Superintendent Message: Nov. 18-22

Inspired by Christ on a Journey to Encounter, Nurture, and Serve.

Inspiré par Dieu dans une Aventure à Découvrir, Grandir, et Servir.

November 18 - 22, 2024

Good morning,

This past week, we had the honour of connecting with our community in meaningful conversations during stakeholder engagement sessions, alongside the Board of Trustees. We offered two sessions—one virtual and one in person at St. Thomas Aquinas Middle School—providing flexible ways for everyone to participate.

These sessions were an essential step in shaping the future of our school division together. They provided an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to share their invaluable insights on two key areas: setting budget priorities for future planning and cultivating a culture of well-being.

We are truly grateful for the thoughtful feedback shared during these discussions. Your input is not only appreciated but will play a vital role in guiding our next steps. Over the coming weeks, we will carefully review your contributions to identify key themes that will inform our strategic planning.

For those who were unable to join us, we are pleased to share that another opportunity for engagement will be available this spring.

This week, we celebrate International Education Week, recognizing the profound impact of international education in preparing students for a globalized world and fostering international engagement.

At RDCRS, we are proud to welcome students from diverse countries through our international education program, which has enriched our school communities since its inception in 2005. To date, over 1,000 students have participated in the program, and annually, we host up to 100 international students on short-term, semester, or full-year programs. We welcome students from Grades 8 to 12, of all faiths, who seek a Catholic education and a supportive learning environment.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Red Deer Catholic International (RDCI) Team and our dedicated staff for their commitment to creating a welcoming, caring, and safe environment, as well as providing exceptional learning opportunities for our international students. Your efforts ensure these students feel valued and supported as they pursue their educational journey with us.

Blessings on your week ahead.

Kathleen Finnigan, Superintendent

Landon Ames, Teacher, Father Henri Voisin School

This past weekend, Archbishop Richard Smith graciously highlighted the inspiring artwork of Landon Ames during the Alberta Catholic School Trustees Association (ACSTA) Annual General Meeting and Convention. His Grace delivered a heartfelt reflection on trustees' vital role in governance, emphasizing the profound responsibility entrusted to them. Drawing from Matthew’s gospel message, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs,” Archbishop Smith reminded us of the sacred trust parents place in our hands—the care and nurturing of their children.

Landon says, “Inspired by Christ on a Journey to Serve, " my artwork depicts a moment in my classroom where I, as a teacher, am reading from the Bible to a diverse group of students around me. This image represents my calling to serve as a Catholic teacher, sharing the good news and guiding my students on their faith journey. At the top of the image, Jesus watches over us, reminding us that He is always present, guiding and inspiring us in our mission. Through this piece, I hope to convey that we are all called to serve others, and my purpose is to inspire my students to grow closer to God.”

Misty Berbube, Teacher, St. Lorenzo Ruiz Middle School

We are deeply grateful for Misty Berube's dedication to the ATA Instructional Corps Team.

Recently, Misty showcased her passion and expertise by presenting at the Beginning Teachers’ Conference in Edmonton. In a heartfelt letter, Nancy Luyckfassel, Coordinator of ATA Professional Development, commended Misty for her “generous contribution of your time and expertise. The sharing of your knowledge and wisdom with the beginning teachers is very much appreciated….Thank you for your commitment to the continued renewal of the profession and support for beginning teachers.”

Thank you, Misty, for representing RDCRS with pride and for sharing your invaluable knowledge and guidance with those just starting their teaching journeys. Your impact is truly meaningful, and we are so fortunate to have you as part of our community.

Consider joining the exceptional Collaborative Communities of Practice, organized by The Consortium (APLC).

These online sessions offer opportunities for educators specializing in areas such as English as an Additional Language, Early Learning, Music, Physical Education & Wellness, and First Nations, Métis, and Inuit education.

Participants can connect with colleagues across Alberta, access new resources, and collaboratively address shared challenges. Led by experienced facilitators, each community fosters a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and networking.

For more information or to join a community, visit APLC's website.

Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools is now using PowerSchool SchoolMessenger for parent communications.

To opt in for text messages:

1. Grab your phone.
2. Text “Y” to 978338.

This is a quick and easy way to stay up-to-date with news, reminders, and urgent alerts from your school!

P.S. Our old system, Swiftreach, is no longer available. Make the switch today!

Click here for more information on the opt-in process.

On Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 1:55 p.m., Alberta will participate in a test of the National Public Alerting System, which delivers life-saving emergency messages, such as tornado, wildfire, or Amber Alerts, directly to compatible cellphones via the Alberta Emergency Alert system. During the test, a distinct alert sound will be followed by a message clarifying that it is only a test.

This is an excellent opportunity for schools to educate students about emergency preparedness using resources like the Be Prepared program (watch video) and to schedule drills or send students home with preparedness materials. To check cellphone compatibility, visit Alert Ready. Learn more about Alberta’s emergency alerts at Alberta Emergency Alerts, or email questions to alberta.emergency.alert@gov.ab.ca.

November 15, 2024

Red Deer Advocate - Trustees with Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools cancel their own pay increase

• Strengthened in Spirit Faith Report
• Indigenous Education Services
  
• Upcoming Events

On November 8, Archbishop Smith held the first gathering of the Archbishop’s Student Advisory Council at the pastoral centre.

The council is a group of student representatives from the Archdiocese of Edmonton’s 10 school divisions, selected to bring their voices, perspectives, and experiences directly to the Archbishop. It was created to foster meaningful dialogue on faith, learning, and the unique journey of students within Catholic education.

Each meeting offers a space for open conversations, deep questions, and valuable insights. Two Grade 12 students from École Secondaire Notre Dame High School (Niko Bautista, Caleb Rainville) represented Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools at the Advisory Council meeting.

Following the meeting, students enjoyed a pizza lunch and informal conversation with Archbishop Richard Smith.

The Catholic Register is conducting its 14th annual children’s Christmas drawing contest.

The top entry will receive a prize and the winning drawings will appear in The Register’s Christmas edition! Open to children from Grades 1 - 8!

Details here: https://ow.ly/E4IU50U5kCg

Click here to download a PDF copy of the newsletter.

Looking for an engaging way to keep your kids active during Professional Development Days? Join us at the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame for our Sports PD Day Camp - a full day of fun designed for kids aged 5-10! Each camp day is packed with games, interactive activities, crafts, and more to keep kids entertained and energized.

Upcoming Dates:

• November 29

• December 13

Time: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Cost: $25 per child each day

Reserve Your Spot Today! Call (403) 341-8614 to register or email programmer@albertasportshall.ca. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out through the phone number or email provided.

For more information, visit our website at www.albertasportshall.ca/events

Good morning,

ASEBP will be hosting a virtual Benefit Overview Presentation next week for our division for those that qualify for coverage. Please add the below Teams link to your calendar for this informative session.

Whether you are a new covered member or not, this session can help you learn about the wife range of benefits, programs, and services that we offer. In this presentation you will discover how to get the most from your coverage, ASEBP's different tools and platforms, the benefits of spending accounts and more!

Date: November 18, 2024 at 3:30 PM

Location: Microsoft Teams Need help?

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 259 483 342 160

Passcode: KaaKxk

Dial in by phone

+1 437-703-5279,,109721747# Canada, Toronto

Find a local number

Phone conference ID: 109 721 747#

Join on a video conferencing device

Tenant key: teams@asebp.ca

Video ID: 113 763 266 3

More info

Presenter: Melbin Cherian, Benefit Specialist

Things to keep in mind:

• Try to join the meeting a few minutes prior to it starting to accommodate possible technological difficulties and/or delays. May we ask all attendees to Mute themselves upon entering the meeting.

• Questions asked during the presentation will be addressed at the end of each slide (Questions can be typed in the chat at any time and will be addressed in the Q&A period).

• All presentations have a Q&A period at the end of the presentation.

Click here for a PDF copy of the poster.

Click here for a PDF copy of the poster.