Sudbury Catholic District School Board

Category: Topic

Marymount Academy Student Heads to Prestigious SHAD Program Following Provincial Recognition for Youth Leadership

Posted on by Erin Kendall

This summer, Marymount Academy student Adonia Dunwell will join some of Canada’s brightest young minds after being accepted into the prestigious SHAD program at York University. 

Running from July 5 to July 31, SHAD is a nationally recognized STEAM and entrepreneurship program that brings together high school students from across Canada for an immersive university experience. Participants live on campus while exploring science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics, entrepreneurship, and leadership through hands-on learning, team projects, and mentorship from industry leaders. 

For Adonia, the opportunity represents the next step in a leadership journey already making an impact both locally and provincially. 

Earlier this year, Adonia was recognized with the 2026 Committee of Youth Officers for the Province of Ontario (COYO) Outstanding Youth Award, an honour presented annually to a young person who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and commitment to creating positive change in their community. 

“Receiving the 2026 Outstanding Youth Award means more to me than words can express,” said Dunwell. “This award is not just for me, it is for all the youth and community members I have had the privilege of serving through my advocacy work. It motivates me to continue creating positive change and amplifying the voices of young people across Ontario.” 

Adonia receives her 2026 COYO Outstanding Youth Award from members of the Greater Sudbury Police Service.

Adonia’s passion for advocacy began through learning about Truth and Reconciliation and the importance of equity and inclusion. Those experiences inspired her to pursue opportunities that would allow her to make a meaningful difference in her community. Since then, she has become actively involved in youth leadership and advocacy initiatives supporting BIPOC youth, mental health awareness, and community engagement. Her involvement includes working with organizations such as Black Lives Matter Sudbury, Compass’ Youth Advisory Council, the Greater Sudbury Youth Council as the Ward 3 Representative, and the Sudbury Catholic District School Board Student Senate. She has also shared her voice through speaking engagements with organizations that support African youth and families. Building on this work, Adonia founded Crowns in Culture, a platform dedicated to empowering and advocating for BIPOC youth across Ontario. 

This summer, Adonia is looking forward to continuing that journey through SHAD. 

“I decided to take a chance and apply after hearing about SHAD through school and from students who had participated before,” said Dunwell. “When I found out I had been accepted, I was truly over the moon. It felt like an incredible opportunity to challenge myself, learn from others, and continue growing both academically and personally.” 

At York University, Adonia is excited to experience campus life, collaborate with students from across Canada, and learn from professors, mentors, and industry professionals. She hopes the program will help her further explore future pathways in psychology, forensic science, public policy, and leadership while developing valuable skills in communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. 

Upon returning home, Adonia hopes to share what she has learned with fellow students and inspire others to pursue opportunities beyond their comfort zones. 

“I want to inspire other students to pursue opportunities outside of their comfort zones and show them that programs like SHAD are achievable, regardless of their background,” she said. “I hope my experience encourages other young people at Marymount Academy and throughout Sudbury to believe in themselves, take chances, and pursue opportunities that can help shape their future.” 

“Adonia embodies the qualities we hope to nurture in every student; a passion for learning, a commitment to serving others, and the courage to use her voice to create positive change,” said Natasha Folino, Superintendent of Education for Marymount Academy. “Her leadership extends far beyond the classroom, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate both her provincial recognition through the COYO Outstanding Youth Award and her acceptance into the nationally recognized SHAD program. We look forward to seeing the impact she will continue to make in our school, our community, and beyond.” 

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board congratulates Adonia on these outstanding achievements and wishes her every success as she embarks on this exciting summer experience at York University. 

Sudbury Catholic Schools Honours Three Exceptional Leaders with 2026 Chairperson Awards

Posted on by Erin Kendall

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is proud to recognize three outstanding members of its school community as recipients of the 2026 Chairperson Award: the Board’s highest honour recognizing individuals who exemplify the values, mission, and vision of Catholic education through exceptional service and leadership. 

This year’s recipients are Dawn Wemigwans, Principal at St. David Catholic Elementary School; Mike Sipos, Hospitality and Tourism Teacher at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School; and Jennifer Larche, Educational Assistant at Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School. 

