As we reflect on the progress made so far in the 2024 school year, we are proud to highlight the continued dedication of our students, staff, and community in advancing the priorities that guide our work at Superior North Catholic District School Board. From deepening our commitment to Faith and Justice through meaningful reflections and community engagement, to striving for Teaching Excellence in every classroom, we have seen remarkable growth and innovation. Our Focus on the Future remains strong, with students and educators embracing opportunities to prepare for success in an ever-evolving world. Additionally, we continue to prioritize Indigenous Education, fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures and histories while supporting reconciliation. These core priorities are shaping a year of learning, growth, and commitment to nurturing the potential of every student in our care.
Superior North Catholic District School Board Celebrates Bullying Awareness and Prevention
November marked Bullying Awareness and Prevention Month, and the Superior North Catholic District School Board is proud to highlight the incredible efforts of our students and staff in fostering positive, compassionate, and inclusive school environments. Throughout Bullying Awareness Week, schools across our board engaged in meaningful activities to promote kindness, emotional well-being, and strategies to prevent bullying, showcasing the leadership and creativity of our school communities.
Raising Awareness at St. Joseph Catholic School
St. Joseph Catholic School Student Mental Health and Well-Being Committee hosted an engaging assembly to raise awareness about bullying. Students explored the difference between bullying and teasing, identified different types of bullying, and learned actionable steps to take if they or someone they know is being bullied.
Father Hugo joined the assembly to share personal reflections and stories, delivering an inspiring message to students about the importance of kindness and living according to the Catholic Virtues. Students were encouraged to create posters promoting bullying awareness as part of the initiative. Each submission was entered into a prize draw, with Cruz from Grade 5 taking home the fun prize for their creative contribution.
Kindness Catchers at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School
During Bullying Awareness Week, the Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School Student Mental Health and Well-Being Committee took on the role of Kindness Catchers. Their mission was to "catch" acts of kindness throughout the school by handing out tickets to students who went out of their way to be kind to others. Students wrote their names on the tickets and added them to a beautiful Kindness Tree displayed in the hallway.
Additionally, students created posters about bullying awareness, with each submission entered into a prize draw. Raymond from Grade 6 was the lucky winner, recognized for his creative effort.
Bullying Prevention Activities at Holy Saviour School
Thanks to the Student Mental Health and Leadership Committee, along with Ms. Lauren and Ms. Nicole, Holy Saviour School hosted various activities during Bullying Awareness Week.
On Monday, student leaders presented a Bully Prevention Presentation, which was followed by a lively dance session involving both students and staff. Midweek, students watched a school movie featuring intentional learning questions designed to deepen their understanding of bullying. The week concluded with the drawing of prizes for the Bully Prevention Poster Contest. Congratulations to the winners, and a special thank you to Ms. Lauren for her efforts in making these activities possible!
Empowering Students at Holy Angels School
Holy Angels School joined the efforts to promote bullying awareness and prevention with an assembly hosted by the Student Mental Health and Well-Being Team. Students discussed bullying, teasing, and conflict, learning how to work together to create a supportive and inclusive environment.
As part of the initiative, classrooms were challenged to decorate their doors to raise awareness and share creative messages on how to fight against bullying. The vibrant and thoughtful door decorations highlighted the school’s collective commitment to promoting kindness and standing up against bullying.
Promoting Kindness at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School
At Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, the Student Mental Health and Leadership Committee, with support from Ms. Nicole, organized several meaningful activities for Bullying Awareness Week.
The week began with student leaders presenting a Bully Prevention Slideshow to the entire school, explaining the planned activities. A "Kindness Jar" initiative allowed students to nominate peers for good deeds they witnessed, with nominated names entered into a draw on Friday. The school also enjoyed a movie day featuring Inside Out 2, followed by a Student Family activity that encouraged reflection on emotional awareness and bullying.
A Collective Effort for Positive Change
These activities reflect our school board’s commitment to promoting mental health and well-being while encouraging students to take an active role in building compassionate school communities. Through events like these, we continue to strengthen our dedication to supporting the holistic growth of our students and fostering environments where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.
Advent Activities: Celebrating Faith and Generosity in Our Schools
During the sacred season of Advent, our schools are embracing the spirit of preparation, reflection, and community with creativity and dedication. Weekly prayer services and Advent Masses have brought together staff and students in shared moments of faith, while special Advent and Christmas meals foster communal connections and gratitude.
