Sudbury Catholic District School Board

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St. Albert Learning Centre Student and Educator Honoured at LDAS 8th Annual Fundraising Awards Dinner

Posted on by Erin Kendall

The Learning Disabilities Association of Sudbury (LDAS) recently hosted its 8th Annual Fundraising Awards Dinner. The occasion celebrated individuals and community partners’ exceptional contributions to the organization’s growth and success.

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is proud to announce that on this occasion, LDAS recognized two individuals from St. Albert Learning Centre for their outstanding educational commitments. 

Lochlan MacNeil was presented with the LDAS Resilient Learner Award, a testament to his exceptional determination and hard work in the face of learning challenges. Despite a learning disability, Lochlan’s unwavering commitment to education and admirable perseverance in tackling academic obstacles inspire both peers and educators. This award is especially significant because only one student is selected each year, meaning that Lochlan represents all the students in Sudbury!

Lochlan MacNeil

Katie Kurt received the Outstanding Educator Award for her dedication to evidence-based practices, continuous learning, and tireless efforts to support all students, particularly those with learning disabilities. Katie’s genuine passion for inclusivity and equity fosters an environment where every learner can thrive.

“I feel so honoured to have my hard work recognized,” said Katie. “It’s a journey that my students and I have been on together. I’m reinvigorated by this success to continue following my passion for supporting students to with unique learning needs!”

Katie Kurt

These awards recognize individual achievements and exemplify a growth mindset through active engagement in professional development, contributing significantly to the improvement of our educational community.

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is pleased to congratulate Lochlan and Katie for their well-deserved awards. Their outstanding achievements are a testament to their dedication to our learning community.

“We are incredibly proud of Lochlan and Katie for their outstanding achievements. Their commitment to our students’ success and contributions to our learning community are truly inspiring.” Say’s Christina Raso, Principal of St. Albert Learning Centre. 

Superintendent of Education Erica Raymond commented, “Lochlan and Katie’s dedication to learning is truly exemplary. We are honored to have Katie as an integral part of our educational team, and Lochlan serves as an inspiring example for others. Congratulations to both of them on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to continuing to support them on their journey with Sudbury Catholic Schools.”

St. Albert School will celebrate these students at a school luncheon on May 8th, during Catholic Education Week: We Are Called to Love. Congratulations, Katie and Lochlan!

Greening the Stage: Bishop Alexander Carter Students Transform Sudbury Theatre Centre’s Patio Space

Posted on by Erin Kendall

The Sudbury Theatre Centre (STC) has always been a hub of creativity and community engagement. Now, thanks to the efforts of Bishop Alexander Carter’s Grade 11 and 12 Agriculture Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) and Green Industries class, its patio space has received a stunning makeover.

In collaboration with YES Theatre, the students took on the challenge of beautifying and reviving the patio space at STC. This project is one of YES Theatre’s first out-of-classroom projects of the year, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

Armed with enthusiasm, creativity, and passion, our students got to work. Drawing on their knowledge of agriculture and green industries, they carefully planned and executed the transformation of the patio space.

And the results speak for themselves. The patio space has been transformed into a vibrant and welcoming area. With added lush greenery, colourful flowers, and comfortable seating, the space is now an inviting oasis for members alike. The Agriculture SHSM and Green Industries class can be proud of their contribution to enhancing the beauty and functionality of STC’s outdoor space.

Projects like these not only provide students with valuable hands-on experience but also allow them to make a meaningful impact in their community. The revitalized patio space at STC is a testament to the power of teamwork, creativity, and a shared vision for creating welcoming community spaces. 

The Sudbury Theatre Centre (STC) has always been a hub of creativity and community engagement, and now, thanks to the efforts of Bishop Alexander Carter’s Grade 11 and 12 Agriculture Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) and Green Industries class, their patio space has received a stunning makeover.

