MARY WARDHAPPENINGSPARENT NEWSLETTER

ISSUE 1 | FALL/WINTER EDITION 2018

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

As I write this note, we will soon be crossing over from one month to the

next – November to December. As a Board, we move from the celebrating

the virtue of Peace-Making to the virtue of Charity. Here at Mary Ward, we

see these virtues in action on a regular basis. Through our anti-bulling week, Remembrance Day assemblies, Gender Justice, GSA, Safe Schools committee and our

weekly ‘good deed doing’ celebrations, I believe that our students are truly aware of their

duties to help, support and advocate for those who need assistance. Shortly, we will be

coming together as a school for the kick-off of our Advent service projects in which the virtue

of Charity will be alive and flourishing in our community. Helping our students understand,

acknowledge and act for those who have less is such a powerful experience conducted

through our Teacher Advisory groups. Once your child’s TA group has selected their choice for

their Advent service project, please speak to them. Consider supporting this project as a family

effort. We work with you to help our students/your children, to live their faith actively each and

every day.

As you browse through our newsletter, “Happenings”, you will see the many events and

amazing activities that take place within our school walls and in the outside community.

These are but a few of the articles that we are able to publish. Please do take time to review

your child’s report card. I would urge you to read the letter that accompanies the report card

for suggestions as to how to properly read the report card. Please note that our first Parent-

Subject Teacher Interview Night will take place on Thursday December 6th, 2018 from

3 – 5 p.m. and also from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in our gymnasium. We hope to see you then.

Blessings to you and your family,Mrs. Andrea MageePrincipal, Mary Ward C.S.S.

Hello Parents & Guardians

On Wednesday, November 7th, we hosted our Annual College and University Fair. Representatives from close to 30 post-secondary institutions set up information tables in the gym so that students and parents

could meet with post-secondary school reps without traveling all over the building. The event ran from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., and was followed by the Parent Information Night for Graduating Students, from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Students and parents came away with lots of ideas, lots of viewbooks and lots of questions answered! It was also good to hear from several reps that our students asked educated questions, clearly taking seriously the process of finding the right program at the right school. Thanks to the team of student

volunteers, who assisted with promotion, set-up and take-down, and who served as hosts. This is an annual event, so Grade 10 and 11 students and parents should keep this in mind next fall; the date and time will be

listed both in the student agenda and parent calendar for 2019.

ANNUAL COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY FAIR

At this time of year, our focus turns toward college and university applications for our graduating students. Throughout November, we offer seminars to walk students through the application process and to

encourage research and decision-making. The deadline for university applications is January 16th, 2019; colleges can begin making offers Feb. 1st, 2019, so applicants are encouraged to complete the process as early as possible. Applications are not considered complete unless the fee has been paid by the deadline.

SEMINARS FOR UNIVERSITY AND COLLEGE APPLICATION

This year we are continuing to implement the Individual Pathways Plan (IPP) for all students, as mandated by the Ministry of Education. This education and career/life planning program helps students develop

their personal goals for work and life, and make successful transitions from one stage to another. Based on the belief that all students can be successful, the completion of the IPP helps students to consider who they wish to become through reflection and exploration of their interests and strengths. Teacher Advisors,

guidance staff, parents and students are all part of the monitoring process. Parents are encouraged to view their sons’ and daughters’ IPPs on the web-based application www.MyBlueprint.ca so that they can have an

informed discussion about current program choices and future options.

STUDENT SERVICES

During the month of October, we connected with elementary schools to present to grade 8 classes about Mary Ward’s unique self-directed program. These visits involved an impressive array of

student ambassadors who also volunteered as tour guides for our annual Open House/Information Night on October 3rd. The Open House at Mary Ward has always been well attended, and this year was no

exception as over 800 grade 8 students and their parents came out to see what we have to offer.

GRADE 8 VISITS AND OPEN HOUSE

THE INDIVIDUAL PATHWAYS PLAN

Whether it be for advice on a career pathway, a question about courses and levels, discussion of post-secondary options, help with time management and organization, or a personal matter, the guidance

counsellors in Student Services encourage students to drop by our office and make an appointment. Let us know how we can help!

ASK FOR HELP

SHSM

trip to loblawsOn Friday, October 12th, 2018, the grades 11 and 12 SHSM students went on an excursion to Loblaws to learn about how they can implement healthy eating choices in their everyday diet. The students were given a tour around the store by nutritionists and were taught a variety of nutritional facts, such as the benefits of organic foods, the implementation of GMOs in our foods, and the recommended intake of various nutrients (carbohydrates, sugar, fibre) through the observation of food labels. After, the students participated in a cooking class where they prepared their own lunch. With the assistance of two chefs, the students made smoky sweet potato fries and a chicken calzone. In addition, they learned and practiced various cooking techniques while cooking each dish. Overall, this event educated the students on many health-related issues and allowed them to explore possible career options for the future.

