IT STARTS in the Schools

November 2013

UPCOMING EVENTS

November 1 TCDSB- Boardwide All Saints Day 80 Sheppard Avenue East, 416.222.8282

November 1 Our Lady of Wisdom Remembrance Day 10 Japonica Road, Scarborough Three majors will visit the students to talk 416.393.5273 to about what Remembrance Day means to them. The presentation will be primarily in French. 1:00 p.m.

November 2 TCDSB - Boardwide Working Together to Educate All Catholic Education Centre (CEC) Education and Community Resource 80 Sheppard Avenue East, Toronto Fair 416.222.8282 Hosted by the Special Services Dept. at the TCDSB. Parents, staff and students are invited to drop by booths, speak to our knowledgeable staff and listen to presentations. No registration required. 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

November 5 St. Mary’s Grade 8 Open House 66 Dufferin Park Avenue, Toronto 416.393.5528

November 5 Senator O’Connor Grade 8 Open House 60 Rowena Drive, North York 416.393.5505

November 5 James Cardinal McGuigan Grade 8 Open House 1440 Finch Avenue West, North York 416.393.5527

November 5 Dante Alighieri Grade 8 Open House 60 Playfair Avenue, North York 416.393.5522 November 5 Archbishop Romero Grade 8 Open House 99 Humber Blvd., York 416.393.555

November 6 Chaminade Grade 8 Open House 490 Queen’s Drive, North York 416.393.5509

November 6 TCDSB - Boardwide Take Our Kids to Work Day 80 Sheppard Avenue East, Toronto 416.222.8282

November 6 Bishop Allen Grade 8 Open House 721 Royal York Rd., Etobicoke 416.393.5549

November 7 Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton Grade 8 Open House 1515 Bloor Street West, Toronto 416.393.5545

November 7 Don Bosco Presentation to students by (Padre) 2 St. Andrews Blvd, Etobicoke Major Gillian Federico 416.393.5525 Presentation by (Padre) Major Gillian Federico, was the first female Roman Catholic Pastoral Associate, assigned as chaplain to an Army Reserve unit. 10 a.m.

November 7 Brebeuf Grade 8 Open House 211 Steeles Avenue East, North York 416.393.5508

November 8 Neil McNeil Neil McNeil Alumni 55th Anniversary 127 Victoria Park Avenue, Scarborough Reunion 416.393.5502 Tribute to 1958 first year students. $10.00 cover charge at the door (Dinner and one drink ticket. Cash bar) 7:00 p.m.

November 11 TCDSB - Boardwide Remembrance Day 80 Sheppard Avenue East, Toronto 416.222.8282

November 11 Don Bosco Special presentation by Mrs. Irene 2 St. Andrews Blvd, Etobicoke Kurtz, Holocaust survivor 416.393.5525 Mrs. Irene Kurtz, Holocaust survivor will take part in the school’s Remembrance Day Service/Assembly. She will be participating and speaking in the service. 10 a.m.

November 11 St. Henry Remembrance Day play “A History of 100 Bambourgh Circle, Scarborough War and Peace” 416.393.5395 Written by three grade 8 students and principal Roy Fernandes 10:30 a.m.

November 11 St. Anthony The Learning Walk to 15 130 Shanly Street, Toronto A display of a particular math strand by 416.393.5210 grade level in order to demonstrate the learning continuum.

November 17- TCDSB – Boardwide Bullying Awareness Week 23 80 Sheppard Avenue East, Toronto Bullying Awareness and Prevention 416.222.8282 Symposium takes place on November 20, 2013 at Montecassino Event Venue (3710 Chesswood Drive) 8:30 a.m.

November 18 TCDSB – Boardwide Toronto Association of Parents in 80 Sheppard Avenue East, Toronto Catholic Education (TAPCE) Event 416.222.8282 Commissioning Ceremony and honouring the nominees of the 2012-2013 Principal of Excellence Award 7:00 p.m.

November 20 Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati School Blessing Ceremony 8 Seasons Drive, Scarborough Event will commence with a liturgy 416.393.5456 followed by the blessing, ribbon cutting and plaque unveiling. The school will also announce a time capsule that they will be filling throughout the year. 10:00 a.m.

November 22 TCDSB – Boardwide Holodomor Memorial Day 80 Sheppard Avenue East, Toronto 416.222.8282

November 27 Father Henry Carr CARR-eers in Justice Fair 1760 Martin Grove Road, Etobicoke Grade 7 and 8 students from across the 416.393.5521 TCDSB will have an opportunity to meet with a host of justice-sector and emergency service professionals about their respective roles. It will also introduce students to the first Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services SHSM in the TCDSB. 10 a.m.

December 3 Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton Elementary Cardboard Boat Race 1515 Bloor Street West, Toronto Competition 416.393.5545 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more info contact: [email protected] and [email protected]

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS

TCDSB LAUNCHES 17 NEW SHSM PROGRAMS TCDSB has had record growth in the area of Specialist High Skills Major programming, with Ministry approval given for the launch of 17 new programs for the 2013 – 2014 academic year. Combined with the 19 existing SHSM programs within the TCDSB, our students now have 36 SHSM programs to choose from to help them succeed and prepare for their future careers.