In collaboration with YES Theatre, the students took on the challenge of beautifying and reviving the patio space at STC. This project is one of YES Theatre’s first out-of-classroom projects of the year, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

Armed with enthusiasm, creativity, and passion our students got to work. Drawing on their knowledge of agriculture and green industries, they carefully planned and executed the transformation of the patio space.

And the results speak for themselves. The patio space has been transformed into a vibrant and welcoming area. With added lush greenery, colourful flowers, and comfortable seating, the space is now an inviting oasis for members alike. The Agriculture SHSM and Green Industries class can be proud of their contribution to enhancing the beauty and functionality of STC’s outdoor space.

Projects like these not only provide students with valuable hands-on experience but also allow them to make a meaningful impact in their community. The revitalized patio space at STC is a testament to the power of teamwork, creativity, and a shared vision for a better tomorrow.

St. Charles College Student Participates in Skills Ontario Canada Competition with Special Guests Premier Doug Ford and Minister Stephen Lecce

Posted on by Erin Kendall

St. Charles College student competitor Rena Flarity had an exciting opportunity this morning as she participated in the Skills Ontario Canada competition. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce were guests at the event, which took place next to Rena’s Graphic Design presentation boardroom.

During the event, Premier Ford and Minister Lecce met and spoke with Rena and her teacher, Ms. C. Thompson, about the rapidly evolving media industries. Premier Ford shared insights from his background in the print business, having worked with companies in both Canada and the US. Minister Lecce highlighted the swift evolution of media and shared anecdotes from his recent visit to Sudbury. He also took a moment to discuss Rena’s dream of becoming a teacher, showing support and encouragement for her future endeavours.

St. Charles College and St. Benedict students are participating in two events at the Toronto Congress Centre. Today, students are competing in the Skills Ontario Canada competition in Construction (led by Mr. Kohut), Automotive (led by Mr. Duncan), and Media (led by Ms. C. Thompson). Additionally, students are attending the FMNI (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Initiatives) Conference with Indigenous Studies Teacher, Ms. Petahtegoose, and Indigenous Graduation Coach, Mrs. Agowissa.

Make sure to keep your eyes peeled on St. Charles College’s social media for more information and photographs regarding their events!

SCC Facebook
SCC Instagram
Rena with Minister Lecce
Rena with Premier Ford

Sudbury Catholic Chair Michael Bellmore Elected President of the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Michael Bellmore, Chair of the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, was elected President of the Ontario Catholic Trustees’ Association (OCSTA) at their meeting held on May 3, 2024 in Niagara Falls.  

The Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association serves as the provincial voice for publicly funded Catholic education. In his new role, Trustee Bellmore will collaborate with newly elected OCSTA Vice-President, Marino Gazzola, Wellington CDSB, and Past-President Patrick Daly, Hamilton-Wentworth CDSB to champion and advance Catholic education throughout Ontario.

“It is my honour to serve as President of OCSTA,” said Michael Bellmore. “I am extremely proud to represent Catholic trustees in Ontario and have the privilege of working alongside the OCSTA Executive and Regional Directors to advance Catholic education throughout this province. I am truly humbled to fulfill this role and work alongside a dedicated group of trustees who embody servant leadership. Together we will champion Catholic education, ensuring that the voices and needs of all regions and communities are heard and represented at the provincial level. I look forward to continuing to further our commitment to provide the best possible education for our students.”

Michael has served as Trustee with the Sudbury Catholic District School Board for 17 years, including 9 years as Chair and 4 years as Vice-Chair. With the education landscape in Ontario continually evolving, Trustee Bellmore is committed to ensuring that the voices and needs of all regions and communities are heard at the provincial level.

Founded in 1930, the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association represents the interests of Catholic school boards that collectively educate approximately 600,000 students in Ontario, from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Children’s Mental Health Week (May 6-12)

Posted on by Erin Kendall

May 6–12 is Children’s Mental Health Week across the province of Ontario. Sudbury Catholic Schools will celebrate the opportunity to make intentional connections of caring for ourselves, mind, body and spirit. This year’s Mental Health Week is centred on the healing power of compassion and will explore how compassion connects us all!

