Your Presence Matters: October Is Attendance Awareness Month

Every school day offers students opportunities to learn, build friendships, discover their strengths, and feel connected to their school community.

This October, Sudbury Catholic Schools is recognizing Attendance Awareness Month with the theme “Your Presence Matters!” Together, we are celebrating the importance of regular attendance and helping students feel safe, welcomed, included, and supported at school.

As students and families settle into the new school year, strong, trusting relationships between home and school help create a sense of belonging. When students know they are valued and that their presence makes a difference, they have another reason to feel connected and ready to learn.

Throughout the month, our schools will share encouragement, resources, and activities to promote regular attendance and support students who may be experiencing barriers to attending school. Parents and caregivers are valued partners in this work. Families are encouraged to connect with their child’s school to discuss attendance concerns and explore support together.

Did You Know?

Need Support with your Child’s Attendance?

We’re here to help! Sudbury Catholic Schools’ attendance counsellors can work with you and your child to address attendance challenges and support regular school attendance. Connect with your child’s school today to learn more.

Email: AttendanceSupport@sudburycatholicschools.ca

List of Schools

Guidance for Parents & Guardians

The Importance of School Attendance

2026 Campaign Initiatives

Attendance Awareness Poster Contest

Students across Sudbury Catholic Schools are invited to participate in our annual Attendance Awareness Poster Contest!

Inspired by the 2026 theme, “Your Presence Matters!”, students are encouraged to create an original poster showing what being present, connected, and part of their school community means to them. The contest offers students a creative way to share their perspectives and celebrate the people, experiences, and opportunities that make school meaningful.

2026 Contest Form

Check out Last Year’s Winners!

Attendance Spirit Week Celebrations

Sudbury Catholic Schools are invited to bring Attendance Awareness Month to life through Attendance Spirit Week celebrations, featuring five attendance theme days.

Schools can participate in one or all five days, using the activities to encourage attendance, strengthen connections, and celebrate belonging within their school communities.

Whether through a creative poster, a spirit day, or a welcoming conversation, every effort helps reinforce a shared message: you are an important part of your school community, and your presence matters!

Attendance & Other Helpful Resources

Attendance Works Resources

The Importance of School Attendance

Guidance for Parents & Guardians

SCDSB Mental Health Hub

On Friday, September 25, Marymount Academy came together to participate in their annual Terry Fox Walk, carrying forward a powerful legacy of hope and perseverance.

Leading up to the walk, students took part in the “Toonies for Terry” fundraiser. For every $2 brought in, students earned an entry into a raffle draw for a chance to win a special prize basket – highlighted by two Yeti cups generously donated by Ramakko’s Source of Adventure. Through these school-based efforts and online donations, the Marymount community successfully reached its fundraising goal of $700.

The educational component of the week began on September 24, when Grade 7 and 8 classes, along with several secondary classes, attended a screening of the new Terry Fox documentary featuring unreleased footage from the Marathon of Hope.

On the morning of the walk, the school gathered in the gym for an assembly hosted by Marymount Catholic Charities (MC3) to reflect on Terry Fox’s impact. During the gathering, cancer survivor and student Lily Yeomans shared a powerful quote from Terry Fox to inspire her peers:

“As Terry once said, ‘It took cancer to realize that being self-centred is not the way to live. The answer is to try and help others.’ By doing ‘Toonies for Terry,’ it brings students together to care for others while also keeping Terry’s legacy alive.” – Lily Yeomans

Following the assembly, students hit the pavement for the annual walk. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and helped make this year’s event a success!

To explore more community initiatives across the board, visit the Sudbury Catholic District School Board website.

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Oluwatofunmi (Toby) Solarin, from St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School, as the incoming Student Trustee for the 2026–2028 term. The announcement was made by Board Chair, Michael Bellmore, during the September 22nd, 2026, Board meeting held at the Catholic Education Centre.

Toby officially began his role on September 22, 2026. Representing the voice of Sudbury Catholic students at the Board table, he will work closely with the Student Senate to foster an inclusive, supportive, and faith-centered learning environment.

Toby is a dedicated, highly driven student leader who brings a diverse array of extracurricular, entrepreneurial, and community service experience to his new role. At St. Benedict, he serves as a member of Student Council, a House Leader, co-founder of the Debate Club, an executive member of the Diverse Student Union, and a core member of the Robotics Team, which qualified for the FRC Canada Cup. Beyond the classroom, Toby has demonstrated strong initiative by establishing a successful local snow-blowing business and giving back through over 200 hours of community volunteering including food drives, support for local homeless initiatives, coaching youth flag football, and founding a local youth group to inspire action among younger students.

His background as a student leader and entrepreneur has deeply shaped his vision for student advocacy. Toby is particularly passionate about ensuring student education needs are met, integrating practical life-skills education, such as financial literacy, tax preparation, and mental health awareness into the curriculum, and amplifying student voices across the district.

