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Shooting for Glory: St. Mary School Hosts Boys Basketball Provincial Championships

<img src="/images/e5f39fb4-2504-40ee-8dd1-ac1f8f90fa42?fingerprint=ppb20251217012636" alt="SMT BBall3" width="445" height="294" style="width:445px;height:294px;float:left">Excitement filled the air on Thursday, March 20, 2025, as St. Mary School officially kicked off the 2025 1A Alberta Boys Basketball Championships. This tournament was not only a fantastic opportunity for all participating teams but also a chance for St. Mary and the town of Taber to showcase their ability to host an event of this magnitude.The tournament began with an inspiring opening ceremony, where all 12 teams entered the gym to hear from dignitaries, including St. Mary School Principal Mrs. Michelle Nevil, the Mayor of Taber, and other notable guests."It's very exciting for us to host a tournament of this scale, both for our school and our community," said Mrs. Nevil. "For these student-athletes to witness leadership in sport—through both players and coaches—while seeing the community come together to make it happen is truly special. It's inspiring, and we're thrilled for this weekend."Before the ceremony, players were treated to words of wisdom from two accomplished Olympians—Ross Bekkering and Kacie Bosch. The star athletes shared personal experiences, offering motivation and insight into their journeys in the sport."As a high school student, it was always inspiring to hear from athletes who had walked this path before," said Kacie Bosch, a member of Canada’s 3x3 Olympic Women's National Basketball Team. "It's pretty amazing to now be that person for some of these incredible students in the crowd."<img src="/images/b652d3f9-a1ac-42a8-8642-2e485b1a6017?fingerprint=ppb20251217012233" alt="SMT BBall2" width="465" height="310" style="width:465px;height:310px;float:right">Ross Bekkering, a member of the Dutch 3x3 Olympic Men's Basketball Team, encouraged the players to fully embrace the experience. "I think it's important to remind these athletes to stay in the moment," he said. "As a young kid, you're often looking ahead, but it's good to cherish times like these and realize how special they are because they don’t come around often."The tournament ran from March 20 to March 22, featuring over 150 student-athletes and coaches from 12 schools across the province. For St. Mary School Celtics Captain Rex Bell, it was an opportunity to prove themselves, especially against teams they rarely get to face."It's important for us to experience different levels of competition from across the province," said Rex. "These tournaments test our skills and show younger players the kind of talent that's out there. We're ranked fifth coming into this, so we’ve earned our spot and want to prove what we're made of."Bringing the tournament to life was no small feat. Associate Principal and Basketball Coach Mr. Josh Van Uden credited the event’s success to the unwavering support of volunteers from Taber and Southern Alberta.<img src="/images/507871c3-fb22-4e85-9b33-0a6a402804df?fingerprint=ppb20251217011406" alt="SMT BBall1" width="456" height="303" style="width:456px;height:303px;float:left">"Over the last two years, countless community members have stepped up to donate, volunteer their time, pray for us, and contribute in any way they can," he said. "It's been outstanding and overwhelming to see this level of support. Even now, as the games are underway, we have so many people from Taber coming out to cheer on not just our team, but all the teams participating this weekend."The tournament wrapped up on Saturday, March 22, with Coaldale Christian School defeating Taber Christian for the championship title. The St. Mary Celtics finished in sixth place but walked away with new friendships and a greater appreciation for the sport.

