Catch up on the key highlights from the Annual Board Meeting of November 19, 2024.
Watch the full meeting on YouTube:
PRESENTATIONS
Chair and Vice Chair Acclaimed
Each November, elections for the positions of Chair and Vice Chair are held at the Annual Board Meeting. The Kenora Catholic District School Board is pleased to share that Teresa Gallik and Paul Landry have been acclaimed as Chair and Vice Chair, respectively, at this year’s meeting on November 19, 2024. Their extensive experience and dedicated leadership will continue to guide the Board as we serve our students, families, and communities. Read Chair Gallik’s comments and learn more here
(LINK).
Student Trustee Report
The Student Trustee report highlighted the achievements and initiatives at St. Thomas Aquinas High School. Academically, students focused on midterms and the OSSLT, a key milestone for Grade 10 students, while also celebrating past accomplishments at the awards ceremony. In sports, school teams showcased exceptional talent, with gold wins at the NorWOSSA championships and senior teams advancing to OFSAA. The boys’ hockey team also secured an impressive tournament victory. Faith activities included a Remembrance Day prayer service and preparations for Advent, fostering reflection and a sense of community.
Humanitarian efforts were centred on the Miracle Marathon, supporting the Kenora Salvation Army Christmas Hamper program through events like "Fill-A-Bus" and fundraising initiatives. FNMI students engaged in campus tours, cultural events, and leadership programs. Support from the NIIJI Indigenous Mentorship Program, offered by Lakehead University, provided tutoring and encouraged academic growth in a safe, welcoming environment.
The arts program is thriving, with preparations for the Christmas Concert featuring a performance for elementary students and proceeds going to the Miracle Marathon. The choir is also gearing up for Choral Fest in Winnipeg, where they will perform and participate in workshops.
POLICY
Trustees received a comprehensive review and report on the following procedures, which were thoroughly discussed at the November Policy Governance Committee Meeting and approved at the November 19 Board Meeting:
Policy #16 – Selection of the Director
Policy #19 – Trustee Honorarium and Travel Expenses
Policy #23 – Director of Education Performance Appraisal
PERSONNEL
Resignation of Ian Glazier
Ian Glazier, an Education Assistant at St. John School in Red Lake since 2017, will retire on December 20, 2024. Trustee Derek Favreau presented Ian's retirement biography, highlighting his innovative problem-solving and unwavering support. The Trustees passed the motion for his retirement with regret, acknowledging Ian’s invaluable expertise and dedication to the school community. He will be deeply missed, and we wish him great joy in his retirement.
Resignation of Nicole Kurtz
Director Nicole Kurtz has announced her retirement, effective at the end of the 2024–2025 school year. Chair Teresa Gallik presented Kurtz’s biography, highlighting her accomplishments, including becoming the first KCDSB graduate to serve as Director and her over 25 years of dedicated service in Catholic education.
The Trustees passed the motion for her retirement with regret, expressing gratitude for her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to student success, well-being, and Catholic values. The Board will begin the recruitment process to hire the next Director of Education, ensuring a smooth transition. Nicole’s legacy will leave a lasting impact on the KCDSB community.
(LINK)
PROGRAM
2024-2025 Math Achievement Action Plan
The Kenora Catholic District School Board received an update on mathematics education with the presentation of its 2024–25 Math Achievement Action Plan. Jordan Temple, Vice Principal at École Ste-Marguerite Bourgeoys and Board Math Lead, outlined strategies to enhance math achievement aligned with the Ministry of Education’s Taking Action in Mathematics framework.
The plan focuses on three priorities: aligning teaching with curriculum standards, using data-driven insights to strengthen teacher knowledge, and addressing student learning gaps with targeted tools like the Early Mathematical Assessment (EMA). Trustees endorsed the plan, emphasizing its commitment to advancing math achievement through innovative resources and partnerships.
(LINK)
2025-2026 School Year Calendar
Director Nicole Kurtz reported that the Rainy River District School Board is coordinating the 2025–26 school year calendar consultations for regional boards. Two draft calendars have been developed, offering options for a student start date either before or after Labour Day.
Consultations will begin with Advisory Groups, followed by community consultations in January after the Christmas break.
JOIN A MEETING
Guests are warmly welcomed to attend Board Meetings as part of the audience. These meetings provide an opportunity for community members to observe discussions and decisions that impact our schools and students.
If you wish to address the Board of Trustees, you must register in advance for a Delegation. This allows you to present your insights or concerns directly to the Trustees in a formal and respectful setting. Learn more:
Delegation to the Board.
2024 - 2025 Board Meeting Schedule