Of the 17 new SHSM programs, four are in schools that did not have an existing program, bringing the number of secondary schools who offer an SHSM program in the TCDSB up to 23. Several of our school communities offer multiple programs: two schools offer three programs and nine schools with two programs. Programming is offered in 12 economic sectors, including the addition of three new sectors this year (Non‐ Profit; Environment; Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services). We’ve experienced significant growth in the number of schools offering a Sports SHSM (8 schools) and Non‐Profit is also a sector that has generated a lot of interest in our school communities (5 schools).

Specialist High Skills Major programs are in their seventh year of growth across the province and the Ministry of Education is anticipating that more than 42 000 students will be enrolled in an SHSM in the 2013 – 2014 academic year. The specialized programs tailor students’ high school diplomas to their needs and interests while preparing them for 21stcentury jobs. Learning is focused on a specific economic sector and programming is available for students interested in apprenticeship training, college, university and the workplace. SHSM programs emphasize experiential learning; reinforcing a model that t integrates theory and practice.

Director of Education Angela Gauthier visited one of the program sites in September‐‐Father Henry Carr‐‐to see the exciting and innovative things happening around the new Justice, Community Safety and Emergency Services and Arts and Culture SHSM programs, as well as the well‐established program in Transportation.

Arts and Culture program includes ADV3M and ADV 4M, Dramatic Arts Film/Video, where students learn how to act, write and direct for TV and or film and how to use the video editing software. Currently, the focus of the SHSM Arts and Culture program is Radio/TV Broadcasting. The students learn how to act, direct, speak, and use all the equipment that is required to create a live TV/Radio broadcast. Students use the skills acquired in their music, drama, visual arts and communications technology and using a cross‐curricular model they incorporate and learn new skills that will allow them to enter into a media career or post‐secondary program.

Partners for the SHSM Arts & Culture program include:  Adobe Systems/Free The Children: This group allows our students to showcase their work to an international audience  RogersTV: Students learn using RTV equipment how to create a live HD sports program that is aired weekly on RogersTV  Humber College: Students use Humber College equipment to record and broadcast a live radio show every month on 96.9FM BLESSED SACRAMENT WALKATHON

Friday October 4th was a fun and exciting morning of school spirit as Blessed Sacrament staff and students "Walked Around the World" for the 14th annual BSCS walkathon. Each class was assigned a country and were wearing clothing in their country's colours. Sports medals, flags and signs helped pump up the excitement. All students in grades 1‐8 walked to and from the park with their classes. They walked 10 laps of the park before returning to school. JK & SK students walked in the school yard. The event raises funds for Blessed Sacrament, and builds and strengthens its community spirit and involvement. Way to go Blessed Sacrament!

PAST STUDENTS EXPERIENCE SUCCESS AT CAMP OLYMPIA

On October 1, 2 and 3rd a group of nearly 30 students with Autism in TCDSB’s PAST program participated in a trip to Camp Olympia. This initiative was supported by a group of student leaders through the TCDSB’s Greg Rogers. The students achieved great success, participating in many new ‘challenges by choice’ such as climbing high ropes, wall climbing and zip lining. The students gained in their independence and confidence, laying the foundation for further social and academic growth.

ST. WILFRID’S THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE

We are so proud of St. Wilfrid’s students and their families for supporting the annual Thanksgiving Food Drive in partnership with St. Wilfrid Parish. The students were busy on October 10th sorting and packing up the food for delivery to the parish. The students were happy to help the many needy families in our parish community during this season of gratitude.

Front L to R‐Marley, Unas, Angela, Angel (triplets) Back row L to R‐Lou Chelle Baris, Gertrude Duah, Enrique Wilson, Sophie Alvarenga, Vince Salcedo, Father Thomas, Shawna Campbell, Taij Whyte‐Thomson 2013 FOOD BRIGADE FOR THE DAILY BREAD FOOD BANK

St. Brendan’s came together to collect food for the Daily Bread Food Bank. The culmination of their efforts was a "Human Food Brigade" on October 10th. All 560 students, staff and parents lined the streets from the school to Fire Hall #215 and passed along food items that were being collected at the Fire Hall for the Daily Bread Food Bank.

CATHOLIC STUDENT LEADERSHIP IMPACT TEAM (CSLIT) INAUGUARAL MEETING

Elementary CSLIT students held their first E‐CSLIT Face to face meeting on October 1st and it was a packed house! The positive energy was off the charts. Special thanks to the new E‐ CSLIT chair Marivic Victolero, former OISE intern Mathew Ennis, and high school volunteer April Bayona (and E‐CSLIT Alumni) for taking care of all of the set up and running a smooth meeting.

Kevin Chin and the entire Read to Rap team delivered an awesome presentation; as well as TCDSB Director of Education, Angela Gauthier who shared her words on leadership, and expressed her vision for our schools, and her acknowledgement of all the special teachers present.

Students brought in food items to donate to St. Francis’ Table for their Thanksgiving Food Drive.

Students also received a gratitude rock to help remind them of all the wonder blessings that God has brought into their lives. Each student chose their own powerful word to write on their gratitude rock.

TCDSB CELEBRATES ROSARY DAY

The Toronto Catholic District School celebrated its second annual Rosary Day on Monday, October 7, 2013. All schools were asked to engage their students in saying the Rosary on that day.