2025-03-24 22:12:12 +0000 UTC

Faith In Action: Holy Spirit Staff Unite for Spiritual Development Day

<img src="/images/89224f2f-90bf-461e-913d-2f598cdf6000?fingerprint=ppb20251217011846" alt="SD1" width="448" height="289" style="width:448px;height:289px;float:left">At Holy Spirit Catholic School Division, faith and spirituality guide all that we do. On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, we gathered for our Division-wide Spiritual Development Day—a time to unite, reflect, and grow in our Catholic faith."There are only really two days that we formally gather as a school division—Opening Mass and Spiritual Development Day," said Mr. Aaron Skretting, Holy Spirit's Director of Religious Education. "These occasions are significant in our relationship with one another as a faith community and it is important that we have these times together."Superintendent Ms. Chantel Axani echoed the importance of the day, stating, "Our divisional Spiritual Development Day offers an opportunity for our staff to reflect on their journeys as pilgrims of hope. It has been thoughtfully designed to inspire and uplift everyone, and I sincerely hope that it served as a time of renewal."<img src="/images/0b611ac4-cdfd-4b6f-a723-288c33fca219?fingerprint=ppb20251217010827" alt="SD3" width="312" height="440" style="width:312px;height:440px;float:right">This year’s theme, "Proclaim! Pilgrims of Hope," set the tone for a day of faith-filled experiences. The morning began with Mass led by Fr. Troy Nguyen from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary, who later concluded the day with an inspiring keynote session, "Seeking Beauty," where he shared insights from his journey walking the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage."It is a great honour and privilege to be asked to come and speak," said Fr. Troy. "I love talking to schools and, as both a priest and former teacher, I see the vital role Catholic Education plays in shaping young minds and hearts."The day also featured two powerful speakers: Dr. Troy Davies, CEO of Catholic Social Services, and Dr. Matt Hoven, Author, Associate Professor, and Kule Chair of Catholic Religious Education at St. Joseph's College, University of Alberta. Dr. Davies explored faith through imagery in ‘A Pilgrimage of Hope in Four Images’, stating, "My discussion revolves around the fact that we’re all on a pilgrimage that leads us back to the Father." Meanwhile, Dr. Hoven, in his talk ‘Capturing the Fleeting Idealism of Our Youth’, shared, “I'll be focusing on sources of hope that we can find within our schools as well as in our faith to be more hopeful people."<img src="/images/c7ac81a6-6d1e-480d-bf47-6301417d60ab?fingerprint=ppb20251217012404" alt="SD2" width="471" height="308" style="width:471px;height:308px;float:left">In her first year as Superintendent, Ms. Axani expressed her excitement for this special day."I was very excited to share in my first Spiritual Development Day," she shared. "From the moment I joined this division, I was genuinely moved by the profound commitment to our faith that I observed among my colleagues and it is clear that our faith serves as the fundamental cornerstone of our work at Holy Spirit."While Spiritual Development Day is a chance to grow in faith, its greatest impact lies in bringing us together as a Catholic community."When we come together as a faith community, we are proclaiming our faith to one another and taking stock of where we are at now and what the next steps are - which is really what one does in pilgrimage," said Mr. Skretting.

2025-03-24 18:00:14.682 +0000 UTC

Growing Together Holy Spirit Staff Unite for a a Day of Learning and Growth

Growing Together: Holy Spirit Staff Unite for a Day of Learning and Growth

<img src="/images/d89a0ed4-2a80-4a79-9bf2-c604fa4f2450?fingerprint=ppb20251217012532" alt="Collab Day3" width="349" height="232" style="width:349px;height:232px;float:left">Monday, March 17, 2025, was a significant day for the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division as we hosted our Division Collaboration Day. Staff from across the division came together for a variety of learning and speaker sessions designed to enhance professional growth and collaboration."Our Division Collaboration Days allow our teachers to engage in professional learning and collaboration dedicated to their own professional learning goals," stated Director of Learning, Carmen Larsen. "Over the past few years, we have fostered a culture that prioritizes professional autonomy, allowing teachers to determine the learning and collaboration needed to enhance their own professional practice through our Collaboration Days."The sessions covered a wide range of topics, including coding for elementary teachers, an introduction to MIG welding, numeracy and literacy strategies, and more. Led by community partners, industry professionals, and Holy Spirit staff, these sessions provided a valuable opportunity for learning, knowledge-sharing, and best practice discussions.<img src="/images/46078179-dbaa-4203-af8b-da437da8c461?fingerprint=ppb20251217011311" alt="Collab Day1" width="350" height="233" style="width:350px;height:233px;float:right">"Collaboration Day creates a dynamic learning environment where staff can engage in dialogue, break down silos, and learn from each other's experiences," remarked Crystal Lothian, Director of Support Services at Holy Spirit. "By bringing together professionals from different backgrounds, roles, and expertise, we cultivate an atmosphere of shared learning that enhances teaching practices, support strategies, and overall school culture."As a division, we acknowledge the necessity of professional learning for all staff, not exclusively for educators. From support staff to administrators, we ensured that topics relevant to each role were emphasized throughout the day."Holy Spirit Catholic School Division places great importance on collaboration and professional learning. Division Collaboration Day reflects this dedication," said Superintendent Chantel Axani. "The intentional scheduling, designing, and planning of these days highlight the commitment of the Holy Spirit Board of Trustees to the professional growth of all staff. I feel privileged to serve as Superintendent in a Division that not only acknowledges the significance of professional development but also actively supports it through the allocation of time and resources."<img src="/images/5bd46f56-c30d-4b44-8a04-8020cbd42c55?fingerprint=ppb20251217011504" alt="Collab Day5" width="354" height="236" style="width:354px;height:236px;float:left">Collaboration Day also provided a rare opportunity for staff to connect with colleagues they don’t see on a regular basis, fostering a sense of community and teamwork."As educators, having this time to get together is invaluable," expressed Early Learning Lead Teacher, Dayna Vucurevich. "It's not often that we all get to come together and learn with co-workers from across the division, as well as from different streams, including our Kindergarten EAs and SLPs."For some staff, like CCH Welding Teacher Lance Rosen, Collaboration Day was a chance to showcase their work and give others a hands-on experience in a new subject area."Not everyone gets the chance to go into the welding shop, or any shop they have in a school, and see what they do there," Lance noted. "This is a great opportunity for us to open our doors and show teachers and staff what we do here and allow them to try something they may not have tried before."<img src="/images/a38d4b56-e891-4394-abf8-0cf6d7165c93?fingerprint=ppb20251217012053" alt="Collab Day2" width="356" height="237" style="width:356px;height:237px;float:right">At its core, Collaboration Day is about strengthening the skills and practices of our teachers and staff to ultimately benefit student learning."This day reflects our strong commitment to fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment—not just for students, but for the staff who guide and nurture them," said Crystal. "By dedicating time for collaboration, we ensure that our division moves forward with a shared vision, stronger relationships, and a collective focus on student success.""I think it is excellent that staff have the chance to select and guide their own professional development experience," Axani said. "When staff participate in meaningful learning experiences—opportunities that they perceive as valuable and interesting, which also have the potential to enhance their practice—students benefit as well."As the day concluded, it was clear that Division Collaboration Day was more than just a learning event; it was a reflection of our shared commitment to growth, excellence, and the continued success of our students.

