Sudbury Catholic District School Board

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The Story Behind Cards Crush Cancer 🎗️

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Cards Crush Cancer 💪

A Tradition of Heart, Hope, & Community That Began At SCC

Since 2018, every spring at St. Charles College has been marked by something truly special — a day when school pride, generosity, and community spirit come together in a powerful way. May 28, 2025, marked the 7th Annual Cards Crush Cancer Event, an all-day, carnival-style fundraiser in support of the Health Sciences North Foundation and the Northern Cancer Fund, where every dollar raised stays local, helping families right here in Northern Ontario.

What began seven years ago as a bold idea has grown into one of SCC’s most beloved traditions — and a true testament to what’s possible when a school community unites for a cause. As more schools take inspiration from this event, we are proud to celebrate the story that started it all. This is the legacy of Cards Crush Cancer.

A Grassroots Legacy of Giving

The very first Cards Crush Cancer event was dreamt up and brought to life by SCC’s passionate Student Council and dedicated staff leaders Jessica Demore, Amanda Montgomery, and Jennifer Freelandt-Humphrey in 2018. From the ground up, they imagined a day that combined fun and fundraising — and from those early beginnings, a movement was born.

For just $10, students from Grades 7 to 12 “buy out” of class and step into a full-day experience of music, games, food, and entertainment — all in support of cancer care. The event has raised over $85,000 to support cancer patients and their families in our community since it started in 2018.

What Makes It Special?

The Cards Crush Cancer event is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a full-blown celebration of life, hope, and the power of coming together. Held entirely outdoors, the school transforms into a vibrant carnival complete with:

  • Water balloon battles
  • Live entertainment and DJs
  • Jumbo lawn games and inflatable courses
  • A video game truck
  • Food trucks and assorted snack booths
  • Zumba, trivia, and student vs. teacher competitions
  • The list goes on!

Each year brings new activities, more excitement, and deeper meaning — all thanks to the creativity and dedication of SCC staff, students, and community partners. It’s a day that combines joy with purpose, and fun with compassion.

Leading by Example

St. Charles College was the first school in the region to launch an event of this calibre — and its success has inspired others to follow suit. But it’s not just about raising funds; it’s about instilling values like compassion, and civic responsibility within the next generation. As the school explains, Cards Crush Cancer is a hands-on lesson in leadership, empathy, and community service where students can celebrate being a Cardinal, while supporting a cause that began within the very walls where they now learn and grow.

In fact, earlier this month, SCC students had the opportunity to tour the HSN Cancer Centre, giving them a firsthand glimpse at how their efforts over the past seven years have made a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families.

This year, Health Sciences North Foundation recognized SCC as one of its top donors, unveiling a commemorative plaque at the hospital to honour the school’s ongoing support. Cards Crush Cancer has also been selected as one of HSN’s spotlight campaigns for May and June — an honour that speaks to the heart of this event.

A Message from the Principal

“Cards Crush Cancer is about creating an experience students will never forget — not just for the fun, but for the values it represents: empathy, community, and action. Each year, the event continues to grow, thanks to the dedication and creativity of our incredible team of planners: Jessica Demore, Amanda Montgomery, and Jennifer Freelandt-Humphrey. This event simply wouldn’t be possible without them.”
— Aaron Barry, Principal, St. Charles College

Want to Make a Difference?

If you’d like to support the cause, donations can be made through the Cards Crush Cancer fundraising page on the HSN Foundation website.

Donate here: https://hsnfoundation.com/cards-crush-cancer/

Stay tuned for 2025 cheque presentation!

7th Annual Catholic School Council Evening Builds Stronger Partnerships for Student Success 🤝

Posted on by Erin Kendall

The Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) proudly hosted the 7th Annual Catholic School Council Evening at Marymount Academy on Tuesday, May 27, bringing together Catholic School Council Chairs, Principals, Trustees, parents, students, and members of our wider school communities. The event focused on strengthening home–school–parish partnerships to support enhanced student achievement and engagement.

