PRESENTATIONS
Service Learning Projects at St. John School – Shawna Lamme and Kara Bennett
Principal Shawna Lamme and Learning Resource Teacher Kara Bennett shared how St. John School has embraced a renewed focus on service learning to deepen Catholic identity and foster meaningful inclusion. Inspired by a professional development session with Anne O’Brien, Director of Catholic Education for the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association, the school committed to making Catholic virtues tangible through student-led community service projects.
The initiative involved every grade level at St. John School and was designed to help students embody virtues such as compassion, justice, and hope. Each class took on a unique project—from growing flowers for seniors to creating books for reading buddies—all with an emphasis on participation for all learners. The approach placed a strong focus on inclusion, supporting students with special education needs through adaptive communication tools, peer support, and flexible roles.
The presentation included a video that captured the joy, pride, and growth students experienced as they served others. Trustees expressed heartfelt appreciation for the project’s powerful connection to faith, belonging, and student leadership.
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Celebrating 30 Years of ‘Building’ Excellence – Jared Ralko
Vice-Principal Jared Ralko and Principal Kylie Hughes shared a recap of the
30th anniversary celebration of the school building at St. Thomas Aquinas High School. The milestone transformed the school’s traditional Saints Week into a community-centred celebration that honoured the past, engaged the present, and looked toward the future.
Events throughout the week included the “Latin Fever” spring concert, the “30 Acts on the 30th” kindness initiative, a signature community open house, the Saints Carnival for incoming Grade 7 students, and a Spring Feast in honour of National Indigenous History Month. Each event reflected the values of the school community while connecting current students with alumni, families, and future Saints.
The presentation included a special highlights video and the launch of a brand-new virtual tour, offering guests, and future students and families a closer look at the learning spaces, programs, and welcoming environment that make STAHS so special. Trustees praised the school’s leadership team and staff for their creativity, hospitality, and commitment to making the anniversary a meaningful and inclusive celebration.
LINK to highlight video
LINK to virtual tour
Student Trustee Report
Student Trustees Benjamin Favreau and Javan Ura delivered their final report, highlighting a month filled with celebration, reflection, and end-of-year achievements. Students prepared for exams and culminating events, while sports teams wrapped up a strong season, including OFSAA placements and the introduction of the new Callie Joseph Memorial Award.
Faith life remained strong with a graduation retreat, end-of-year Mass, and “word of the week” prayer reflections. Students also led community initiatives, including a Youth in Philanthropy donation, a Pride Walk, and an art installation for National Indigenous Peoples Day.
FNMI programming concluded with land-based learning at Strecker’s Farm, a Spring Feast, and a walk to raise awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The arts were celebrated through the Stellars Arts Banquet and a successful band trip to Winnipeg. As they concluded their time at the Board table, Ben and Javan expressed deep gratitude to the school community for a year of leadership, learning, and lasting connection.
Thank You Presentation to Student Trustees
Chair Teresa Gallik thanked outgoing Student Trustees Benjamin Favreau and Javan Ura for their outstanding leadership, collaboration, and dedication to student voice at the Board table. She commended Ben for his mentorship in his second year and acknowledged Javan’s thoughtful contributions in his first year. Trustees expressed appreciation for their professionalism and wished them well in their future endeavours.
Thank You Presentation to Director Nicole Kurtz
Teresa Gallik honoured Director of Education Nicole Kurtz at her final Board meeting before retirement, recognizing her servant leadership, deep compassion, and lasting impact on Catholic education. Trustees expressed heartfelt thanks for her dedication to equity, reconciliation, and student success, and shared a tribute video and gift in appreciation of her outstanding service.
PERSONNEL
Director of Education Performance Appraisal – A. Bishop
Trustee Angela Bishop provided a high-level summary of the performance appraisal process for Director Nicole Kurtz, which followed Ministry of Education guidelines. The process included goal setting, a mid-year review, and a 360-degree evaluation with strong participation and very positive feedback. Nicole received a top rating, and the results have been submitted to the Ministry. Recommendations from the process will support the incoming Director’s transition.
Resignation of Dean Woodbeck – M. Lundin
The Board acknowledged the retirement of Dean Woodbeck, Chaplain at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, after 21 years of faithful and compassionate service. Known for his kind presence, unwavering support, and deep commitment to Catholic education, Dean has played a central role in shaping the school’s spiritual life and sense of community.
Whether greeting students by name each morning, leading prayer and liturgy, supporting youth in service projects, or championing athletics and the arts, Dean has been a constant source of care, joy, and inspiration. His leadership, rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, empowered generations of students to live their faith through action and reflection.
Trustees expressed heartfelt gratitude for Dean’s immeasurable impact and wished him blessings in his retirement, affirming that he will always be part of the heart of STAHS.
FINANCE
2025 – 2026 Budget Report – A. Smith
Superintendent of Business, Facilities, and Planning Services, Alison Smith, presented the 2025–2026 Budget Report to the Board. The budget projects revenues of $34,662,937 and expenses of $34,642,271, resulting in a modest projected surplus of $20,666.
