Sudbury Catholic District School Board

Category: Uncategorized

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

TRANSPORTATION CANCELLED – Feb. 10

Posted on by brooklyn

MORNING AND AFTERNOON TRANSPORTATION CANCELLED IN ESPANOLA, MASSEY AND SUDBURY DISTRICTS

MORNING TRANSPORTATION CANCELLED ON MANITOULIN ISLAND – TRANSPORTATION WILL RESUME THIS AFTERNOON

Due to poor road conditions and in the interest of student safety, school purpose transportation is cancelled for the entire day in the Espanola, Massey, and Sudbury Districts. This includes all areas such as St-Charles, Noëlville, Monetville, Markstay, Hagar, Warren, Wahnapitae, Coniston, Killarney, Whitefish, Whitefish River First Nations, Onaping, Chelmsford, Capreol, Valley East, Garson, Chelmsford and Azilda. All schools will remain open, however, NO transportation will be provided.

Parents in the Espanola, Massey, and Sudbury Districts who bring their children to school this morning are reminded that they will need to arrange pick-up at the end of the day.

On Manitoulin Island, transportation is cancelled this morning but will resume this afternoon. Parents on Manitoulin Island who choose to bring their children to school this morning will not need to pick them up at the end of the day.

SCDSB Students Compete in the Robot Builder Showdown!

Posted on by brooklyn

Science North was buzzing with creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork today as our elementary students competed in the first-ever Robot Builder Showdown 🤖✨

Grade 4–6 students from the Sudbury Catholic District School Board joined peers from the Rainbow District School Board for a full day of hands-on robotics at Science North. In teams of three, students took on a fast-paced build challenge using LEGO Spike Essential kits, designing, building, and programming robots to complete mining-inspired coding challenges.

With 20 teams competing, the event showcased incredible collaboration, innovation, and critical-thinking skills. A huge congratulations to all of the students who participated and brought their ideas to life!

Black History Month

Posted on by Erin Kendall

February is Black History Month.

Black History Month is an important time to learn, reflect, and celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Black communities in Canada – past and present. It is also a time to recognize the resilience, leadership, creativity, and achievements of Black individuals, while acknowledging the lived experiences and challenges that continue to shape their journeys today. Throughout February, Sudbury Catholic School communities will take part in a variety of events, hands-on activities, student-led initiatives, and learning experiences that encourage understanding, strengthen sense of belonging, and honour the lasting impact of Black history and culture.

While inclusivity, diversity, and equity guide our work throughout the year, this month offers many meaningful opportunities to pause, listen, celebrate, and learn together in our community. In addition to school-based activities, families are encouraged to discover Black History Month resources available through the Government of Canada and explore community events happening in Sudbury. (Bottom of page.)

Letter from SCDSB Director of Education Morris Hucal

Black History Month 2026 Theme:

30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations

The 2026 theme for Black History Month is: “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This theme celebrates three decades of Black History Month in Canada by highlighting the enduring contributions of Black Canadians across time. It acknowledges the foundational role of nation builders—those who fought for civil rights, advanced social justice, and shaped Canada’s cultural and political landscape. At the same time, it looks forward to tomorrow’s visionaries, the emerging leaders, innovators, and changemakers who are redefining excellence in every field.

Resources

Black History Month – Government of Canada

Black History in Canada

Noteworthy Figures

Anti-Black Racism

Poster

Colouring Page

Black History Month Videos

📌 Community Events

Learning doesn’t just happen in classrooms — it happens in libraries, theatres, community spaces, and shared moments that spark curiosity and connection. We invite families and community members to take part in meaningful experiences happening in Sudbury throughout February.

Black History Month Activities

The Greater Sudbury Public Library has a curated book list featuring titles that honour Black stories and voices for families and kids. View Book List!

Mooncrater Theatre: Mooncrater Theatre is presenting a Poetry Slam with MayaSpoken on Feb. 6 at Sudbury Indie Cinema, featuring a pay-what-you-can spoken word competition celebrating Black History Month and inviting Black, Indigenous, and racialized artists to participate. Learn more!

The Sudbury Indie Cinema is holding a Black Filmmakers Spotlight series every Friday in February, featuring screenings and discussions of films by Black Canadian filmmakers for Black History Month. Tickets are $5 for each film. Learn more!

Film Screenings Schedule

  • Friday, February 6 | 7:00 p.m.
    Brother (Dir. Clement Virgo)
    Presented by: Black Lives Matter Sudbury

  • Friday, February 13 | 7:00 p.m.
    Moonlight (Dir. Barry Jenkins)

  • Friday, February 20 | 7:00 p.m.
    Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story (Dir. Alison Duke)
    Followed by a Director Q&A

  • Friday, February 27 | 7:00 p.m.
    Black Ice (Dir. Hubert Davis)
    Followed by a Panel Discussion

 

 

The Greater Sudbury Public Library, in partnership with Thriving African Families and the Sudbury African Literacy Project, is hosting a free Sudbury African Literacy Project event on Feb. 7 at their Main Library (74 Mackenzie Street, Sudbury). This event will celebrate and highlight Black authors, culture, and creativity through workshops, a showcase, and an essay contest. Learn more!

 

 

Afro-Heritage Association of Sudbury:

The Afro-Heritage Association of Sudbury is holding a Strategic Partner for Sudbury networking evening on Feb. 19 from 5:30–8:30 p.m. at Natura Catering & Events, bringing together community, business, and organizational partners for an evening of connection and partnership. Learn more!

 

SWSE Sports & Entertainment:

The downtown Sudbury water tower is glowing in Pan-African colours throughout February for Black History Month, and the Sudbury Five also recognized the month during their Feb. 01 home game. Learn More!

Local Connections

Organizations Advancing Culture, Advocacy, and Support in Sudbury

In addition to the events above, we encourage families to learn more about Sudbury-based organizations and partners that support our community through education, advocacy, and meaningful services.

Thriving African Families

Afro-Heritage Association of Sudbury

Black Lives Matter Sudbury

Nigerian Community Association of Sudbury

Afro-Fest Sudbury

Afro-Women & Youth Foundation

The Virtual Museum of Black History

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

Director’s Annual Report 2024-25

Posted on by Erin Kendall

We are pleased to share with you the Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s 2024–2025 Director’s Annual Report. This report highlights the many achievements across our system and reflects our collective efforts to advance the goals of our three strategic pathways.

These successes would not be possible without the faith-filled action and dedication of a committed team and passionate learning community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all our staff, students, families, Board of Trustees, Senior Administration, volunteers, and parish and community partners for their continued dedication and support. Your commitment continues to play a vital role in strengthening Sudbury Catholic learning communities and helping our students grow in faith, learning, and well-being. 

Together, we lead.

Yours in Catholic Education,

Morris Hucal

Director of Education

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!

Educational Assistant (EA) Appreciation Day

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Happy Educational Assistant (EA) Appreciation Day!
⁠
Today, we recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our dedicated Educational Assistants (EAs).

EAs are essential members of our school communities, playing a vital role in supporting the success and well-being of our students. They go beyond assisting—they create meaningful opportunities for students and families to thrive on their educational journey. Through their compassionate care, steadfast support, and invaluable guidance, EAs help foster a nurturing, inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered to achieve their full potential.

Join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to our Educational Assistants for their exceptional dedication and the profound impact they have on our schools.⁠

St. Benedict Students Celebrate Success at Accounting Competition

Posted on by brooklyn

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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