiating conversations during Black History Month. She noted that addressing racism and inclusion in sports not only enhances the sporting environment but also contributes to cultural improvement.
Kemi Toki, President of St. Charles College’s Black Student Association
“Sports play a significant role in our society. By shining a light on racism and inclusion in sports, we’re not just improving sports but also our culture and the attitudes we have towards one another. Having these conversations at our school allows us to understand barriers that happen in places that are not always talked about. By having these conversations, we understand that we need to create a more informed culture where everyone is treated equally, and we can empower individuals to pursue their passions without fear of prejudice.”
As Kemi noted, discussing these topics in school provides insight into the importance of promoting diversity and fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of race, feels equally valued and empowered to pursue opportunities without prejudice.
“Sudbury has grown more diverse in the past decade, and it was important to us to begin our event by emphasizing the value of celebrating this diversity.” Say’s SCC Grade 10 Guidance Teacher, Jennifer Humphrey. “The school is very proud of Kemi, who initiated the Black Student Association this year and has led various campaigns for Black History Month. Throughout the month, she prepared weekly announcements on notable Black Canadians and their achievements, as well as social media posts showcasing cultural attire, which aimed to spotlight our community’s richness in diversity. She is an amazing young woman.”
Jennifer Freelandt-Humphrey (Right) and Kristy Hebert (Left)
The success of this event was greatly attributed thanks to the unwavering dedication of Kristy Hebert, Jennifer Freelandt-Humphrey, and Aaron Barry. Their commitment and hard work ensured the event’s smooth execution and profound impact. Additionally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Kemi Toki and the members of the Black Student Association at SCC for their exceptional enthusiasm and creativity, which not only enriched Black Heritage Month but will also leave a lasting legacy within their school community. On behalf of the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, we extend our warmest congratulations for a job exceptionally well done!
Sudbury Catholic Elementary Schools Welcome Errol Lee for Black History Month
St. David | Holy Trinity | Pius XII | St. Paul
Many Sudbury Catholic Elementary Schools, orchestrated a wonderful celebration for Black History Month, culminating in a captivating musical presentation by the talented performer and speaker Errol Lee and his sons. This event provided a captivating journey through the narratives, melodies, and rhythms that have shaped the Black experience. Through his music, attendees were able to gain a deeper understanding about black heritage and this importance of championing inclusivity within society.
Elementary schools expressed profound gratitude to Errol Lee and his sons for their amazing performance which provided a symphony of storytelling, shedding light on the triumphs, struggles, and contributions of the Black community. Their dedication to preserving and sharing Black history through music served as a beacon of inspiration, fostering a deeper sense of community and understanding among both students and staff.
Erroll Lee & St. David Black Leadership Committee
Eroll Lee at St David
Errol Lee at Pius XII
St David Student With Erroll Lee's Son
St David Gymnasium
Errol Lee at St Paul
Erroll Lee & Student
St. Albert Learning Centre
St. Albert honoured Black History Month on Feb. 24 by planning an exciting celebration for students taking part in the international heritage and language program. The event fostered unity, and allowed students to learn about Yoruba culture, traditions and customs. The occasion was made more special by the presence of esteemed guest speakers who shared their insights and experiences to attendees.
Among the speakers were Dr. Remi Ogundimu, a renowned pediatrician whose dedication to healthcare and community service has earned her widespread recognition. Dr. Ogundimu shared her inspiring journey into medicine, recounting tales of perseverance and compassion that have defined her illustrious career. As a prominent figure within the medical community, her advocacy for addressing health disparities and promoting multiculturalism resonated deeply with our students.
Elder Samuel Eleko captivated the audience with enthralling tales from Yoruba folklore, shedding light on the profound significance of animals in their storytelling tradition. His narratives not only entertained but also provided invaluable insights into the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people, fostering a deeper appreciation among our students.
Dr. Funso Adebite, a retired brain surgeon, imparted wisdom on the importance of humility and respect, transcending cultural boundaries. His emphasis on fostering inclusivity and understanding resonated strongly with our diverse student body, underscoring the universal values that unite us all.
In addition to the guest speakers, the celebration at St. Albert featured recognition of three local entrepreneurs and their inspiring stories. This included:
Bukola Opara, a graduate from the PSW program in 2019, who has since become the proud owner of a local shop specializing in Nigerian fashion.
Adebola Adefioye, a Registered Early Childhood Educator, professor, advocate, and speaker. Adebola is the executive director at Afro Women and Youth Foundation, a non-profit organization providing leadership, empowerment, and mentorship programs to newcomers, Black women, and youth.