Smith confirmed that the budget is fully compliant with Ministry of Education Regulation 280/19 and aligns with the Board’s financial and strategic priorities for the upcoming school year. Trustees expressed appreciation for the continued focus on fiscal responsibility and student-centred planning.
Borrowing Resolution – Operating – A. Smith
Superintendent Alison Smith presented the annual Operating Borrowing Resolution, recommending the renewal of the Board’s borrowing agreement with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. The resolution authorizes the Board to borrow up to $5,000,000 to manage operating cash flow, if needed, during the 2025–2026 school year.
Smith noted that the total amount previously borrowed remains at $0.00, and this is a standard financial practice to ensure flexibility in managing timing differences between expenditures and Ministry funding. The Board approved the resolution as presented.
Borrowing Resolution – Capital Projects
Alison Smith presented the Capital Projects Borrowing Resolution for Board approval. The resolution authorizes the establishment of a Demand Bridge Loan with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in the amount of $1,580,703, designated specifically for capital projects.
This borrowing arrangement provides short-term financing flexibility to support ongoing Ministry-approved capital work, including school renewal and infrastructure improvements. The Board approved the resolution as presented.
PROGRAM
School Council and Catholic Parent Involvement Committee Report – N. Kurtz
Director Nicole Kurtz provided a summary of the School Council and Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (CPIC) presentation, which took place over lunch with Trustees on May 28. The report highlighted the valuable contributions of school councils and CPIC in strengthening family engagement, supporting faith-based initiatives, and fostering a welcoming school environment. Trustees expressed appreciation for the meaningful dialogue and parent leadership shared during the session.
Special Education Advisory Committee Report for 2024 - 2025
Trustee Marie Lundin presented the 2024–2025 Annual Report of the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) to the Board of Trustees. The report highlights a year of strong collaboration between trustees, families, educators, and community partners to support students with special education needs.
Key highlights included:
• Extensive Engagement: SEAC held ten meetings throughout the year, with participation from trustees, staff, and agency partners such as FIREFLY, KACL, and Harmony Centre for Community Living.
• Policy and Program Input: SEAC provided feedback on the draft 2025–2026 school year calendar, the revised Special Education Plan, and consultations for the Growing Success assessment policy.
• Professional Learning: Presentations included topics such as mental health supports, school transitions, the Kids in the Know safety program, and Let’s Go Fitness.
• Community Initiatives: The committee supported service awareness and youth engagement through partner agencies, and monitored Ministry updates affecting students with exceptionalities.
• Student Supports: The Special Education Team reported on initiatives like IEP development, transition planning for Kindergarten, and empowered reading and math assessments.
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Marie thanked all SEAC members for their continued advocacy and commitment to equity and inclusion for all students.
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2025 Canadian Catholic School Trustees’ Association AGM Report – T. Gallik
Trustees Teresa Gallik, Derek Favreau, and Marie Lundin, along with Director of Education Nicole Kurtz, attended the 2025 Canadian Catholic School Trustees’ Association (CCSTA) Annual General Meeting in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from June 5–7. The event brought together trustees and Catholic education leaders from across Canada under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” Highlights included keynote addresses from David Wells and Bishop Christian Riesbeck, who spoke about Catholic virtues, evangelization, and the call to lead with faith. Delegates participated in learning sessions on topics such as AI in education, Catholic school governance in Newfoundland, and diocesan renewal. A panel on Catholic education in Atlantic Canada highlighted the strength and perseverance of independent Catholic schools. The AGM also included national elections, the Higgins Award presentation, and a closing Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral. The event reaffirmed the importance of advocacy and leadership in supporting and sustaining Catholic education across the country.
Amendment to the 2025 – 2026 Regular Board Meeting Schedule – T. Gallik
The Board approved a motion to reschedule the March 2026 Regular Board Meeting from Tuesday, March 24, 2026, to Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
INFORMATION
2025 Graduation for St. Thomas Aquinas High School – N. Kurtz
Director Nicole Kurtz presented the 2025 Graduation Report for St. Thomas Aquinas High School. This year, 84 students will graduate, with the Graduation Mass scheduled for the morning of June 24 at Notre Dame du Portage Church, followed by the Graduation Ceremony that evening at the Jarnel Whitecap Pavilion.
Javan Ura has been selected as the Valedictorian for the Class of 2025. Among the graduating students, 12 will receive a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Health and Wellness, 6 in Construction, and 18 students participated in an Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program placement. Seven students will graduate with a French Immersion Certificate, and five will be entering apprenticeship programs.
This year’s graduating class includes 32 students who self-identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit, with 18 identifying specifically as First Nations. The ceremony will also showcase the musical talents of graduates, including drumming and guitar performances.
Director Kurtz extended congratulations to all graduates, their families, and the educators who supported them. She gave special recognition to Student Trustees Javan and Benjamin, thanking them for their leadership and wishing them continued success beyond graduation.
UPCOMING BOARD MEETINGS
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