Over the span of five weeks, the summer enrichment program welcomed students ages 14 to 18 every Thursday at the Thomas Merton Centre for Continuing Education. With a variety of hands-on activities, cultural programming and life-skills workshops, students had opportunities to discover new interests, express their creativity and develop valuable knowledge and skills.

A key focus of the Roots & Radiance Program was creating engaging opportunities for students to explore STEAM. Interactive workshops encouraged participants to experiment, approach challenges with curiosity and learn through hands-on experience.

Creativity and culture were also central to the program. Weekly drumming workshops provided artistic expression while connecting students to the richness and diversity of Black cultural traditions. Financial literacy sessions introduced students to practical skills such as budgeting and responsible money management.

Throughout the five weeks, students connected with peers who shared similar experiences, creating an environment where they felt supported and encouraged to learn, connect and build community with one another.

Roots & Radiance brought together learning, culture and community in a supportive environment where students could explore new interests and build their skills. By the end of the program, students had gained new experiences, formed connections and developed greater confidence to take with them as they shape their futures.

To help families prepare for the first week of school, please see below some important dates and reminders for September.

First Day of School

For most students, the first day of school is Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

Families can visit the School Year Calendar for important dates, holidays and professional activity (PA) days throughout the year.

Kindergarten Staggered Entry

Families with children entering Kindergarten should note that many schools will follow a staggered entry schedule during the first days of school.

Schools will communicate directly with Kindergarten families regarding their child’s scheduled entry date and any additional information needed to support a smooth transition into the classroom.

Elementary Class Lists Available September 4

Elementary class placements for the 2026-2027 school year will be available as of 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026. 

Parents will be able to access their child’s class placement through PowerSchool at  by using their child’s Office 365 email and password. Parents will not require their child’s Ontario Education Number (OEN) to access their class placement.  &�Բ�����;

Secondary Course Schedules

Grade 9 timetables will be made available to students on their Grade 9 Orientation Day.

Grade 10-12 timetables will be available online beginning Friday, September 4, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. 

Students will be able to access their timetable using their Office 365 email and password. Student Ontario Education Numbers (OENs) are not required. See step-by-step instructions on how to view timetables as a Secondary Student. 

If your family is new to HCDSB, your child(ren) will not yet have an Office 365 email. In this case, students are asked to contact their home school directly for individual timetables.

Transportation Information

For the latest school bus transportation updates, route information and important notices, visit the .

School Office Reopening

School offices will reopen on Monday, August 31, 2026 to assist families with registrations, schedule questions and other back-to-school inquiries.

We look forward to welcoming students back for another exciting school year and wish all HCDSB students, staff and families a successful start to September!

As a recent graduate from , Louis completed Grades 11 and 12 with an exceptional overall average of 99.13 percent. This fall, Louis will continue his journey at the University of Toronto to study Life Sciences while also competing on the university’s varsity swim team.

While his academic achievements are remarkable, Louis humbly gave credit to the learning environment at Bishop Reding and the people around him for helping him succeed.

“In everything you walk into, there’s a solid five people smarter than you. I give credit to BR for having the kind of populace where you can walk into a class and know you’re not the smartest in the room every day. It’s amazing.”

Louis went on to share that he believes mindset plays a large role in achieving academic goals.

“I think the biggest differentiating factor in many cases is your mindset going into assessments. I believe that a lot of the time you can do a lot more than you give yourself credit for.”

Outside of the classroom, Louis has spent the last 10 years as a competitive swimmer. He also gives back to his community by coaching young swimmers. Balancing coaching, training, and school has taught him lessons that extend far beyond his studies. Louis credits psychological resilience, time management, and knowing when to rest as skills that shaped both his athletic and academic achievements.

Whether studying between swim practices or intentionally setting time aside for rest, Louis mentions that consistency outweighs perfection. When asked about what advice he would offer current and future students, Louis encouraged them to keep their accomplishments and setbacks in perspective.

“Don’t exaggerate the weight of individual things. You need to do well every day, but academics are really an average. It’s measuring the average of all your tests, all your assessments, your performance, and your attendance. I think it’s less about being perfect every day.”

As he prepares to begin his studies at the University of Toronto, Louis carries forward a growth mindset, determination, and commitment that have shaped his journey. HCDSB proudly congratulates Louis on earning the Governor General’s Bronze Medal and achieving the highest graduating average across the school board, and wishes him every success as he begins this exciting new chapter.

Learn more about the Governor General’s Bronze Medal and this year’s recipients: HCDSB 2026 Governor General Award Recipients.

This fall, Marcela will attend the University of Waterloo, where she will pursue a Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Chemical Engineering.