Students at Holy Rosary organized a mass and created a full‐size Rosary which was blessed by the parish priest and then brought back to the school. Following the mass, students learned about the origin of the Rosary and what it means. The festivities concluded with an official blessing of the school’s new playground structure.

Students at Our Lady of Peace lead the Rosary at a special service organized to commemorate the day.

ST. PATRICK COMMUNITY WELCOMES CARDINAL COLLINS

On Wednesday October 2nd, the Feast of the Guardian Angels, the St. Patrick community was blessed to welcome His Eminence Cardinal Thomas Collins to celebrate Mass. Cardinal Thomas Collins shared in his homily that each of us were to be a guardian angel for those we encountered. This message resonated with many students who are now taking the initiative and teaming up with the Jesuits to raise money to support different schools across the world. Each grade will travel with a school throughout their four years and become guardian angels to those communities!

SUCCESSFUL PLANTING DAY AT MARY WARD

Green Quest group participated in a joint City of Toronto (Mike Del Grande) project. A butterfly garden was planned, constructed and planted with City officials, Mary Ward Green Quest students and teacher, Kathy Saran.

THE FEAST OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL, PATRON SAINT OF CHARITIES

On September 26th a nationally televised “TV Mass” was held at St. Basil’s Church on the occasion of the Feast of St. Vincent de Paul to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Catholic Charities. Following the Mass a reception was held at the University of St. Michael’s College, Brennan Hall, to celebrate the work of teachers and students who created the Doors of Hope.

Mr. Michael Fullan, Executive Director of the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto presented a special Anniversary Plaque thanking the schools, teachers and students of: TCDSB, Durham Catholic, Dufferin‐ Peel Catholic, and York Catholic School Boards, for their contributions to the Doors of Hope Project, which has added so much to the celebration of the centenary of Catholic Charities. The reception at Brennan Hall was a wonderful celebration of our Catholic community, our focus on charity and our collective belief in the importance of expressing our Faith through the arts.

A special thank‐you goes out to all those who made this celebration so memorable: Holy Name Catholic School “Steel Pans,” under the direction of Roberto Michels, Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts String Quartet, under the direction of Julia Bowkun, Susan Hookong‐ Taylor, for gracing us with her performance of the Song of Hope and, Father John Redmond Dance Troupe, under the direction of Lisa Weiler.

SBSSS WEST OFFICE RAFFLE AND BOWLING LEAGUE

During the 2012‐13 school year, Michelle Bottos, M.E. Teacher at St. Roch arranged a bowling league with other M.E. classes in Areas 1 & 2. It was such a tremendous success that M.E. classes board wide may start their own leagues this school year.

In June 2013, the SBSSS‐West Office held a raffle and raised $175.00 in support of the 2013‐14 bowling league in Areas 1 & 2.

Photo (left to right): Sara Di Nallo‐Program Coordinator SBSSS‐West, Mary Cecol‐ APT, Aurora Pincivero‐Secretary, Mary (Liz) Thompson‐APT, Karen Crooks‐Social Worker & Winner, Nancy Zangari‐APT, and Mary Kure‐APT

ST. NICHOLAS OFFICIAL OPENING AND BLESSING

On October 16, 2013, students, staff, parents and special guests were on hand for the celebration of the grand opening of St. Nicholas’ new school building. Trustee Nancy Crawford, Superintendent Geoffrey Grant and City Councillor Glenn de Baeremaeker were among the dignitaries present for the special event.

HOCKEY SCHOOL DAY IN TORONTO

On Thursday, October 3, the Varsity Blues women’s hockey team hosted a free game for elementary students from the GTA. Over 4,000 spectators enjoyed a morning of OUA hockey at historic Varsity Arena as the Blues took on the Ryerson Rams in the second annual Downtown Showdown.

In addition, students and fans participated in fun interactive stations throughout the arena and stadium concourse including exhibits from the ROM, PanAm 2015 para basketball inflatable games and science tables. It was a high scoring game with the Blues ending on top 5‐0. Both teams stayed after the game to meet students and sign autographs. Congratulations to Ms. Rodrigues Gr. 7/8 class from St. Anthony’s who won a microscope set courtesy Kidver and Pueblo Science during the second intermission Chuck‐a‐puck contest.

NUIT BLANCHE: A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

On Saturday October 5th, students, parents, teachers, principals, family and friends, from all across the GTA descended upon Toronto's 2013 Nuit Blanche celebration of the Arts with a specific focus on one special art installation that honoured the gift of Catholic Charities: the Doors of Hope. It was a beautiful night that not only allowed participants to understand the value of charity; it also enabled everyone to see the gorgeous examples of art created by over 500 students from 4 different Catholic School Boards. It was definitely a night that we shall never forget.

Our thanks go out to teachers, students, staff, and volunteers for the gift of their time, and their deep, caring, and shared hard work. A special note of gratitude goes out to Maria Tavares and John Notten for making this project a reality. Mary Pan and Jack Pannazzo from Catholic Charities, Donna Sistilli, teacher at Monsignor Fraser (Isabella Campus), Vaughn Peruse, teacher at St. Patrick, Sandra Slosel, teacher at Notre Dame, Paul Sabyan, teacher at St. Joseph's, for their work on the Nuit Blanche Committee, and their many hours of dedication before, during, and after this wonderful night.