Presented annually, the Chairperson Award recognizes employees who demonstrate outstanding commitment to faith, respect, community, innovation, and learning while making a lasting difference in the lives of students, staff, and families. 

“These three individuals represent the very best of Sudbury Catholic Schools,” said Michael Bellmore, Chair of the Board. “Each recipient leads in their own unique way, but they all share a deep commitment to serving others, strengthening our Catholic learning communities, and helping every student reach their God-given potential. We are incredibly grateful for their dedication and proud to recognize their remarkable contributions.” 

Dawn Wemigwans 

As Principal of St. David Catholic Elementary School, Dawn Wemigwans has built an inclusive, faith-filled school community where every student, family, and staff member feels welcomed, respected, and supported. Throughout her career, she has championed Indigenous education, cultivated meaningful community partnerships, and inspired innovative learning experiences that celebrate culture, belonging, and student success. Her servant leadership and unwavering commitment to Catholic education have left a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the broader Sudbury Catholic community. 

Mike Sipos 

For more than two decades, St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School teacher Mike Sipos has inspired students through his passion for Hospitality and Tourism education and his commitment to serving others. Whether leading community fundraisers, preparing meals for charitable initiatives, or mentoring future culinary professionals, Mike teaches students that their talents can make a meaningful difference. His generosity, humility, and dedication have made him a respected leader within both the school and the community. 

Jennifer Larche 

Educational Assistant Jennifer Larche is known throughout Immaculate Conception Catholic Elementary School for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to student success. Through her patient, caring approach, she creates a safe and welcoming environment where every child feels valued and supported. Her creativity, advocacy, and genuine care for students, families, and colleagues have made a lasting impact on the entire school community. 

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board extends its sincere congratulations to Dawn Wemigwans, Mike Sipos, and Jennifer Larche on this well-deserved recognition. Their leadership, compassion, and commitment to Catholic education continue to inspire students, colleagues, and communities across the Board. 

“What makes the Chairperson Award especially meaningful is that it comes from the people who know these individuals best. These nominations are submitted by colleagues, students, families, and community members who have experienced firsthand the positive difference these recipients make every day. Dawn, Mike, and Jennifer exemplify what it means to serve others with compassion, integrity, and faith, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate their outstanding contributions to our Catholic learning community.” 

– Morris Hucal, CEO and CEdO of the Sudbury Catholic DSB 

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

Children’s Mental Health Week 2026

Posted on by Erin Kendall

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 2026 Theme: 

Come Together, Canada

Stronger connections.
Better mental health.

Social connection is essential to our overall health and well-being, yet many people are feeling alone. Across Canada, millions report feeling lonely often or all the time.

From May 4 to 10, the Canadian Mental Health Association marks Mental Health Week with the theme Come Together, Canada: Stronger connections, better mental health. This message highlights the important role connection plays in our daily lives and encourages simple, meaningful ways to reach out and support one another.

Throughout the week, our schools will take part in activities and learning opportunities that help build understanding of mental health and the value of staying connected. Below, you will find resources and ideas to support this learning at home and in our communities.

Together, we can help strengthen mental health, build caring communities, and ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Because connection strengthens mental health. ​

Mental Health Week

Connection Bracelet Activity

Activity Instructions

Guidance for Parents & Guardians

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:

Encourage Dialogue: Create a safe space where children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Active Listening: Pay attention to what your child is saying, validate their feelings, and respond empathetically.

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.

Establish Routines: Consistent daily routines provide stability, helping children feel secure and understand what to expect.

Set Clear Expectations: Communicate family rules and expectations clearly, which can help children feel more confident and secure.

Encourage Friendships: Support your child in building friendships and social connections, which are vital for emotional support.

Family Bonding: Spend quality time together as a family through activities, meals, or game nights to strengthen relationships.

Balanced Nutrition: Provide healthy meals and snacks to support physical and mental well-being.

Physical Activity: Encourage regular physical activity, which can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.

