Sudbury Catholic District School Board

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Ma Francophonie, j’y tiens!

Posted on by Erin Kendall

We are proud of our Francophone heritage.

On September 25th, 2022, Sudbury Catholic Schools celebrated Franco-Ontarian Day! This celebration is an annual opportunity to learn about Franco-Ontarian culture and history in real life and bring awareness to this wonderful community on an occasion that combines education, fun, language, and history. As the number of FSL students and families continues to grow, it is important for Sudbury Catholic to infuse French Culture into the classrooms.

In our video that highlights our Franco-Ontarian celebrations, we use the phrase, “Ma Francophonie, j’y tiens!”, which translated from French means, “We are proud of our Francophone heritage!” 

In addition to annual celebrations, FSL teaching and learning is being further supported in our community through our FSL Plan. One of the most important goals of Sudbury Catholic School’s three-year FSL Plan is improving student confidence and proficiency. We’re committed to providing french language learners with the support they need, and to continue to offer programming that is evidence-based and engaging.

“With what we currently know about how kids learn to read, our Board has committed to shifting from a balanced to a structured literacy approach. Structured literacy provides explicit instruction of the key components of literacy so that students develop excellent pre-reading and reading skills. This approach also guarantees early identification of students at-risk through assessment. The best interventions can then be used to support and move students along. With purposeful reading instruction and interventions, students will demonstrate increased achievement in the FSL program. Literacy leads to proficiency, confidence, and an enthusiasm for life-long learning. And that’s the best gift of all” – Camille Heaton, FSL Consultant. 

You can make a difference: Become a PSW

Posted on by Carlee Vendramin

St. Albert Learning Centre is currently accepting students into the PSW program for January 2023. The six month program offers free tuition and a paid placement! You can also earn credits towards your high school diploma!

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Join us at St. Albert Learning Centre, 504 St. Raphael Street on the following dates for an information session:

  • Oct 27th 2:00 PM
  • Nov 14th 2:00 PM
  • Dec 7th 2:00 PM
  • Dec 14th 2:00 PM
REGISTER HERE

For more information about the PSW program, please go to the following link.

For Girls, By Girls: Marymount Students Participate in International Day of the Girl Conference

Posted on by Carlee Vendramin

In honour of International Day of the Girl, Marymount Students attended the ‘For Girls, by Girls’ conference on October 11 at Science North. The conference was designed for girls in Grade 6-8 and provided them with the opportunity to discuss the trades and technology and the various career options available to them. 

Heather Walinga (left), Roselyn Urena-Tejada (middle) and Jade Goodson (right) participated on the panel discussion of the For Girls, By Girls Conference.

The conference included a blend of workshops and panel discussions. The keynote speaker was Kendra Liinamaa, a local welder who has completed various apprenticeships with Vale. The panel discussion was moderated by Danielle Robb, a millwright apprentice, and included Marymount students Roselyn Urena-Tejada, Jade Goodson and Heather Walinga.  In addition, participants were allowed to participate in three different workshops. Workshop options included:

  • Boombox Kit Build, hosted by Skills Ontario (English)
  • Exploring the Skills Ontario Trade and Tech Truck (Bilingual)
  • Tools 101, hosted by Milwaukee Tool (English): Showcasing the latest Milwaukee innovation from hand tools to power tools including safety products. 
  • VEX Code VR (bilingual), hosted by Michael Frankfort
  • Electrical Bugs (Francophone), hosted by College Boreal 

Students left feeling inspired and motivated by the conference,  and are eager to further explore their career options. 

“I feel like I know more about jobs that I never would have considered before, “ Alana, Marymount Student

“I thought it was very hands on and interactive. I loved learning and being inspired by the women at the workshop“  Maddie, Marymount Student.