Finally, congratulations go out to the following schools that participated through the contribution of their unbelievable artistic talents: (Isabella Campus), St. Mary Elementary, St. Patrick, Marshall McLuhan, Archbishop Romero, Don Bosco, Holy Child, St. Joseph's College, Loretto Abbey, Mary Ward ,St. Cecilia, St. Clare, Loretto College, Father Henry Carr, Notre Dame, Father John Redmond & Regional Arts Centre, St. Basil‐The‐ Great College, Neil McNeil, St. Wilfrid, Brebeuf College, St. Boniface, St. Lawrence, St. Raphael, St. Martin de Porres, St. Jude, St. Ursula, SAL Program, St. Albert, St. Theresa Shrine, St. Josaphat, Rosalie Hall, Blessed Mother Teresa and Nativity of Our Lord. ESL WEEK ‐ OCTOBER 20‐26, 2013 CONGRATULATIONS TO 2013 RECOGNITION AWARD RECIPIENTS

TCDSB congratulates two teachers who are being recognized by the Teachers of English as a Second Language Association of (TESL Ontario) for excellence, commitment, dedication and compassion of individuals involved with the field of English language training.

Winner of the 2013 TESL Ontario Distinguished Contribution Award is Sharon Rajabi of the Toronto Catholic District School Board. This award, formerly the Silver Pin Award, recognizes and honours significant long‐term achievements and contributions to the advancement of English language educators, the English language training sector and/or TESL Ontario.

Anne MacGregor‐O’Neill of the Toronto Catholic District School Board is one of the recipients of the 2013 TESL Ontario Sparks of Excellence Award, which recognizes and acknowledges the excellence and commitment of TESL Ontario members who provide outstanding educational experiences to their students or who demonstrate exceptional leadership/mentoring expertise towards their colleagues and student teachers in a manner that goes above and beyond the day to day duties of their job.

All winners will be honoured on October 25th at the Friday Evening Dinner and Entertainment event of TESL Ontario’s annual conference.

MASSAI WARRIORS VISIT

Our Lady of Perpetual Help was pleased to host a visit from Wilson and Jackson, two Massai Warriors who are touring schools through Free The Children’s Me To We initiative. The school was grateful for the opportunity to listen and learn from the Massai about their experiences growing up in Africa and being the first to graduate from University in their village in .

TCDSB SPORTS

GIRLS’ FIELD HOCKEY Congratulations to the Michael Power team for coming in first place in Girls’ Field Hockey.

FLAG FOOTBALL WINNERS Congratulations to the Neil McNeil Boys’ Flag Football team and Bishop Allen’s Girls’ Flag Football team for winning first place.

TDCAA CROSS COUNTRY 2013‐ SECONDARY SCHOOL FINAL RESULTS

Midget Girls’ Individual ‐ Gualtieri, Enza Loretto Abbey Toronto Midget Boys’ Individual ‐ Alexander, Andrew Neil McNeil Midget Girls’ Team ‐ Loretto Abbey Midget Boys’ Team ‐ Neil McNeil Junior Girls Individual ‐ Barber, Emily Father Redmond Junior Boys' Ind. ‐ Jude, Jerome Mary Ward Junior Girls' Team ‐ Father Redmond Junior Boys' Team‐ Father Redmond Senior Girls' Ind. ‐ Ferneyhough, Claire St. Joseph's College Senior Boys' Ind. ‐ Viveiros, Matthew Michael Power/St. Joseph Senior Girls' Team – Blessed Cardinal Newman Senior Boys' Team ‐ Michael Power/St. Joseph

CONGRATS TO ST JOSEPH COLLEGE STUDENT! Way to go Claire Ferneyhough from St. Joseph's College: 1st in Sr cross‐country and winner of Father Redmond Award Top Female TDCAA Athlete!

TDCAA BLESSED CARDINAL NEWMAN GOLF CHAMPIONS

On Tuesday, October 1st all of the Toronto Catholic District Schools Golf Teams met at Station Creek Golf Club in Gormley for the annual City Golf Championships. Blessed Cardinal Newman has always done well however this year despite stiff competition, this team emerged the victors. Along with being the city champs Gavin MacIver placed an overall second with a score of 78 for individual honors. The team : Joseph Hifawi, Gavin MacIver , Rocky Ciceretto, and Joshua Jackson represented the school with true Newman spirit and pride, the coaches are very proud of all four. On October 15, 16 and 17 they will compete in OFFSA at the prestigious Essex Golf Club in Windsor. We wish them luck and know that that they will continue to represent their school and our board in an admirable fashion.

SENIOR GIRLS’ WIN CROSS COUNTRY GOLD

Congratulations to Blessed Cardinal Newman’s Sr. Girls' Cross Country team for capturing Gold at the TDCAA Cross Country Championships on Friday, October 25th. The Girls' team will advance to the OFSAA Cross Country Championships at Laurentian University in Sudbury next Saturday.

Also going to OFSAA is Blessed Cardinal Newman’s, Tia Williams (gr. 9) who placed placed 3rd overall in her 3km race.