On September 24, senior SHSM students participated in a two-day CPR and First-Aid Training Course. The course was provided by SAJE Vital Signs, one of Ontario’s top emergency response training providers. Through hands-on training, students had the opportunity to practice the different procedures involved in responding to a variety of medical emergencies.

cpr

Students were taught how to properly perform CPR, as well as how to respond to medical emergencies such as: spinal injuries, burns, and anaphylaxis. In addition, students were taught to efficiently diagnose situations caused by extreme cold and heat depending on a casualty’s symptoms. Furthermore, they were taught about the risk factors for developing cardiovascular diseases and the steps one can take to maintain a healthy lifestyle. To mark the end of their training, the students received an assessment to test their learning and achieve the highest available certification of CPR for those not working the medical field. By the end of the two days, students were empowered with the knowledge of how to save a life and were well-informed on how to make quick, logical decisions in an emergency situation. Overall, it was an enriching learning experience that taught the students important lessons which they will take with them into the future. Not only did they walk away from this course with an official certificate, but they also walked away with the knowledge, skills, experience, and confidence needed to help save a life.

On Monday, October 22nd, SHSM students participated in an Alternative and Herbal medicine workshop. At the beginning of the workshop, students played a fun and interactive game of Twister as an icebreaker. They then learned about different alternative and herbal medicine practices and how they differ in approach from traditional medicine. Afterwards, they tried techniques that are used in alternative medicine. One of them was a preliminary iris investigation, in which students had to look for markings in the iris of the eye. These markings could indicate predispositions to allergies, excess stomach acid and so on. The second one was a tongue analysis which was very similar but focused on things such as the size, colour and shape of the tongue. Students also got to taste different herbs and learn about their various healing properties as well as create their own aromatherapies, herbal medicines and pill capsules. The speaker also listed the different pathways available to students who might be considering a career in alternative medicine. All in all, it was an experience that everyone was able to learn a lot from.

alternative and herbal medicine workshop

On November 6th, grades 11 and 12 SHSM students went to the YMCA Cedar Glen Outdoor Centre in Schomberg. Their day consisted of participating in workshops and fun activities that helped expand their knowledge on certain topics regarding group dynamics and conflict resolution.Students were welcomed by two leaders who went by their camp names; Kernel and Skip. Followed by some introductions and icebreakers, students began their first workshop, in which they learned about topics such as: the differences between a group and a team, the 5 Stages of Group Development, and the 3 Different Roles of People within those stages. After that, the students played games that required both teamwork and communication, which included building the highest and most stable structure using solely, selected materials and playing a game of Hot Chocolate River. Before the second workshop, which took place in the afternoon, students participated in a small hike to the outdoor maze. Several engaging activities were done there and everyone had an enjoyable and unforgettable experience. The second and last workshop on conflict resolution not only allowed students to see and become more aware of how they deal with a conflict situation themselves, but they also learned more about the importance of being aware of the different methods of conflict resolution. Lastly, students were taught two acronyms that could be used in assessing conflict: Stop, Observe, Listen, Deliver, and in resolving conflict, Listen, Empathize, Agree, Partner. wOverall, this trip was an amazing opportunity for students to learn more about themselves as well was how they interact with others in different situations. They were given insight on the importance of group dynamics and how it would impact not only themselves, but others as well. Although the students were tired by the end of it, they were truly satisfied with what they had learned at such a wonderful team-building opportunity through the SHSM program.

ymca

CANADIAN ANDgrade 9 geography niagara falls

The grade 9 Geography students made their annual trek to Niagara Falls. Students enjoyed learning firsthand about the geologic history of the Niagara Region through the “famous” hike through the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve.

grade 10 history annual ottawa “remember november” tripGrade 10 students participated in the Canadian and World Studies annual Ottawa “Remember November” Trip. The trip included tours of the new National Holocaust Monument, the Canadian Museum of History, “Diefenbunker”, the Parliament Buildings, Historical Ottawa, and the War Museum. Students’ awareness and appreciation of the great sacrifices made by the many Canadians through war and peacekeeping efforts was definitely broadened by this amazing experience!

WORLD STUDIES

grade 11 law students attend student life conferenceOn Nov 6th, Mr. Waud’s CLU3M1 Law students, along with Mr. Dabbagh’s students, attended St. Mike’s College at the U. of T., to participate in a Student Life Conference for high school students sponsored by Toronto Right to Life and U of T Right to Life. The theme of the day was human rights and life. The conference began with video presentations followed by small group discussions. After lunch, the students listened intently to a panel of experienced guest speakers who outlined the issues facing young pregnant women. Everyone came away from the conference more enlightened about a complex problem.

grade 10 history spadina house Grade 10 students explored the historic Spadina House in downtown Toronto. They learned a great deal about life in the 1920’s and participated in a team challenge during the tour.

