Message from Joan Car, Superintendent

I would like to share a few thoughts with you as we embark on a journey into a new future. I invite you to reflect with me in the positive and confident manner that has always characterized the mission of our school district. We are on the map, recognized and respected throughout the province and we need to continue to move forward, beyond the few obstacles currently in our path.

There is not the slightest doubt in my mind that collectively we have the energy, desire, enthusiasm, and ability to do what is best for our students, parents and staff. For however long I am in this office, I ask for your support and guidance. I know that we are all in this together, collectively contributing in different ways to the success of our mission.

Many of you know me and I assure you that what you have seen and experienced will continue to be the basis of my leadership. My life is a call to service and I strive to do my absolute best to support and empower all those engaged in providing outstanding Catholic education to the children in our care. I want to assure you that I will always do what I think is best for the students and staff of our schools.

I would like to share with you a quote from Henri Nouwen:

"As a community of faith, we remind each other that we need to be grateful, even when we suffer, even when we feel downcast, even when things seem to be getting worse. We need to be grateful at all times and places.

Before his death, Jesus told his disciples - "in the world you will have troubles" he said "but be brave." If there is any word that should characterize the life of peacemakers, it is gratitude. True peacemakers are grateful persons, persons who constantly celebrate the peace of God with and among them."

- From the book "Peacework-Prayer, Resistance, Community"
by Henri Nouwen

We are so grateful for the many blessings we share in this district - the leadership of our trustees and administrators, the efforts of exceptional staff, the support of our parents, the excellent achievements of our students and the recognition of the broader community. We can be proud!!

In the humble words of Mother Teresa we recognize that any talents we have are not ours but have been given to us for our use in serving our God and one another, in all our endeavors. Let us echo her prayer..."give of your hands to serve and your hearts to love."

With gratitude and confidence, we face the future before us.

Thank You.

Joan Carr, Superintendent, Edmonton Catholic Schools

(an excerpt taken from a presentation to principals and senior administration on Tuesday, February 28, 2006)