Congratulations to Blessed Cardinal Newman’s Midget Boys' team (Adam, Simon, Luis & John) who placed 3rd overall.

CONGRATULATIONS TO JORDAN HAMILTON Blessed Pope John Paul II welcomes home grade 12 student and FIFA U‐17 World Cup Canadian player, Jordan Hamilton. Jordan resumes classes after competing for in Dubai this past October. In 3 games for our country, Jordan was Canada's leading scorer, connecting for two goals in draws with both Austria and Iran. Leading up to Canada's final group stage match against Argentina, he was noted as 'the man to watch' by FIFA.

Thank you for representing your school, community and country so well, Jordan!

HIGH SCHOOL TENNIS RESULTS 2013 Congratulations to all the winners from the TDCAA Championships!

Junior Girls Single Silver: Mary Ward Kasia Wodz Bronze: Bishop Allen Alexandra Bellucci

Senior Girls Single Gold: Bishop Allen Valeria Gallippi Silver: Loretto Abbey Albina Mamonkina Bronze: Blessed Cardinal Newman Nauj Bautista

Senior Girls Double Gold: Notre Dame Bernadine Crisostomo & Victoria Lo Silver: Father John Redmond Natalia Jordan‐R. Terrats & Jovana Vukcevic Bronze: Bishop Allen Melissa King & Amanda King

Junior Boys Single Bronze: Bishop Allen Mario Matisa

Junior Boys Double Gold: Bishop Allen Andrew Rugosi & Alexander Milanov‐Diaz

Senior Boys Single Silver: Brebeuf Matthew Ross

Senior Boys Double Gold: Bishop Allen Stefano Bendetti & Gabriel Pozo

Senior Mixed Double Gold: Senator O’Connor Grithy Sirisegaram & Derrick Elaschuk Silver: Bishop Allen Jack DuCharme & Klea Bogdani

INNER CITY PEACE WALK

On October 16, 2013 at 1:30 pm., Loretto College’s School Action Team committee hosted an “Inner City Peace Walk”. The walk was part of some of the initiatives during the Week Without Violence. It was a day to deliver a powerful message of peace. The grade 9 Students held their banners up high to commemorate all the young people who are affected by bullying every day. All the girls showed positive school spirit and morale. The goal for the Peace walk was to continue educating female students in the elementary and secondary schools about female bullying and cyber‐bullying and the negative impact it has in and outside of our school communities. Approximately 200 students from Loretto College participated in this year’s walk. We would like to thank our 13th Division officers, and our School Trustee Frank D’Amico for joining and supporting us during our Safe School initiative. Special thanks to Rafaela Razao, Loretto College student, who took the photos. FR. PATRICK FOGARTY AWARDS DINNER TCDSB CONGRATULATES FORMER DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION: WINNER OF CEFO MEDAL OF HONOUR AND WINNERS OF THE CEFO CATHOLIC STUDENT AWARD

The Toronto Catholic District School Board congratulates former Director of Education Noel Martin and the many TCDSB secondary school students who were recognized by the Catholic Education Foundation of Ontario at the annual Fr. Patrick Fogarty Awards Dinner on October 26th.

Mr. Martin had a lengthy career with TCDSB, starting as an educator, and later as Superintendent of Education, before serving for a short time as the Director of Education. After leaving the Board, he served on the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association as Director of Catholic Education.

Father Henry Carr Catholic Secondary School received the Michael Carty Award in recognition of leadership as local ambassador for the Face to Faith program to improve, develop and enhance Catholic education in Ontario.

The Board also applauds the students who were recognized with the Catholic Student Award, which recognizes young people who best exemplify the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations. One student from each TCDSB secondary school is receiving the award.

Director of Education Angela Gauthier with Miles Fernandes from Fr. Henry Carr, and below with student award winners.

FUEL FOR KIDS FUNDRAISER

Despite the cold temperatures and rain, Holy Angels managed to raise just under $1,000.00 at a fundraiser hosted by our local Sobey's store and Fuel for Kids on Friday, October 25th. Students and staff were thrilled when Fuel for Kids sent driver DJ Kennington and his care over to the school for "show and tell".

In the evening, parents, students and staff enjoyed a BBQ at Sobey's to raise funds for the school's technology plan. Staff hopes to use the money towards the purchase of iPads, to support our goal of 21st century learning.

Special thanks to all the parents and school staff who volunteered, to the Sobey’s store for their donation of cookies, cupcakes, chocolate apples and other food items and to the Sobey’s staff for their support.

It was a wonderful opportunity for our school and all your efforts are greatly appreciated.

NON‐PROFIT SHSM AND MENTORSHIP STUDENTS ATTEND WEEKEND LEADERSHIP CAMP

From October 18 to 20, 2013, 52 Loretto Abbey students went up north to the YMCA’s Cedar Glen Outdoor Centre for a weekend of leadership and community‐building activities. As a part of this weekend, students involved in the Non‐Profit Specialist High Skills Major programme received elective certifications in Effective Communication, Leadership, and Conflict Resolution.

A unique camp experience, the Cedar Glen model incorporated activities that taught essential skills within a classroom setting and, in addition, provided the student mentors with the opportunity to demonstrate these skills through outdoor activities and challenges.