The Grade 11 World Religions course enjoyed an excursion to 3 different places of worship in our community: Cham Shan Buddhist Temple, Gursikh Saba Gurdwara, and St. Mark’s Coptic Church. There was a plethora of iconography to better illustrate some of the faith concepts of Buddhism at Cham Shan Buddhist Temple. The students were very appreciative of the hospitality at Gursikh Saba Gurdwara where our hosts insisted that no one may leave without eating some of the delicious food from their kitchen. And at St. Mark’s Coptic Church, the students were in awe of how faith can be conveyed through architecture as well as learning about their connection to Coptic Christians. The course was brought to life and the experience was unparalleled.

places of worship trip

The Grade 11’s studying world religions made several trips to the ROM for a “Religious Icons of the World” tour. The ROM tour guides were incredibly knowledgeable and familiar with the artefacts, and enthusiastically engaged the students in discussion. The Mary Ward students, as always, were respectful and offered intelligent discourse with the guides. It was an informative and insightful day that furthered their understanding of different cultures and faith practices from a Catholic perspective.

rom trip

WORLD RELIGION

WASTE REDUCTION WEEK

On October 2018, Green Quest appointed a brand new Executive Team. With two weeks to plan and execute Waste Reduction Week, they were up to the challenge! October 15-19 was Waste Reduction Week and Green Quest had daily and thought-provoking reflections and prayers in the mornings. They focused on a Circular Economy, Textiles, Celebrating Champions and Innovators, Plastics and Food Waste. Throughout the week, Green Quest challenged Mary Ward staff and students to bring in used clothing to divert the textiles out of the landfills and into the hands of those in need. In partnership with Diabetes Canada and Value Village, Mary Ward collected an overwhelming amount of donated clothes for the I Give a Shirt Challenge!

WOODLAND TRAILS

Most people think of art being shown on the pristine white walls of a gallery. However, at Mary Ward, we

like to do things a little bit different. Recently, our Grade Nine artists travelled north of our school to a

forest where they created amazing sculptures out of nothing more than dirt, rocks and leaves. Inspired by ‘Land Artists’, these talented students responded to their natural environment without the usual aid of

canvas or paint. Indeed, for this adventure, the world itself became their canvas. Our Grade 12 Arts

Administration Students served as artist/mentors to the Grade Nines as they attempted to represent

abstract concepts using only natural materials. Students worked in groups and were assigned a Tabin’ (part tent/part cabin) which became their

home base for the day (it was a good thing too as Mother Nature rained on us for most of the day). The

resulting land-works were provocative and beautiful, with each group offering an explanation

in a group-critique. A campfire with hundreds of marshmallows for lunch kept us warm and cozy despite the bad weather and, in true Mary Ward style, not one complaint was heard (despite the

constant rain).

GRADE NINE ARTISTS TURN THE FOREST INTO AN ART GALLERY

world is my canvas

WARD TAKES MANHATTANFrom October 22nd - 27th, 50 Grade 11 and 12 Art and Tech students enjoyed a very eventful few days in New York to enjoy the sights and abundance of artwork. We had the opportunity to visit many galleries all across New York, including the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Moving Images, the Museum of Art and Design, and the New Museum, which all varied in style from modern, historic, and many more. Other than the amazing art pieces displayed in these museums, we watched the broadway show Wicked, and off-broadway show The Other Josh Cohen. The group also visited the very impactful 9/11 Memorial Museum, which commemorates the 2001 attacks of the World Trade buildings. Among all the sights we got to explore Times Square on multiple occasions and visited the Top of The Rock, where you could see the city from new heights. Coming home from the trip has given us inspiration and drive to create bigger and better art. A huge thanks to Notten, Powell, Fortura, Arturi, Emer, and our tour guide Brett for leading us through the city and keeping us safe!

The Student Council is off to a great start this year! After the grade 9’s casted their ballots on election day, two new members, Monalisa and Rachel, were welcomed to our SAC family. Soon after, we organized our first school-wide event of the year- the annual barbecue and activity day. Everyone at Ward enjoyed hot dogs and and afternoon of fun, including a screening of the movie Coco, and a mini basketball tournament in the Wolverine Den. Keeping with tradition this Halloween, SAC had the TA’s take group photos and carve scary pumpkins to decorate the stage in the cafeteria; we then used the very same stage as a runway for the costume contest we held during lunch. To finish the day, our student council played Insidious in the cafe for anyone brave enough to attend! Another great memory was the annual SAC dance hosted earlier this month. This year’s theme was Drip 2018, and included a special initiative to raise money for clean water. So far, we’ve had a great first couple of months and Mary Ward’s SAC crew has so many new ideas planned to make sure the rest of the year is just as fun. Make sure to follow us on instagram @marywardsac to stay updated on future SAC events. And remember: don’t slack, SAC’s got your back!

SAC

period, students participated in various cultural activities, such as dance and drumming, history and Anishinaabe language lessons taught by elders, historic walks and a nature hike, and even a deer skinning demonstration to learn about the complexities of Indigenous identity and their struggles to achieve sovereignty in Canada. Students’ eyes were opened to the humanity of our Indigenous sisters and brothers and gained empathy and a shared concerns about true reconciliation between Canada and Indigenous peoples.

