SUDBURY – Kina Gbezhgomi Child & Family Services (KGCFS) is proud to announce the recent signing of a Protocol agreement with the Rainbow District School Board (RDSB) and the Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB).
This significant milestone demonstrated our shared commitment to enhancing collaboration, consultation and coordinated service delivery for the children, youth and families we collectively serve. The signing ceremony was grounded in spiritual connectedness, cultural teachings, beginning with a cleansing smudge and prayer. Through this ceremony, we acknowledged that our responsibilities extend beyond processes;
our roles are deeply rooted in respect and accountability to our communities and future generations. This protocol agreement creates a clear and collaborative framework for open dialogue between KGCFS and both school boards. It reinforces our shared duty to ensure that children and youth are supported in safe, inclusive and responsive environments, in alignment with the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017.
Teachers and school staff hold a unique and critical role in this work. Unlike many professionals, they observe children over extended periods, witnessing their day-to-day development, behaviour and well-being across weeks and months. This panoramic view of a child’s growth places them in a distinct position to notice changes and help identify when a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect.
With this strengthened partnership, we continue to foster a responsive system of care rooted in trust and shared knowledge. This supports the enhanced early identification of concerns and coordinated approaches to service planning. By strengthening these relationships, we are creating a more integrated system of care that honours the voices of children, families and communities while fulfilling our duty to protect and support them.
SUDBURY – It was another strong performance at the Skills Ontario Competition for Team/Équipe Sudbury – Powered by Manitoulin Transport.
Members of Team/Équipe Sudbury won 13 medals at this week’s event in Toronto: three gold, four silver, and six bronze.
Skills Ontario hosts Canada’s largest skilled trades competition. Each year, more than 2,400 elementary, secondary, and post-secondary students compete for medals across a variety of categories in the skilled trades.
Team/Équipe Sudburyis comprised of students and teachers from Cambrian College, Collège BoréaI, Rainbow District School Board, Sudbury Catholic District School Board, Conseil scolaire catholique Nouvelon, and Conseil scolaire du Grand Nord.
Including this year’s results, students with Team/Équipe Sudbury have won a total 57 medals at the Skills Ontario Competition since 2019: 11 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze.
Here is the full list of medal winners for this year’s competition:
Gold medals
Ian Ketcheson – Heavy Equipment Service – Cambrian College
Evan Archer and Liam Spencer – Powerline Team of two – Cambrian College
Hayden Walsh, Carter Baron, Brody Mabbott and Gavin Stuart – Home and Team Building – Team of four – Sudbury Catholic Schools (St. Charles College)
Will Gianetto – Heavy Equipment Service – Cambrian College
Owen Case – Heating Systems Technician – Cambrian College
Brendan Spec and Cowen Lachance – Horticultural and Landscape – Team of two – Rainbow Schools (Lively District Secondary School)
Bronze medals
Makenna Kay – Mechanical CAD – Cambrian College
Brady Bayles – Heating Systems Technician – Cambrian College
Nicholas Story and Jacob Riddell – Powerline Team of two – Cambrian College
Bradley Dupras – Plumbing – Collège Boréal
Hetvi Patel – Aesthetics – Rainbow Schools (Espanola High School)
Owen Fex – Heavy Equipment Service – Rainbow Schools (Espanola High School)
As the title sponsor, Manitoulin Transport plays a key role in supporting the 2026 team and helping to build the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
“Opportunities in the skilled trades are essential to the strength of our communities and economy, and it is important that students are given authentic, hands-on experiences to explore these pathways early on,” says Morris Hucal, Director of Education for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “At Sudbury Catholic Schools, we are proud that our learners are not only discovering their potential through real-world applications, but in one of Canada’s largest skills competitions. Congratulations to this year’s Skills Ontario medalists, and to all students who competed. Your commitment and passion continue to pave the way for future generations.”
“This is an extraordinary result for Team/Équipe Sudbury and a proud moment for our entire community,” says Cambrian President Kristine Morrissey. “These students have spent months preparing for this competition, developing the hands-on skills, creativity, and confidence that the skilled trades demand. To see them stand on the podium among the best competitors in Ontario speaks volumes about their dedication and the incredible mentorship they receive from their teachers and instructors.”