Students honed both communication and cooperation skills through the high ropes challenges. Here students had to trust their peers in a challenging setting, confronting their fears in the process. Climbing to the top of a telephone poll, students jumped to try to hit a hanging buoy. They were then lowered to the ground by their teammates. Students also tackled the “Slider” in teams of three and four, using teamwork in order to climb to the top of the course.

Songs were sung, friends were made, and much self‐learning and group reflection occurred in all of the camp activities including a reflective night nature walk and campfire.

Much gratitude is extended to Ms. Tobin Walsh who greeted and spent time with our students, and to all of the amazing staff at Cedar Glen for making this experience a memorable one that we hope to repeat next year!

MINISTER OF EDUCATION VISITS

The Hon. Liz Sandals, Minister of Education, and TCDSB Director of Education Angela Gauthier visited with staff at Marshall McLuhan Catholic Secondary School on October 22nd.

WHEN FAITH MEETS PEDAGOGY YOUTH FORUM 2013

Thousands of students from across the Greater Toronto Area participated in this year's Youth Forum on day 1 of the When Faith Meets Pedagogy Conference.

Marina Nemat was the Keynote Speaker in the morning session. Ms.Nemat was a spiritual and political prisoner in Tehran. Her empowering message to the students was to think about how their faith in God can transfer into service. She asked students to "challenge themselves". Students were split up into workshop groups, lead by TCDSB Student Leaders. The students expressed a keen desire to find out HOW they can get involved.

In the afternoon, students were split up into groups of 500 to listen to: Luke Stocking from Development and Peace; Molly Burke from Free the Children and Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski, Professor and Director of Institute for Pastoral Initiatives at the University of Dayton.

150TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

St. Joseph's Catholic Elementary School celebrated a major milestone the weekend of October 18th and 19th. Established in 1863, the school celebrated its 150th anniversary.

The weekend began with a Meet 'n Greet on the Friday evening for alumni and staff at the Church Hall. On the Saturday, Bishop McGrattan concelebrated Mass at the Church. TCDSB Trustee, Angela Kennedy, attended the event with her mother, Ursula Reid, a former student of the school. Angela's Uncle, Father Wallace Platt (and brother to Ursula) was a concelebrant of the Mass along with Pastor Frank Wagner.

TCDSB Director of Education Angela Gauthier and TCDSB Superintendent of Education John Shanahan were also in attendance and together, with Trustee Kennedy, presented a framed congratulatory certificate to the Principal, Jim McGee. The congregation of alumni, students, parents, former staff and current staff processed to the school, where the Bishop blessed a refurbished statue of St. Joseph.

Sr. Marie Howorth, who taught at the school, and Sr. Anne Lemire who attended the school and taught there in the 1940’s were also in attendance. Sr. Lemire was delighted to re‐connected with her former student, Manny Poulo.

Attendees reminisced, viewed old class attendance registers, a slideshow of old photographs and memorabilia. Guests were asked to sign cards for the school's Time Capsule.

Member of Parliament Craig Scott, Member of Provincial Parliament Peter Tabuns and City Councillor Paula Fletcher were also present.

Even before St. Joseph’s Parish was established, the Sisters of St. Joseph from St. Paul’s Parish would cross the river to teach the children of the growing Leslieville community in a one room building on Curzon Street.

BREAKFAST FOR LEARNING

President’s Choice Children’s Charity visited St. Mary’s Portugal Square to do their cheque presentation to Breakfast for Learning and Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada on Monday, October 21st.

The Minister of Health & Long Term Care, Deb Matthews, Angel Foundation for Learning Executive Director Marisa Celenza, ands Angela Gauthier, Director of Education for TCDSB were among those present.

A CATHOLIC CALL TO SERVE (ACCTS)

100+ students from across TCDSB high schools took a day out of their busy schedules to volunteer at a dozen charities and community service agencies including this group of student leaders who made 100 care packages to serve homeless individuals who reside the streets of downtown Toronto.

PANAM GAMES 2015

Students at Our Lady of Lourdes were excited to welcome the Mascot for the 2015 Toronto PanAm Games on October 21st.

The mascot did a variety of activities with the students and visited several classrooms to generate interest in physical activity, health and of course the anticipation of the upcoming games as well.

BRAIN DAY PRESENTATION AT ST. IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA

Parachute, a non‐profit organization, has developed and funded Brain Day, focusing on the prevention of brain injuries. The organization has been selected as the charity of choice by NHL player Grant Marshal and ice dancer Sinead Kerr, who are currently competing on the CBC show "Battle of the Blades". CBC visited St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic School on October 18th to film a Brain Day presentation by Dr. Charles Tator, Senior Scientist at UHN and founder of the Brain Day Program for an upcoming episode of Battle of the Blades.

The presentations supplement material covered in the Science and Physical Education curriculum, touching upon the biological mechanisms involved in the sensory systems and the importance of safety awareness.

TCDSB NEWCOMER CONFERENCE A HIT!

The TCDSB Newcomer Conference held October 19 at the Catholic Education Centre was a big hit with students and parents new to Canada and our International Students. Our thanks to those who made it out to the conference and our guests. Congratulations to organizer Jody Huang and the team from Community Relations.