Did you know? As many as 1 in 5 Ontario children and youth in Ontario will experience some form of mental health problem – that’s about 500,000 kids. Of those kids, 5 out of 6 will not receive the treatment they need.

Join us for CMHW 2024 and help raise awareness for child and youth mental health and well-being! ​​​

Children’s Mental Health Week 2024

Activities & Events Planned for Sudbury Catholic Schools: 

Hope Clouds

On May 6th, the Mental Health Team has organized an activity for schools centred around the theme of Hope. Participating students will craft their own “Hope Clouds,” reflecting on their aspirations and dreams. They will also consider actionable steps toward achieving these aspirations and identify sources of support.

Learn More
Hope Cloud Template

Love Rocks!

Classrooms signed up to receive supplies to craft rocks adorned with inspiring messages to spread love, kindness, hope, and encouragement throughout the community during May 6-10.

Wear Green for Children’s Mental Health Week

Schools are encouraged to wear green on Friday, May 10, to promote Children’s Mental Health Week and show support for children with emotional disorders.

Free Community Events & Activities

The Compass Youth Advisory Council and community partners have planned events and activities for the upcoming Child and Youth Mental Health Week.

This year, free community events include:

  • Urban Air Drop In on Monday, May 6 from 4-6 PM
  • Craft day at the Sudbury Youth Wellness Hub on Tuesday, May 7 from 3-7 PM
  • Inspired Tots Drop In on Wednesday, May 8 from 2 – 6:30 PM
  • Ice Cream at 3 Cows and a Cone on Thursday, May 9 from 11 AM – 8 PM
  • safeTALK Training on Friday, May 10 at 9 AM
  • Swimming at the Espanola Recreation Complex on Friday, May 10 from 5-6:45 PM
  • Swimming at YMCA Sudbury on Saturday, May 11 from 1-2 PM
  • Bowling at Plaza Bowl on Saturday, May 11 at 6 PM and 7:30 PM
  • Buy 1 Get 1 Free ice pops from Papaya Pops on Sunday, May 12 from 11 AM – 8 PM
  • Art and sticker design contest
  • Plus, we’re handing out free wellness kits full of your self-care necessities 

The full schedule of activities and links to register can be found on the Compass website.  

Compass – Event Schedule for Families

CMHA Resources

CMHA – The Practice of Self Compassion

CMHA – A Week of Compassion

CMHA – Toolkit for Teachers

CMHA – The Mental Health Impacts of Compassion

CMHA – What is Compassion?

CMHA – Poster

If You Need Support

You are not alone. If you need support, please reach out to your doctor, family member or a trusted adult. You can find a variety of mental health and well-being resources and supports available at school and in the community highlighted on the Mental Health and Well-Being section of our website.

Mental Health & Well-Being

Internal Page

Safe & Accepting Schools

Internal Page

Mental Health Newsletter

Internal Page

Catholic Education Week (May 6-10)

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Each year, the Catholic community of Ontario engages in a week-long celebration of the unique identity and distinctive contributions of Catholic education. This year’s celebration is entitled, “Catholic Education: We Are Called to Love” and will be celebrated during the week of May 5 – May 10. 

The five sub-themes for Catholic Education: We Are Called to Love are:

  • As people of hope
  • As people of faith
  • As people of mercy
  • As people of justice
  • As people of joy

Catholic Education Week 2024

Activities & Events Planned for Sudbury Catholic Schools: 

Catholic Education Week is a special opportunity for the Catholic community in Ontario to come together and celebrate the unique identity and contributions of Catholic Education. There are always a variety of activities and events that Sudbury Catholic Schools have planned for this special week.

Board-wide activities involving families and students include:

May 6: Toonies for Tuition Day 

On May 6, schools are invited to come together to “fan the flame of hope” by dressing in bright colours like red, orange, and yellow to make Sudbury Catholic Schools shine bright for Catholic Education Week. Staff and students are encouraged to bring a toonie to support Toonies for Tuition, which will be donated to the Canadian Catholic School Trustees’ Association Endowment Fund for distribution to Catholic families in need.