2025-03-20 14:28:46.193 +0000 UTC

Dancing Queens: Catholic Central High School Brings the Energy with "Mamma Mia!"

<img src="/images/951b0b76-4d72-4d68-80dd-2553191180df?fingerprint=ppb20251217011945" alt="MM3" width="421" height="315" style="width:421px;height:315px;float:left">Catholic Central High School is ready to dazzle audiences with their highly anticipated production of "Mamma Mia!". The musical, featuring iconic ABBA hits, opens on March 14 and runs until March 22 at the Knights of Columbus Eggplant Theatre.Director Braden Dalton, who has been involved with the school’s Musical Theatre program for three years, emphasized the dedication that has gone into the show. "Mamma Mia has been quite an enjoyable and exciting show to put on," Dalton said. "We've been working hard with our cast since the end of October and our crew since the start of December to put on all the bells and whistles that you get to see. However, we begin far earlier than that, with staff and production starting discussions at the end of last year to talk about what show we want to put on."The production, which follows the story of a young woman trying to discover her father’s identity before her wedding, has been a labor of love for everyone involved. Dalton added that early audience previews have been met with great enthusiasm. "People said this week, in our previews, that they felt like they were filled with joy coming to watch, and that's what our goal is. We want people to leave enjoying their experience, wanting to come back, and hopefully wanting to join future productions."One of the unique aspects of this year’s production is the staging according to one of the show's producers, Jessica Ens.<img src="/images/d335c328-d83c-41d2-940e-0137f71e2be5?fingerprint=ppb20251217012502" alt="MM4" width="332" height="442" style="width:332px;height:442px;float:right">"Mamma Mia is brought to you in the round, which means we play to all four sides of the theatre, creating an immersive performance and making the audience feel like they’re part of the show," Ens explained.The production also features a special fundraising initiative. CCH is hosting three sing-along performances in partnership with the Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, where audience members are encouraged to sing along. Proceeds from these performances will go directly to the centre. "We're really excited to partner with Catholic Central High School. It's such a wonderful opportunity to collaborate together and raise money for the centre," said Cheryl Patterson, the centre’s manager. "Partnerships with schools are very special to us because this is where the youth are and this is where we can connect with them."Tickets for the production are available on the school’s website. Regular show tickets are $20, while sing-along nights are $25, with $5 from each ticket going to the Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre.For the students, "Mamma Mia!" is more than just a show—it’s an experience. Katie Hartman, who plays Donna Sheridan, expressed her excitement. "Opening night is probably the biggest thing for all of the cast and crew because it's our first time in front of a real audience. It's fun to finally see strangers' faces instead of our staff and students that we've met before. I'm really excited to do the show, and it's really awesome music that everyone will know."Beyond the music and performance, Hartman also appreciates the charitable aspect of the show. <img src="/images/8a5c40f3-f51a-497e-9a1f-426fd23c46b3?fingerprint=ppb20251217011846" alt="MM2" width="432" height="324" style="width:432px;height:324px;float:left">"It feels really good to be helping a charity like the Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre through things we enjoy doing. I really appreciate that all of our hard work is going towards helping this amazing organization."Chaelan Villacin, who plays Tanya Chesham-Leigh, is also eager for audiences to experience the joy of ABBA’s music."I'm excited to do the show because everyone knows ABBA music, and I love the music."Katy Sawa, a Grade 11 student playing Rosie Mulligan, spoke about the sense of camaraderie among the cast and crew. "There's such a sense of community with everybody, for both the cast and crew. We're always trying to do things together before the show, like team-building exercises, so we have a better presence on stage and as a group."Dalton hopes the production leaves a lasting impact. <img src="/images/0ace4e7e-6481-4fb8-aa39-4389aba5e86d?fingerprint=ppb20251217010827" alt="MM5" width="433" height="324" style="width:433px;height:324px;float:right">"We are a high school production, but we like to be as professionally well-oiled as we can. We're not the size of the Yates Theatre or a gymnasium, but we like to think that what we do here is pretty important for both our kids and our community," he said. "This show holds a special place in my heart, and I know I’m not the only one. It’s one of the first shows I saw professionally, and it helps when you come in knowing all the songs because ABBA is so iconic."With ten performances, an immersive set, and a talented cast bringing the magic of "Mamma Mia!" to life, Catholic Central High School’s production is set to be a must-see event. Don't miss out on the chance to sing, dance, and be part of the excitement and <a href="https://cch.holyspirit.ab.ca/mamma-mia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">visit the CCH website to get your tickets today</a>!

