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

Posted on May 9, 2024May 9, 2024 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!

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!”

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 May 8, 2024May 8, 2024 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.

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.

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

Posted on May 7, 2024May 7, 2024 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

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

Posted on May 6, 2024May 6, 2024 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.

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

Posted on April 26, 2024January 10, 2025 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 April 20, 2024April 19, 2024 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.”

2024 Carousel Event Recap: A Night of Education, Connection, and Community

Posted on April 19, 2024April 19, 2024 by Erin Kendall

Earlier this week, on April 15th, 2024, parents, guardians, educators, and community members gathered at Holy Cross Catholic Elementary School for the highly anticipated Carousel Event hosted by the Sudbury Catholic District School Board and the Parent Involvement Committee.

The event, designed to engage, educate, and empower, featured workshops on Children’s Mental Health, Cyber Safety, The Foundations of Reading, Building Resilience, Autism Support, French Language Learning, Online Well-Being, Secondary Pathways, and more. With a diverse range of sessions, there was something for everyone to explore.

Before diving into the evening’s workshops, guests enjoyed a complimentary pasta dinner, fostering connections and anticipation for the educational feast. While parents, guardians, educators, and community members immersed themselves in learning, a dedicated team of early childhood educators treated attendee’s children to an evening of supervised activities and games. The free childcare ensured parents with young children and toddlers could fully engage in the workshops while their children remained close by.

Reflecting on the evening, one of the highlights was undoubtedly the sense of community and collaboration that radiated throughout the event. From the arrival, attendees forged connections, exchanged experiences, and shared invaluable strategies and ideas for supporting their children’s educational journey. Educators and fellow presenters seized the opportunity to engage directly with families, fostering deeper partnerships and a shared commitment to nurturing future generations.

Participants departed with actionable insights and resources to enrich their children’s learning and well-being as the event ended. The Carousel Event once again underscores the significance of collaboration between parents, educators, and the broader community in shaping the future and education for current and prospective students.

Thank you to the members of the Parent Involvement Committee, including PIC Chair Amanda Dittrich and Vice-Chair Paola Stefanuto, for their work in organizing a successful event. Thank you to Holy Cross School and the staff and student volunteers for ensuring a smooth and seamless venue for learning to flourish. Thank you to our external and internal presenters, who provided excellent workshops featuring valuable resources and handouts to allow attendees to explore relevant topics further.

To all who attended and contributed to the success of the Carousel Event 2024, the Sudbury Catholic District School Board would like to thank you for your enthusiasm, participation, and commitment to education. Together, we continue to make a difference in the lives of students, families, and our educational community. Here’s to another year of learning, growth, and connection!

Holy Cross Admin & Student Volunteers & PIC Vice Chair

Did you miss this year’s Carousel Event?

Mark your calendars for next year’s edition. Our annual Carousel event normally takes place in the spring, but if you have questions, ask your school council chair for more information. Your presence and participation are invaluable as we strive to build a stronger, more vibrant community through education.

St. Benedict Educator Receives Science Ambassador Award

Posted on April 10, 2024April 12, 2024 by Erin Kendall

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is excited to announce that Erika Weber, a St. Benedict grade 8 teacher, was recently honoured with the 2024 Science Ambassador Award by the Sudbury Regional Science Fair.

The Science Ambassador Award recognizes educators who exhibit extraordinary commitment to promoting participation and excellence in science fairs among their students. Mrs. Weber’s continuous passion for STEM education has propelled her students to new heights of achievement, inspiring them to explore, innovate, and succeed in scientific inquiry.

Nominated by St. Benedict Vice Principal Mr. G. Kent Macneill, Mrs. Weber stood out specifically for her support in engaging students in scientific exploration beyond the classroom. She was celebrated at the Sudbury Regional Science Fair Awards Ceremony on Sunday, April 7, at Laurentian University.

This prestigious award underscores the importance of dedicated educators in cultivating a passion for science and inquiry-based learning. The Sudbury Catholic District School Board extends our congratulations to Mrs. Weber for her achievement highlighting her outstanding commitment to nurturing students’ scientific curiosity and critical thinking. Her efforts are instrumental in shaping future scientists and innovators. Congratulations!

Sweet Partnership: Holy Trinity Students Tap into Maple Syrup Making with Great Lakes Cultural Camp

Posted on April 9, 2024April 17, 2024 by Erin Kendall

A Day in the Anishinaabe Sugar Bush Camp

On April 9th, students from Holy Trinity School were in for an exciting day of hands-on learning exploring the tradition of maple syrup making. Led by experts from the Great Lakes Cultural Camp, students embarked on a journey to uncover the secrets of making Maple Syrup in an Anishinaabe Sugar Bush Camp.

This engaging activity was coordinated by the school’s Indigenous Support Worker, Stacey Dell. Students from Grades 1-2 classes and kindergarten eagerly participated, making it a truly enriching experience.

Holy Trinity Students & Great Lakes Cultural Camp

Activity Highlights:

Identifying Maple Trees: The students learned how to spot the Ninaatig, or Maple Tree, which is crucial for Maple Syrup production.
Tapping and Gathering Sap: They participated in learning how to properly tap Maple Trees and safely collect the precious Maple Tree Water, or Ninaatigwaaboo.
Boiling Down the Sap: With eager anticipation, students witnessed the transformation of the Maple Tree Water into rich Maple Syrup through the boiling process.
Crafting Maple Sugar: Under the guidance of Noodin and Miisheen, the students learned the art of making Ziisbaakwad, or Sugar, from Maple Syrup.
Sweet Rewards: Finally, they indulged in the fruits of their labour, tasting the sweet and savoury Maple Sugar they had helped create.

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board would like to thank Great Lakes Cultural Camp, including Maheengun, Small Cooks, Miisheen, and Noodin, for their invaluable teachings and for helping to organize this enriching experience for students. These experiences are essential in supporting students in fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. Chi miigwech to all who made this memorable day possible.