May 8: Catholic Education Week Mass

A Catholic Education Week Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. His Eminence, Gerard Bergie, Bishop of St. Catharines and President of the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario, will be celebrating the Mass. Schools across the province are invited to participate virtually in this celebration of the Eucharist.

Live Stream

May 8: OCSY Day Conference

Secondary Students from Sudbury Catholic will participate in the 2024 Ontario Catholic Student Youth (OCSY) Day Conference. This event will also take place on May 8th and is being planned and coordinated by the Ontario Student Trustees’ Association’s Catholic Board Council, with support from OCSTA. The 2024 OCSY Day Conference will be hosted virtually.

More Information

Children’s Mental Health Week

May 6-12 is Children’s Mental Health Week. Members of the Mental Health team will be completing activities in schools to engage staff and students. This year’s Mental Health Week is cantered on the healing power of compassion. #BeKind 

Learn More
CMHA Website

May 10: Wear Green for Children’s Mental Health Week

Schools are encouraged to wear green on Friday, May 10, to promote children’s mental health and show support for children with emotional disorders.

Skills Ontario Provincial Competitions

Secondary Students from Sudbury Catholic will participate in the 2024 Skills Ontario Competition. The Skills Ontario Competition will be held at the Toronto Congress Centre on May 6-7 followed by a closing ceremony on the 8th.

Love Rocks!

Classrooms will receive supplies to craft rocks adorned with inspiring messages to spread love, kindness, hope, and encouragement throughout the community for Catholic Education Week. Help us promote kindness and positivity within our community by sharing your Love Rocks with us on social media! Tag us @sudburycatholicschools #SCDSBLoveRocks

Hope Clouds Activity

On May 6th, the SCDSB Mental Health Team has organized an inspiring activity for schools centred around the theme of Hope. Students can craft their own “Hope Clouds,” reflecting on their aspirations and dreams. They will also consider actionable steps toward achieving these aspirations and identify sources of support.

Learn More
Hope Cloud Template

OCSTA Resources

The Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association (OCSTA) has developed and shared daily resources and lesson plans for classrooms to participate in. With the support of the OCSTA and the Catholic community, Catholic education in Ontario continues to thrive.

Note: Resources are available in both English and French.

Access CEW Resources Here

You can view the official Catholic Education Week song below:

St. Benedict Student Appointed as Sudbury Catholic Schools Next Student Trustee

Posted on by Erin Kendall

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is pleased to announce that Grade 10 St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School student David Madiba Akero was appointed as Student Trustee for the 2024-2026 term by the Board of Trustees at their April 16th meeting.

David is a passionate student leader, with a strong work-ethic, determination, and desire to help others through leadership. He has served as the Grade 8 Valedictorian and has been the recipient of the RJ. McCarthy Award, the 2023 Grade 9 honour roll student and Soccer Coaches Award, the 2024 Milk-Up Ontario Soccer Leadership Award, and has been a NOBEEP Entrepreneur Feature. David is deeply involved in community service, volunteering over 70 hours of his time to support youth groups, and collaborating with the Kenyan Canadian Association to launch a new initiative that promotes community engagement through soccer.

David’s unwavering commitment to community service is further exemplified through his steady involvement in the Northern Ontario Black Economic Empowerment Program (NOBEEP). In addition to being featured as an entrepreneur/client in NOBEEP, David is an active volunteer and continues to support their work of providing assistance and resources to Black entrepreneurs and business owners to help foster economic growth and inclusion in Northern Ontario.

David is a strong advocate for student voice and believes it is necessary for student development and growth. He hopes to bring more attention to elevating post-secondary support within schools in order to further empower students in building their post-secondary portfolios and navigating their educational and career pathways effectively.