2025-03-14 18:05:26.415 +0000 UTC

2025 Boundary Review Community Consultation Feedback Summary

2025-03-12 16:54:10.444 +0000 UTC

Extra, Extra! St. Francis Junior High Brings "Disney's Newsies" to Life on Stage!

<img src="/images/23e1ee1b-ff5e-4baf-9d70-a2d9895cdf11?fingerprint=ppb20251217011033" alt="Newsies" width="272" height="272" style="width:272px;height:272px;float:left">The stage is set, the cast is ready, and the excitement is building as St. Francis Junior High School prepares to open its highly anticipated production of "Disney’s Newsies" on March 11th. Running until March 15th, this impressive show features six public performances and a total of 15 shows, bringing Broadway-level energy to the school’s stage.Based on the real-life newsboy strike of 1899, Newsies tells the story of a group of young newspaper sellers who take a stand against unfair working conditions. “It’s kind of a David and Goliath story where they’re trying to stick it to the man,” says director Dino Caputo. “The kids have really embraced the story, and their passion shines through in every rehearsal.”Putting together a production of this scale is no small feat. “The process starts a year in advance,” Caputo explains. “We announce the show around this time of year, hold auditions in September, and cast in October. From there, it’s non-stop rehearsals, working with our choreographer, Kristen Mazukka, and musical director, Chris Hartman. It’s a co-curricular project, meaning all rehearsals take place after school, and the commitment is huge.”<img src="/images/7a5328a4-13b3-4e1e-8181-5a4db400afbd?fingerprint=ppb20251217011725" alt="DN1" width="426" height="284" style="width:426px;height:284px;float:right">With a cast and crew of approximately 75 students, Newsies has become more than just a musical—it’s a tight-knit community. “It’s an amazing experience,” says Ariana Vercillo, a Grade 9 student who plays Katherine Plumber. “We’ve been here almost every single day since September, working, singing, and building friendships.”For some students, the show is more than just a performance—it’s an opportunity to pursue their dreams. “When I’m older, I really want to be an actor,” says Grade 7 student Shelumiel Asrat, who plays Crutchy. “With this musical, I can experience a little bit of what that’s like.”The transition from rehearsals to the stage is a thrilling moment for the students. “It’s crazy to be on stage because we always practice in our canteen,” says Grade 9 student Wren Steele, who plays Morris Delancey. “It’s surreal getting to actually see what it’ll be like when we start performing.”<img src="/images/bf54cf88-0aa1-4995-bcbb-d82654cf3b9c?fingerprint=ppb20251217012321" alt="DN4" width="451" height="300" style="width:451px;height:300px;float:left">Caputo is incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication that has gone into the production. “People might think it’s just a junior high show in a gymnasium, but it’s actually the exact opposite,” he says. “This is a professionaly show, it's just put on by junior high aged kids. Our expectations are at a professional level, both for staff and students, and it shows when they hit the stage.”Beyond the music and choreography, Caputo hopes the students walk away with valuable life lessons. “If we can teach them a strong work ethic along with their talent, that will take them far in anything they choose to do.” He also acknowledges the incredible community effort that makes this production possible. <img src="/images/ef9014d3-1b79-41fd-b183-bced776987d4?fingerprint=ppb20251217012715" alt="DN3" width="441" height="294" style="width:441px;height:294px;float:right">“The amount of volunteerism from parents and the community is unbelievable. It takes a small village to build an empire, as they say, and that’s exactly what we’ve done here.”Don’t miss your chance to catch this incredible production! <a href="https://sfjh.holyspirit.ab.ca/musical" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Tickets are available online through the St. Francis School website</a>. Shows run at 7:00 PM from March 11th to 14th, with a matinee and closing performance on March 15th. Get ready to Seize the Day with St. Francis Junior High’s Newsies!

