Happy Educational Assistant (EA) Appreciation Day!
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Today, we recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our dedicated Educational Assistants (EAs).

EAs are essential members of our school communities, playing a vital role in supporting the success and well-being of our students. They go beyond assisting—they create meaningful opportunities for students and families to thrive on their educational journey. Through their compassionate care, steadfast support, and invaluable guidance, EAs help foster a nurturing, inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered to achieve their full potential.

Join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to our Educational Assistants for their exceptional dedication and the profound impact they have on our schools.⁠

St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School’s Business Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) students are thrilled to have secured First Place at the Freelandt Caldwell Reilly (FCR) Accounting Competition for secondary students. 

The competition, which is known for its challenging case studies and real-world applications, welcomed students from all English-Speaking school boards on December 5th at the Northbury Hotel & Conference Center. The St. Benedict team made up of Rebekkah Johnson, Sullivan Smith, Wesley Wei, and Mauro Cusinato impressed judges by skillfully applying their knowledge of accounting principles, demonstrating strong analytical abilities, and excelling under pressure. 

“It was a great opportunity to meet people, including the FCR directors and owners, and to test my skills in business,” shared Grade 11 Business Student, Mauro Cusinato who reflects positively about the competition. “Giuseppe Politi’s business classes really prepared us for this experience. Competitions like these are great for us to explore whether a career in accounting or business is the right fit.”

“We are incredibly proud of our students for their hard work, teamwork, and dedication to their studies,” said Giuseppe Politi, Grade 11 Business Teacher and Business SHSM Lead at St. Benedict. “Their achievement highlights not only their commitment but also the exceptional education provided through our Business SHSM program. We extend our thanks to Freelandt Caldwell Reilly LLP Chartered Accountants for organizing this competition and hope to participate in more in the future.”

The Business SHSM program at St. Benedict equips students with specialized training in business, accounting, marketing, and entrepreneurship, providing the skills needed to excel in today’s competitive business world. In addition to participating in local business competitions, students have also had the opportunity to travel to Ottawa, Toronto, and Niagara Falls for workshops and university visits. The school has also partnered with local businesses, including FCR Chartered Professional Accountants, to offer valuable co-op placements. Such opportunities are vital in deepening students’ understanding of business concepts during their secondary education and inspiring them to pursue business studies beyond post-secondary. 

As part of their victory, St. Benedict’s team received a $2,000 cheque and secured a valuable career insights presentation for their class. The session was led by FCR professionals and St. Benedict alumni Curtis Carpino (CPA), Connor Vande Weghe (CPA), and Tori Vance (CHRP), who shared their expertise and career journeys.

Speaking about the competition, Tori Vance, shares “As an HR Manager at FCR, I’m thrilled to see the talent and enthusiasm showcased during this case competition. Events like these inspire the next generation of professionals, providing students with real-world experience and valuable skills for the future. These achievements celebrate their hard work and highlight the bright future of our industry.”

According to the school, this isn’t the first time St. Benedict students have excelled in accounting and business competitions. In 2024, they secured first place at the Laurentian University Startup Summit Business Challenge, and again at the Cambrian College Case Competition. These wins highlight the school’s strong academic programming, which prepare students for success in both the workforce and post-secondary education.

Looking ahead, St. Benedict’s Business SHSM students will continue to grow their understanding of the business landscape, with plans to attend the Ontario Business Educators Association (OBEA) conference in spring 2025.

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board would like to congratulate the St. Benedict Business SHSM students and their teacher for their achievements in 2024. The Board continues to look forward to seeing the growth of all students in the SHSM program. 

“One thing is certain,” adds Giuseppe Politi. “St. Benedict alumni are making their mark in the business world, with more graduates becoming Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs) each year. It’s inspiring to see our students succeed in their careers, and when they return to the classroom, it brings these pathways to life for our current students.”

Students in Mr. Duncan’s Shop Class at St. Charles College(SCC) recently received a generous donation from local dealership Cambrian Ford, offering parts like engines, steering components, turbo chargers, transmissions and more!

These valuable contributions will significantly enhance the transportation program at SCC, providing students with hands-on, real-world experience that is crucial for their future careers in trades and apprenticeships.

We deeply appreciate the support from Cambrian Ford and Ford Motor Company. Your dedication to fostering educational opportunities ensures our students are better prepared for success in the workforce.

This week, the Catholic Education Centre staff came together in faith and fellowship to celebrate the joy of the Christmas season with a festive Christmas breakfast. Prepared by members of our senior team, this gathering was a beautiful reminder of the power of teamwork, togetherness, and the simple joys that bring us closer during this special time of year.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed their time and talents—whether through preparing the delicious meal, setting up the tables, or creating a warm and festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.

A special thank you to Dan Levecque and James Morgan for their uplifting musical talents, which filled the room with the spirit of the season. Moments like these remind us of the blessings of community and the importance of celebrating the season with gratitude and joy.

For the month of November, students and staff at Bishop Alexander Carter Catholic Secondary School (BAC CSS) united to support men’s health awareness through a successful “Movember” fundraising campaign. Their efforts raised $2,500 for Health Sciences North, helping to spotlight critical men’s health issues such as prostate and testicular cancer. 

The fundraiser not only encouraged monetary donations to support cancer care initiatives but also aimed to challenge the stigma surrounding men’s health. To inspire contributions and show solidarity, several teachers and staff members embraced the spirit of “Movember” by shaving their beards and proudly sporting moustaches throughout the month. 

“The students and staff at Bishop Alexander Carter are proud of what they have accomplished and look forward to continuing this initiative in the future,” said teacher and campaign organizer, Patrick Lezun.  

He added, “It’s not just about teaching students to excel in the classroom, but also about encouraging them to step up, make a difference, bring awareness to important causes and change their community for the better.”  

While the staff’s participation was a fun and engaging way to raise awareness, the true driving force behind the fundraiser was the students. Their generosity and enthusiasm were instrumental, with donations pouring in from all grade levels. Thanks to their efforts, the school not only met but exceeded the initial $1,500 fundraising goal. 

For more information on Bishop Alexander Carter, visit https://baccss.sudburycatholicschools.ca/. 

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The St. Charles College Cardinals hockey team went 7-0 and only allowed five goals on their way to winning the St. Michael’s Mustangs tournament for the third time.

The Cardinals have won the tournament at the Niagara Falls school three times, in 2018, 2022 and in 2024. This was the first year the team went undefeated.

Liam Judd was named tournament MVP, while the team’s goaltending tandem of Rowan McCann and Brody Mabbott only let in five goals in seven games.

Overall, the Cards’ record for the year is an impressive 26-1-1, including exhibition games, league games and tournaments. 

Way to go, Cards!