On Saturday, October 26, St. Albert Learning Centre received the prestigious Michael Monk Award along with a $4,000 grant, in recognition of its inspiring educational initiative, Strengthening Connections: Engaging At-Risk Youth through Community Outreach and Catholic Teachings. 

This award, presented by the Catholic Education Foundation of Ontario, honours a Catholic secondary school that exemplifies excellence and innovation in student learning. St. Albert’s program reflects that mission by offering students the chance to earn a religious education credit through dedicated community service, transforming learning into meaningful action. 

“We are deeply honoured to be recognized by the Catholic Education Foundation,” said Principal Christina Raso. “Our program not only serves the community but also addresses the needs of our students, many of whom are at-risk youth dealing with various personal challenges. It gives them meaningful ways to contribute, build confidence and feel a sense of purpose.” 

This year, St. Albert students will demonstrate their commitment to community stewardship by engaging in a range of impactful community activities. Students will provide companionship and support to elderly residents in local nursing homes, volunteer at the Blue Door Soup Kitchen, lead programs for students at St. Francis Elementary School, and craft items for sale, with proceeds benefiting Christ the King Church.  

The grant will strengthen St. Albert’s partnership with Christ the King Church, enabling the school to contribute more effectively to the Church’s events and activities. It will also support the creation of ‘blessing bags’ and food services for the homeless.

“Our students are incredibly proud of their work,” Principal Raso added. “This program has nurtured empathy, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility. We’re also seeing positive changes in their academic outlook and engagement as a result.” 

She added, “While there is still much work ahead, this recognition and grant has empowered our students and staff to continue their impactful work within the community, driving positive change and making a lasting difference in their own lives and of those they serve.” 

For more information about St. Albert Learning Centre, please visit https://st-albert.sudburycatholicschools.ca/. 

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Last week, the fifth graders at St. David Catholic Elementary School dove into the world of the skilled trades, and worked together in groups of five to build a set of hoverboards! From measuring and calculating in math to experimenting and problem-solving in science, they discovered how those essential skills weave seamlessly into their curriculum.

We would like to extend a big thank you to Mr, Mailloux for his encouragement and passion for hands-on learning. Mr. Mailloux, who also has carpentry experience, came up with the idea while searching for Science, Technology, English and Math (STEM) projects.

These young minds are not just learning; they’re developing 21st-century skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity! Whether they’re building, designing, or communicating their ideas, our students are gaining the confidence and competencies they need for the future.

November 4, 2024, was a sad day for First Nations, Canada, and the world. Justice Murray Sinclair, former Senator, Midewin Lodge Member, Father, Grandfather, Teacher, and Reconciliation Leader known to Spirit as Mazina Giizhik, passed away at age 73.

ABOUT JUSTICE MURRAY SINCLAIR

As an esteemed Anishinaabe leader, Justice Murray Sinclair leaves behind a remarkable legacy of advocacy for Indigenous rights, justice, and reconciliation in Canada. His dedication to truth and healing was exemplified through his role as Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, where he worked tirelessly to expose the injustices of the residential school system and promote a path toward reconciliation.

Throughout his career, Mr. Sinclair’s commitment to reconciliation has left a lasting impact on our Nation’s legal system and Canadian society. His wisdom, resilience, humility, and determination will continue to inspire generations to come. Murray Sinclair not only helped the Anishinaabek, but also shared a vision of what justice could be for all peoples of the world.

As we remember Senator Murray Sinclair and his significant contributions, let us reflect on the importance of education and understanding in building a more equitable future for Indigenous peoples. In the spirit of reconciliation, we encourage our Sudbury Catholic District School Board community to learn more about Murray Sinclair’s contributions, the history and impact of his work in healthcare, law, and politics, and to engage in open dialogue about our shared journey and responsibility towards reconciliation.

In his words to educators, Mr. Sinclair said: “It’s very much about ensuring that the human beings you are educating are given the opportunity to be the best human beings they can be.”

Our thoughts are with Murray Sinclair’s family, friends, and all those who have been touched by his life and his work. May we honour his memory by continuing to work towards justice, healing, and reconciliation in Canada.

Baamaapii Kaawaabmin Murray Sinclair, Chi Miigwech, for your Service.

Grade 11 students from St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School spent a day in the chemistry labs at Cambrian College, conducting experiments and having some hands-on fun. 

The chemistry class at St. Benedict is equivalent to a course the students would take at the post-secondary level, and the college has opened its labs to the students so they can complete the requirements of their course. 

“We want to make sure students have the chance to experience what chemistry is like at the college level,” said Hadi Fergani, a professor and program coordinator for Cambrian’s chemical engineering programs. “This has been such a successful program, and the students really seem to enjoy the day in our labs. We hope it encourages more students to pursue careers in chemical engineering.” 

In addition to spending time in the chemistry labs, students also enjoyed lunch in Cambrian’s Student Life Centre, as well as other activities around campus to demonstrate what Cambrian has to offer. 

Read! Read! Read! Write what you know! This morning, the Grade 5/6 class at Pius XII was treated to an educational and entertaining presentation with Canadian Author, Paul J. Toffanello. Students have been reading his book, Popchuck’s Ghost, and were thrilled to meet him! Many questions were answered, and students are motivated to keep reading and writing.

Mr. Toffanello grew up in Timmins, Ontario. He studied at Ottawa’s Carleton University and North Bay’s Nipissing University. He was a high school English teacher, a Vice Principal, a principal at two different high schools, a Superintendent of Education and finally a Director of Education. He was also a part of the original group of Directors of Education who helped to bring the Ontario Literacy & Numeracy Secretariat to life.

Mr. Toffanello has presented to over 400 schools in Canada and the U.S. and continues to look for opportunities to engage with kids and teachers. 

Thank you, Mr. Toffanello, for coming to Pius XII!