Catch up on key highlights from the Regular Board Meeting of January 21, 2025.
PRESENTATIONS
Education Services: Learning Technologies Coordinator
Stephanie Sweeney provided an overview of her role and the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. She discussed AI’s capabilities, privacy considerations, and its implications for student learning. Sweeney emphasized the need for educators to adapt teaching strategies to promote responsible AI use, focusing on critical thinking, privacy, and transparency. With AI becoming an integral part of education, the goal is to use it as a tool to enhance learning rather than replace original thought.
LINK to read more.
School Achievement Plan: St. Thomas Aquinas High School
Principal Kylie Hughes and Vice Principal Jared Ralko presented the School Achievement Action Plan, outlining its alignment with KCDSB’s strategic priorities of Growing, Investing, and Engaging. They highlighted initiatives focused on academic excellence, student well-being, and faith development, emphasizing career planning, extracurricular engagement, and strengthening connections with families. New initiatives include expanded STEM learning, dual-credit programs, and increased opportunities for Indigenous student leadership. Trustees inquired about progress monitoring and student participation, with Hughes and Ralko emphasizing the importance of student feedback and ongoing assessment in shaping programs.
Student Trustee Report
Student Trustees Ben and Javan provided an update on student activities. January has been a busy month with exams, sports, and school events. Playoffs for winter sports begin in February, and T.A. Day will be celebrated on January 31 with a prayer service and activities. The Grade 6 Transition Event saw strong attendance, giving families a chance to tour the school. FNMI initiatives continue, including a Ribbon Skirt workshop, Leadership in Training sessions, and an upcoming Indigenous artist workshop. They concluded by highlighting student engagement and enthusiasm for the semester ahead.
POLICY
Trustees received a comprehensive review and report on the following procedures, which were thoroughly discussed at the December Policy Governance Committee Meeting and approved at the January 21 Board Meeting:
Policy #11 –
Board Representatives
Policy #13 –
Appeals Regarding Student Matters, which was retitled Safe Schools
PERSONNEL
Director of Education Recruitment Process Update
Chair Teresa Gallik provided an update on the Director of Education recruitment process. The procurement process, conducted in accordance with Policy 16: Selection of the Director, was successfully completed. Two proposals were received and reviewed on January 14, and Morden Cormier Education Solutions has been selected as the consultant. They will now work with the Director of Education Selection Committee to facilitate the recruitment and hiring process for the next Director of Education.
PROGRAM
2024 Director’s Annual Report
Director of Education Nicole Kurtz and Trina Henley presented the 2024 Director’s Annual Report, showcasing the achievements and progress of the Kenora Catholic District School Board. This year, a trailer video was introduced to complement the report, which was shown during the meeting. They acknowledged the contributions of Deanna Suke, Digital Communications Lead, for her creativity in capturing school stories and producing the video content. The report highlights the dedication of staff, students, and families throughout the year.
Link to read the report.
OTHER
With Great Joy: Letter of Congratulations to Bishop-elect Campeau
Chair Teresa Gallik shared a letter of congratulations sent to Father Al Campeau on his appointment as Bishop-elect. The Board expressed its joy and best wishes as he takes on this new role in service within the region. The letter was included in the Board package for reference.
UPCOMING BOARD MEETINGS
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Delegation to the Board.
2024 - 2025 Board Meeting Schedule