Set Boundaries: Establish reasonable limits on screen time and encourage engaging in outdoor or creative activities instead.

Monitor Content: Be aware of what your child is watching or playing, ensuring it is age-appropriate and positive.

Promote Problem-Solving: Allow your child to make decisions and solve problems on their own, which fosters resilience and confidence.

Respect Boundaries: Give children space to explore their interests and develop their identity.

Introduce Relaxation Techniques: Teach your child methods for managing stress, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or positive visualization.

Encourage Hobbies: Support your child's interests and hobbies, which can provide a productive outlet for emotions.

Be Observant: Pay attention to changes in behavior, mood, or academic performance, which may indicate underlying mental health issues.

Seek Help When Needed: If you notice persistent signs of distress, consider consulting a mental health professional for guidance and support.

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.

Child and Youth Mental Health Week 2026

Take the Connection Quiz!

Student & Family Activities – CMHA

Workplace Activities – CMHA

Play “Connection Bingo”

Explore Fact Sheets

Host a Classroom Discussion

Breathing Activity Worksheet

Coping with Loneliness – Strategies & Support

Mental Health Support Resources – CMHA

Register for Educational Workshops on timely Mental Health Topics

Mental Wellness Walk – Wednesday, May 6th

Mental Health Week Activities (Compass)

2026 Chairperson Award Nominations

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Nominate an Outstanding Employee at Sudbury Catholic Schools

Deadline to Nominate: March 31st

To help us honour the incredible staff who go above and beyond, the Sudbury Catholic District School Board is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Chairperson’s Awards, recognizing Sudbury Catholic team members who make outstanding contributions to our Catholic school system and positively impact the lives of students, staff, and families.

Chairperson Award Description & Selection Process

How to Nominate?

Step 1: Fill out the nomination form below.

Step 2: Please send the completed form to the Office of the Director of Education by e-mail at monique.paquin@sudburycatholicschools.ca or fax, (705) 688-1781 no later than March 31st.

2026 Nomination Form

St. Patrick’s Day 🍀

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Wishing all our students, staff, and families a lucky St. Patrick’s Day! Stay safe, keep warm, and enjoy every fun moment this day holds. May the luck of the Irish be with you always.

Snowed In? 

Here Are Some Festive Activities to Try!

Irish Soda Bread Recipe

Shamrock Cupcakes Recipe

Colouring Sheet

Reading Comprehension Sheet

Word Scramble

Counting Worksheet

Maze Puzzle

I Spy Worksheet

School Highlights:

Last week our schools got into the spirit with hands-on activities, green attire, root-beer floats, shamrock artwork, classroom celebrations, and so much more. Check out some of the highlights below:

Pius XII Students Earn Second Place in Provincial OCSTA Video Contest

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Drama Club students from Pius XII Catholic Elementary School have earned second place in the 2025 Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association (OCSTA) Short Video Contest for their video, It Just Takes One Holy Voice.

Students were awarded with second-place certificates at the Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s (SCDSB) February 17 Board Meeting by OCSTA President and SCDSB Chair, Michael Bellmore where they also had the opportunity to highlight the Drama Club and the welcoming, inclusive space it has fostered within their school community.

The OCSTA Short Video Contest is an annual, province-wide initiative open to students in Grades 4–12 at Catholic schools across Ontario. This year’s theme, “Pilgrims of Hope: On the Path to Holiness,” invited students to reflect on faith, hope, and the values of Catholic education through the creation of short videos. Pius XII’s winning submission resonated strongly with the online voting community for demonstrating how even one voice can inspire hope and bring a community together. Their creative efforts resulted in their submission not only getting votes from across Sudbury, but Canada and all around the world.

“It was truly an honour to present this award to the students and staff at Pius XII Catholic Elementary School. Competing with much larger schools from across Ontario, their submission stood out as a powerful example of how student voice brings Catholic education to life within our communities. We are incredibly proud of all our students and the work they put in to capture the theme.” 

– Michael Bellmore, SCDSB Chair

According to the school the success of It Just Takes One Holy Voice was made possible through the guidance and encouragement of staff members Ms. Jarrett and Ms. Cousineau, as well as the collaborative spirit of all the students involved.

