October 2024 Message
As September comes to an end, I have been reflecting on the first weeks of school through Pope Francis’s lens of truth, beauty, and goodness.
GOODNESS. The demand for the excellent Catholic education provided by Edmonton Catholic Schools is strong and growing. As we prepare for our official student count at the end of September, we anticipate reaching the milestone of serving 50,000 students. This growth is a testament to the dedication of our community, starting from the three Sisters of the Faithful Companions of Jesus who began ECSD with just 23 students.
As I reflect on goodness, I think of our staff and the many ways they serve our schools and sites. We have two major staff recognitions this month. On October 2nd we recognize our Custodial and Facilities staff for ensuring we have safe and welcoming spaces. Also, October 5th is World Teachers' Day, where we express gratitude for the pivotal role they play in our school communities.
TRUTH. We will end September by observing Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Wearing an orange shirt is a powerful act of solidarity with Indigenous peoples, acknowledging Canada’s history and supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action. Our Division Plan for Continuous Growth 2023-2026 includes building foundational knowledge of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit experiences among students and staff.
BEAUTY. I had the privilege of bringing greetings at the Grand Opening and Blessing of our newest school, Father Michael McCaffery Catholic High School. Father McCaffery, a leader in the Edmonton Catholic community for more than five decades, was an ardent supporter of Catholic education and our Catholic schools. This beautiful facility will serve our growing student population, inspired by Father McCaffery’s legacy of joyful service, inclusivity, and humility.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we reflect on the blessings in our lives, including the gift of publicly funded Catholic education in Alberta. Catholic education offers endless opportunities to recognize the truth, beauty, and goodness in our world. Through our faith-based curriculum, students are encouraged to explore and appreciate these values in their studies, relationships, and daily lives. This year, Catholic Education Sunday will be on October 20, launching Catholic Education Week. It’s a time for families, parishes, and staff to give thanks and share the blessings of faith-based education. Learn more about the theme “Testify! Share the Reason for your Hope!” on our website.
This Thanksgiving, may you discern all the reasons for hope and gratitude that flow from the grace of God into your lives.
Lynnette Anderson
Chief Superintendent
- To see our upcoming Division events, visit ecsd.net/calendar.
- Read A Letter of Thanksgiving, written by Sandra Talarico, Manager Religious Services