Sudbury Catholic District School Board

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Honouring Justice Murray Sinclair: A Leader in Truth and Reconciliation

Posted on by Erin Kendall

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.

2024 Student Census Question Guide

Posted on by brooklyn

Collecting identity-based information will help the Sudbury Catholic School Board identify groups of students who may be treated unfairly or may not be receiving the best services our schools have to offer. The data collected could inform new policies, procedures, or teaching practices that promote a better school environment.

Why is this asked? — As mandated by the Anti-Racism Act, school boards must collect information about Indigenous identity to help identify, understand, monitor and address Indigenous people’s unique experiences of systematic racism and marginalization resulting from a history of colonialism and the impact of generational trauma.

This question refers to Indigenous people of Canada who have ancestors who have lived here for thousands of years before the first European settlers arrived.

Why is this asked? — As mandated by the Anti-Racism Act, school boards must collect information about ethnic origin to help identify, understand and monitor systemic racism, marginalization and disparities in outcomes that people may experience based on ethnic origin.

 

Why is this asked? — As mandated by the Anti-Racism Act, school boards must collect information about racial identity to help understand and monitor systemic racism, marginalization and disparities in outcomes that people may experience based on race.

Race refers to the way society organizes people into groups, based on how you look. Race does not have to be related to your Country of origin. The examples provided are simply a guide.

Why is this asked? — Students who are newcomers or immigrants often face different challenges accessing education. Collecting student information on their status in Canada and how that may intersect with their experiences in school helps to identify, monitor and address systematic discrimination and disparities in services and outcomes that students may experience of the basis of immigration status and place of birth.

Why is this asked — Students with disabilities can face challenges accessing education. Collecting information about disabilities helps to monitor and address discrimination and disparities in services that students may face as a result of their disabilities.

A disability may be physical, mental, behavioural, developmental, sensory, communicational or a combination of any of these.

Why is this asked? — We ask about students’ first languages to identify program needs and to ensure that information from schools is communicated in languages that are understood at home. The languages listed in the question are provided in order of more reported languages from the 2016 Census.

Why is this asked? — Stereotypes and prejudice based on gender and gender identity are common and contribute to negative and discriminatory outcomes in schools. Collecting information about gender identity helps to monitor and address discrimination and disparities in outcomes student may experience on the basis of their gender, gender identity or gender expression. Gender identity is different from, and does not determine, a person’s sexual orientation.

Why is this asked? — As mandated by the Anti-Racism Act, school boards must collect information about religion to help identify, understand and monitor and address systemic racism, marginalization and disparities that people may experience based on religion.

Your faith/religion/creed is a system of beliefs that you and/or your family follow. This may involve certain special practices and celebrating special holidays. You may also visit a place of worship. “Atheism” refers to a lack of belief in any god or higher power. “No religion” refers to not following any religious practice.

St. David School Explores the Catholic Connection to Halloween

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Did you know? Halloween originates from All Hallows’ Eve, the evening before All Saints’ Day, when Catholics honour those we acknowledge as Saints who have passed on to their heavenly home. Following this, on November 2, the Church observes All Souls Day to remember all the other faithful departed and offer prayers on their behalf for the Angels to lead them safely to their heavenly home.

St. David School recently hosted Joan Yawney-Matz, Religious Education and Faith Consultant for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, to discuss the Catholic significance of Halloween. Joan engaged students in a presentation, highlighting the connections between Halloween, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day.

Her presentation focused on the importance of saints in the Catholic Faith, paying particular attention to St. David, the school’s namesake. Overall, the session enriched the class’s understanding of the holiday and deepened their appreciation for the saints who have preceded us.

Thank you to Ms. Yawney-Matz for contributing to our student’s learning experience and holiday celebrations!

St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School spent a day in the chemistry labs at Cambrian College

Posted on by brooklyn

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. 

St. James Catholic Elementary School Introduces Hockey as an Option for Students 

Posted on by brooklyn

Rather than the typical physical education class, which rotates through a variety of different sports throughout the year, St. James Catholic Elementary School students from grades six to eight now have the option to participate in the Hockey Focus Program. The new class focuses specifically on hockey skills, including puck handling, skating fundamentals, passing, and shooting.  

The Hockey Focus Program is open to all students and is adaptable to players of varying skill levels and experience. The class emphasizes body movement, teamwork, dedication to improvement, and gameplay, rather than a grade on overall ability.  

Twice a week, students walk across the street to Tom Davies Community Arena, where Skill Development Coaches Rob Dymtruk and Pat Courtney from Chiseled Hockey lead the class, helping students work as a team to improve their on-ice abilities. 

“We have students with a wide range of abilities, from those who’ve been playing for years to beginners just learning to skate, but we are open and inclusive to everybody,” said Coach Rob Dymtruk. “It’s still a team sport. The students are all out here working with one another and helping each other…building teamwork and leadership skills.”  

Some students who have more experience with the sport are using it as an opportunity to teach their classmates.  Easton, a Grade 8 student who has been playing hockey for ten years, shares his enthusiasm for the class. “It’s been an experience forming a stronger bond with my classmates. I usually only see them in class but now I have been seeing them on the ice as well. I’ve been helping some of the younger kids with edges. When I first started, I had a lot of trouble with edge work, so it’s nice that I can help out now.”  