“Our Drama Club is a space rooted in commitment, creativity, teamwork, hard work, dedication, and inclusion, and provides students with opportunities to express themselves, build confidence, and develop social and technical skills. As we celebrate this achievement, our school looks forward to continuing to expand opportunities for students to explore their faith, imagination, and artistic callings. Thank you to everyone who voted and helped Pius XII be recognized at a provincial level.” 

– Merrill Sanowar, Principal

During the meeting, student and Drama Club member Chimmuanya shared how students were empowered at every stage of the project – from developing the concept and writing the script to filming, editing, and promoting the video. Beyond the creative process, additional members also designed an outreach strategy to encourage voting and build community engagement at school, parish, and local events. This collaborative approach blended innovation and critical thinking, creating a space where students with a wide range of talents could contribute. 

“Drama Club is a place where you get to be creative and work as a team. We learn to commit, work hard, and include everyone. It’s helped me express myself, build confidence, and learn new skills, and it’s something I really look forward to.” 

– Chimmuanya, Student

While the provincial recognition is a significant achievement for a smaller elementary school with approximately 278 students, the true success lies in the inclusive space the school has created for students of all talents and grade levels to come together and showcase their creativity in meaningful ways. 

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.

Pink Shirt Day

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Pink Shirt Day is February 25, 2026.

The last Wednesday of February each year is recognized as Pink Shirt Day in Canada. Pink Shirt Day, also known as Anti-Bullying Day, raises awareness about bullying in schools, workplaces, at home and online.

The initiative started here in Canada in 2007, when 12th-grade students in Cambridge, Nova Scotia, bought and distributed 50 pink shirts after a fellow student was bullied for wearing a pink shirt. Since then, the Pink Shirt Day initiative, lead by the CKNW Kids’ Fund, raises funds to support anti-bullying programs year-round, and people from over 180 countries across the world show their support on Pink Shirt Day each year.

Join Us!

This year, Pink Shirt Day is celebrated on February 25, 2026. Students and staff across Sudbury Catholic Schools are invited to wear pink to show their commitment to kindness, respect, and inclusion.

Pink Shirt Day 2026 Theme:

Sprinkle Kindness

Bullying can have lasting physical, emotional, and mental impacts, but everyone has a role to play in creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces. Students, families, schools, and community members can take action by wearing pink on Feb. 25, choosing kindness and empathy in everyday interactions, and supporting anti-bullying initiatives throughout the year.

Resources

Below are resources to help students, families, and educators learn about bullying, prevention, and how to take action.

What is Bullying? – CKNW Kids’ Fund

Types of Bullying – PREVnet

Signs of Bullying – PREVnet

Bullying Facts & Solutions – PREVnet

Bullying For Parents & Caregivers – PREVnet

Bullying For Educators – PREVnet

Bullying For Youth – PREVnet

Bullying for School Bus Drivers – Bullying Canada

Cyber Bullying Prevention Course for Youth – Safe@School

Resources For Parents – Canadian Safe School Network

Cyber Safety – Strategies for Online & Mobile Safety

Canadian Mental Health Association – Bullying Article

Safe@School

Poster

Growing Skills for Lifelong Well-Being

Bullying is a serious issue that can affect every part of a person’s life; from school experiences to mental health and overall well-being. While no single individual can stop bullying alone, meaningful change happens when we work together and look out for one another. Whether it’s standing up for a peer, practicing respect online, or starting a conversation about kindness at home, every action – big or small – can make a difference and positively change a life.

Did you know?

  • Bullying can happen in many forms, including physical, verbal, social, and online behaviours.
  • Research shows that students who feel safe, accepted, and connected at school are more likely to succeed academically and socially.
  • Families play an important role in bullying prevention by talking openly with children, modeling respectful behaviour, and encouraging empathy and kindness.
  • Simple actions like listening, checking in, reporting concerns, and standing up for others—can help prevent bullying and support student well-being.
  • Wearing a pink shirt is a simple but powerful act. It represents the choice each of us has to stand up for others and take a clear stance against bullying, helping to carry forward an important campaign that continues to grow and inspire positive change each year.