Fifty-one Grade 11 students and three teachers (Ms. Hayes, Ms. Mak, and Mr. Morra) took a long bus-ride to a very special place, Manitoulin Island, a place of peace, beauty; a small piece of heaven right here in Ontario! Specifically, we spent time in the only unceded territory in Canada, Wiikwemkoong First Nation of Manitoulin Island. Over the three-day

MANITOULIN ISLAND

On September 20th, 14 students from the Free the Children movement at Mary Ward attended the WE Day Toronto Event at the Scotiabank Arena to celebrate young change-makers and inspire others to make a global difference. Students across Ontario came together to kick start a year of charity and leadership in their schools. They each wore an LED light bracelet that beautifully lit up the stadium with thousands of sparkles of hope. World renowned speakers including Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Jessie Reyez, Ann Curry and the Arkells graced the stage with their music, transformational words and voice. This year, the group of Free the Children students are engaged, dynamic and excited to contribute to this larger community to which they belong. They have selected Ecuador and the pillar of health to make a difference and they are beginning right here at Mary Ward.

FREE THE CHILDREN

WE DAYWE DAY

On October 4th, the Gender Justice Committee created a display in the foyer to honour murdered and missing Indigenous women of this land. Student leaders, Nimmy Ayekun, Naomi Fernandes, and Naomi Joson along with the help of GJC members took inspiration from Jaime Black’s 2014 art installation entitled The Red Dress Project. Black is a Metis artist based in Winnipeg whose Red Dress Project focused around the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women across Canada. Gender Justice meets every Tuesday to discuss issues around gender, women and racialized Canadians. In the past we have donated funds to Native Women’s Association of Canada, and we will continue to raise awareness around the issue of MMIW and support the national inquiry.

GSA WEEK 2018 was lead by our student leaders and members with a week full of meaningful prayers and reflections, cake, buttons, and the Rainbow Pledge. Morning reflections dealt with topics on the proper use of language, trans rights and how the Catholic social teaching of human dignity extends to those within the LGBTQ community.Our civvies day raised just over $1000 with the funds being donated to SOY – Supporting Our Youth, an organization that creates support systems for LGBTQ youth. A shout out to students who lead prayers and reflections: Jamie Edghill, John Stoll, Victoria Strowbridge, Alex Shulman, Victoria Shulman, Christine Mabbayad, Joff and Naomi Joson, Happy 6th birthday, GSA!

buttons, ballons, and boas! oh my!

the red dress display

GSA

Gender Justice

The senior Drama students went to the Stratford Festival from October 2nd-4th for a crash course in professional theater. In just three days we attended a total of five shows from a variety of formats and

genres. Shows included; A Long Day’s Journey Into Night, The Music Man, The Tempest, To Kill a

Mocking Bird and An Ideal Husband. Along with the shows, students were treated to the warehouse tour where they perused the enormous costume stock

owned and operated by the Stratford Festival. It was a trip full of fond memories with good food, good

friends and great theatre.

STRATFORD

On September 27, Mary Ward CSS played host to its biggest sleep over of the year: The grade 9 orientation sleep over, also known as OASIS. 200+ grade 9s, and 70 grade 11 and 12 leaders, camped out at the school for their orientation event. After indoor and outdoor activities, they participated in some subject-specific sessions, then headed off to sleep, or not sleep, in the gym (girls) or the cafeteria (boys). In the morning, everyone boarded buses and set off for Camp Robin Hood.The groggy campers had a full day of activities ahead of them. They did a variety of activities, from rock climbing to field games, to a para-liturgy. The weather cooperated, and everyone was looking sleepy but happy when they climbed onto the buses at the end of the day, full-fledged grade 9 Warders.

OASIS

CAMPROBINHOOD

On September 24th, 42 Grade 12 students embarked on a camping trip to Sandbanks Provincial Park to fulfill the outdoor education curriculum expectations for their Gr.12 Activity Physical and Health Education course. Fortunately the weather was excellent on day 1 and the leadership students were able to run some activities on the beach in the afternoon.Day 2 sadly brought some bad weather and the planned hike to the dunes was cancelled. Most ofthe day was spent trying to stay dry and playing some games on the beach when rain stopped. Students received valuable experiences on how to set up a tent and how important good rain-proof equipment is when you are outdoors in bad weather.Overall, the students had a memorable time cooking, making fires and getting valuable bonding time with their classmates.

SANDBANKS CAMPING TRIP

At the beginning of every school year, Mary Ward video students have had the opportunity to attend screenings at the Toronto International Film Festival. This year was no different. Students enrolled in grades 11 and 12 Video chose to attend a screening of Boy Erased, a film based on Garrard Conley’s 2016 memoir. This film dove into the real life scenarios of Conley’s experience with conversion therapy in Tennessee. After the screening, Garrard Conley along with his mother, Martha, and director Joel Edgerton were present for a Q & A where they shared their challenges in creating the film and their personal challenges of coming out to a religious family. This film initiated much discussion and concern around the topic of conversion therapy and the opposite message around love, compassion and acceptance.