Through a short presentation and meaningful small-group discussions, attendees had the opportunity to actively contribute to the Board’s Student Achievement Plan. The evening emphasized collaboration, reflection, and the exchange of ideas, ensuring that diverse voices across our school communities were heard and valued.

Building on the success of previous years, the event fostered thoughtful dialogue between parents, staff, students, trustees, and senior administration—reinforcing our shared commitment to student success and well-being. Every school in our Board was represented, highlighting the strong commitment of our communities to shaping a brighter future for all students.

We extend our sincere thanks to PIC Chair Paola Stefanuto and PIC Vice Chair Amanda Dittrich for their leadership and dedication in organizing this event. We are also grateful to Marymount Academy for graciously hosting this gathering each year.

Thank you to all who attended and participated. Your voices and continued involvement are key to helping Sudbury Catholic Schools grow together in service of every student’s success.

📎 Learn more about how you can get involved: Parent Involvement at Sudbury Catholic Schools

Building Confidence, Teamwork, and a Love for the Game with Jays Care ⚾️

Posted on by Erin Kendall

On May 21, Grade 5 and 6 students from St. David and Holy Trinity Catholic Schools came together at Terry Fox Field to play in a series of friendly baseball games, celebrating their success in the 2025 Jays Care Affiliate School Program. This initiative, led by the charitable arm of the Toronto Blue Jays, provides select schools with training, equipment, and access to inclusive baseball programming.

Thanks to the leadership of Principal Colin Lapalme and Teacher Louis Mailloux, both schools successfully applied for the program at the start of the school year — and everything that’s happened since has been a home run. Through their partnership with Jays Care, more than 100 students from St. David’s and Holy Trinity learned how to play baseball and received top-quality equipment and resources, including baseball gloves, balls, tees, bats, indoor bases, pylons, and more. This spring, both schools also delivered the RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) Program—a national program by Jays Care that focuses on making baseball more inclusive and accessible. The program, which aims to eliminate barriers so that every child has the opportunity to participate in sports, provides support from trained coaches, uniforms, and league play, enabling students to develop new skills, build friendships, and cultivate a love of the game in a safe and welcoming environment.

The end-of-year gathering on May 21 served as a happy finale to a season of teamwork, skill-building, and inclusive play—leaving a lasting impact on both school communities.

“We are very proud of the students and staff at St. David and Holy Trinity for their dedication and teamwork,” said Principal Colin Lapalme. “There is no doubt about it that participation in the Jays Care Affiliate School Program and RBI Program has had a meaningful impact on students’ lives—both on and off the field. Staff have seen an increase in engagement, with many students asking their families for gloves and continuing to play baseball with friends outside of school.”

“The program provided a great opportunity for all types of students to participate, regardless of previous experience,” said Louis Mailloux, Teacher at St. David Catholic Elementary School. “We have seen students take risks, build friendships, and fall in love with the game. Thank you to Jays Care Foundation for making this possible. We look forward to taking part in more baseball programs in the years to come.”

With their season wrapping up just as the MLB season begins, the Blue Jays may have gained a few new fans this year. As a school board that aspires to excellence, we are proud to celebrate the success of St. David and Holy Trinity’s budding baseball athletes as they stepped up to the plate and discovered their passion for the game.

National AccessAbility Week

Posted on by Erin Kendall

May 25 to May 31, 2025, is National AccessAbility Week!

National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) is an annual initiative that celebrates, promotes, and showcases the diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in our country, and highlights some of the important initiatives aimed at creating an accessible Canada. Since 2019, Easter Seals Ontario has recognized the Wednesday of National AccessAbility week as the Red Shirt Day of Action for AccessAbility and Inclusion. Everyone is encouraged to wear a red shirt to raise awareness for accessibility and disability inclusion and make a pledge to help remove physical, attitudinal, and systematic barriers in their schools, workplaces, and communities.