Visit CKNW Kids’ Fund for more information about Pink Shirt Day.

SCDSB – Safe & Accepting Schools Resources

SCDSB – Mental Health Hub

Family Literacy Day

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Family Literacy Day is January 27.

This annual celebration highlights the importance of literacy and the essential role families play in supporting children’s learning and development. Research continues to show that reading together, engaging in regular conversation, and encouraging independent reading helps build strong literacy skills and supports long-term student success. That is why schools across the Sudbury Catholic District School Board will once again provide opportunities for families to come together in celebration of Family Literacy Day.

Family Literacy Day 2026 Theme:

Make mealtime family learning time

Preparing for mealtime is a fun (and tasty) way for families to learn together. Whether it’s following recipes, making shopping lists, or sharing stories at the dinner table, make your mealtime family learning time. In addition to school-based activities, families can explore additional Family Literacy resources through ABC Life Literacy Canada.

Resources

ABC Life Literacy Canada – Family Literacy Day

Activity Sheet

Activity Book

Poster

Bookmark

Growing Skills for Lifelong Learning

Literacy goes beyond reading and writing — it includes understanding, communicating, and using information in everyday life. These skills support academic achievement, build confidence, and foster lifelong learning.

Did you know?

  • Research shows that families with children who are read to, spoken with regularly, and encouraged to read on their own develop stronger literacy skills and are more likely to succeed in school.
  • Families play a vital role in nurturing literacy at home and in our communities. By working together, we continue to create a learning environment where every child feels supported, confident, and inspired to read, learn, and grow.
  • Simple activities like reading together, visiting the library, telling stories, or talking about books can make a big difference. These shared experiences help build vocabulary, comprehension, and a love of learning.

Visit ABC Life Literacy Canada for more information about Family Literacy.

SCDSB Learning at Home – Literacy Resources

Wear Blue & White for Bell Let’s Talk Day!

Posted on by Erin Kendall

To raise awareness of the importance of open dialogue surrounding mental health, Sudbury Catholic District School Board invites students, staff, and community members to wear blue and white on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. By wearing blue and white (symbolic colours for the Bell Let’s Talk Day campaign), our hope is for our Board community to unite and visually and emotionally show our support for mental health initiatives.

Share With Us!

The Sudbury Catholic School community is encouraged to share their actions with our Board by tagging us on social media and sending pictures, captions, and highlights to info@sudburycatholicschools.ca

About Bell Let’s Talk Day

Bell Let’s Talk Day is an important event celebrated annually worldwide and is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and breaking the silence around mental illness.

Sudbury Catholic recognizes the importance of mental health and well-being for our students. Mental health is a critical component of overall health and well-being, and it plays a vital role in the success of our students both in and out of the classroom.

We also acknowledge the importance of reducing the stigma around mental illness and encouraging open and honest conversations about mental health. The more we talk about mental health, the more we can help those struggling and support them in getting the help they need.

That is why we encourage all of our students, staff, and families to participate in Bell Let’s Talk Day activities. Whether it’s through social media, in-school events, or one-on-one conversations, every action counts in the fight against mental health stigma.

This year’s Bell Let’s Talk Day campaign highlights ways we can all create meaningful change and take action by doing one or more of the following:

  • Choose a mental health organization to learn about or support
  • Help a friend struggling with mental health issues by learning how to support them
  • Ask about how your school, workplace or community is creating change for mental health
  • Nurture your own well-being by practicing and learning mental health strategies 
  • Get involved in a mental health initiative or organize an event to support mental health 
  • Engage in conversations about mental health to fight stigma

On January 21, let’s continue to work together to create a safe and supportive environment for all our students. Let’s break the silence around mental health and support each other in promoting mental wellness.

To learn about the activities and events planned for Bell Let’s Talk Day, and view a variety of resources, check out our Bell Let’s Talk Day 2026 resource page.

Click Here!

Register Now! E-mail Copied to Clipboard