The Kenora Catholic District School Board welcomed its two new Student Trustees, Thia and Jacob, at the September 17, 2025 Board Meeting.
Their commissioning took place during a prayer service led by Superintendent Kylie Hughes, where they pledged to serve their peers with leadership rooted in Catholic values. Trustees also affirmed their support for Thia and Jacob as they begin their year of service.
Following the ceremony, the new Student Trustees presented their first report to the Board, highlighting a busy and exciting start to the school year at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Jacob Silva shared his excitement about stepping into the role:
“I’m most excited to learn about the intricacies of our school board and all the important decisions that are put into everyday school life. It’s hard to get a concept for all the effort put into running the school when it seems like such a normal thing to us students. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to see the decision-making first hand.”
Thia also reflected on her goals for the year:
“One goal I have as a student trustee is to further develop my communication skills in a professional setting. The thing I am most excited about in my new role as student trustee is to connect, learn, and advocate for the various departments in my school.”
Their first report touched on many aspects of student life, including:
Faith Life: Students began the semester with an Opening Mass led by Father Rudy, while also recognizing the retirement of Dean Woodbeck, a longtime leader in prayer and spiritual life at STAHS.
Academics: Staff are supporting Grade 7 students as they transition into high school, finalizing schedules, and ensuring Individual Education Plans reflect each learner’s needs. Students will also take part in a University Fair and a College Fair this fall.
Athletics: Basketball, volleyball, golf, cross country, mountain biking, cheerleading, and hockey are all underway, with strong student participation.
Arts: The senior band is up and running, and a drama group is preparing for a unique performance tied to a community emergency event.
Inclusive Facilities: Students have shared positive feedback about STAHS’s new accessible washrooms, designed with individual stalls for greater privacy, comfort, and inclusivity.
Truth and Reconciliation: Plans include Orange Shirt Day activities, a community walk to the former Cecilia Jeffrey Residential School, and the launch of the FNMI Youth Council.
Humanitarian Activities: Students are preparing for the Terry Fox Run, fundraising projects through the Interac Club, and celebrating a successful school Picture Day.
Thia and Jacob’s commissioning marks the start of their journey as student leaders—bringing forward the voices of their peers, while developing their own skills and leadership grounded in Catholic values.