TIFF

POW WOWAT RYERSON UNIVERSITY

culture through prayers, drumming, traditional dances, and food. The atmosphere was welcoming, celebratory, and communal; so much so that our students participated in some of the dances led by dancers representing different Indigenous nations. This was the very first time that most of our students enjoyed Indigenous drumming as well as participating in the two-step dance in the circle! They also tried bison sausage, three sisters stew, and bannock. By their presence, they have taken the first steps to true reconciliation and contributing to a Canadian history that includes different voices; voices that have often been suppressed in the past. Overall, they have gained a deeper appreciation of Indigenous beliefs and culture as well as respect for Indigenous voices in the larger Canadian society.

On September 21, Grade 11 students in NBE and HRT participated in a special Pow Wow Event at Ryerson University. This was a rare opportunity for our students to be immersed in Indigenous

VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY

This year’s varsity X-Country team was made up of some extremely determined and fast runners. Practices started early in September, with the team training toward their first meet on October 3. Their first meet at Sunnybrook part was a great success, with Cole Comiaplacing 12th in the midget girls, and Pedro Betti coming in 10th in the midget boys. The team also raced at Boyd Conservation area, the Toronto Beaches, and at Centennial Park for the TDCAA meet. In their relay meet at the beaches, the power house junior girls(Cole Comia, Sofia Tsolakidis, Angel Tofalusi, and Amalia Pabon Alvarez) competed against all age categories and placed in the top 15 - an incredible accomplishment. Congratulations to ALL runners for their spirit and dedication, and particular congratulations to our graduating team members: Jared Yrastorza, Julliana Santos, Rachel Deng, and Alyssa D’Souza.

HOCKEY CLUBEvery Thursday from 3:30 - 4:30, Mr. Kennedy and Ms. Cunningham-Reimann run the hockey club. It is free ice at Commander Arena and anyone is welcome, even if they just want a free skate. We have been playing half ice or full ice and helping students that want to improve their skating.

On Monday October 29 and Tuesday October 30, 12 eager students, ranging from grades 9 -12, attended the two day Chaminade Model United Nations symposium at the North York Civic centre. They prepared to defend their chosen nation’s stance on Nuclear Disarmement, World Trade and Food Security. Special recognition goes to Ryan Dick, a grade 10 student, who unwaveringly represented the interests of Germany and while doing so was awarded the Nelson Mandela Peacekeeping Award. Kudos also go to Erin Rebello, representing Canada, who managed to convince the general assembly to approve her policy on World Trade!

CHAMUN

TPS – To Serve & ProtectWith the hopes of someday becoming Police Officers, Andre Chua & Minoli Thabo successfully landed coveted co-op placements with Toronto Police Services (TPS) this Fall. Andre (placed in Financial Crimes Unit) and Minoli (placed in Talent Acquisition) are learning first-hand what it takes to be successful in the many careers in policing and law enforcement. They take full advantage of every opportunity to interact and learn from the hard-working, knowledgeable, and dedicated staff that keep our streets safe! Whether they are learning administrative procedures, observing hiring practices, or taking a tour in one of the many departments in the TPS, Andre & Minoli have begun their career exploration and what they learn will most certainly help them to plan for a future in law enforcement!

SHSM Health & WellnessEvery year our co-op students have the honour and privilege of working alongside dedicated healthcare professionals in several of Toronto’s finest hospitals and facilities. Students compete for prestigious placements in areas such as Labour & Delivery, Mother & Baby, Emergency Dept., Pediatric Ambulatory Clinic, Breast Cancer Care, Fracture & Plastics Clinics, Cardiology, Child & Teen Unit, Seniors’ Healthcare, Long Term Care, Recreational Therapy, Surgery, Mental Health, Diabetes Clinic, Reactivation, Family Medicine, Neuro-Surgery, General Medicine, & Veterinary Medicine … just to name a few! We are very thankful and fortunate to partner every year with North York General Hospital, Scarborough Rouge Hospital, Shoppers Drug Mart (Agincourt), Providence Healthcare, Shepherd Village, and Rouge Valley Animal Hospital. The inspirational and knowledgeable healthcare supervisors in our supporting placements give our students the opportunity to explore and learn in an environment that fosters and nurtures growth and exploration. Co-op students sometimes see and participate in life-changing experiences that will shape decisions about their own career paths. Our program thrives through the continued support and encouragement of our incredible supervisors and volunteer co-ordinators who take a chance on our students and provide them with the opportunity to connect in-school curriculum with real-life work experiences.

