Superintendent's Message
January, 2012

Message from the Father Mike Mireau

“And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen His glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth." (John1:14)

In a Christmas message, Pope Benedict said: "God is not distant: He is 'Emmanuel,' God-with-us.  He is no stranger: He has a face, the face of Jesus... 'Emmanuel' has come as King of justice and peace."

As we begin another new year, let us pray with Pope Benedict that all people may grow in harmony and peace through mutual understanding and respect.  The Pope reminds us that, “Peace will come only when all people recognize the God-given rights of each person.  Only through genuine dialogue will we grow in mutual understanding that leads to harmony and peace.”

In early December, the Board of Trustees and some District staff members had the opportunity to hear Robin Sharma, a noted Canadian author, present on the topic of leadership.   Sharma reiterated that leadership is about service:  having a passion to serve others, and unlocking the hidden potential in each of us in order to become the ‘very best that we can be’.  He also maintained that tasking risks, learning from our failures and that connecting and creating are necessary skills for 21st Century learners and leaders.

As we enter into a new year, with the cooperation and support of the various levels of government, Edmonton Catholic Schools will continue to look for opportunities to continue to offer a high quality Catholic education to our students.   Recently, the District entered into formal partnerships in the following areas:

• With the City of Edmonton to deliver early learning programming at various sites including recreational centres and other child care facilities
• With the City of Edmonton to build a high school completion centre connected to Clareview Recreational Centre
• With Junior Achievement to engage more business and community organizations  to offer a greater number of learning opportunities to our students

Good luck to our students in our semestered high school settings who will be writing Diploma exams as we near the end of January.   As well, it is time for all parents to discuss transitions with their children and to think about attending various schools’ Open Houses.   Look for specific dates in the District calendar or check out both school and District websites.

May Emmanuel's message of peace, hope and love renew each of you and your
families in your 'Life of Grace!'

Sincerely,

Joan Carr
Superintendent