Empowering Students: Sudbury Catholic Schools’ Commitment to Student Voice
Director's Corner
As we come to the end of another successful school year, we are pleased to dedicate this blog to highlighting the voice of our students. By providing opportunities for students to express their opinions, share their perspectives, and engage in decision-making processes, we live out our commitment to nurturing the whole child, spiritually, intellectually, physically, and emotionally. Listening to their voices also informs our work going forward and helps us to continuously grow and improve as a system. Our students are why we are all here and having their voice inform our work is essential to our success. Over the past few months we have met with 337 amazing, articulate students in grades 4 to 12 in each of our schools. During these exchanges we asked our students 3 questions:
What are things that you appreciate about your school and our school board? What are some things we can do to improve your school in our school board?; and What are some new opportunities that you would like your school to offer?
Students shared many thoughts and opinions that will help us in our continuous pursuit of growing and improving as a system. Among these thoughts students expressed appreciation for the teachers and staff at their schools, noting that they are always willing to help and to provide support. They also appreciate the school for providing a safe and secure learning environment. Additionally, they appreciate the variety of extracurricular activities available as well as the opportunity to get involved in the community. Students also suggested a variety of ways to improve their school and our school board. These included increasing communication between students and teachers, providing more resources for students, creating a more diverse and inclusive environment, increasing transparency in decision making and providing more support for extracurricular activities. I want to thank all of the students who participated in these opportunities and for their honest and professional approach to the exchange. I do also want to extend my appreciation to all of our staff for creating the conditions where our students can grow and excel. Thank you for inspiring them and for supporting them on their learning journey.
Student Voice Visits
Sudbury Catholic School Students Share Their Opinions Through Student Voice Surveys
Student Trustee Highlights
Welcoming Our 2023-2025 Student Trustee: Julia Parenteau
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Julia Parenteau, a dedicated Grade 10 student from Bishop Alexander Carter CSS, as the newest Sudbury Catholic District School Board Student Trustee for the 2023-2025 terms. Julia’s appointment was made at the Board meeting held on April 18, 2023. Julia will join fellow Student Trustee Catena Hayden to share the voice of students at the Board table.
Julia has proven herself as a devoted leader, serving on her school’s Student Council and the Student Senate. Her commitment to community engagement extends beyond the school walls, as she dedicates her time to volunteering at her local church and actively participating in the Saint Vincent de Paul Committee. Julia has also shown her support for veterans and their families by serving food at various events, and she has volunteered at the Maison Sudbury Hospice.
Fun Facts About Julia!
Julia, along with her partner Hailey MacDonald, emerged as the winners of the 2020 Board Wide Science Fair held at St. Charles College. Their project titled “Les effets croissance sur des plantes avec differents liquides” explored the effects of various liquids on plant growth. Their outstanding achievement showcases their dedication and scientific prowess.
In October 2022, Bishop Alexander teachers proudly wore orange shirts designed by Julia to commemorate Orange Shirt Day. Julia’s impactful design reflected the emotions stemming from the history of residential schools in Canada. Her design served as a poignant reminder of the traumatic experiences endured by Indigenous peoples and aimed to raise awareness about their impact in her community. Bishop Alexander Carter School community deeply appreciated Julia’s contribution through her design, as it brought greater attention and awareness on this important day of remembrance.
In November, Julia along with Bishop Alexander Carter’s Student Council President, Maren Jensen, played a meaningful role in the 4th annual flag raising ceremony that marked the launch of the poppy campaign for Remembrance Day. The ceremony holds great significance, featuring the largest flag in North America and possibly the world. Julia and Maren were delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to this meaningful occasion and were honoured to be part of such a significant event that honours and remembers the sacrifices made by our veterans.
Julia, along with her talented classmates Madison Coutu and Jade Prentice, had their artworks featured at the prestigious Emergence Exhibition held at the Art Gallery of Sudbury in March 2023. The exhibition showcased a remarkable collection of art, attracting artists, their loved ones, and art enthusiasts from the community. Julia, Madison, and Jade’s inclusion in the exhibition was a testament to their artistic talent and a proud moment for them, their families, and their school community.
With Julia Parenteau’s appointment as the newest Student Trustee, the Sudbury Catholic District School Board welcomes a passionate and engaged leader. Julia’s dedication to both her school and the community is exemplary, and her belief in the power of student involvement resonates with the Board’s commitment to fostering active student participation. We are confident that Julia, alongside her fellow Student Trustee Catena Hayden, will make significant contributions to our school communities, championing positive change and inspiring their peers to become actively engaged in their education. Congratulations on your appointment Julia!
Celebrating the Journey of our Departing Student Trustee: Jack Gouchie
As graduation time approaches, it marks a significant milestone in the lives of our students—a poignant conclusion of one chapter and the gateway to a new beginning. It is a time to reflect on accomplishments, celebrate growth, and embark on an exciting journey towards the future.