L to R: Rory McGuckin, Superintendent of Safe Schools; Alex Mazzucco, Continuing Education Program Coordinator; Maria Guiao, Settlement Worker, Culturelink; Jody Huang, Community Relations; John Shain, Superintendant of Education; Kirk Mark, Sr.Coordinator, Community Relations

BM/TM ‘NEAR NORTH’ SHSM STUDENTS FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE GROUP OF SEVEN

For four days and three nights Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton SHSM students engaged in their first cross‐ curricular arts & culture experience including music, geography, history, painting, photography, video production & culinary arts, all in a natural outdoor environment.

En route, the artists, construction students & culinary team explored the McMichael Gallery’s Group of Seven Paintings, the photographic works of Edward Burtynsky and examined the structures of the buildings including Thompson’s original cabin.

Our bus continued north to Magnetawan, Ontario where we spent three exhilarating nights in cabins at Lighthouse Landing on beautiful Lake Cecebe, experiencing art in nature. The fall leaves, the smell of our campfires, the stars and the birds, the lake and the trees, touched all senses and inspired the students to paint, and photograph and build and examine life as no classroom with four walls could ever have accomplished.

The combination of arts, construction & culinary students broadened the students’ sense of possibility. Some students had never been north of Kleinburg! The seamless interconnectedness of each and everyone of us as stewards of our earth informed our every activity – whether we were canoeing together, participating in a team survival mural hunt in downtown Huntsville or painting the scenes at Thompson Rapids where the Group of Seven had actually created their art.

At night under the stars, around a campfire we shared our learned experiences ‐ Not once, was there a complaint about an outhouse, having to haul wood, or traipse through mud or do KP duty – there was only endless positive energy, teamwork and joyful reflection. How was this possible? Great students, dedicated staff, beautiful weather and a bit of luck!

The connections made beyond the classroom on this trip are a testament to experiential learning for not only the students but also the staff…we really need to get out the building more!

PEACE THROUGH VALOUR DINNER

Dante Alighieri Academy students attended the Peace Through Valour Dinner remembering the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers in the Italian Campaign during World War II.

Photo: The Honourable Julian Fantino with the Dante students.

2013 “CHINESE PANDA CUP” STUDENTS’ CHINESE ESSAY COMPETITION AWARD CEREMONY

The Chinese Pandas, “Er Shun” and “Da Mao” came to Toronto as special “Visitors” in March 2013. To welcome the coming of the pandas, the symbol of friendship between China and Canada, the Consulate‐General of the People’s Republic of China in Toronto organized the “Chinese Panda Cup” Students’ Chinese Essay Competition which was co‐hosted by the Chinese Culture and Education Society of Canada (CCESC) and the Canada‐Times. The competition was open to all Grade 5 to Grade 12 students in both Ontario and Manitoba.

More than 200 students from different schools participated in the Competition. Among them were two former students from the After‐Hours ILE (Chinese Language) Program at St. Matthias School, Vivian Li and Winnie Shi. Together with other award winning participants, they were recognized for their amazing efforts at the Award Ceremony held recently (October 20). Ms Yao‐Qin (Connie) Wu, their Mandarin teacher at the school, was also recognized and awarded for her great work with the students.

Ms. Carla Marchetti, Program Coordinator of the International Languages and Community Relations and Parent Involvement was invited as a Guest of Honor to represent TCDSB and to present the awards at the Ceremony.

OUTSTANDING FILIPINO STUDENTS Congratulations to the following students who were awarded “Outstanding Filipino Students” by the Filipino Center Toronto during the Awards Ceremony on October 20. The Outstanding Student Award is conferred to students who achieved academic excellence, community involvement and leadership. The following students received the award:

1) Francis Briones – Blessed Pope John Paul II 2) Bryan Chavez‐St. Mary Catholic School 3) Chanelle Cosme – St. Mary Catholic Secondary School 4) Ariana Mari Cuvin‐Fr. John Redmond 5) Ma. Relva Gaspan – Notre Dame CSS 6) Lyka Carisse Isip – Notre Dame CSS 7) Branden Soropia‐ 8) Rachel Banaag‐St. Columba CS 9) Micah Erin De Lara‐St. Agatha 10) Selina Quibraltar‐St. Lawrence CS 11) Jason Samosino – St. Ignatius of Loyola

LORETTO ABBEY CELEBRATES THE DAY OF THE GIRL WITH UNICEF AT THE UNITED NATIONS By Kassandra Neranjan

Innovate 2 Educate. This was the key idea highlighted during the UN International Day of the Girl celebrations at the UNICEF headquarters in New York. This was also the place where eight Loretto Abbey students had the privilege of attending this ceremony held on October 11th, 2013 at the United Nations Headquarters commemorating the power of a girl throughout the world.

The International Day of the Girl is in its second year of celebration and was created to promote the rights of the girl child. More importantly, this was also the time to remind the world of the often untapped potential that women and girls possess, which, when harnessed, can bring about a revolution of change.

Following the goal of abolishing child marriage, this year’s celebrations highlighted the empowerment of women helping women through innovation. This message was not one that was only directed to the developing world since much can be accomplished by raising women in the Western World to become powerful and crucial thinkers whose contributions are essential to our global society.