Red Shirt Day

Red Shirt Day is an Easter Seals initiative and was first celebrated in 2019. In 2025, Red Shirt Day will take place on Wednesday, May 28. Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) students and staff are encouraged to wear red on Red Shirt Day to promote messages of support for people and families living with disabilities.

About Red Shirt Day 

Red Shirt Day of Action for AccessAbility and Inclusion is a day when people across Canada come together and wear red in schools, workplaces and spaces everywhere in order to create a visible display of solidarity: to show their support for persons and families of those who are living with disabilities, celebrate the achievements of people living with disabilities, and to pledge their commitment to help create a fully accessible and inclusive society that honours and values the contributions of people of all abilities in all aspects of life in Canada. Learn more!

Resources 

Red Shirt Day Resources

Red Shirt Day Handout

2025 Poster

Red Shirt Cut-Out

Pledge

Pledge Examples

Colouring Sheets

Comic Strip

Reading List

Movie Lists

Ted Talks

Students at St. Paul School Raise over $4000 Towards Jump Rope for Heart 

Posted on by brooklyn

Students at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Elementary School set out a goal to raise $1500 for Jump Rope for Heart and soared above that goal by raising $4105. 

To wrap up their successful campaign, students showcased their creativity and dedication with a high-energy jump rope performance. The routines were self-choreographed and tirelessly practiced during recesses in the weeks leading up to the event. 

“We practiced a lot!” said Adalyn, a Grade 3 student. “At first we were going to perform at the talent show, but then we decided to do it for this instead.” 

“It was really fun, and I’m happy we were able to help people,” added Bethany, also in Grade 3.

Two students stood out for their exceptional fundraising efforts: Eleanor, a primary student, raised $600, and Benjamin, a junior student, raised $541.  

“I’m incredibly proud of our students,” said Principal Derek Radey. “They didn’t just meet their goal—they blew it out of the water. It was amazing to see how eager they were to support a good cause. The energy and enthusiasm they put into both the fundraising and the performance was inspiring.” 

As a special reward for surpassing their fundraising target, students will enjoy a movie day with snacks. Every student also received a free jump rope to continue promoting healthy, active play. 

When asked if they’d like to participate again next year, the question was met with cheers as every student’s hand shot up. 

“Keep on jumping!” said Grade 3 student Hope.  

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FREE Summer Learning Camp for Elementary Students

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Join us for a summer filled with learning, laughter, and lasting memories!

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is hosting a FREE Summer Learning Camp, open to all Sudbury Catholic School students currently enrolled in FDK Year 2 (SK) through Grade 6. Taking place from July 7 to 25, 2025 from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM at St. Francis School, the program is designed to support students in bridging learning gaps and preventing summer learning loss through fun, interactive activities.

Sudbury Catholic District School Board

Elementary Summer Learning Camp

📅 July 7–25, 2025

⏰ 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

📍 St. Francis School – 691 Lilac Street

How to Register?

Registration is open until June 6, 2025, and full attendance for all three weeks is required. Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. To register click the link below.

2025 Registration Form ✏️

Camp Highlights

This half-day camp will focus on building essential skills in literacy and mathematics, while also promoting creativity, physical activity, and cultural learning. Here are just a few of the exciting experiences campers can look forward to:

  • Literacy and math skill development (English and French Immersion)
  • Physical activities that promote teamwork and sportsmanship
  • Music, drama, and visual arts
  • Indigenous cultural learning experiences
  • Use of engaging technology tools like iPads and robots
  • Opportunities to build confidence and make new friends
  • Healthy snacks provided daily

For more information, please contact: 📧 anthony.rocchio@sudburycatholicschools.ca

Help Shape the Future of Sudbury Catholic Schools! 💡

Posted on by Erin Kendall
Strategic Plan 2025–2030

Building Our Future Together – Strategic Plan 2025–2030 🎯

Help shape the future of Sudbury Catholic Schools! Share your voice in our community-wide engagement campaign and help guide our priorities for the next five years.