2025-03-11 22:09:46.92 +0000 UTC

Bringing Culture to Life: DerRic Starlight and The Nuppets Inspire Students at SPFA

<img src="/images/4b097388-1df7-4c4d-87ca-462a107ff431?fingerprint=ppb20251217011338" alt="DS1" width="487" height="324" style="width:487px;height:324px;float:left">It was a special week for students at St. Patrick Fine Arts Elementary School (SPFA) when Indigenous puppeteer of "Fraggle Rock" fame, DerRic Starlight, joined them as their special Artist in Residence."DerRic was amazing to have work with our students this week," said SPFA Principal Kathy Jones-Husch. "He has a different type of skill that the kids maybe haven’t seen in other artists that have joined us. So, we were very fortunate to have the opportunity to afford this artist in residency through a grant in our school division."Throughout the last week of February, Starlight spent time with students, teaching them the art of puppeteering and encouraging them to express their creativity."It all starts with making any character the students wanted to create with construction paper and letting their imaginations run from there," said Starlight. "I gave them the basic tools they needed to get started and the rest was up to them. It was great to see the fun characters they came up with!"<img src="/images/f781f754-7087-4ddd-859a-0d00d0072f04?fingerprint=ppb20251217012742" alt="DS3" width="489" height="326" style="width:489px;height:326px;float:right">Starlight, from the Tsuut'ina Nation, is well known for his work in puppetry and his performances featuring The Nuppets—a special group of puppets that represent different Indigenous cultures."I call them Nuppets because they are half Native and half puppets,” Starlight explained. “It's a different, fun way to express my culture. My characters are from all over, including the Cree, Blackfoot, and Stoney Nations. I'm fortunate to be able to teach about my culture with puppets."In addition to working with students throughout the week, Starlight put on a special performance for the entire school featuring his Nuppets. Jones-Husch described the show as a particularly powerful moment for students, especially for Indigenous students who had the opportunity to see their culture represented in such a unique and meaningful way."Having those Indigenous characters is huge because we have many students who are Indigenous, and they want to see themselves in the school they go to so they can make that connection. Plus, everyone likes to learn about a culture that isn’t their own,” she said. "DerRic also had a powerful message for our students about being yourself and loving yourself, which is something we should all strive for every day."<img src="/images/665e3157-fe7d-41fb-8c7e-1b305d820804?fingerprint=ppb20251217011557" alt="DS2" width="480" height="320" style="width:480px;height:320px;float:left">Starlight’s storytelling and puppetry left a lasting impression, not only showcasing Indigenous traditions but also inspiring students to embrace their own creativity and cultural heritage."We’re just like everybody else, but we blend our culture into everything we do," he shared. "I have nursery rhymes that are changed into Indigenous stories, and I use my puppets to tell them. Many of my Nuppets are also based on people I knew from growing up, including family members and friends, so it's a fun way to be able to honour them as well as my Indigenous heritage."Starlight's time at SPFA was more than just an educational experience—it was a celebration of culture, identity, and the power of storytelling. As students continue to create and explore, they’ll carry forward the lessons of creativity, representation, and self-expression that Starlight so passionately shared with them.