“I am honoured to be chosen to represent the Sudbury Catholic District School Board as the next Student Trustee. I wish to serve as an example to people of all backgrounds and show how we as students, have both the capacity and the opportunity to shape their learning experience. I believe that student voice and involvement are crucial elements for an effective education
system. When students are engaged, schools have a better understanding of their needs and can continue to implement changes and updates that coincide with generational developments that help students excel in their education.” Said David Madiba Akero, Student Trustee.

“We are immensely proud to have David Madiba Akero represent the Sudbury Catholic District School Board as the Student Trustee,” said Michael Bellmore, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees. “David’s exceptional leadership skills, dedication to community service and student involvement make him an exemplary ambassador for our community. We have full confidence in his ability to advocate effectively for the voices and interests of fellow students and are excited to have him join us at the Board table next year.”

David Madiba Akero will officially assume his role as Student Trustee alongside fellow Student Trustee Julia Parenteau on August 1, 2024. His appointment reflects the Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s commitment to fostering student leadership and engagement, ensuring that student voices are heard and valued in the decision-making process.

David Madiba Akera and SCDSB Chairperson Michael Bellmore

Shaping Careers: Sector Partnership Enhances Skilled Trades Learning at St. Charles College

Posted on by Erin Kendall

In partnership with Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Limited, the Sudbury Catholic District School Board is excited to announce that St. Charles College has enhanced its learning facilities with cutting-edge resources and state-of-the-art equipment to help support student development in the skilled-trades. 

In February, the school welcomed new equipment funded by Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Limited. The donation included three multiprocessor welders, two fume extractors, two pallets of welding consumables, safety gear, personal protective equipment (PPE), and four SMART TV monitors. In addition, the school also received six new garage bay doors for both automotive and construction shop areas that were recently installed over the March Break. These contributions will bolster the school’s learning programs and ensures students have access to state-of-the-art equipment that supports their engagement in areas such as welding, metal working, construction, automotive, and more. 

Felix Lopes Jr., president of Lopes Limited, passionately encourages today’s youth to get into the trades, “As leaders in the trades industry, we believe it’s our social responsibility to remove barriers and create meaningful pathways for our youth to pursue a career in the trades.” 

The newly added equipment aims to ignite an interest and passion amongst students in the skilled trades, potentially shaping the career paths of tomorrow’s workforce. The initiative, organized and generously funded by Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Limited, will help support students to engage in further hands-on learning opportunities that could potentially lead them to choosing a career in the skilled trades. 

“St. Charles College is proud to work with such amazing local partners and is committed to providing its students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the skilled trades. The new resources installed at our school this year will make a massive difference in the learning experience for our students. We extend our deepest gratitude to Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Limited for their generous contributions.” Says Principal Aaron Barry. 

Enhanced Promotion of Skilled Trades in Ontario schools: 

The Ontario Government is taking proactive steps to boost awareness and engagement with skilled trades in schools, aiming to provide students with opportunities to cultivate interests and skills that pave the way for successful careers. Currently, there are more than 140 skilled trades in Ontario. They fall under four sectors: construction, industrial, transportation and service. The skilled trades present a compelling array of fulfilling and financially rewarding paths for students. Through specialized training and hands-on experience, these professions offer secure employment, excellent compensation, and personal satisfaction. Visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/skilled-trades-ontario-schools for more information about the promotion of skilled trades in Ontario schools. 

“The ongoing promotion of the skilled trades within our schools is essential. By 2026, one in six job openings are projected to be in the skilled trades. This inevitable outcome means ensuring we have cutting-edge learning environments to promote the skilled trades within our secondary schools is now more important than ever.” Says Dan Levecque, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program and Specialist High Skills Major Secondary Consultant with Sudbury Catholic. “The newly added resources will encourage students to cultivate a genuine passion and skills for the many thrilling opportunities awaiting them in the skilled trades sector.”

Peter Prochilo, Superintendent of Education adds, “Not only will these new resources enhance the facilities in one of our largest school communities, it will further support our students in reaching their full potential, which always remains a top priority.” 

Equipment Drop Off
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