“Completing the IB Diploma Programme at St. Thomas Aquinas has been an invaluable experience. I have grown as both a student and individual through the challenging curriculum and various internal assessments, as well as explored my passions in writing the Extended Essay. This programme has also given me the opportunity to learn from highly knowledgeable teachers who truly support their students’ success. Additionally, being amongst like-minded peers in my classes have led me to form friendships that will last a lifetime.

The IB Diploma Programme has taught me the essential skills of time management and discipline, alongside university-level education that will set me up for success post-secondary. I believe the IB Programme has formed me into the person I am today and prepared me very well for my future.” – Marcela Castellanos, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School

“Congratulations to Marcela on this remarkable achievement,” said John Klein, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Education Officer. “Earning a perfect score in the IB Diploma Programme is an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects Marcela’s commitment to academic excellence, perseverance, and love of learning. We are incredibly proud of all she has achieved and wish her every success as she begins this exciting next chapter at the University of Waterloo.”

Quick Facts

• The International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme is a globally recognized educational program that challenges students to excel both academically and personally.
• IB students study topics in greater depth and are encouraged to develop strong research, communication, and time-management skills.
• The IB curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and community involvement.
• St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School in Oakville is home to the HCDSB’s IB Diploma Programme.
• Learn more about IB programmes at .

An in-person announcement was held on June 24, which brought together representatives from the Province, the Town of Milton, and HCDSB, including MPP Zee Hamid, Mayor Gordon Krantz, members of Milton Town Council, HCDSB Chair Marvin Duarte, Trustee Patrick Murphy, CEO John Klein, and Chief Operations & Sustainability Officer Ryan Merrick.

“This is exciting news for Milton families,” said Marvin Duarte, Milton Trustee and Chair of the 91pro��Ƶ. “The approval of the new Britannia Secondary School is a significant step forward in ensuring that students have access to the learning spaces they need as our community continues to grow. We are grateful to the Ministry of Education for recognizing the need for this investment, and we are pleased to be working with the Town of Milton on a project that will benefit both students and residents. Together, we hope to create a shared space to support learning and community connections for years to come. This project reflects what can be achieved when different levels of government and community partners come together with a shared commitment to serving families and supporting future generations.”

The new secondary school will accommodate 1,499 secondary students and include 88 licensed child care spaces to help meet the needs of Milton’s rapidly growing community.

“This announcement represents much more than funding for a new school,” said John Klein, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Education Officer at HCDSB. “It reflects the Province’s recognition of the incredible growth taking place in Milton and the importance of ensuring students and families have access to high-quality learning environments within their own community. HCDSB is committed to planning for the future while continuing to provide the exceptional Catholic education that our families value, and this funding is an important step in helping us achieve that goal.”

With provincial funding now approved, HCDSB looks forward to working with the Ministry of Education and the Town of Milton as the project moves forward. 

The Governor General’s Bronze Medal recognizes outstanding academic achievement. Recipients are selected based on their final marks in all Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses listed on their official transcript, issued by the Ministry of Education.

2026 Governor General Award Recipients

“The recipients of this year’s Governor General’s Award have displayed exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to learning. We are proud to congratulate them on this remarkable honour and wish them every success as they continue to discover their God-given potential and grow in knowledge, faith, and purpose.”

– John Klein, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Education Officer

Quick Facts

• For nearly 150 years, the Governor General’s Academic Medals recognize the academic achievements of students across Canada.
• Lord Dufferin, Canada’s third Governor General after Confederation, created the Academic Medals in 1873 to encourage excellence across the nation. 
• For more information and a list of recipients, please visit: .

The approved budget reflects the 91pro��Ƶ’s commitment to responsible financial stewardship while continuing to invest in the programs, services, and supports that help students achieve their full potential. Despite ongoing financial pressures facing school boards across Ontario, HCDSB has approved a budget that is compliant with Ministry of Education requirements and aligned with the priorities outlined in the 91pro��Ƶ’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan.

“I would like to thank our Chief Executive Officer, our Chief Financial Officer, and the entire Finance team for their leadership, diligence, and expertise throughout this budget process,” said Marvin Duarte, Chair of the 91pro��Ƶ. “Despite the challenges, they remained focused on what matters most – supporting student success and well-being while ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources.”

“This budget enables us to continue investing in the areas that matter most to students and families while preparing responsibly for the future,” said John Klein, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Education Officer. “As school boards across Ontario continue to navigate rising costs and increasing demands for student supports, we remain focused on our strategic priorities while continuing to deliver high-quality Catholic education for students and families across Halton.”

Quick Facts

• The 2026-2027 budget includes a Ministry compliant deficit of $2.5 million, which will be funded through a portion of the 91pro��Ƶ’s accumulated surplus. The budget remains fully compliant with Ministry of Education requirements.
• Revenue has been estimated at $550.0 million, and total expenses have been estimated at $539.1 million (including compliance adjustments).
• The budget includes continued investments in special education, mental health and well-being supports, student transportation, school-based budgets, and capital projects across the system.
• Compared to the 2025-2026 Revised Estimates, enrolment is projected to remain relatively stable, with a net decrease of 117.73 Average Daily Enrolment (ADE) students, or 0.3%.
• The final Budget Estimates will be submitted to the Ministry of Education by June 30, 2026.