“The skilled trades offer future generations a real opportunity for personal and professional growth,” says Boréal President Daniel Giroux. “The Skills Ontario Competition showcased the passion and talent of Greater Sudbury students from local schools and postsecondary institutions, while also highlighting the outstanding preparation of a future workforce that Northern Ontario greatly needs. We congratulate all participants on their success and look forward to the promising and inspiring careers already ahead of them.”
“With hands-on opportunities inside and outside of the classroom, students in Rainbow Schools continue to excel in the trades,” says Bruce Bourget, Director of Education for the Rainbow District School Board. “We are proud of the students who earned the privilege of showcasing their abilities provincially. Students on Team Sudbury who captured top honours have demonstrated that they are among the best in Ontario in their respective fields. Their success is a tribute to their hard work and the dedication of the teachers and partners who inspire them. The trades have been revitalized in Rainbow Schools, which bodes well for our future.”
“Hands-on learning experiences are essential in helping students discover their interests and develop the skills needed for their future pathways,” says Carl Dussault, Director of Education at Conseil scolaire du Grand Nord. “Opportunities in skilled trades and applied learning like this also offer a great social component for students. We are very proud of all students who took part in this competition. Sincere thanks to the mentors and staff who supported, guided, and motivated them throughout the process.”
“Our 25 Nouvelon student ambassadors approached this competition with confidence, teamwork, and skill, thanks to the unwavering support of dedicated teachers who empowered them to compete, innovate and succeed,” says Tom Michaud, Director of Education for Conseil scolaire catholique Nouvelon. “Their collective passion helped make Team/Équipe Sudbury’s strong performance possible, while showcasing the talent and leadership our students bring beyond the classroom.”
“Manitoulin Transport is proud to power this amazing team once again because we see first-hand how critical skilled trades are to our industry and our economy,” says Jeff Smith, Vice-Chair of Manitoulin Transport and the Manitoulin Group of Companies. “These students represent the future workforce, highly skilled, motivated, and ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Supporting their development is an investment in the strength of our communities and our country.”
Each year during Catholic Education Week, we join together with Catholic communities across Ontario to celebrate the gift of publicly funded Catholic education. This year’s theme, “Catholic Education: Pilgrims of Hopeon the Path to Holiness,” invites us to journey in faith, guided by the hope we find in Christ, and to walk together in love, resilience, and purpose.
This year’s theme is grounded in the scripture passage: “As God who called you is holy, be holy yourselves.” (1 Peter 1:15–16)
As pilgrims of hope, we recognize that our path is rooted in faith, shaped by learning, and directed toward service. Through prayer, reflection, and community, we are reminded of the role Catholic education plays in nurturing the hearts and minds of students, staff, and families.
Throughout the week, schools across the Sudbury Catholic District School Board will be marking the occasion with special events and activities that reflect this year’s theme. These may include school liturgies, classroom reflections, acts of kindness, artistic displays, and service projects that express our shared mission.
The daily sub-themes for Catholic Education Week 2026 are:
Monday:Peace be with you
Tuesday:God loves you
Wednesday:Christ saves you
Thursday: The holy spirit lives in you
Friday: Together on the journey
We encourage families and community members to take part in the celebrations and to reflect on the enduring value of Catholic education in nurturing faith-filled, hopeful, and compassionate citizens. Together, let us walk forward as pilgrims of hope.
Public Celebrations
Planned province-wide activities include:
Catholic Education Week Mass
We are all invited to celebrate a Catholic Education Week Mass scheduled for Wednesday, May 6 at 11:00 am. You are invited to participate “virtually” in this celebration of the Eucharist.
May 6, 2026 at 9:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Hosted by the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association (OCSTA), this province-wide event features inspiring keynote speakers and interactive virtual workshops designed to empower our next generation of leaders.
Resources for Catholic Education Week:
Catholic Education Week Resources are available on the following website and include:
The Elementary Book List: These books are linked to the daily lesson plans provided by OCSTA for teachers in grades 1 – 8. You may consider purchasing these books for your schools and book rooms. Online read-alongs are available for the following books:
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.