Aramide Ogunleye, the owner and talented pastry chef from TM Delights. During the celebration, Aramide gave students a taste of Nigerian culture by preparing a Nigerian food known as “puff puff.”
In the spirit of this cultural exchange, our Italian Heritage and Language students expressed their gratitude to our Yoruba guests with a heartfelt “grazie,” met with warm reciprocation as our Yoruba guests responded with “prego.” This exchange symbolized the beauty of unity amidst diversity, encapsulating the essence of our celebration. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our guests for their invaluable contributions in making this celebration a truly memorable and meaningful one.
Black history month celebration at St. Albert
Story time with Elder Samuel Eleko
Heritage Program Instructors
Dancing
Holy Cross
As part of their learning during Black History Month, students in Ms. Lalonde’s Kindergarten class painted a picture of their dream world, “Where love will bless the earth and peace its paths adorn”. This activity was inspired by the American poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and columnist Langston Hughes’s poem, “I Dream a World”.
Mrs. Whalen’s Grade 3/4 class at Holy Cross created sculptures using only black LEGO. Their artwork was inspired by Ekow Nimako, a Ghanaian Canadian artist known for his LEGO sculptures. In 2012, Nimako began making LEGO sculptures, and his career took off two years later when he received a grant to exhibit his work in Canada during Black History Month. In a video viewed by the class, Nimako explained that representation is always an issue in media and entertainment, which inspired him to use all black LEGO in his sculptures. After discussing Nimako’s fascinating sculptures and the reasoning behind his use of all black LEGO, the students were tasked with creating something unique using only black LEGO. They enjoyed the process and were proud of their creations.
Holy Cross Black Lego Sculpture Activity
HC Student
Constructing lego sculpture
Student holding completed sculpture
Playing with Legos
Completed Black Lego Sculptures
Upclose Black Lego Sculpture
St. John
Throughout the month, Mrs. Vaillancourt’s students delved into the life and legacy of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. In their exploration, they closely examined King’s powerful speeches, including his renowned “I Have a Dream” address. Drawing inspiration from King’s words, the students embarked on a creative journey to craft their own versions of the iconic speech.
The culmination of their efforts was proudly displayed on a bulletin board in the school hallway, allowing fellow students and faculty members to admire their work. Through their speeches, the young learners eloquently conveyed their dreams for a more just and inclusive society, echoing King’s call for equality and unity.
By immersing themselves in the study of Martin Luther King Jr. and actively participating in the creation of their own “I Have a Dream” speeches, Mrs. Vaillancourt’s class not only celebrated Black History Month but also embraced the timeless message of hope and empowerment championed by King himself. Such initiatives serve as poignant reminders of the importance of recognizing and honouring the diverse voices and experiences that shape our collective history.
Marymount Academy
During Black History Month, Marymount Academy launched Marymount Melanin, a club dedicated to bringing together students of different heritages and backgrounds to cultivate unity and pride of uniqueness amongst their school community. Led by educator Dominica Frometa, the club is ongoing and welcomes all who wish to join.
Conclusion:
These activities not only celebrate Black history and culture but also promote compassion, understanding, and inclusivity among students and community members. By highlighting the achievements and experiences of Black individuals, these events contribute to a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive society. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team and our valued partners for their unwavering commitment to fostering these enriching experiences at Sudbury Catholic Schools. Your dedication and contributions are invaluable, and we deeply appreciate all that you do.
Are you passionate about shaping the future of your school? Do you have innovative ideas and a strong commitment to representing your fellow students? If so, we invite you to apply to become the next Student Trustee of the Sudbury Catholic District School Board!
As the Student Trustee, you will serve as the voice of your peers, advocating for their needs and concerns within our school board. This is an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in our system and contribute to the policies and initiatives that directly impact students’ lives.
Attend and actively participate in school board meetings, providing input and perspective from the student body.
Collaborate with school administrators, educators, Board staff, student senate members, and fellow trustees to develop and implement initiatives that enhance the educational experience for all students.
Act as a liaison between students and the school board, ensuring that student voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes.
Represent the school at various events and functions, including community meetings and conferences.
Qualifications:
Currently enrolled as a secondary student in our school board.
Demonstrated leadership abilities and a strong commitment to serving the student community.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
A genuine interest in education and a willingness to learn about school board governance.
If you’re ready to take on this exciting opportunity, we encourage you to submit your application for the Student Trustee position. The 2024 Student Trustee Application Package can be found below and must be submitted by March 27, 2024.
