The Messenger - June 2025

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Notable News From the Edmonton Catholic Schools' Board of Trustees

Message from the Board Chair

As the school year comes to a close, we give thanks for the many moments of growth, learning, and connection that have taken place across our Edmonton Catholic Schools community. These past few months have brought opportunities to deepen relationships, live our faith, and celebrate milestones, honouring our graduates and retirees, as well as recognizing Indigenous Peoples and the incredible talents of our students through music and the arts.

The Board of Trustees extends heartfelt gratitude to our students, families, and staff for their dedication and support. Your commitment helps shape a vibrant, faith-filled learning environment where every student can thrive.

We wish everyone a restful and joy-filled summer, and look forward to continuing our journey together in the year ahead, growing in faith and learning as one community.

Fiscal Outlook: 2025-2026 Budget Approval

At the May Board meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the 2025–2026 Division Operating Budget, continuing to uphold our shared mission of providing high-quality Catholic education grounded in faith, service, and academic excellence. While our mission remains steadfast, the financial landscape continues to present challenges.

With enrolment projected to increase by 2.4% to 51,294 students, the Division continues to face growing demands for resources. To address a $12.1 million operating deficit, the Division will draw $11.7 million from its Accumulated Surplus from Operations (ASO), which is a necessary but unsustainable measure.

The key assumptions for this year’s budget include the following:

The total number of students for the 2025-2026 school year is forecast to increase by 2.4%, with growth expected across most grade levels.
78.7% of the budget is directed to instruction and supporting students in the classroom, ensuring that teaching and learning remain the central focus.
The Division will continue to fund schools based on enrolment and provide additional funding allocations for schools based on needs.
With 1,588 students requiring specialized support, the Division has increased funding for inclusive education by $1.8 million.
$2.5 million is dedicated to the rollout of new curriculum, including resources for French Immersion programs.

This year, the operating budget has been shaped based on Alberta Education’s new funding model, the Adjusted Enrolment Method (AEM) model, which was introduced in February 2025.

“This budget is a strategic response to our Division’s growth and the increasing complexity of student needs,” Said Board Chair Sandra Palazzo “While we welcome the province’s new funding model, it does not fully offset the cost pressures we face. Drawing on our ASO is not sustainable long term, but it is necessary at this time to respond to support our students and staff. Our priority remains delivering an excellent Catholic education.”

The Division’s system administration costs remain at 2.6% of total expenditure, well below the provincial cap of 3.2%, allowing more funds to be directed to classrooms.

The Board of Trustees continues to advocate for a funding model that accurately reflects enrolment growth and the true costs of delivering quality education. Trustees are calling on the province to fully fund every student, so that school divisions are not forced to rely on reserves to sustain essential services. The Board remains firmly committed to pursuing sustainable and equitable funding that meets the needs of all students in Edmonton Catholic Schools.

Recognizing Students Who Make an Impact: Lumen Christi Student Faith Leadership Awards

The Edmonton Catholic Schools Board of Trustees hosted its third annual Lumen Christi Student Faith Leadership Awards in April 2025. This meaningful event celebrates students who demonstrate exceptional leadership through faith, service, and community engagement. 94 students were recognized at the event for their steadfast commitment to living out Catholic values in their schools and daily lives. Each recipient embodies the principles of faith, inspiring those around them and helping to strengthen the spiritual foundation of our school communities. As a Catholic institution, it is paramount that we continue to embrace and encourage the spiritual growth of our students, so that we can cultivate a community where faith and acceptance guide us in our shared journey.

Trustees including Chief Superintendent Lynnette Anderson standing near a pull up banner for Student Faith Leadership Awards.

Trustee Lisa Turchansky with Student Faith Leadership Recipient

Trustee Debbie Engel with Student Faith Leadership Recipient

Trustee Laura Thibert with Student Faith Leadership Recipient

Bidding Farewell to ECSD Staff at the Annual Retirement Gala

Each year, ECSD Trustees pause to recognize those whose quiet, faithful service has shaped the very heart of our schools. On May 22, Trustees had the privilege of celebrating ATA, AUPE, Unifor, and Out of Scope staff members at the annual Retirement Gala, all individuals who have dedicated their gifts, their time, and their hearts to the students and families of Edmonton Catholic Schools.

