PRAYER
The meeting opened with an Advent prayer led by Nicole Temple, Religious Education and Faith Lead, focused on the Third Week of Advent and the Candle of Joy. A Gospel reading from Luke was proclaimed, followed by a brief reflection on the Incarnation and the true joy of Christmas. Intercessions were offered for the Church, the Board of Trustees, and for students, staff and families, especially those who may find the season difficult.
PRESENTATIONS
Lakehead University Achievement Program
Director of Education Jamey Robertson provided an update on the Lakehead University Achievement Program, confirming that KCDSB has formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lakehead University. He shared that a joint virtual signing event was held on November 21 at St. John Paul II School and on Lakehead University’s main campus in Thunder Bay. Trustees viewed a short highlight video from the event and noted the strong participation of students and families, along with the positive excitement and momentum surrounding the program.
Learn more.
Coding Club at St. Thomas Aquinas High School
Trustees received a presentation on the Coding Club at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, led by teacher Stephanie Sweeney and students Ethan Martin and Remi Boutette. Ms. Sweeney shared how the club began in response to student interest and has grown beyond its original six-week plan into a weekly, student-driven program focused on collaboration, creativity and problem-solving.
Ethan and Remi spoke about why they wanted to start the club and what coding means to them. “We wanted a place where people who love coding could come together, create new games and help each other learn,” shared Ethan, noting that coding allows him to express creativity while building skills in teamwork, leadership and problem-solving. Remi added that the club was inspired by “game jams,” where developers work within a theme and timeframe, encouraging innovation and peer learning.
The students demonstrated games and programs they had created, explaining the logic behind their code and how they troubleshoot and refine their work. Trustees praised the students’ enthusiasm, technical skills and leadership, and noted how the club reflects the power of student voice supported by dedicated staff to create meaningful, future-focused learning opportunities.
Learn more.
Student Trustee Report
Student Trustees shared updates from St. Thomas Aquinas High School during the Advent season. Throughout December, students participated in prayer services focused on the meaning of Advent and Christmas, with Father Rudy joining the school community on December 10. A Reverse Advent Calendar encouraged generosity through donations of warm clothing, and the High 5 of Prayer initiative supported students in developing consistent prayer practices, reinforced through staff role modelling.
Academically, the school continued to support student success through a focus on special education programing, literacy and numeracy interventions, and work experience opportunities that build independence and job readiness. A self-regulation group was introduced for Grades 7–8, and Lexia reading support continued for students requiring targeted assistance. Graduation planning remained a priority through monthly meetings, pathway planning and preparation for post-secondary transitions, including an upcoming OSAP information session.
Athletic programs remained active, with Grade 7–8 volleyball teams competing locally and at regional tournaments, cross-country running continuing as a lunchtime club, and both boys’ and girls’ hockey teams recording strong tournament results, including a win at the Portage Collegiate Institute Christmas Classic. Fall NorWOSSA seasons concluded with several podium finishes, and winter court sports are now underway.
Students and staff prepared for the December 17 Christmas Concert, with plans also underway to purchase a grand piano for the chapel to support rehearsals, prayer services and future community use. Land-based learning opportunities included visits to the Gamikaan Bimaadiziwin and the Kenora Chiefs Advisory Family and Wellness Camp. Throughout the month, student groups organized seasonal activities, service initiatives and spirit days, reflecting strong student leadership and community involvement.
POLICY
Policy #4 – Delegation of Authority
The Board completed its review of
Policy #4 – Delegation of Authority. No revisions were identified at this time, and the policy remains in effect as currently written.
FINANCE
2025–2026 Revised Estimates
Alison Smith, Superintendent of Business, Facilities, and Planning Services, presented the 2025–2026 Revised Estimates, which are based on the October 31, 2025 enrolment count. While enrolment projections anticipated 1,264 students, actual enrolment totalled 1,280 students, representing an increase of 16 students. Based on updated revenues and expenses, the Board is projecting an annual surplus of $25,305 and remains fully compliant with the Ministry of Education’s balanced budget requirements.
PROGRAM
2024 – 2025 Education, Quality and Accountability Office Results
Director Jamey Robertson presented the 2024–2025 EQAO results on behalf of Assistant Superintendent Maureen Frankcom. Trustees reviewed results for Grade 3 and Grade 6 reading, writing and mathematics, Grade 9 mathematics, and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). The presentation noted that results increased or held in five of eight measures, that Grade 6 scores were the same or higher in all areas, and that OSSLT results have remained very steady over the past three years.
Trustees also reviewed cohort information indicating the current Grade 6 cohort showed a significant increase in writing compared to when the cohort was in Grade 3, and the current Grade 9 cohort had 20% more students achieving the provincial standard in math than when the cohort was in Grade 6.
Next steps include school teams reviewing EQAO data at both the school and student level, and Instructional Services examining board trends to support school improvement planning.
UPCOMING BOARD MEETINGS
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.