CO-OP

BMX MARKETING PLACEIn early October, the BMX Marketing class had the opportunity to experience and learn about two of Toronto’s most famous marketplaces: The St. Lawrence Market & the Toronto Eaton’s Centre. Strolling through the isles at the St. Lawrence Market students were able to see in action the 4Ps of marketing and enjoyed watching the many tourists and locals that shop daily at the market. We started our tour at Ponesse Foods (established in 1986) where one of our very own, Maria Aricci, Educational Assistant in the Special Education Dept., along with her husband Mario, provided us with samples of fresh seasonal fruits. The chocolate covered strawberries were a hit with everyone! Each year Ponesse Foods serves fresh fruit and produce to over a million Torontonians a year! Thank you to the Arrici Family for their hospitality and for sharing the history of the market with our class. Our 2nd stop was the Toronto Eaton Centre. The mall was hustling and busting with shoppers and tourists alike. At lunch, the BMX Buddies shared a few laughs while they ate at their favourite restaurant! On the bus ride back to school, it was quiet and still – after all, it was a very busy day at the marketplace!

Stay tuned for the BMX Christmas Project sale in December. Chocolate goodness is just a Mug away!

On Monday November 12th, members of “What Would Jesus Do” embarked on their first street patrol, delivering sandwiches to our brothers and sisters living on the streets of downtown Toronto. Members congregated that morning and created a total of 150 lunch packages – consisting of a sandwich, snack, drink, and encouraging note – all of which were given to those in need. The club, What Would Jesus Do, founded by senior student David Antao aims to carry out service to those in need, and is rooted in Christian values. Street Patrols, fundraising for veterans, and pro-life awareness are all priorities and initiatives continuing throughout the school year. Special thanks goes out to Mr. Dabbagh and Jo Ortiz, whose efforts have brought the club’s ideas and values to life. The club now focuses itself on its next mission – creating and delivering winter care packages for the homeless.

STREET PATROL

BACKPACK DRIVEThe backpack drive was an initiative in September that helped over 60 families from the 650 Parliament fires this past summer. Mary Ward students and staff collected gently used backpacks filled with clothing, school supplies, and toiletries for students at Our Lady of Lourdes who were displaced from their homes by these fires. It was our school’s first effort of the year to carry out the threefold pastoral plan, “Rooted in Christ, we Belong, we Believe, we Become.” Students showed their sense of belonging with generosity and care not only to the community of their TA group or Mary Ward but also to the larger city of Toronto.

It has been a busy and fruitful fall for the Chaplaincy Team and our students who have had the opportunities to celebrate

our faith together, and participate in several meaningful events held in the

first 3 months of the school year. We are filled with gratitude and feel abundantly

blessed for these faith journey. This year, we begin with a new 3-year pastoral plan, Rooted in Christ: We Belong, We believe, We Become. This is the year of “Belonging”. To whom do we belong? What does it mean to belong? With the help of Mr. Notten, the Art and Tech departments, the “Mary Ward Family Tree” was created to represent the depth and width of God’s love as well as how intricately we are all connected to God, who is the source of all creation, to each other and to nature. Belonging also means embracing diversity. We strive to become a tree that welcome birds of all kinds and provide a home for all. We all belong because we believe.

CHAPLAINCY pastoral focusrooted in christ: we belong, we believe, we become

Our community celebrated the Opening Liturgy on a beautiful Thursday morning on September 27, 2018. We were blessed with good weather that day when the celebration began with a procession of TA flags up and down the hill. This year, TA groups created flags, representing the uniqueness of each group, that will be part of each group’s legacy for years to come. The focus of the Opening Liturgy is “Rooted in Christ: We Belong”. We reflected on the meaning of “belonging”, the different communities to which we belong, and the ways in which we can make everyone, regardless of their appearance, race, gender, religion, or culture, feel welcomein our school community. Finally, as we all belong, we put that belief into action by raising money through the Chaplaincy Civvies Day on the same day. The funds raised will support the various

mary ward opening liturgy & chaplaincy - civvies day

CORNER The annual Mard Ward Staff Faith Day was held on Oct. 5, 2018, at St. Bonaventure Parish, where the pastor and parishioners welcomed us with open arms. After a beautiful celebration of mass in the chapel, our staff members participated in various group activities, including a table discussion about the theme of belonging. In addition, each group came up with a creative way to introduce one of the 13 new staff members who joined Mary Ward this year. We were also treated to a video, produced by Mr. Dabbagh, featuring the newest staff members so that we could get to know each other. We also paid tribute to our friend and brother, Mr. Len Dalton, who passed away suddenly in September. Then our guest speaker, Chris Elliott, shared with us the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi as well as our call to serve God as educators. Before the end of the day, we offered a special blessing for our new staff members and asked for God’s blessing on the whole community.

mary ward staff faith day

10 Mary Ward students alongside 200 students from all over the TCDSB participated in this day of service on November 7, 2018. A Catholic Call To Serve is a full day where students put their faith into action as they sign-up and volunteer at one of many community organizations/charities including - Good Shepherd, Mustard Seed, Street Patrol, Missionaries of Charity, etc.