Innovations highlighted at this event drew from the humanitarian to the scientific. Innovations ranged from plans to get 20 million girls who could successfully code to the redevelopment of sanitary pads made out of banana fibre. Regardless of the differences between all of these innovations, each speaker highlighted the power and need to better girls through education, collaboration, and innovation.

Loretto Abbey students had the opportunity to also hear from Freida Pinto, an award winning actress and outspoken ambassador for children’s education. Pinto’s words were powerful and moving, often recalling her experiences as a child growing up in Mumbai who witnessed extreme poverty and her calling to, as she so eloquently stated, “help all those little boys and girls.”

Joined by individuals from all around the world, Loretto Abbey students participated in a powerful symbolic artistic gesture. Through the solidarity provided by the United Nations and UNICEF, individuals gathered around a large fresco depicting the obstacles facing the girl child. Everyone was then provided an eraser to remove these barriers and reaffirm the need to continue and improve upon the work highlighted in this ceremony so that this symbolic gesture will one day become reality.

“It was so empowering to actually be able to literally erase what we want out of the picture,” explained Camela Salde, a grade 11 Loretto Abbey student. “It makes the goal of a better world so much closer within reach.”

Students also had the opportunity to meet youth ambassadors from various countries around the world. These ambassadors were able to explain the significance of girls’ rights in their nations and what changes are still needed.

The Loretto Abbey students were fortunate enough to attend this celebration thanks to The Mary Ward Centre and The Partnership for Global Justice. They attended a four‐day intensive workshop alongside students from Loretto College, Mary Ward, and Bishop Allen in order to grow in their knowledge of the United Nations, the Millennium Development Goals, and ultimately become more conscientious global citizens.

Bianca Porto, actress Freida Pinto and Kassandra Neranjan at the UN Day of the Girl celebration

TCDSB STUDENTS VISIT UN IN NEW YORK CITY Students from Bishop Allen, Loretto Abbey, Loretto College and Mary Ward visited the United Nations in New York for a course on justice and global citizenship.

Hosted by the Mary Ward Centre, a ministry of the Loretto sisters, thirty‐nine students from TCDSB recently travelled to the United Nations in New York City for a course on justice and global citizenship. Highlights of the excursion included a meeting at the Canadian embassy, a tour of the United Nations, sessions on human trafficking, sustainability, Millennium Development Goals and attending International Day of the Girl Child at UNICEF. Bishop Allen, Mary Ward, Loretto Abbey and Loretto College students and staff were deeply inspired and motivated to continue to create a more just and sustainable world.

In the words of Kassandra Neranjan, a participant from Loretto Abbey: “The sisters of Loretto who established this amazing expedition were more than welcoming and allowed us to reach our full potential exposing us to all ideals, political views, and truths that many wish to lay away in the shadows. These courageous women, in the very image of Mary Ward, taught with the reminder that the students they were addressing are the future change makers for their world. Of much more significance, these women went out of their way for my peers and I to experience the International Day of the Girl Child at Unicef. We were privileged to be in the midst of various female innovators from around the world working to promote better livelihoods for women everywhere.”

RUN FOR THE CURE 2013

On Sunday, October 6th, a team of 17 students and 4 staff from St. Joseph’s College took part in the annual CIBC Run for the Cure. This is the fourth year that SJCS has participated as a school in this event and the day was truly a success!

Together SJCS students and staff fundraised approximately $1000. Sarah Abatecola also ran the 5km route in just over 25 minutes. A record for SJCS runners!

A big thank you to everyone who helped support our SJCS team!

FIELD TRIP TO THE VATICAN BY THE "SEMESTER IN ITALY PROGRAM" STUDENTS

The fall, our TCDSB students took part in a field Trip to the Vatican by our "Semester in Italy Program." The program is run by the TCDSB in partnership with Centro Scuola.

ALL HALLOWS’ EVE CELEBRATION

The TCDSB Catholic Teachers, Centre, in partnership with 21st Century Learning and the Arts Department, coordinated a special liturgy of prayers, music and reflection to celebrate All Hallows’ Eve at the Catholic Education Centre on October 31st. Staff learned about the Christian origins of All Saints Eve.

Donations of non‐perishable food items were collected for the Angel Foundation for Learning, which supports the nutrition programs in TCDSB schools.

“IT STARTS IN THE SCHOOLS” is published monthly throughout the school year. Events, locations and times are subject to change. For more information, call 416-222-8282 Ext. 5314. This publication can be found on the Internet at www.tcdsb.org, see “news”.

The Toronto Catholic District School Board educates more than 92,000 students from diverse cultures and language backgrounds in 201 Catholic elementary and secondary schools and serves approximately 475,000 Catholic school supporters across the City of Toronto. As the world’s largest publicly funded Catholic school system, we educate students in an inclusive learning community rooted in the love of Christ, where they are challenged to grow in grace and knowledge and to lead lives of faith, hope and charity. At Toronto Catholic we transform the world through witness, faith, innovation and action.

Toronto Catholic Schools November, 2013

Toronto Catholic District School Board, 80 Sheppard Ave. E., Toronto, ON M2N 6E8 phone: 416-222-8282 website: www.tcdsb.org email: [email protected]