“I am extremely grateful and honoured to be selected as the new Sudbury Catholic District School Board Student Trustee, I am excited and optimistic to start working with the amazing people at Sudbury Catholic Schools.” said Toby Solarin “Through this position I hope to make a real impact in the many schools under Sudbury Catholic. I want to be the voice of the underrepresented and make sure everyone feels heard. I am most looking forward to growing as a person, a leader, and becoming someone, people can count on to advocate for them.”

Chair of the Board, Michael Bellmore, shared his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to welcome Toby to our Board of Trustees team. His initiative, leadership experience, and dedication to community service and Catholic values are truly commendable. We are confident that he will be an outstanding advocate for students across our school board.”

Toby’s appointment reflects the Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s ongoing commitment to student leadership, voice, and engagement in shaping a positive and inclusive Catholic educational experience. For more information about the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, please visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca. 

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board was proud to welcome former NHL player and Indigenous speaker Jason Simon for a multi-school speaking tour from September 15 to 16, 2026.

Organized by the SCDSB Indigenous Education team, Simon’s interactive sessions reached students across four board schools, blending personal storytelling with vital conversations around personal growth, inclusion, and safety.

2026 School Tour Itinerary:

• Monday, September 14: Marymount Academy & St. James Catholic Elementary School
• Tuesday, September 15: St. Albert Adult Learning Centre & St. Charles Elementary School

Drawing on his personal journey from childhood to professional sports, Simon challenged students to embrace perseverance and surround themselves with positive support systems.

“Sometimes against all odds, through resilience, determination and discipline, great things can happen. I can’t stress enough that it takes that personal belief and to surround yourself with people that believe in you and your dreams,” Simon noted during his visits. “My whole objective is trying to bring the students along in my story – from a young child to an adult and show them that life is not easy sometimes. By working through the hardships in life and getting past those hard times you build resilience and confidence and self-esteem – the more we learn the more we are dedicated to our mission.”

Reflecting on overcoming hardship and adversity, Simon shared his hope that his story inspires every student to break barriers, build resilience, and pursue healing and growth. He spoke passionately about a future where all young people thrive, while highlighting the importance of remaining deeply connected to one’s culture, community, and foundational values.

“Simon’s journey is a powerful reminder of the strength, faith, and resilience that reside within each of us,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO). “His message resonates deeply with our mission to nurture the mind, body, and spirit of every student across our Catholic school community, empowering them to overcome challenges and lead with compassion.”

Indigenous Education Consultant Dawn Fielding highlighted the deeper purpose behind these visits, noting that as fourth-generation Residential School Survivors, both she and Simon ground their work in sharing truths that empower all students while carrying their history forward with strength.

“My core priority and unyielding commitment is to uplift, celebrate, and amplify Indigenous joy, knowledge, innovation, and achievements across First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Shifting our collective framework from survival to thriving brilliance honors the strength of those who came before us and illuminates a radiant path forward for the seven generations yet to come.” – Dawn Fielding, Indigenous Education Consultant

This message of strength and shared truth encourages thoughtful dialogue throughout our schools as staff and students prepare to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Wednesday, September 30, 2026

To explore more community initiatives across the board, visit the Sudbury Catholic District School Board website.

The start of a new school year also marks the return of school sports, clubs and other activities. Whether students participate in team sports, physical education, dance, performing arts or recreational activities, their safety and well-being remain our priority.

Rowan’s Law Day

Monday, September 28, 2026

On Monday, September 28, 2026, the Sudbury Catholic District School Board will recognize Rowan’s Law Day, joining communities across Ontario in raising awareness about concussions and the importance of responding safely.

Rowan’s Law Day Poster

Signs of a Concussion Poster

Hit. Stop. Sit.

Concussion Safety & Awareness Resources

Check out the following information and resources to learn the signs of a concussion, speak up and know how to respond. Together, we can increase awareness and help protect the health and well-being of every student.

Ontario’s Rowan’s Law and Concussion Safety Resources

Concussion Awareness Digital Resource Card

Ontario Concussion Awareness Videos

Concussion Awareness Resource for Ages 10 and Under

Concussion Awareness Resource for Ages 11 to 14

Concussion Awareness Resource for Ages 15 and Up

Ontario Government Concussion Awareness Resource E-Module

Sudbury CDSB Concussion Protocol

Staff members, coaches and volunteers do not diagnose concussions. However, we all share a responsibility to recognize and report possible signs and symptoms, remove students safely from activities and ensure they receive appropriate medical attention. Following a concussion, students may require temporary adjustments and support as they gradually return to learning and physical activity. Open communication among the student, family, school and healthcare team is essential to supporting a safe recovery.

View our complete Concussion Protocol and applicable forms below:

Sudbury Catholic Schools Concussion Protocol

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is excited to announce that Sabrina Grossi has been appointed as the new Mental Health Lead.

Sabrina will oversee student mental health initiatives, focusing on early intervention and accessible support for all students. In collaboration with School Mental Health Ontario and the board’s executive leadership team, Sabrina will direct the implementation of the Mental Health and Addictions Strategy and Action Plan.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sabrina Grossi to her leadership role as Mental Health Lead,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “Sabrina is a dedicated professional whose commitment to student well-being aligns seamlessly with our Board’s vision. Her expertise in student mental health and her passionate approach to early intervention and support will greatly enrich our school communities and foster environments where every student can thrive.”