ACCTS

Respect for Life Leadership Conference took place this year at the University of Toronto on November 6, 2018. It was a full day of learning through presentations, group discussions, witness talks, and Q&A sessions. Through a scientific and human rights lens, the conference educated students life issues from abortion to assisted suicide, mobilized them into pro-life action, and connected them with the local pro-life community and the broader pro-life movement. This year, 31 Mary Ward students participated accompanied by Mr. Waud and Mr. Dabbagh.

respect for life leadership conference

The WWJD club will be going on their first Street Patrol with Mr. Dabbagh on Monday, November 12, 2018. Together as a group, they will be preparing 150 lunch bags which include a sandwich, a drink, a fruit, a snack, and a personalized letter written by the club members to the men and women who call the streets home in downtown Toronto. They will walk across Queen Street, offering food and conversation to those in need. “Each one of them is Jesus in disguise.” - Mother Teresa.

what would jesus do

HONOUR ROLLAbalos, AdrienneAbrenica, AltheaAchacon, David XIVAdolfo, Danielle AmorAgato,Andrei VonAldovino, Fatima PatriciaAllen, AbigailAllum, ChristopherAmorim-Downie, DestinyAmurao, MillicentAmurao, AllisonAnand, ShalanaAndra, Mari LuiseAntao, DavidAntony, CelinaArayata, AlexisArruda, JelicaArshekian, AraAsturiano, OrsenAtikian, AnthonyAyekun, AshlingAziz, ArpsimaBalano, AleahBaliwas, GeneviveBallesteros, MitchellBarbieto, RommelBarcelona, ErinBasa, Kyla FrancineBautista, RamonBedia, BerniceBenito-Devera, Ian MichaelBenjamin, StephanieBenyam, RahelBerbano, DianaBernabe, Andrea BernisceBernales, DominiqueBiado, JeanineBokor, MonikaBolarinwa, LoladeBonfelius, AuritaBraganza, MikellaBuama, CarloBuenaflor, MarkBulka, KatelynCallueng, Matthew

Camilleri, LianneCampbell Charles, ZanayaCarter, JustinCaruso, Assunta (Suzi)Casciaro, JosephCastro, MiguelCea-Berry, ChristinaChan, JefferyChen, YvonChen, JennyChen, SusanChen, AudreyChen, ShuoChin, BritnyChin, MatthewChin, RachelChiu, QueennyCho, EricaCho-Ah-Ying, JonathanChong, EmilyChow, ReneeChristy Antony, AngenieChu, Serena Mong YueChua, ChristopherClemente, HannahCo, Elle Colangelo, DaniellaConstantino, LeeyhanaCook, NicholasCoutinho, JosephCruz, MirandaCruz, Patricia IsabellaCruz, Brian GeraldD’Souza, HaileyDa Silva, DiangeloDadlani, VivianDaquipil, Vanessa GleeDauz, JayveelynDavidson, JamesDe Guzman, AmandaDe Vega, Raylene KateDe Vera, AdrielDe Villon, DominickDela Cruz, Johdeth Rose

Dela Cruz, Karl BenjaminDela Cruz, Patricia JoyDeng, RachelDeNobrega, JahdielDerige, BrandonDiaz, Laura DanielaDioneda, ClaudiaDionio, JiselleDitta, MaribellaDizon, HollyDizon, Kendra NinaDoinog, ChloeDong, AdrianDulgeryan, DanielEmmanuel, AngeleneEnnis, JessicaEstavillo, JeszerFajardo, LaraFerrolino, RobertFlores, ChelseaFlynn, BenjaminFrancis, AuriaFung, JimmyFung Wu, MichelleGa, CharisseGa, CharlizeGalang,Andrea Ganaden, GiulianaGeorge, JessalynGeorge, KhyasiaGhubatyan, RobertGimmy, JakeGlover, ElyseGo, BryanGo, JoshuaGomez, LaraGonzales, AngeloGonzales, GabbieGrimaldo, NatazjaGuan Hing, CarlGugarooban, KopiGutierrez, MikaelaGuzman, CamilleHaikazian, SipanHan, FreyaHeath, Laura

Heramia, AarossHermogenes, YanelleHidalg, Luna DivaHo, CindyHoang, ChristyHou, AdrianHrabi, CalumHsu, BrandonHu, Jr-CheeHu, JaneHuang, HailanHuang, LewisHyatt, KathrynIgnasious, Clenni VinciaIskander, ChristopherJarabejo, ShandelJavier, Fiona MariJoachim, AnjuliJokhu, RyanJoseph, TomJoson, NaomiJoven, Jan JulienneJude, JeremyJulian, Joshua JamesKallistas, DariusKerr, NicholasKischuck, MichaelKossecki, GabrielleKozdas, ReneKu, DavidLaguesma, AaronLam, Shi-YuLam, EricsonLam, Shelley Shi-YanLankanathar, ShannoraLau, KylieLau, AnnieLau, NasiaLaurente, Nathalie RochelleLawrence, CaitlinLee, AliciaLee, MichaelLegaspi, IsabellaLeung, ReneeLewis, DylanLi, MarinaLi, MuziLi, SaraLiang Chen, Ricky SijieLim, HannahLin, Liliana