2025-03-03 22:22:06 +0000 UTC

International Mother Language Day Banner

Our Lady of the Assumption School Celebrates International Mother Language Day

<img src="/images/7398102e-aaf7-458c-bac0-b13c3f866753?fingerprint=ppb20251217011700" alt="MLD Students" width="343" height="228" style="width:343px;height:228px;float:left">At the end of February, Our Lady of the Assumption School (OLA) proudly celebrated International Mother Language Day, an initiative of the United Nations that highlights linguistic diversity and the importance of preserving mother languages. With more than 17 different languages spoken among its students, OLA took this opportunity to recognize and celebrate the rich multilingualism within its community.“What we hear so often is of kids who come, learn English, and then become reluctant to speak their mother language,” said Caryn Swark, Associate Principal at OLA. “What we're doing is celebrating multilingualism and encouraging our families and students to be proud of their linguistic heritage.”As an IB PYP candidate school, OLA places strong emphasis on language learning and cultural appreciation. “Language is a massive component of the IB philosophy,” Swark explained. “Learning different languages helps us understand cultures, perspectives, and fosters appreciation for the diverse ways people contribute to our global community.”<img src="/images/5a58516b-1954-4e68-85e8-5bba1a6e084d?fingerprint=ppb20251217011504" alt="MLD Collage" width="313" height="417" style="width:313px;height:417px;float:right">To reinforce this, OLA begins French instruction in Grade 1, earlier than many schools, ensuring students understand from a young age that learning new languages is both valuable and important.During the event, students participated in an engaging art activity designed to showcase the school’s linguistic diversity. Each student received a heart-shaped template and placed colored stickers representing the languages they speak. These hearts were then combined into a beautiful collage, creating a visual representation of the many languages spoken within the school community.“More than half of our students speak a language other than English at home,” Swark shared. “Some of our students speak four or five languages, which is truly incredible. Rather than seeing this diversity as something that separates us, we want to celebrate it as something that unites us in God’s family.”OLA has also been working to ensure that students have access to reading materials in their native languages. Their library includes bilingual books and beginner reading materials in languages such as Tigrinya and Ukrainian, helping students develop literacy in both English and their mother tongue. <img src="/images/803a21d0-5168-45ce-bd22-dee676178bce?fingerprint=ppb20251217011754" alt="MLD Library" width="344" height="229" style="width:344px;height:229px;float:left">“Many students can speak and understand their mother language but haven’t learned to read or write it,” said Swark. “We wanted to make sure that if they’re interested in learning, the resources are available.”Through celebrations like International Mother Language Day, Our Lady of the Assumption School continues to foster a culture of inclusivity, understanding, and appreciation for the many languages and cultures that make up its vibrant community. At OLA, multilingualism is not just acknowledged—it is embraced and celebrated.

2025-02-27 21:30:33 +0000 UTC

Igniting the Passion: Science Sizzle Sparking Interest in STEM for Holy Spirit Students

<img src="/images/e96b7bba-f22f-4164-91d1-5d4a9ac19bed?fingerprint=ppb20251217012648" alt="Science Sizzle 3" width="420" height="280" style="width:420px;height:280px;float:left">The University of Lethbridge's Destination Exploration STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Program has been running free programming with Holy Spirit over the past few years through an initiative called Science Sizzle. Recently, they wrapped up their four-week program at Father Leonard Van Tighem School, where students explored science in a fun and engaging way."This program is great because it shows younger students that science isn't just about reading a textbook and memorizing definitions—it’s applicable to real life and can be lots of fun," said Ami Smith, a teacher at FLVT. "The fact that the University of Lethbridge offers this to these kids for free is such a blessing.""It's great to be able to provide this for free because not all kids get the opportunity to experience something like this," added Sammy Stewart, a Youth STEM instructor with Destination Exploration. "It's amazing to incorporate them into STEM and show them things they might encounter in future schooling while sparking their interest in science at a young age."Throughout January and February, students participated in the Science Sizzle after-school program, learning about STEM through weekly themed sessions. Each week focused on a different topic: coding, chemistry, engineering, and biology. The program has been a fantastic way to introduce students to the more exciting aspects of science while preparing them for the future."Getting kids involved in STEM at a young age is so important," said Sammy. "As they get older, STEM becomes more challenging, but by building this foundation early, it helps them grasp the material as it becomes more complex."<img src="/images/86065447-5c76-47bd-a52a-e81b2e09ecaf?fingerprint=ppb20251217011817" alt="Science Sizzle 2" width="457" height="305" style="width:457px;height:305px;float:right">For many students, Science Sizzle has been a highlight of their year."Science Sizzle is amazing because we get to do a lot of fun stuff," said FLVT student Ruth Pronk. "I think science is interesting because I want to be a scientist and study chemistry when I grow up!""I just love science so much," added Nathan Asilonu. "I've had a natural passion for it ever since I was little. I love experimenting and using all these fun science kits. It's great!"With the success of previous years—and this year—Ami hopes to have Destination Exploration return for years to come."There was so much interest last year, and that enthusiasm has continued this year," she said. "We were so lucky to have Destination Exploration from the University of Lethbridge reach out, and we can't wait to bring them back in the future."<img src="/images/258092c1-ca86-4b70-8315-e9fd947800ad?fingerprint=ppb20251217011033" alt="Science Sizzle 1" width="453" height="302" style="width:453px;height:302px;float:left">"These kids are so smart, and they pick up on everything quickly. They really enjoy this club, which I love because I run it, but it’s also been such a great group of future scientists. I look forward to hopefully running this again here in the future."Destination Exploration works with schools across Lethbridge, and their next Holy Spirit stop will be at St. Paul School next week when they begin another four-week Science Sizzle program.For more information or to learn about the University of Lethbridge's Destination Exploration and their Summer Camp Programming, <a href="https://www.ulethbridge.ca/destination-exploration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">you can visit their website</a>.