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:
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.
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.
SUDBURY, Ont. — Grade 8 student Olivia Sawicz of Marymount Academy (MMA) has won the Royal Canadian Legion Public Speaking Contest four times, most recently at the District H & K level, earning her a spot in the provincial competition on May 2 in Napanee, Ont.
The Public Speaking Contest is part of the Legion’s Youth and Education Program and is designed to give young people experience speaking before an audience. Participants are free to choose the topic of their speech.
Sawicz’s speech, titled That Doesn’t Affect Me, explores how people can distance themselves from responsibility when issues do not directly impact them.
“The message I want people to realize is that problems we think may not affect us, actually can, and if we ignore them, they can eventually end up affecting everyone,” said Sawicz.
Sawicz learned about the contest through her teacher and saw it as an opportunity to strengthen her presentation skills while representing both MMA and her local Legion, Branch 76.
As she prepares for her fifth competition in May, Sawicz reflected on her early experiences speaking in front of the crowd.
“The first time I presented I was pretty nervous, but it gets easier every time,” she said. “I feel like I get better each time. Even with school presentations now, I feel like I’ve improved a lot.”
When asked how she prepares for each competition, Sawicz said consistent practice has been key.
“In between each competition, I practice every day,” she said. “I recite the speech, watch videos of other people speaking to get tips, and mostly just hope for the best. I’ve had some pretty tough competitors, but overall, I’ve felt pretty confident.”
Stephanie Venturi, Principal of Marymount Academy, shared how proud the school community is of Olivia’s accomplishments and the impact she has had on her peers.
“Olivia’s winning streak in the Royal Canadian Legion public speaking competitions is something our entire Regal community takes immense pride in. Her dedication and her ability to connect with the audience has inspired students across our school,” said Venturi.
“Although it’s not a requirement, Olivia insists on wearing her school uniform at competitions so she can represent Marymount with pride, something that speaks volumes about her character and school spirit. Public speaking is a skill that can open doors far beyond the classroom and will serve students throughout their future careers and beyond. As she prepares to enter the provincial competition, we are cheering her on every step of the way. Well done, Olivia.”
The Conseil scolaire catholique Nouvelon (CSC Nouvelon), Rainbow District School Board (RDSB), Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) and Conseil scolaire du Grand Nord have approved the School Year Calendar for 2026-2027.
The four school boards have worked together to produce a common calendar for many years, facilitating the co-ordination of services such as student transportation. Each board adopted the calendar following its own consultation process. The calendar will now be submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Education for final approval.
The 2026-2027 School Year Calendar will be the same for all English and French-language schools in Greater Sudbury, Espanola, Manitoulin Island and Sudbury East (including Markstay, Warren, Noëlville, St. Charles and Killarney).
The 2026-2027 school year for students will begin on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, following the Labour Day weekend. There will be no early dismissal.
In addition to the first day of school, the School Year Calendar includes the dates for the Christmas Break, the March Break, statutory holidays, secondary school examination days and professional activity days in 2026-2027.
Overview of the 2026-2027 School Year
Elementary and Secondary Schools
Labour Day September 7, 2026
First Day of School for Students September 8, 2026
Thanksgiving October 12, 2026
Christmas Break December 21, 2026 to January 1, 2027
Family Day February 15, 2027
Mid-Winter Break March 15 to 19, 2027
Good Friday March 26, 2027
Easter Monday March 29, 2027
Victoria Day May 24, 2027
Last Day of School for Students June 30, 2027
First Semester (Secondary) September 8, 2026 to January 29, 2027
Second Semester (Secondary) February 2, 2027 to June 30, 2027
Examination Days for Secondary Schools
January 25 to 29, 2027 (5 days)
June 24 to 30, 2027 (5 days)
Professional Activity Days
Seven days for professional development activities will also be held during the 2026-2027 School Year, as follows:
Sudbury, Ont. — The Sudbury Regional Science Fair Committee annually recognizes a local educator who has demonstrated a sustained commitment to student participation in the science fair and to science education.