National Truth & Reconciliation Week 2022

Posted on by Erin Kendall

At Sudbury Catholic Schools, we are called to strengthen our faith-based, inclusive, and equitable community. This year, our community has been working hard in preparation for the 2022 Truth and Reconciliation Week – a five-day commemoration taking place from Monday, September 26th to Friday, September 30th. In between the personal activities being planned by our schools, we’re pleased to share that Sudbury Catholic’s Indigenous Education team has curated resources and materials to help students, staff, and community members commemorate this important week! 

National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation Activities 

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation offers a series of opportunities for classrooms to participate in events throughout the week of September 26 to September 30. More information and registration links can be found at: https://nctr.ca/education/trw/   

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) was created as part of the mandate of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC). The NCTR is the foundation for ongoing learning and research. Survivors, their families, educators, researchers, and the public can examine the residential school system to foster reconciliation and healing. 

TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION WEEK 2022 is a national program open to all schools across Canada. The theme of this year’s week is Remembering the Children. Students will learn about the residential school system’s history and memorialize the lost children. Several Sudbury Catholic schools will participate in activities and educational sessions planned by the NCTR. 

  • This year includes an expanded program with age-appropriate material for students in Grades 1 through 12.
  • Days 1 to 3 features pre-recorded videos and a live Q & A session. On September 30, students can view a live televised broadcast for Orange Shirt Day from their classrooms.
  • All sessions will be held virtually on Hubilo.

Nelson Professional Learning series also offers educators the opportunity to deepen their knowledge through a series of free webinars entitled The Whole Truth About Residential Schools. This series is about learning and teaching the history of Indian Residential Schools in Canada. 

Learn More

Truth, Resiliency and Hope Event 

Schools are invited to attend the Truth, Resiliency and Hope event planned by the Indigenous Community Collective. This event is occurring at Bell Park in Sudbury on September 30. At this gathering, attendees can commemorate survivors of Residential schools and acknowledge their resiliency. The event will begin with a sunrise ceremony and opening remarks. Later, a play entitled Debwewin (Truth) and a short video screening will premiere, and the event will finish with a Q & A session. 

Learn More

Indigenous Community Collective – NDTR Event Poster

School Invitation

Event Agenda

Walk for Reconciliation

Board members at the Central Board Office are invited to attend the Walk for Reconciliation on September 30, 2022. This joint community event begins at N’Swakamok Friendship Centre (110 Elm Street). The group will then walk together to Bell Park, where they will attend the opening of the Truth, Resiliency and Hope event. 

Orange Shirt Day in Honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

On September 30, we will join schools across Canada to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Students and staff are encouraged to wear orange and participate in Orange Shirt Day events to recognize and raise awareness about the history and legacies of the residential school system in Canada. We are reminded that Orange Shirt Day also offers an opportunity to honour and pray for those who never made it home. Our schools are encouraged to post to social media and utilize the hangtags #orangeshirtday and #sudburycdsb to allow our board to see these activities in action. 

Available Support

In addition to the activities listed on this post, we recognize that each of our schools will be finding unique and creative ways to observe and honour this time. These events and activities may differ, but support is always provided. As we are reminded that this can be a difficult topic for many students, staff and families and should be taught with deep respect. For those who require support, there is help available through these contacts below: 

Health Support Information: 

If you are a Survivor and need emotional support, a national crisis line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week: 

Residential School Survivor Support Line: 1-866-925-4419

Sudbury Catholic Schools Hosts Transition to School Event!

Posted on by Carlee Vendramin

Sudbury Catholic wants to help families prepare for the next step of learning in a supportive program about transitioning to school!  

Sudbury Catholic District School Board is excited to announce our upcoming virtual event “Transition to School,” designed to provide the support students need to take the next step in their learning journey!

From August 29-31st, students and families are invited to attend live, online presentations from various Sudbury Catholic teachers to help them prepare for a new chapter this fall. Each session will run twice throughout Aug 29-31. See below for session dates/times and click here to attend!