On Tuesday, May 16, 2023, we honoured and thanked Jack Gouchie, our departing Student Trustee. Since his arrival at our Board table in 2021, Jack has proven to be an invaluable member of our Board team, leaving quite a mark on our organization.
From his early days at St. Andrew’s School, to his subsequent journey through Holy Trinity School and St. Charles College, Jack has consistently made a positive impact within our Sudbury Catholic community with his presence and eagerness to learn. His unwavering dedication to amplifying the voices of students has been evident in every single one of his endeavours as a student trustee.
It is with immense pleasure and pride that we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jack and all the graduates of 2023 from Sudbury Catholic Schools. Your journey with us has been filled with growth, accomplishments, and cherished memories. As you embark on the next phase of your lives, know that our community stands united in applauding your achievements and celebrating your remarkable journey as leaders in learning and faith. Congratulations!
Bishop Alexander Students Drive Responsible Decision-Making Through SAID Day Activities
Bishop Alexander Carter (BAC) students in Hanmer showcased outstanding teamwork and leadership skills as they spearheaded a remarkable initiative to raise awareness for SAID (Students Against Impaired Driving) Day in May. Led by Maren Jensen, the school’s student senate representative and student council president, BAC’s Student Council organized a series of engaging activities specifically designed for Grades 11-12 students. The goal of these activities was to emphasize the importance of responsible decision-making while challenging student perceptions through an impaired obstacle course and an epic water balloon fight.
The celebration of SAID Day and the engaging activities organized by BAC’s students have made a significant contribution to the mission of OSAID (Ontario Students Against Impaired Driving). Through their teamwork and innovative approach, BAC students played a crucial role in educating their peers about the dangers of impaired driving and promoting responsible decision-making. Sudbury Catholic Schools wholeheartedly celebrates the exceptional leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment of the students at Bishop Alexander Carter in their efforts to create a safer community. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of others through education, awareness, and the promotion of responsible decision-making.
Fostering Environmental Stewardship: Sudbury Catholic Schools’ Outdoor Education Initiatives
Outdoor education programs can promote environmental stewardship and advocacy. Students can learn about local environmental issues and take action to make a positive impact. By taking ownership of environmental issues, students can develop a sense of responsibility and agency. This year, many schools took part in outdoor educational efforts to learn about the environment and take ownership of their impact. From outdoor education trips to lending a hand to community gardens, Sudbury Catholic School students have embraced the opportunity to enhance environmental stewardship in Northern Ontario.
Transforming Voices into Art: Celebrating Environmental Advocacy at St. Anne Catholic Elementary School
At St. Anne Catholic Elementary School, the Eco Club took student voice about environmental preservation and turned them into action. They organized a student recycled art contest, providing a creative outlet for students to showcase their passion for the environment.
Sudbury Catholic Students Participate in Youth Climate Summit
Students from Sudbury Catholic participated in Youth Climate Summit at Science North where they spent two days learning about, and taking action on climate change. On day one, they were able to be a part of Jane Goodall’s world premiere IMAX Film release “Reasons for Hope”. Students were able to witness this awe inspiring film and then were treated to a personal address from Jane Goodall with her hope for the future: “the amazing human intellect, the resilience of nature, the power and dedication of young people, and the indomitable human spirit.”
On day two, students eagerly engaged in an action project and began laying the foundation for their very own Climate Action Plan, which they aim to implement within their school and community. Together, they are driving positive change and leaving their mark on the fight against climate change.
St. Charles Elementary Students Flex Their Green Thumbs for Azilda Community Garden Project!
St. Charles Catholic Elementary School in Chelmsford played a significant role in making a positive impact on the Azilda Community Garden project in Sudbury. Students at St. Charles Catholic Elementary School actively participated in the project by nurturing and growing plants destined for the community garden. This hands-on experience allowed them to develop a deeper understanding of food origins and the importance of environmental stewardship. By engaging in gardening activities, students connected with nature and contributed to the creation of a more sustainable and resilient community.
About the Project: The Azilda Community Garden project has garnered positive feedback and has become a cherished asset for the Azilda community. Its focus on sustainable food production and community engagement has resonated with residents. The garden, situated at the Centre de santé communautaire du Grand Sudbury, has flourished with the dedicated support of volunteers and community members.
Conclusion
These stories exemplify the power and impact of student voice within Sudbury Catholic Schools. By providing platforms for students to express themselves, share their perspectives, and actively participate in decision-making processes, our schools prioritize the holistic well-being of every student—spiritually, intellectually, physically, and emotionally. As we conclude the 2022-2023 school year, let us celebrate these remarkable moments and cherish them within our community. As we bid farewell to our school community, we eagerly embrace the summer ahead with anticipation and resilience. I encourage our dedicated staff, supportive families, enthusiastic students, and valued partners to embrace this time for relaxation, exploration of passions, and seizing opportunities for personal growth as we continue to foster leadership in learning and faith.
On behalf of the Sudbury Catholic District School Board, have a safe, relaxing, fun-filled summer!