This evening was more than a celebration; it was a moment to reflect on lives of service. The contributions of our retirees, whether as teachers, support staff, custodians, administrators, or leaders, have left a legacy rooted in love, faith, and commitment. Their faithful witness to servant leadership has helped shape the hearts and minds of generations of students.

Trustees are thankful to all those who are retiring for their ministry, their example, and the difference they’ve made in the lives of so many. As they begin this new chapter, we hope they know that they carry with them the prayers and gratitude of the entire Edmonton Catholic Schools community.

Trustees Harris, Palazzo, Mutala, and Turchansky standing in front of balloons at the retirement gala.

Father Roger blessing retirement gala crowd

A Final Discussion for Our Student Voices

The Board of Trustees values student voice as a vital part of shaping a school division where all learners can thrive. Edmonton Catholic Schools has a proud tradition of engaging students in meaningful dialogue, ensuring their perspectives are reflected in the decisions that guide our Division.

Each year, the Student Voice team, made up of two students from each high school, works alongside Division leadership and Trustees to provide input on topics that impact their educational experience. This year, they met five times to offer thoughtful reflections on education matters, including feedback on student wellness, graduate competencies, and potential school names for our new schools.

These conversations are not symbolic; they are essential. Student Voice helps inform key areas of the Division’s Continuous Growth Plan, encouraging us to think critically and compassionately about the lived experiences of students.

The maturity, commitment, and leadership demonstrated by these young people are both commendable and inspiring. Their voices not only guide our present but also help shape a stronger, more inclusive future for Catholic education in Edmonton.

King Charles III Medal Recipient

The Board of Trustees extends heartfelt congratulations to Chair Sandra Palazzo, who, along with Trustee Debbie Engel earlier in the year, was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

An excerpt from her citation reads as follows:

Sandra has been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of her outstanding service and citizenship. She is also a recipient of the Queen’s Jubilee Medal, a further testament to her longstanding commitment to public service. Now in her fifth term as Board Chair, Sandra’s leadership is grounded in over 40 years of dedication to education, beginning as a teacher with Edmonton Catholic Schools in 1986. Her professional journey has included roles as department head, administrator, and Senior Manager with Alberta Education, experiences that have shaped her deep understanding of the education system and her unwavering advocacy for Catholic education. In addition to her service through the Board of Trustees on the Governance, Community Engagement, and the Audit and Finance Committees, Sandra has made a lasting impact through her volunteer work, chairing numerous community committees and events. Her tireless commitment to students, families, and the broader community continues to inspire and guide her work as Trustee for the Board of Trustees.

The medal is a national honour that symbolizes the remarkable contributions that one has made to their community. Sandra’s significant years of dedication to education and public service have rightfully earned her this distinguished recognition.

Trustee Palazzo posing with Minister of Education with King Charles III’s Coronation Medal

Trustee Palazzo posing in a group with Minister of Education with King Charles III’s Coronation Medal

Trustee Palazzo and Trustee Turchansky posing for a photo at the King Charles III’s Coronation ceremony

Congratulations, ECSD Graduates!

June 25 marks the completion of 12 years of dedication and hard work from our 2025 graduate students. The Board of Trustees extends sincere congratulations to all the 2025 graduates of Edmonton Catholic Schools and wishes them all success, joy, and fulfillment as they embark on the next chapter in their journeys. It has been an honour to attend the countless events over the years, and to watch each of you grow in both your learning and faith. May your future be bright and your path guided by purpose. Always remember to live fully and serve God through others.

Congratulations and God bless, Grads of 2025!

Trustee Palazzo shaking hands with a graduating student in cap and gown

Trustees, Father Glenn, Chief Superintendent Anderson sitting in a gym for a graduation

Reminders to School Councils – Annual Report and ASCA Membership

As we draw near the end of the school year, we would like to remind all School Councils to submit an annual report that summarizes both the membership and activities of the School Council to the Board of Trustees. The report provides an opportunity for each School Council to reflect on the work done throughout the year, including advising the principal, fostering parental involvement, and supporting the school’s faith and learning environment.