On April 12, 2026, Marymount Academy teacher Tessa Jewell was named this year’s recipient of the Sudbury Regional Science Fair Ambassador Award during the fair’s awards ceremony at Laurentian University.
Jewell was recognized for her work supporting science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, including organizing science clubs, developing classroom initiatives and mentoring students preparing for science fair projects.
“This recognition means a great deal to me, as it reflects the hard work, curiosity, and dedication of the students at Marymount Academy throughout the science fair process,” said Jewell. “It’s incredibly rewarding to support them as they explore their ideas and grow in confidence as young scientists.”
Marymount Academy principal Stephanie Venturi said Jewell’s approach extends beyond regular classroom instruction and provides students with additional academic support and encouragement.
“What sets her apart is the extraordinary level of dedication she brings to her students. For over two months, she gave up her lunch every single day to run workshops and one-on-one conferencing sessions, helping students refine their ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and elevate their projects,” Venturi said.
“Tessa’s passion for science is evident in everything she does. She creates opportunities for students to explore, question, and discover, all while nurturing confidence and excitement for the world around them.”
“She is more than a teacher—she is a champion for science education and an inspiration to students and colleagues alike. She is, without question, exceptionally deserving of this award.”
Seven finalists from Greater Sudbury were selected to advance to the Canada‑Wide Science Fair, including Simoné Thompson, a Marymount Academy student taught and mentored by Jewell. Thompson was recognized for her project, GO! Multi Sport App.
Sudbury Catholic District School Board Director of Education Morris Hucal said the work presented by students throughout the science fair reflected a strong commitment to inquiry‑based learning.
“We are proud of all Sudbury Catholic students who participated in this year’s regional science fair and demonstrated diligence in developing and presenting their projects,” Hucal said. “The passion for learning was clear in the way students spoke about their work and the care they displayed in sharing their ideas.”
“We are also truly honoured to have educators like Tessa Jewell among our staff. STEM education plays an important role in preparing students for the future, and it is a source of pride for all of us in the Sudbury Catholic community to see her leadership and commitment recognized at the regional level.”
Sudbury, Ont – On March 26, Marymount Academy students participated in a Science Engineering, Trades, and Technology (SETT) focused career fair, titled “Ready SETT Go!”
The event, organized by Grade 12 Marymount Academy student, Margot Poirier, featured 35 industry professionals and offered students hands-on opportunities to learn about a wide range of careers. Inspired by women working in STEM-related industries, Margot wanted to bring that focus to an all-girls school.
“I started planning this event because of my personal experience with overcoming limiting beliefs and stigma as a woman in SETT,” said Margot.
The event featured keynote speaker Jamie McMillan, a Skilled Trades Professional and motivational speaker at Made in the Trades, who spoke of her journey in SETT, mental health, and the different stages of growth she encountered along the way.
“I hope students see that everyone faces challenges, even me. Life will throw obstacles at you, but it’s possible to get through them,” said McMillan. “Don’t give up, even when it feels hard. You can rise above your struggles.”
“My struggles have become my biggest wins because I can help people learn from my mistakes. That’s the most rewarding part of this journey.”
Students then collaborated on two hands-on challenges: an electric car build and a water filtration design. Working in teams, they used their provided materials to construct a functioning electric car and develop an effective water filtration system. These challenges encouraged collaboration, sparked creativity, and highlighted the fun in SETT, with prizes awarded for the fastest car and most effective filtration system.
The success of the event was met with praise from school staff, who highlighted both its impact on students and the strong leadership demonstrated by its student organizer. Marymount Academy Principal, Stephanie Venturi, reflected on the significance of the initiative.
“It brings me joy to see the leadership and opportunities Margot has brought to our school through this event,” said Venturi. “As an all-girls school, it’s an honour to have such strong female voices leave an impact on our students.”
Drawing from her own experiences navigating barriers in traditionally underrepresented fields, Margot emphasized the importance of visibility, mentorship, and support in shaping her path forward.
“I would never have pushed through the barriers that kept me from these fields without the support of Women in Science and Engineering Sudbury,” she said. “By attending their Career Café event, the trajectory of my life changed. That night, I met female engineers, tradespeople, and scientists, and for the first time, I saw myself represented in these roles.”