In the spirit of giving, our schools have also led charitable initiatives, such as food drives and Operation Christmas Child fundraisers, supporting those in need. Beyond the classroom, students have spread joy through community events like caroling, Christmas concerts, parade participation, and serving seniors.
These diverse Advent activities are a testament to the collaborative efforts of our faith teams, SNCDSB staff, and community parishes and partners. Together, we continue to uphold the values of Catholic education, demonstrating love, generosity, and commitment to our shared faith.
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Our students are thrilled to welcome Doug, "the Math Man," into their classrooms. His visits are met with great excitement. Doug has a remarkable ability to challenge their thinking by introducing more complex concepts, and our students consistently rise to the occasion.
Through his engaging strategies and inspiring presence, Doug fosters resilience and determination in our learners. These efforts are crucial in maintaining consistent and impactful math instruction, even during this busy season. With his guidance, we are confident that students will continue building a strong foundation in mathematical reasoning and fluency.
Breakfast Programs: Supporting Healthy Schools and Student Well-Being
At the Superior North Catholic District School Board, breakfast programs play an essential role in fostering healthy school environments and supporting student well-being. Tailored to the unique needs and capacities of each school, these programs reflect the diversity of our communities.
These programs rely not only on funding from sources such as the Red Cross, the Northern Fruit and Vegetable Program, local donations, and community fundraising efforts but also on the tireless dedication of volunteers. Their efforts—whether preparing meals, serving students, or coordinating logistics—are the backbone of these initiatives, ensuring that each program runs smoothly and continues to meet the needs of our school communities.
Breakfast programs are far more than a source of nourishment—they build a sense of community and ensure every student feels supported and ready to learn. We are committed to continuing this vital work and are optimistic about the opportunities presented by new provincial initiatives to further enhance our programs.
Updated Playgrounds Now Ready for Students
We’re thrilled to announce that the playground project at Superior North Catholic District School Board is officially complete and ready for students to enjoy. The new and improved playgrounds at all of our schools provide a fun, safe, and stimulating space for play, exploration, and growth. We can't wait to see our students making the most of these upgraded areas, fostering physical activity, creativity, and social interaction in a vibrant outdoor setting.
A special thank you to our Plant and Field Services Department for their hard work and dedication in making this project a reality. It’s an exciting addition to our schools, and we look forward to watching our students thrive in this dynamic environment!
The Attendance Matters campaign continues to make a positive impact across our schools.
Attendance Tip Tuesdays, have been an excellent resource, sharing valuable information on sleep hygiene, the importance of structure and routine, and the significance of adequate sleep. These posts also highlight key topics like excused absences, cultural absences, and the importance of submitting supporting documentation for appointments. These efforts aim to reduce "G" day absences and ultimately improve overall attendance rates.
In addition, the Attendance Counts board, competitions, and celebrations at schools such as St. Hilary, St. Edward, Our Lady of Fatima, St. Joseph, and Holy Saviour are fostering a culture of engagement. Students and classrooms are actively setting personal and group attendance goals, with teachers encouraging families to contact schools and submit necessary documentation for absences. This initiative is empowering students to take responsibility for their attendance, fostering a sense of accountability and commitment to their education.
Elders Council's gathering at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School in Longlac brought together board staff and respected Indigenous Elders to share guidance, wisdom, and cultural perspectives.
The Elders Council helps us embed Indigenous values into our schools, strengthen community relationships, and support student success.
Miigwech to our Elders for their leadership and for helping us build a more inclusive and culturally rich learning environment!
Honouring Indigenous History and Education
At Superior North Catholic District School Board, we are deeply committed to fostering understanding, healing, and reconciliation through Indigenous education.
On September 30, we observed National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, engaging students and staff in meaningful activities across all schools. From the Orange Shirt Day Awareness Walk in Longlac to Flag Raising Ceremonies in Manitouwadge, and Mini Pow-Wows with Pays Plat, Pic Mobert, and Red Rock First Nations, our schools embraced opportunities to learn about and reflect on the impact of Residential Schools. The day also coincided with Orange Shirt Day, reinforcing the vital message that “Every Child Matters.” Students participated in a design contest to raise awareness about the ongoing impacts of residential schools. Virtual learning sessions, including a guest presentation by Sara Kae, provided additional educational opportunities, ensuring all students had a chance to engage with the topic. This day was a powerful reminder of the need for continued reconciliation.