Additional Event Information

Kindergarten, Primary, Junior, Intermediate, and Senior teachers will cover essential topics during this event. By attending, you will learn what to expect as a new student, know what to do if you want to speak with a resource or guidance teacher, learn who the key people you should connect with and so much more! Sessions will also deliver simple strategies to help ease anxiety and teach essential organization skills to help support student success. 

“Getting ready to take the next step in any learning journey can be scary. Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or the first day of grade 12, the transition to a new grade level should be smooth and worry-free. Because every child’s journey is unique, each presentation will focus on how to help students in that grade level prepare for Sept, so they can reach their full potential at school.” – Jennifer Connelly, St. Francis Principal 

No sign up required!

Students and parents can join teachers live on Aug 29-31, to help them prepare for school in September. To join the event, click the button below!

JOIN THIS EVENT!

Sudbury Catholic Teacher Receives Prestigious Math Award

Posted on by Carlee Vendramin
Julie Denomme, Secondary Teacher at Bishop Alexander Carter CSS

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is pleased to congratulate Bishop Alexander Carter CSS secondary teacher, Julie Denomme, who was formally recognized by the University of Waterloo and inducted into The Society of Descartes Medallists for her exceptional work in mathematics. 

The Society of Descartes Medallists was founded in 1968 by the Rene Descartes Foundation for the Advancement of Mathematics at the University of Waterloo. Sine 1968, the Society meets annually to pay tribute to Ontario mathematics and computer science teachers identified as worthy of special recognition. Every year since it was established, the Foundation has admitted a small number of new members, chosen for their contribution to the noble cause of mathematics education. 

Denomme, was only one of two recipients recognized by the Rene Descartes Foundation in 2021. Denomme attended the 53rd Rene Descartes Medallist Dinner on June 11th, 2022, in Waterloo where she was able to officially be inducted into the Society. 

“We are so proud of Mrs. Denomme for her exceptional dedication to student learning. Her fearless approach to embracing new teaching and evaluation strategies makes a real difference in our school. She consistently uses her passion to evolve her instruction on important subjects and improve the way students learn to make a real impact on their education. For instance, in 2015, her leadership and commitment were key support in improving EQAO scores, which resulted in Bishop Alexander Carter winning the Bette Stevenson Award.” – Stephanie Venturi, Bishop Alexander Carter Principal

“It is a great honour to be chosen as one of the 2021 Descartes Medallists. Teaching is a rewarding profession where I am provided the chance to motivate others on a daily basis. But honestly, it’s the smiles on the students’ faces that makes it all worth it. Thanks to everyone who has given me the opportunity to educate and, hopefully, inspire my students everyday.” – Julie Denomme, Bishop Alexander Carter Secondary Teacher

“The Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s mission is to realize each student’s potential within an inclusive Catholic Learning Community by nurturing their mind, body, and spirit. Ms. Denomme embraces her teaching vocation and provides a dynamic, rich classroom environment where students are able to take risks, learn from their mistakes and grow in their understanding.  We are all so proud of her and are very fortunate that she has chosen to teach in our schools.  Bishop Alexander Carter and the entire School Board Community extend our congratulations to her for this well-deserved award.” – Joanne Bénard, Director of Education

For more info on Sudbury Catholic District School Board, please visit www.sudburycatholicschools.ca  

Ram Students Raise Funds for Cancer By Transforming Their Class Into A Bistro Café!

Posted on by Carlee Vendramin

Earlier this week, Mme Winn and her grade 2/3 French Immersion Class at St. Charles elementary school in Chelmsford transformed their classroom into a Bistro café for a day to raise funds for cancer!

The ambiance, the desserts, the attire, and the decorations made it an authentic experience for the other French Immersion classes who came in as customers.

In this activity, students could speak in French in real-life situations and use their money calculation skills to find out the totals of each order. This made for an enjoyable, hands-on learning activity that each student valued. What a great way to practice speaking French and improve their numeracy skills!

At the end of the day, all proceeds from the café were donated to the Northern Ontario Families of Children with cancer, which in total fundraised 471,50 dollars.