“Every person who walks through our doors has a story worth listening to. My work has always been rooted in one belief; that hope is not something we wait for, but something we help build, one person, one conversation, one small act of support at a time. I am excited and honoured to step into this new role and I am ready to bring this belief into this next chapter.” – Sabrina Grossi, Mental Health Lead

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

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The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is proud to announce the official launch of its 2026–2031 Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP). Built on extensive feedback from staff, families, parish partners, and students, the new plan sets a comprehensive, five-year vision to ensure students, staff, and the broader board community grow spiritually, academically, and personally in safe and welcoming environments.

Grounded in provincial standards and centered on Catholic values, the 2026–2031 MYSP focuses on four strategic pillars: Living Catholic Identity, Welcoming, Safe, and Inclusive Schools, Achievement & Future Pathways, and System Excellence. Over the next five years, these pillars will serve as a roadmap to guide classroom instruction, operational priorities, and community partnerships across all elementary and secondary schools.

“This strategic plan is a collective vision for our future,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “When I look at our new MYSP, I see the real hopes, values, and ambitions of our entire school community. Every pillar represents a promise we are making to our students and staff: to deepen our Catholic identity, nurture safe and inclusive spaces, drive academic excellence, and hold ourselves to the highest standard of system excellence. Together, as a faith-filled community, we are building.”

The 4 Pillars of Success

The 2026–2031 strategic framework outlines key priorities across four core areas:

• Living Catholic Identity: Nurturing Catholic identity as a daily, lived experience across all classrooms; strengthening student and staff faith formation anchored in equity and dignity; and deepening the Home-School-Parish triad through active parish partnerships.
• Welcoming, Safe, and Inclusive Schools: Continuously strengthening student and staff well-being; ensuring consistent system-wide processes to address bullying, hate, bias, and discrimination; improving access to mental health and special education supports; and embedding Indigenous education and Truth and Reconciliation across all schools.
• Achievement & Future Pathways: Closing achievement gaps in foundational literacy and numeracy; expanding hands-on, experiential learning opportunities including STEM and skilled trades; and preparing all students for post-secondary transitions through personalized pathway planning.
• System Excellence: Building a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability; investing in professional growth and leadership development for staff; and modernizing operational systems, infrastructure, and technical resources.

“At the heart of this multi-year strategic plan is a commitment to the growth and well-being of every student we serve,” said Micheal Bellmore, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees. “Whether through deepening our faith, expanding pathway options like STEM and skilled trades, or enhancing mental health supports, this plan reflects our dedicated promise to guide, inspire, and empower our students for success both inside and outside the classroom. I look forward to seeing its positive impact unfold over the next five years.”

Throughout the 2026–2027 school year, the board will feature ongoing spotlight stories and classroom updates demonstrating how elementary and secondary schools are bringing the goals of the MYSP to life.

For more information about the Multi-Year Strategic Plan or to view the full document, please visit the Sudbury Catholic District School Board website at https://www.sudburycatholicschools.ca/public-reports/multi-year-strategic-plan/

About Sudbury Catholic District School Board

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board provides inclusive, faith-based educational programming across the Greater Sudbury region, emphasizing academic excellence, community partnership, and student well-being.

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) is excited to announce that Lisa Lamoureux has been appointed as the new Superintendent of Education, effective Monday, August 31, 2026.

Lisa brings more than 28 years of experience serving in Ontario’s education system, having held a wide range of roles throughout her career. Career milestones include positions as an Educational Assistant, classroom teacher, school principal, Acting Superintendent of Education, OPC Provincial President, and System Principal with the Near North District School Board. Each of these roles has provided Lisa with a comprehensive and grounded perspective on senior leadership, supported by a diverse portfolio focused on student achievement and well-being. Her leadership experience encompasses special education services, equity, Indigenous education, student mental health, and French as a second language (FSL). She is also deeply passionate about mentorship and developing others, believing firmly in supporting and empowering educators and leaders as they grow in their careers.

Beyond her professional work, Lisa has strong personal connections to the Sudbury area, as her father grew up in Chelmsford and she continues to have many family members in the region. Outside of work, Lisa is the proud mother of five children. Family is very important to her, and she enjoys spending time with them at their family’s cottage in Kipawa, Quebec.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lisa Lamoureux to our executive leadership team as Superintendent of Education,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “Lisa is an exceptional leader whose extensive background across Ontario’s education sector reflects a steadfast commitment to student success and well-being. Her expertise in special education, mental health, and French as a second language, along with her passion for mentoring staff, aligns seamlessly with our Board’s vision. I am confident that her collaborative approach and extensive experience will greatly enrich our school communities and inspire those she leads.”

“I am honoured and deeply grateful to step into the role of Superintendent of Education with the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, I look forward to working closely with our dedicated educators, staff, and families to build vibrant school communities where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. By prioritizing special education, mental health and well-being, and French language learning, alongside academic excellence, we can create strong pathways for student growth rooted in our shared Catholic values.”

– Lisa Lamoureux, Superintendent of Education

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