The successful applicant will be appointed by the school board and will serve for the period of August 1, 2024 to July 31, 2026.
Becoming the Student Trustee is a unique chance to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the future direction of our school. We look forward to receiving your applications and welcoming a dedicated and passionate student leader to our team.
How to Apply?
Step #1: Ensure you meet the criteria for becoming a student trustee.
Step #2: Fill out and return the application form below by Wednesday, March 27, 2024, by 4:00 p.m. Complete the application package and email it to Tracey Adams (tracey.adams@sudburycatholicschools.ca).
Step #4: Have your principal and guardian complete the following forms:
Principal’s Letter of Reference
Parent or Guardian Consent Form
*Please note: both these forms can be found within the application package.
Questions:
If you have any questions about the application process or the role of Student Trustee, please don’t hesitate to contact your school Principal or Tracey Adams at the Sudbury Catholic District School Board office at (705)-673-5620 ext. 253 or email tracey.adams@sudburycatholicschools.ca
We thank our Board of Trustees, Senior Administration, staff, students, families, volunteers, community partners, and our parishes for their continued support and commitment to Sudbury Catholic. Together we are providing a caring, progressive, high quality Catholic school system that is nurturing our students – mind, body, and spirit.
Join Sudbury Catholic Schools at our upcoming 7-12 School Open Houses!
Grade 7-12 Sudbury Catholic Schools are excited to be hosting Open Houses, starting January 16! We encourage students to come experience our education, ask questions, and learn about the exciting opportunities available at Sudbury Catholic Schools! Please contact the appropriate school for more information about open houses and for questions about registering for school.
Register now for the 2024-25 School Year on our easy online registration platform. Please contact the appropriate school for questions about registering for school.
November 28 is Giving Tuesday and it is the world’s largest generosity movement. Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a stranger, or giving to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to give.
At Sudbury Catholic Schools, we foster a culture where both staff and students embrace the idea that Giving Tuesday is not merely a single day but a transformative movement that sparks positive change on a global scale. Let us reflect on some ways Sudbury Catholic Schools have come together as a community this month to make a lasting impact.
SCC Students Shine in Annual Canned Food Drive for Sudbury Food Bank
St. Charles College students lead the way with their annual Canned Food Drive, supporting the Sudbury Food Bank. They’ve gone above and beyond by collecting cans at grocery stores and organizing canvassing nights where students hit the streets, gathering non-perishable foods and donations. A hockey buyout at Garson Arena with St. Benedict CSS and a Dress Down Week have also contributed to their incredible efforts.
Sudbury’s Smallest Santas: Holy Trinity and Pius XII Launch Crib Campaign for Infant Food Bank
Holy Trinity and Pius XII schools are participating in the “All I Need for Christmas Campaign” for the Infant Food Bank. The annual campaign helps raise funds and supplies for Greater Sudbury’s most vulnerable: babies and toddlers. Together with the support of their school communities, they will fill a crib with baby necessities to support families throughout the winter and the holiday season.
Spaghetti with a Side of Support: St. Benedict CSS Holds Fundraiser for Sudbury Food Bank
On Thursday, Nov. 30th, St. Benedict is hosting a Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser to support families in need during Christmas. Students, staff, and community members will raise their forks and funds to receive delicious spaghetti dinners. In return the donations raised from this event will support the Sudbury Food Bank.
St. John’s Moe-vember Challenge: A Hairy Tale of Giving
The student council at St. John school organized a fantastic Moe-vember challenge to raise money for prostate cancer research. Mr. Martin, the school’s Gr. 2/3 French Immersion teacher, volunteered to grow a moustache for Movember, and St. John provided weekly updates on his progress by posting pictures on social media.
Together, students and families were encouraged to donate throughout November, and in return, students would receive a moustache to participate in the school’s first Moustache Day on Nov. 24th. According to St. John, the school raised 1,191.00 for prostate cancer research.
Sweet Actions: St. Albert Students Support Church of Christ the King Bake Sale
On Nov. 26, St. Albert Learning Centre students in the Peace Program were busy cooking up a storm for the Church of Christ the King bake sale. The parishioners throughly enjoyed the delicious treats prepared by all the students, and it was reported that all their confections quickly sold out. We are proud to see our students participating in fundraising activities supporting our strong partnership with parishes.
Conclusion
The above list of activities is only a small sample of the acts of giving that have taken place in our school system this month. We encourage you to check out our school’s social media profiles to stay current on what’s happening. As we wrap up November, let us plan to continue to demonstrate the power of our community on this Giving Tuesday and all year long. Together, we can make a difference!
