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The month of November gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on how fortunate we are to enjoy the right of Catholic education. Our school district unites families, schools and parishes in an expression of faith and learning. In a special way, we celebrate the uniqueness of our schools on November 5th, Catholic Education Sunday. I encourage you on that day to join in recognizing the importance of faith formation in the lives of our children.
Archbishop Thomas Collins reminded us of the purpose of Catholic education at the School Opening Liturgy on August 30th when he stated that Catholic schools open the window of possibilities for our students: their ability to do good, to go beyond their own needs, and to realize that they can make a difference in creating a better world. In the 2005-2006 school year, the students of the Edmonton Catholic School District set a high standard; they spent countless hours volunteering, donated thousands of kilograms of food to needy families and raised more than $600,000 for worthwhile causes in Edmonton and for development and aid projects around the world. The generosity and dedication of our students and staff is a vivid reminder that the purpose of Catholic education is alive and well in Edmonton Catholic Schools.
On November 11th, Remembrance Day, we recall the sacrifice of thousands of Canadians who gave their lives in various wars to preserve the tradition of freedom we enjoy. It is our responsibility to teach our children to recognize this tradition of freedom and to honor the courage of the women and men who fought to preserve it.
Finally, I am pleased to report that our school district enrolment has continued to increase for the third consecutive year. As of September 30th, our enrolment was 32,556 students, an increase of 312 students from last year. Thank you for your continuing confidence in Edmonton Catholic Schools as we guide your children on their journey of faith and learning.
Joan Carr
Superintendent
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