His appreciation for the class goes beyond the chance to improve his own skills; he values the opportunity to spend class time playing the game he loves most. “I prefer this class over a typical gym class setting because hockey is my favourite sport. I’d rather be out here for an hour than play a different sport in gym class and the coaches have been amazing. They teach us what we need to know while making it fun.” 

Other students share Easton’s enthusiasm. Jody O’Daiskey, Principal at St. James Elementary noted, “Students are excited to attend and look forward to learning new skills from our certified trainers. They have commended the program’s inclusivity and well-rounded approach to meet students at an appropriate level. The focus on skill development, life lessons, and personal growth have resonated positively with students and their families.” 

For more information on programs offered at St. James Catholic Elementary School, visit https://st-james.sudburycatholicschools.ca/. 

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The St. Charles Hockey Team Returns from Nashville

Posted on by brooklyn

The St. Charles College hockey team has returned from their inspiring trip to Nashville, Tennessee.

During the trip, the Cardinals watched the Predators take on the Edmonton Oilers, participated in an NHL-style practice led by Assistant Coach Derek MacKenzie, and played in a series of exhibition games against other competitive teams in the area.

The team was also awarded the opportunity to meet NHL players Roman Josi, Luke Evangelista and Philip Tomasino.

The SCDSB would like to extend a huge thank you to the staff at SCC and the Predators Organization for providing a fantastic experience for our students!

Fun fact: Head Coach Andrew Brunette and Assistant Coach Derek MacKenzie of the Nashville Predators are both proud alumni of St. Charles College

Bringing Stories to Life: Author Paul Toffanello Visits Pius XII

Posted on by Erin Kendall

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!

Dress Purple Day

Posted on by Erin Kendall

On Friday, October 25th, students and staff at participating Sudbury Catholic Schools are invited to join Children’s Aid Societies across Ontario in supporting Dress Purple Day. This province-wide initiative highlights the importance of our collective responsibility to protect children and youth.

By wearing purple, students and staff at SCDSB schools will show solidarity with families facing challenges, demonstrating that we care and are here to help. Dress Purple Day, created by Ontario’s Children’s Aid Societies, raises awareness about the supports available to vulnerable families and encourages all Ontarians to take action within their communities.

In addition to wearing purple, we invite you to explore the resources below to learn more about the significance of this day and how you can get involved. Together, we can make a difference!

What is Dress Purple Day?

Led by Children’s Aid Societies across Ontario, Dress Purple Day is a day to advocate for the safety, well-being, and rights of children and youth. It’s a reminder that it takes a community to care for and protect our young people. To learn more, visit the OACAS Dress Purple Day website.

Getting Involved

What can you do? Help spread the message! Show that you are part of the community that cares for children, youth, and families. Here are some simple yet impactful ways staff & students can participate according to the Children’s Aid Society of the Districts of Sudbury and Manitoulin:

On October 25th, wear purple clothing or accessories to show your support! Share your photos with the hashtags #IDressPurpleBecause or #DressPurpleDay2024. You can email them to info@sudburycatholicschools.ca, and we'll be happy to share them for you.

 

 

Help spread the word by sharing campaign visuals and messages on social media and public forums to raise awareness. As we approach Dress Purple Day, encourage others to get involved by displaying campaign posters and referring people to learn more and visit the OACAS Dress Purple Day website.

Click here for Social Media & Campaign Materials: Dress Purple Day 2024 - CASDSM

 

 

Use the provided campaign template to write to your local MPP, advocating for improved services that support children, youth, and families.

Campaign Template

Dress Purple Day offers an opportunity to talk with students about their right to safety and well-being. To support these important conversations, the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies (OACAS) has developed classroom resources designed to help educators guide discussions on safety, advocacy, and identifying support networks.

 

Why This Campaign Matters

This year’s Dress Purple Day campaign advocates for stronger social services and more accessible community resources. The OACAS has published an open letter on behalf of various organizations, including municipalities, child welfare groups, and youth service providers, calling on the Ontario government to increase funding and staffing for community-based organizations that support children, youth, and families.

Be an Advocate! The Children’s Aid Society of the Districts of Sudbury and Manitoulin invites you to take action by using the below campaign template to write to your local MPP. Together, we can advocate for enhanced services that support children, youth, and families in our communities.

Campaign Template

Additional Resources

2024 Postcard

Dress Purple Day Poster

Resources & Supports for Ontario Families

Campaign Brochure – Child Welfare In Ontario: A Shared Responsibility              

St. John School Raises $4,174.20 for the Garson Food Bank

Posted on by Erin Kendall

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is proud to announce that St. John School raised an impressive $4,174.20 in support of the Garson Food Bank. This initiative reflects the incredible generosity and community spirit of St. John students, families, and staff, along with the broader Garson community.

We would like to highlight the exceptional contributions from Mme Galipeau’s Grade 5/6 FI class, which collected an outstanding $1,183.35, and Mr. Martin’s Grade 2/3 FI class, raising $409.00. Both classes were rewarded with a pizza party in recognition of their efforts.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all those who contributed to this cause. Your generosity makes a lasting impact on the community.

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