In November, SNCDSB observed Treaty Recognition Week (November 4-8), focusing on the significance of treaties in Canada. Students from Grades 5-8 engaged in virtual sessions with Ron Kanutski, exploring treaty relationships and responsibilities. Interactive resources, including treaty maps and videos featuring Indigenous voices, enhanced classroom discussions.
We also marked Inuit Day (November 7) and Indigenous Veterans Day (November 8) with activities designed to deepen understanding of Indigenous cultures. Inuit Day featured cultural videos, traditional games, and an exploration of Inuit throat singing. On Indigenous Veterans Day, schools participated in a virtual ceremony with Lakehead University, honoring the service of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit veterans.
These observances are part of our ongoing commitment to promote equity, inclusivity, and reconciliation, ensuring that students and staff are equipped with the knowledge and respect needed to understand and honor Indigenous histories and cultures.
Catholic Parent Involvement Committee
The purpose of the Catholic Parent Involvement Committee is to support, encourage and enhance parent engagement at the Board level to improve student achievement and well-being. Ontario Regulation 612/00 requires all Ontario school boards to establish a Parent Involvement Committee and outlines its composition, function and mandate.
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
Each Board in the Province of Ontario is required to establish a Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) as defined in Ontario Regulation 464/97 made under the Education Act, Special Education Advisory Committees. SEACs help school boards understand the special needs of exceptional children as well as formulate and implement favourable policies, programs, and services.
Indigenous Education Advisory Committee
Your voice can help shape the delivery of Indigenous educational programs and services. In 2014, through the Ontario First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Education Policy Framework Implementation Plan, the Ministry of Education indicated that all school boards would establish formalized processes, such as establishing IEACs to support local implementation of the framework. IEACs provide guidance to school boards and schools in building stronger relationships with their communities, sharing information, identifying promising practices, and enhancing collaborative work to support First Nation, Métis, and Inuit student achievement and well-being.
Audit Committee
The primary role of the Audit Committee is to provide assurance to the Board of Trustees that the school board has the appropriate culture, personnel, policies, systems and controls in place to safeguard the school board's assets and to accurately report financial information to internal and external users.
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On November 20, 2024, the Superior North Catholic District School Board (SNCDSB) gathered for its Inaugural Board Meeting, a day marked by prayer, celebration, and a renewed commitment to Catholic education.
The day began with a Commissioning Mass celebrated by Father Terry, whose inspiring homily and prayers beautifully reflected the values of Catholic education. The Board extends its heartfelt gratitude to Father Terry for leading such a beautiful and inspiring Mass.
During the meeting, Trustee Judy Wawia was acclaimed as Chair of the Board, a testament to her steadfast commitment and exceptional leadership. Additionally, Trustee Tara Patterson was nominated and accepted the position of Vice Chair.
Congratulations to Chair Trustee Judy Wawia and Vice Chair Trustee Tara Patterson. May their leadership guide SNCDSB toward continued success in serving students, families, and communities.
Superior North Catholic District School Board was honoured to host two significant ministry visits this fall, which included the presence of Minister of Education Jill Dunlop and Clayton La Touche, Assistant Deputy Minister of Student Support and Field Services Division along with key Ministry staff. These visits provided an excellent opportunity for our Board to showcase the exceptional work happening in our schools and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of education in our region.
During the visits, Minister Dunlop and Ministry representatives had the chance to interact with students and staff, touring schools and observing firsthand the innovative learning environments we have created. These visits also allowed for valuable conversations about how the Ministry can continue to support and enhance the quality of education in Northern Ontario. We appreciate the Minister’s and her team’s ongoing commitment to understanding the needs of our schools and ensuring that every student has the resources and support they need to thrive.
We look forward to continuing our work with the Ministry to further strengthen education in our communities.
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We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible team at Superior North Catholic District School Board. To our teachers, educational assistants, early childhood educators, custodians, cleaners, administrative assistants, principals, Catholic Education Centre staff and trustees, your dedication and hard work every day make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students. Your commitment to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment is truly appreciated.
A special thank you to our parents and guardians for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education. Your involvement and encouragement make all the difference in helping students succeed.
To our students, thank you for your hard work, enthusiasm, and dedication to learning. Your curiosity and resilience inspire us every day.
Wishing everyone a restful and joyful Christmas break filled with peace and happiness. We look forward to welcoming you all back in the new year!