⏰ Campaign Closes May 16, 2025

Learn more

Catholic Education Week: St. David Students Create Lanterns of Hope with SCDSB Trustee 🏮

Posted on by Erin Kendall

This week, the spirit of Catholic education lit up St. David School—both figuratively and literally—as students in Ms. Toffoli’s Grade 4/5 classroom took part in a meaningful hands-on activity: creating Lanterns of Hope. With creativity, care, and faith guiding each design, the students spent a beautiful afternoon reflecting on themes of light, hope, and community.

Adding to this already engaging activity, the class was honoured to welcome Mr. Ray Desjardins, Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees with the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. Mr. Desjardins joined the students for the activity, rolling up his sleeves to help bring the lanterns to life. His visit made the experience all the more memorable and highlighted the strong connection between our schools and the broader Catholic education community.

Thank you to Ms. Toffoli for organizing such an inspiring and faith-filled opportunity, and for inviting Mr. Desjardins to share in the moment. Activities like these reflect the heart of Catholic education—where creativity, faith, and community come together to light the way forward.

St. Charles College Marks Red Dress Day in Honour of MMIWG2S+ 🪶

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Red Dress Day, officially recognized each year on May 5, is a National Day of Awareness and Action. It raises awareness of the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirited people and calls on all Canadians to stand up for justice and safety in every community.

In the weeks leading up to Red Dress Day, students and staff at St. Charles College with the guidance of the school’s Indigenous Support Worker, Lina Dokis Gagnon, and Indigenous Graduation Coach, Shannon Agowissa, have been engaging in learning, reflection, and meaningful action to honour the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirited people (MMIWG2S+). This included:

Red Dress Day Information Sessions

Throughout the school, students in Grades 9 through 12 participated in information sessions focused on breaking the silence around MMIWG2S+. These sessions opened up powerful conversations about injustice, systemic violence, and the need for advocacy and allyship. Students also had the opportunity to discuss and explore the significance of the REDress Project—an art installation started in 2010 by Métis artist Jaime Black—and what it means to take action as a school community.

Grade 10 Student, Hannah O’Bonsawin shared:

“We don’t just have to be one voice—we can be many.”

Lina Dokis Gagnon, Indigenous Support Worker, guides students through a beading activity while teaching about the significance of Red Dress Day.

Red Dress Day Pins

Beading activities took place in English classes, giving students from Grades 9–12 the opportunity to create beaded pins that they proudly wore on Red Dress Day. The beading process sparked thoughtful dialogue about the lived experiences of Indigenous women, families’ ongoing fight for justice, and how students can be allies both in school and beyond.

Lina Dokis Gagnon (Indigenous Support Worker) with SCC students showcasing their handmade red dress pins.

Red Dress Day Display

Grade 10 students joined Indigenous Support Worker, Lina Dokis Gagnon in creating a powerful Red Dress Day display in the front foyer of the school. The installation featured red dresses, the Sacred Medicines, and a handmade mask co-crafted by Lina and a Grade 7 student. The mask, bearing the image of a red hand over the mouth, is a poignant symbol of the movement to honour and amplify the silenced voices of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S). It serves as a reminder of all the sisters whose voices were never heard. #NoMoreStolenSisters

As we reflect on the significance of Red Dress Day, Lina shares what the red dress represents:

“Each dress symbolizes an Indigenous woman who has been missing or murdered, but we are standing together—reclaiming space for our Sisters.”

Red Dress Day Display at St. Charles College, honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People.

Through education, art, and collective action, St. Charles College is fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous issues and stands united in the call for justice, safety, and respect for all. To learn more about Red Dress Day and how you can support this important movement, visit the following resources:

Amnesty International – Red Dress Day

National Inquiry into MMIWG – Sacred Bundle

National Inquiry Final Report

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