2025-02-21 19:06:24.665 +0000 UTC

Shining Bright: Catholic Central's Anna Campmans Honoured as 2025 Young Woman of Promise

The Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is truly blessed to have some of the most incredible students and youth in southern Alberta. One shining example is Anna Campmans, a Grade 12 student at Catholic Central High School, who was recently named the 2025 Women of Distinction Awards recipient for the Young Woman of Promise Award."I was excited just to be nominated, but as I learned more about what the Young Woman of Promise Award represents, I realized what an incredible honour it is," said Anna. "I feel so blessed to be recognized."Now in its 49th year, the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards celebrate outstanding women in our community in honour of International Women’s Day. The Young Woman of Promise Award specifically recognizes young women under 30 who have demonstrated exceptional accomplishments in academics, career, or community development while serving as role models for others.Anna’s nomination came from Mallory Kristjanson, the Family School Liaison Counsellor at Catholic Central High School—and a past recipient of the same award. From the moment she met Anna three years ago, Mallory knew she embodied everything the award represents."From her very first day at Catholic Central in Grade 10, she lit up the hallways—not just with her kindness and compassion, but with her energy and the way she uplifted others," said Mallory. "It takes a young adult of Anna's caliber to be nominated, never mind to receive this award. Beyond her countless hours of service in the Lethbridge community, she has also done amazing work at Catholic Central to ensure we are truly a community."Anna is deeply committed to volunteering, giving her time to the 4H Club, the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre, and countless school initiatives. She has also served on the Catholic Central High School Student Council since Grade 10 and is currently its President. For Anna, volunteering has been eye-opening and something she sees as both a privilege and an opportunity."Volunteering gives you a new perspective—one you wouldn’t have otherwise. It allows you to see how other people live and truly understand every single person in our community," she said. "I feel blessed to have the gifts that allow me to give back, and in turn, gain a deeper understanding of how others see the world."In true fashion, when asked how winning this award made her feel, Anna humbly turned the spotlight on the women who helped shape her."I feel like I’m a mosaic of all the women who have taught me, raised me, and been role models in my life. This award doesn’t just honour me—it honours all of them," she said.Looking ahead, Anna will be attending Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton next fall to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. She envisions a future in advocacy, where she can continue making a difference and giving back to her community.Anna will be officially honored at the YWCA Women of Distinction Gala on March 8, 2025.Congratulations, Anna! Your dedication, compassion, and leadership inspire us all!

2025-02-20 15:45:49.568 +0000 UTC

A Shepherd Among His Flock: Bishop McGrattan Visits Holy Spirit Catholic School Division