By providing unique learning activities, students can have fun and enhance their knowledge of important subjects, allowing them to reach their full potential in a positive, nurturing environment. Please browse our photo gallery below to see this activity in action!

Photo Gallery

Grades 5-6 Students Learn About Social Justice in A New Club Formed by Cambrian College Students!

Posted on by Carlee Vendramin

Social Justice students from Cambrian College created and coordinated a program called Stand Up for Social Justice. This program brought their passion and knowledge on the subject of social justice to our students by creating awareness and discussions in the hopes of inspiring change. The Stand Up for Social Justice program provided our students with the tools to start their own social change conversation by engaging in interactive and educational activities and discussions. The Stand Up for Social Justice program was delivered as an after school virtual club for grades 5 & 6 students.  

In the workshops, students were presented with social justice concepts and answered questions about the possibilities of potential career paths through college education. 

Sessions included: 

Food Insecurity: Using a variety of activities, students developed a basic understanding of how food affects our day-to-day lives (i.e. our physical, emotional and mental health as well as our development).  In addition, students learned why nutritious meals are important and the benefits of homemade vs store-bought/take-out.  Finally, our students had the opportunity to use their math and problem solving skills while working with a budget.  

Social Movements: Using a variety of activities, students learned about the history behind significant social movements and their impact on our communities. Students  worked on their own social justice poster and these posters served as a reminder that their voices can be powerful vehicles for change. 

Love Mother Earth: Using a variety of activities, students learned their power to help and connect with the Earth. Students created their own project that aligns with the 3 R’s (Recycle, Reuse, Repurpose). These projects were transferred to the Earth during planting season and students were reminded of their missions to give back to our mother Earth. 

Grade 5, St. David student Wynter stated that, “Through this program, I learned to really use my voice to say something about issues; and that it’s important to speak up. The meetings were a safe space for me.  I felt comfortable to share whatever I was feeling.”

Wynters mother said, “I was so pleased when my daughter first came home with the Social Justice flyer.  She told me she wanted to join, and that I had to sign her up right away!  I thought it was a great opportunity for her to make new connections, and possibly a new friend.  It was a nice way for her to meet students from other schools who share some of her values. The program also gave my daughter two gifts: commitment and responsibility.  As a parent, I felt a sense of pride.  Thank you for that.”

Our students enjoyed their sessions and we would like to thank Cambrian College for their continued partnership and look forward to working together next academic year.

Pictured is Wynter with her Love Mother Earth Activity and Cambrian College Swag Bag.

SCDSB Students Build Their Skills with Carpentry Activities!

Posted on by Carlee Vendramin

Last month, during education week, almost 1600 Sudbury Catholic students had a blast participating in a hands-on activity that promoted the skilled trade of carpentry. 

After being provided carpentry tool kits to construct three different carpentry projects in their classrooms, students in grades 3-6 from various schools were all smiles as they built their skills in this unique hands-on learning opportunity. With the help of teachers, students assembled wooden binoculars, wooden wheelbarrows, and whiteboards with wooden easels and were happy to test their creations in the end. Overall, students had a great time and were excited to have the chance to learn more about the carpentry profession. 

Check out our photo gallery below to view some of our outstanding elementary students using these carpentry kits in action! 

The Importance of Learning Skilled Trades Early in School! 

The skilled trades offer students a variety of rewarding and lucrative career opportunities. In fact, it is estimated that one in five new jobs in Ontario is expected to be in trades-related occupations. With an aging workforce, employers are looking for skilled tradespeople who can help build and maintain our province and provide essential services. 

That is why getting tools into young hands early is the best way for students to see themselves and explore the idea of a trade-related occupation. We are excited to announce that the Sudbury Catholic District School Board has invested in purchasing brand new tool kits and are offering these full classroom sets for classes and students to borrow.

If a class or school is interested in loaning out the tool kits please contact: christina.raso@sudburycatholicschools.ca or daniel.levecque@sudburycatholicschools.ca for more information.

Photo Gallery

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