“It’s not to be underestimated how empowering it can be to know that you have a community of people supporting you and rooting for you. That is the kind of community that was created at Marymount. I think that Regals will leave Ready, SETT, Go! with newfound confidence, inspiration, and hope.”
On April 7, 2026, St. Charles College (SCC) was honoured as a top donor in support of cancer care with the presentation of a diamond on the donor wall at the Shirley and Jim Fielding Northeast Cancer Centre at Health Sciences North (HSN), recognizing the school’s achievement of a $100,000 giving milestone.
This significant accomplishment is driven largely by the ongoing efforts of SCC’s Student Leadership Committee through its annual Cards Crush Cancer event. Now entering its eighth year, the carnival‑style fundraiser has become a cornerstone of the school’s commitment to supporting patients and families receiving cancer care in Northern Ontario. The next Card Crush Cancer event will take place this May.
“On behalf of HSN Foundation, we are so proud to celebrate St. Charles College and their incredibly generous support over the years,” said Chelsea Parent, Community Engagement specialist with the HSN Foundation. “Through initiatives like Cards Crush Cancer and so many others, their school community has helped raise vital funds to enhance cancer care for patients close to home. We truly rely on the support of our community to fund essential equipment and advance research, and we are so grateful for everything they’ve done. Reaching the $100,000 milestone is an outstanding achievement and a reflection of their compassion, leadership, and commitment to making a difference.”
Students also participated in a guided tour of the centre, where they were introduced to specialized equipment and materials used daily in cancer care at Health Sciences North. Through hands‑on demonstrations, students gained a deeper understanding of how their fundraising efforts directly support patient treatment, reinforcing the meaningful contribution they continue to make to cancer care in the region.
Students involved in the initiative reflected on the significance of the milestone and the meaningful role their efforts play in supporting cancer care within the community.
“This is huge, in my opinion, to have raised this much money,” said Alexa Roy, a Grade 12 student at SCC. “Being recognized by HSN shows all of us that our hard work has gone toward an amazing cause and made a meaningful contribution.”
“This means a lot to me personally because my grandmother went through cancer,” said Max Larch, a Grade 9 student. “Being here and helping raise this money shows that we can support so many people who are facing the same thing.”
School leadership also emphasized the deeper significance of the achievement, noting how the Cards Crush Cancer initiative reflects the values, faith, and sense of service that define the St. Charles College community. Principal Aaron Barry praised both students and staff for their ongoing dedication to stewardship and meaningful engagement.
“I am continually inspired by the students of St. Charles College and the meaningful strides they continue to make within our community,” said Mr. Barry.
“Their care, dedication, and sense of responsibility are evident in the way they consistently show up and invest their time, energy, and leadership into initiatives like Card Crush Cancer. Year after year, our students are not engaged by chance, but through a deep commitment to stewardship and service that reflects who we are as a Catholic school community.”
“This is made possible by the incredible educators who lead by example and demonstrate what it means to be a leader, an engaged community member, and truly, what it means to be a Cardinal. I extend my sincere gratitude to Mrs. J. Demore, Mrs. Montgomery, and Mrs. Humphrey for their dedication in helping our students reach this remarkable achievement.”
At the board level, Director of Education, Morris Hucal, highlighted how the collective efforts of students, educators, and school communities across Sudbury Catholic continue to foster compassion beyond the classroom.
“In a world where cancer continues to impact so many lives, the call to serve others has never been more important. It is deeply moving to see our students and staff within the Sudbury Catholic District School Board respond with such compassion and purpose,” said Mr. Hucal.
“Having St. Charles College recognized on the donor wall at Health Sciences North is an extraordinary honour for our entire Catholic school community. This milestone is a powerful testament to our students’ faith in action, as they live out the Catholic Graduate Expectations by leading with empathy, service, and a profound commitment to the dignity of every person. Their efforts remind us of the incredible difference young people can make when they are guided by faith, goodwill, and a strong desire to serve others. Well done St. Charles College!”