More Information

• School boards operate on a fiscal year that runs from September 1 to August 31.
• Each year, the Ministry of Education provides funds to school boards through a series of grants.
• HCDSB operates 48 elementary schools, 10 secondary schools, and 3 continuing education facilities, serving more than 36,000 students.
• The majority of the 91pro��Ƶ’s funding allocation is based on student enrolment.
• Elementary and secondary enrolments are based on Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) enrolments for October 31 and March 31.
• Elementary and secondary FTE enrolment values are averaged to determine annualized Average Daily Enrolment (ADE).

Learn More

Read the report to the 91pro��Ƶ of Trustees: 2026-2027 Budget Estimates (Final).

Visit our website to learn more about the 2026-2027 Budget Process.

Throughout the year, our school communities came together in countless ways to support student learning, nurture faith, and foster a sense of belonging. Together, we celebrated achievements, embraced new opportunities, and supported one another through difficult times. Along the way, we shared in the everyday moments that make school life so meaningful – moments of growth, friendship, and service that enrich our communities. Through both joy and hardship, our faith and our commitment to one another remained a source of strength and hope.  

This year reminded us of the importance of community and of our shared call to accompany one another with compassion, faith, and understanding. It is through this spirit of connection and support that we see the true strength of our Catholic learning community. 

As we look ahead, we remain committed to the priorities outlined in our 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan: Achieving,����������𱹾��Բ�,��������DzԲ����Բ�, ���Ի���Becoming. Together, these priorities continue to guide our efforts to support student success and well-being while strengthening Catholic education across our school communities. 

Wishing you a safe, peaceful, and blessed summer. I hope you find time to rest, recharge, and enjoy all that summer as to offer with family and friends. 

We look forward to welcoming students, staff, and families back in September as we continue our journey together in faith, learning, and service. 

John Klein
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Education Officer 

Ifechi Okwuagwu is one of just 16 students chosen from more than 1,000 applicants across the country for the inaugural Wolf Scholars Program at the University of Toronto. The highly competitive program recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

Created through a partnership between the University of Toronto and the Wolf Cooper Foundation, the Wolf Scholars Program is designed to support future leaders who are prepared to address complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to society. Students selected for the program will participate in a unique learning experience that combines academic study, leadership development, mentorship, international travel, and internship opportunities.

This fall, Ifechi will begin her studies in Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the University of Toronto’s University College. She plans to pursue mathematics and economics, with a particular interest in understanding how quantitative methods can be used to inform economic policy and address real-world challenges.

Throughout her time at St. Thomas Aquinas, Ifechi has distinguished herself not only through her academic achievements but also through her commitment to leadership and service. As co-president of the school’s Black Student Union (BSU), she has helped lead initiatives that foster cultural awareness, celebrate diversity, and strengthen connections within the school community.

She has also spent four years as an executive member of the school’s Social Justice Spirit Club, helping organize initiatives that support those in need. Among the club’s most successful projects was a Thanksgiving Drive that collected more than 800 items for refugee families in the local community.

Ifechi’s selection as a Wolf Scholar reflects her dedication to academic excellence, community engagement, and leadership. Her accomplishments embody the values nurtured through Catholic education and demonstrate the positive impact young people can have when they use their talents in service of others.

The 91pro��Ƶ congratulates Ifechi on this outstanding achievement and wishes her continued success as she completes her final weeks at St. Thomas Aquinas and prepares to begin her studies at the University of Toronto this fall!

For more information, please visit the .

As Pope Leo XIV reminds us in his Olympic Games address, “True success in sport is measured by the quality of relationships, mutual respect, and shared joy in the game”.

Over the course of the 2025-2026 school year, the Cricket Grant Program has supported professional development for staff interested in deepening their knowledge of cricket and the rules associated with it. Teacher-coaches brought this learning back to their schools to support physical education planning and interschool team creation. Funding from the grant also provided each school with custom-made jerseys, new equipment and transportation to their tournament. The program culminated in safe, fun, skill-based gameplay during co-educational interschool competitions on the cricket pitch.

“It has been incredible to see our system respond to cricket as a physical activity,” said Vanessa Hurley, Health and Physical Education Consultant and grant coordinator. “Continuing to provide a variety of curricular, interschool and intramural activities ensures our students feel included and are reflected in these opportunities”.

Building on this success, the HCDSB will continue to make cricket accessible through physical education planning and interschool offerings with the goal of making our schools faith-filled places of learning and play that support the development of the whole child.