<img src="/images/4cb3fdc6-315c-473d-afe3-c937cd56183a?fingerprint=ppb20251217011352" alt="Bishop Visit1" width="367" height="244" style="width:367px;height:244px;float:left">A spirit of faith, learning, and community filled the air on February 5, 2025, as Bishop William McGrattan of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary made a special visit to the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division.  His involvement brought an atmosphere of reflection and unity, reaffirming our deep-rooted mission of Catholic education.The day began at St. Basil's Church, where His Excellency presided over Mass, fostering a sense of belonging, belief and purpose among the leadership of Holy Spirit Catholic School Division.“Having the Bishop lead Mass was a great way to start the day,” said Aaron Skretting, Director of Religious Education. “We are blessed that he was able to come down and join us. We were excited to show him our schools and give him a picture of the good things happening at Holy Spirit.”<img src="/images/d80b8549-4e5a-4fa5-ae21-8436059d05fe?fingerprint=ppb20251217012518" alt="Bishop Visit5" width="388" height="258" style="width:388px;height:258px;float:right">Following Mass, Bishop McGrattan enjoyed presentations from all 16 schools within the division, each highlighting their unique contributions, achievements, and the work that makes them special. The event was attended by the clergy, trustees, senior administration, and school principals.“Holy Spirit Catholic School Division, by name and by all that we do, is a holy place to learn and to grow. Having His Excellency, Bishop McGrattan, celebrate and walk alongside our leaders is nothing short of a blessing,” said Chantel Axani, Superintendent of Schools. “We were able to highlight each of our schools, with principals sharing many of the wonderful things they are doing to support students’ spiritual, emotional, and academic growth. It is my honor and privilege to work with such fine educators and be able to share in this celebration with our Bishop, clergy, and trustees.”<img src="/images/6e65eaca-7d00-4de5-aaa4-86d58985e26f?fingerprint=ppb20251217011630" alt="Bishop Visit4" width="373" height="249" style="width:373px;height:249px;float:left">“To have Bishop McGrattan visit is hugely important,” said Dr. Carmen Mombourquette, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “This is more than a typical guest visit. The Bishop is our leader in faith. We exist, as a Catholic school division, because we live in union with him. Through canon law, it is the Bishop’s authority which allows Catholic education to exist. For him to come and pay a visit to his schools is very important and hopefully becomes an annual event.”In the afternoon, Bishop McGrattan toured schools including Catholic Central High School, École St. Mary, and St. Francis Junior High School. During his visits, he engaged with staff and students, offering words of encouragement and faith.“I was excited to tour His Excellency through a few of our schools,” expressed Axani. “With the success of this day, we look forward to making this an annual event and having Bishop McGrattan witness the amazing works within all our schools. It is essential that His Excellency gets to experience, for himself, the wonderful things happening at Holy Spirit.”<img src="/images/648092d6-a5f3-4f13-8ab5-6855f011c967?fingerprint=ppb20251217011544" alt="Bishop Visit2" width="373" height="260" style="width:373px;height:260px;float:right">“As the Bishop, I always want to be close to the parishes and schools anytime I have the chance. I see it as an opportunity for me to draw closer to view the Catholic faith in the schools and also our parishes,” said Bishop McGrattan. “To come down and understand some of the challenges in Holy Spirit, what are the blessings that they experience; all of those are important for me as Bishop to appreciate and understand.”Bishop McGrattan also shared his passion for education and his appreciation for interacting with students. “As a Bishop, I used to teach, so I enjoy classrooms and anytime I have the opportunity to be with students. I really see it as an opportunity to understand, open up their minds and to give an example of Christ, who was a great teacher.”<img src="/images/71003e55-1c7b-4674-ac72-0161b103c48f?fingerprint=ppb20251217011645" alt="Bishop Visit3" width="370" height="246" style="width:370px;height:246px;float:left">Reflecting on the day, Axani expressed deep gratitude: “It was a blessing to have hosted His Excellency and I would rank this experience within the top three days of my superintendency up to this point.”Holy Spirit Catholic School Division was profoundly grateful for the Bishop’s visit, a day filled with inspiration, grace, and proclaiming the beauty of Catholic education in action. His presence and heartfelt engagement served as a powerful reminder of the call to discipleship, the pursuit of knowledge, and the strength of our faith-filled community.

2025-02-06 20:29:42.962 +0000 UTC

QuickLinks

Shooting for Glory: St. Mary School Hosts Boys Basketball Provincial Championships

Faith In Action: Holy Spirit Staff Unite for Spiritual Development Day

Growing Together: Holy Spirit Staff Unite for a Day of Learning and Growth

Dancing Queens: Catholic Central High School Brings the Energy with "Mamma Mia!"

2025 Boundary Review Community Consultation Feedback Summary

Extra, Extra! St. Francis Junior High Brings "Disney's Newsies" to Life on Stage!

Bringing Culture to Life: DerRic Starlight and The Nuppets Inspire Students at SPFA

Our Lady of the Assumption School Celebrates International Mother Language Day

Igniting the Passion: Science Sizzle Sparking Interest in STEM for Holy Spirit Students

Shining Bright: Catholic Central's Anna Campmans Honoured as 2025 Young Woman of Promise

A Shepherd Among His Flock: Bishop McGrattan Visits Holy Spirit Catholic School Division

The Children of St. Martha School Holds 7th Annual Blankets of Hope

Advent Blessings: Week 4 "Love"

2025/2026 Holy Spirit Re-Registration and New Student Registration

Division Celebrates Annual Education Assurance Measures Results from 2023/2024

2024 Christmas Blessings from Superintendent Chantel Axani

Advent Blessings: Week 3 "Joy"

2024 CCH Santa's Anonymous gives back to Holy Spirit Community