Lin, LynnaLin, AshleyLin, JavenLoo, MartinLopez, JoshuaLucban, Louisse RenalinLuk, VanessaMa, RaymondMacIsaac-Sun MadeleineMadulid, DominickManalo, VincentManalo, Alfonso RalphManickam, JoshuaManrique, JessicaManuba, RoseMariano, RussellMariaprabhu, MichelleMartin, PatrickMartis, MikhailMathew, RoyceMcIntyre, CheyenneMendoza, HannahMenezes, RamitaMenezes, AngelineMeraglia, GabrielleMercado, Justin XyrusMiranda, MackenzyMoniz, MariaMonreal, Kendrick AmielMontalbo, JessieMontegrejo, Ivan MiguelMontegrejo, AlessandraMontoya, NoelleMuralitharan, VarshanNagano, SophieNanthakumar, SharinaNatan, Jasmine Naventhan, AndrewNersisian, NarehNg, AndrewNg, SharonNguyen, JacobNguyen, BrendanNicdao, Christian JilmerOlaizola, SofiaOliogu, EtinosasereOquindo, JenniferOrcine, JillianOrcine, JeanOrta, Ezquerra

Anna KarlaOrtiz, KarlOsamudiamen, Aisosa MelvinOwsicki, NicolePalomo, RheannaPalomo, Lian MariePangan, MelchovarPastore, GabrielPathmanathar, DevonaPendon, Hilaree ToniPercy, SabrinaPereira, BriannaPereis, ShaunPersaud, AshleyPham, TracyPhen, AliciaPirabaharan, TivoniaPius, KeerthikaPogorzelska, AnitaPong, JasonPontanilla, MatthewPop, IngridPrimaylon, HailiePrince, BetsyQuiban, MiguelQureshi, NoorQureshi, SameerRamassar, MaryanneRambaud, Janssen MyerRamos, Louis JohnRebello, ErinReinoso, AllenRene de Cotret, MadisonReyes, ReneeReyes, TrishaReyes, MelanieReyes, AnaiahReyes, GabrielleReyes, JeremyRivera, MichaellaRivera, Kathriel HyacinthRomilla, AndreaRuiz, Lorenzo-NoahRussell, AlexandraRyzy, GabrielaRyzy, MagdalenaSabado, TristanSabaten, Alexandrei Ivy- Joyce

Saldanha, NicholasSanchez, IlyssaSanchez, Nicole AndreanaSebial, Kyla KrystinSeng, JustinSerrao, AndrewShao, StevenSherwood, SydneySheykhpour, JosephShulman, VictoriaSibson, IsaacSin Wai Poo, JulianSingh, KailaSit, ReneSit, RyanSolis, JanelleSoosaipillai, AaronSquires-Rouse, DeionStewart Forovich, JuliannaSugianto, JacquelineSutton, DavidSy, CharmaineSy, DylanSy, Carlo OliverTacusalme, RandyTahamid, DaphneTality, AdrienneTam, TimmeTam, EmmitTam, YukiTan, CesarTanabe, Jeremy AndreiTanabe, Jerome AaronTarulli, MarissaTaylor Topacio, NicoleTengco, GioThabo, MinolliThabo, ArjunThompson, KassidyTolledo, Joy KirstenTopacio, Anna Torres, TiaTran, HenryTrinidad, RobinTrinidad, AngelaTsang, JasonTubongbanua, JeremyUdoh, Destiny RayaValencia, NicoleVandenberg, RobynVaz, Lisan

Velarde, CrystellVelasco, JohnVijayaraj, AndreaVillanueva, MarkVillarruz, Jeri RafaelWagner, AaronWang, SissyWang, LuciaWang, BritneyWang, LilianWaugh, AhthiaWong, NylaWong, CynthiaWong, AnnikaWong, BlissXie, CathyXue, JessicaYadao, Sheena MarieYamson, JoloYan, GracyYee, GraceYeo, DenicaYu, BillZhan, DennisZhang, AngusZhang, JeffreyZheng, ZiyiZhou, Grace Zhu, HowardZhu, Marc

TORONTO CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES

2018 - 2019

DESIGNED BY CASSANDRA CASCONE

1. Joseph Martino 2. Ann Andrachuk 3. Sal Piccininni 4. Patrizia Bottoni 5. Maria Rizzo, Vice-Chair 6. Frank D’Amico 7. Michael Del Grande 8. Garry Tanuan 9. Jo-Ann Davis 10. Barbara Poplawski, Chair 11. Angela Kennedy 12. Nancy Crawford

Taylor Dallin, Student Trustee Joel Ndongmi, Student Trustee

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