Sudbury Catholic District School Board

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St. Albert Learning Centre Accepts the Michael Monk Award at Annual Father Patrick Fogarty Awards Dinner 

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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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Students at St. David build Hoverboards

Posted on by brooklyn

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.

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

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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.

Treaties Recognition Week

Posted on by Erin Kendall

Treaties Recognition Week is observed annually during the first week of November to emphasize the importance of treaties and deepen the understanding of treaty rights and relationships across Ontario. It offers an opportunity for students, educators, and residents to explore the lasting significance of treaties and their relevance in today’s society.

This year, Treaties Recognition Week takes place from November 3-9, 2024.

In addition to the activities planned within our schools, the Sudbury Catholic Indigenous Education team has gathered a variety of resources to support students, staff, and community members in reflecting on and commemorating this significant week. Below is a summary of public resources available through Ontario.ca to help deepen Ontarian’s engagement and learning.

The History of Treaties Recognition Week

In 2016, Ontario passed legislation declaring the first week of November as Treaties Recognition Week. This annual event honours the importance of treaties and helps students and residents of Ontario learn more about treaty rights and relationships.

In Ontario, treaties are as much a part of today as when they were first created. They are living documents and legally binding agreements that set out the rights, responsibilities and relationships of First Nations and the federal and provincial governments. Furthermore, we also acknowledge that Indigenous Nations had Treaty Agreements with one another before Europeans arrived, and that treaty-making itself, precedes North American settlement.

Whether Indigenous or not, treaties matter to everyone in Canada; we are all Treaty People. They represent a mutual commitment to building a prosperous future for everybody and Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities are responsible for knowing and upholding Treaty obligations.

Resources for Treaties Education Week 

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board is committed to providing opportunities for innovation and learning for all in an inclusive and equitable community. During Treaties Recognition Week, the Sudbury Catholic District School Board will engage in meaningful learning opportunities from November 4-8, 2024. These initiatives aim to deepen understanding and respect for treaty rights and relationships, benefiting both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

The Government of Ontario has provided several teaching resources to help further explore this topic. Among these is a Treaties in Ontario infographic (PDF), which illustrates the number of treaties in Ontario, the regions they encompass, and the populations residing within these treaty areas.

To review the Scope and Sequence of Expectations Relating to Treaties and Land Claims, please refer to the following:

For additional teaching and learning resources, visit the Ontario.ca page on Treaty Teaching & Learning Resources.

Videos: Indigenous Voices on Treaties

Sudbury Catholic Schools have been provided with a wide range of video resources from Ontario.ca suitable for different grade levels to provide students with an opportunity to hear from Indigenous Elders or knowledge keepers.

In these activities, students will learn about treaties and their importance in an age-appropriate way that’s flexible for teachers’ lesson planning. This opportunity allows Indigenous speakers to share their knowledge about the importance of treaties, treaty relationships and rights in Ontario.

To view these videos, please go to: Ontario.ca - Indigenous Voices on Treaties

Learn More About Treaties in Ontario

For comprehensive information on treaties in Ontario, visit the Ontario.ca Treaties page. This resource is curated by the Ontario Ministry of Indigenous Affairs and provides valuable insights into the history, significance, and impact of treaties across the province.

Explore the following resources:

  • About Treaties – Understand the fundamentals of treaties in Ontario.
  • Interactive Treaty Map – Discover where treaties have been made using an engaging, interactive map.
  • Children & Youth Books – Explore a selection of books designed to help children and youth understand the importance of treaties and Indigenous history.
  • Adult & Academic Books – Access recommended reading for adults, offering in-depth knowledge and perspectives on treaties and their lasting effects.

Additional Activity Templates

The Government of Ontario

Treaties in Ontario Infographic

Colouring Sheet

Word Search

Cross Word

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!

Christmas Artwork Contest for K-12 Students

Posted on by Erin Kendall

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board invites students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 to participate in the Annual Christmas Artwork Contest. Create artwork in any medium (drawing, painting, etc.) that reflects our Catholic faith and the joy of Christmas.

Submissions can be emailed to webmaster@sudburycatholicschools.ca or sent to the Board office by November 22, 2024.

How to Submit:

All submissions (whether in hard copy or e-mailed) should have the following information included in addition to the artwork: 

  • Student first and last name 
  • Grade
  • School 

Submissions can be e-mailed to webmaster@sudburycatholicschools.ca in a JPG/PNG or PDF format. Or mailed to the Board office at Attention: Christmas Card Contest 165A D’Youville street Sudbury, Ontario P3C 5E7 

CONTEST DEADLINE:

Artwork must be submitted no later than Friday, November 22, 2024, to be considered for the contest. 

What Can I Win?

Two winning designs (one elementary and one secondary) will be featured on the annual Christmas cards sent to Board Trustees, school administration, and community partners. Winners will also receive a package of custom Christmas cards featuring their artwork!

You can submit multiple entries up until November 22, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. For more contest details, please refer to the attachments below. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the season through art!

2024 Contest Guidelines

Contest Poster

Christmas Artwork Ideas/Themes

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 

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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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