The annual report will include, but is not limited to:

Information on the members of the executive for the 2024-2025 school year.
A summary, in point form, of highlights or activities of the School Council, if any.
Financial overview summarizing finances handled by the School Council, if any.
A confirmation that the $500 Alberta School Council Engagement (ASCE) Grant was spent on expenditures allowed by Alberta Education. If the answer is no, any unspent amount will be reimbursed to Alberta Education. School Councils are strongly encouraged to spend the $500 grant before August 31, 2025.

ASCA Membership Request

School Councils are reminded to enrol for the Alberta School Councils' Association (ASCA) membership for the upcoming year by visiting the ASCA website and completing the online "Request for Membership" form. The Division will cover the membership fee based on your request through this form, and your membership will become effective immediately upon completing the application. You can enrol at any time during the year. Please note that schools are no longer automatically enrolled, as was the case in previous years.

ASCA member school councils are entitled to:

Vote on any agenda item at any General Meeting of the Association
Vote for candidates for President, Vice-President, and Directors
Have an eligible Parent School Council member stand for election to the Board of Directors
Speak to any agenda item at General Meetings of the Association;
Participate on Board committees as invited;
Participate on the School Council Engagement Task Force;
Pay reduced fees, if any, for attendance at ASCA events;
Examine the books and records of the Association.

In addition, ASCA Member School Councils will continue to have access to resources and materials specifically designed to assist school councils in fulfilling their legislated responsibilities, increase parent engagement, and support and enhance student achievement on the ASCA Members Only portion of the ASCA website.

2025 Chief Superintendent Award of Excellence

This year, 56 Students were recognized at the Edmonton Catholic Schools annual Chief Superintendent’s Award of Excellence ceremony. The event is an opportunity to recognize our junior and senior high school students who have demonstrated and exemplified the core values and spirit of our Catholic education community. Every year, students are presented with this prestigious award if they have at least one of the following qualities:

Exemplary stewardship that reflects the core values of the Edmonton Catholic Schools in an extraordinary way.

Outstanding leadership skills that positively impact others.
Remarkable strength and perseverance in overcoming obstacles.
Efforts that foster a positive quality of life within their school community.
Significant contributions beyond their school environment.

Wide shot Chief Superintendent's Award of Excellence event

The Ben Calf Robe Traditional Pow Wow

The Ben Calf Robe Traditional Pow Wow returned to the Commonwealth Community Recreation Centre. The pow wow is a family-friendly celebration that celebrates Indigenous culture and tradition through a variety of dancers, drummers, artisans, and food vendors from all across Alberta. This year’s theme, Nehiyaw Pimatisiwin - Indigenous Way of Life, emphasized the importance of preserving and passing on Indigenous Culture to future generations.

Board of Trustees posing for a photo with a sign that says ECSD Board of Trustees

Board Chair Palazzo and Chief Superintendent Anderson

Trustees with a child at the powwow

Trustees in a line at the Pow Wow Grand Entry

Long Service Award

At our Annual Long Service ceremony, the Edmonton Catholic School Division recognized staff who have achieved the milestone of inspiring students and our community for 10 and 45 years. Your unwavering commitment to positively impacting the lives of everyone around you is truly remarkable and deeply appreciated. We are forever grateful for the hope, passion, and dedication you continue to share with Edmonton Catholic Schools.

Wide shot of the trustees congratulating staff at the long service awards

Trustees and Chief Superintendent on stage at the Long Service Awards

Trustee Mutala with a Long Service recipient

Trustee Palazzo at a podium on a stage for the Long Service Awards

Celebration of the Arts

Over 700 students graced the stage at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium for the 35^th annual Celebration of the Arts. The event, which features performers from 100 voices to Grade 12, offers students the opportunity to showcase their talents through music, dancing, drama, and visual arts. The Celebration of the Arts serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible artistic talent that exists throughout the Division.

Trustees Terry Harris and Alene Mutula with Father Julian at the Celebration of the Arts