At St. Albert Learning Centre, Future Friday invites our students to reflect on their goals, choices, and the kind of future they want to help create for themselves and for others. This week, in recognition of Treaty Week, students explored what treaties mean and why they continue to matter today. After watching an educational video and engaging in thoughtful discussion, each student signed a personal promise; a commitment to themselves, their community, and our shared future. ✨ “In every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations.” — Haudenosaunee Teaching Through reflection and action, our students are learning that the future we imagine is one we build together, one with respect, understanding, and hope.
Today we were honoured to welcome our Director of Education, Morris Hucal, back to St. Albert Learning Centre! A few weeks ago, Mr. Hucal joined us for our Pilgrim Walk, and today he returned to visit every classroom including our daycare and our French education partners! He came to see our students and staff in action. He even rolled up his sleeves in our shop to handcraft a pen under the guidance of our student Trent! Thank you, Mr. Hucal, for taking the time to connect with our students and staff once again, and for your ongoing support of the innovative and faith-filled learning happening at St. Albert! We can’t wait to welcome you back again soon!
This morning, our students kicked off Halloween with a spook-tacular twist — our very own Cereal Killer Buffet! Now, don’t worry, no crimes were committed! The name is just a playful pun on words instead of “serial killers,” we became cereal killers… happily devouring our favourite breakfast treats! In true Halloween fashion, we served up exactly 13 different kinds of cereal because what’s Halloween without a little superstition and a sweet twist on the number 13! From colourful classics to chocolatey favourites, there was something for everyone. Our adult students especially loved this nostalgic treat as it gave them the chance to sample 13 different flavours and relive some childhood favourites, all while laughing and connecting with classmates over a shared bowl (or two… or three!). It was a fun and lighthearted way to start the day full of smiles, conversation, and a reminder that learning can be both meaningful and fun!
Reading this beautiful post from our School board filled us with pride and emotion. We watched Michael and Bianca, two students who were once so anxious to speak in public, stand before trustees and senior administration with honesty, and strength. They didn’t just present; they represented the heart of St. Albert: resilience, growth, and hope. We are incredibly proud to serve a school community where students are empowered to find their voice, where programs like Focus on Youth open doors to opportunity, and where every step forward is celebrated. Thank you to our amazing staff, community partners, and most importantly, our students for reminding us every day why hope lives here.
We are so excited to celebrate Ryan, who travelled to Toronto this weekend with his family to receive the prestigious CEFO Student Award! Chosen by our education team at St. Albert Learning Centre, Ryan was honoured because he truly reflects the values of Catholic education in both his actions and his character. The CEFO Student Award, presented by the Catholic Education Foundation of Ontario, recognizes students who demonstrate: ✅ A strong commitment to our Catholic faith ✅ Leadership through service ✅ Respect and kindness toward others ✅ A positive influence within their school community Ryan consistently shows compassion, responsibility, and quiet leadership. He uplifts his peers, contributes to our school culture, and lives his faith through everyday acts of kindness and integrity. We are incredibly proud of you, Ryan!
We’re so grateful for our amazing staff who work hard every day to make learning meaningful — and fun! Today was no exception! We had “Frank”-enstein roaming the halls delivering Timbits, our very own Blue Jays players bringing team spirit just in time for the World Series, and a few friendly witches casting smiles instead of spells! And of course our students looked incredible in their costumes too! It’s days like this that remind us how lucky we are to learn, laugh, and celebrate together as a community.
Walking into school and seeing this message on the whiteboard made our day! 💕 One of our students wanted to recognize Faith for all she does to keep St. Albert Learning Centre clean, safe, and welcoming. Small acts of kindness like this remind us that gratitude is powerful and that our students notice and appreciate the care that surrounds them. Thank you, Faith—you are truly part of what makes our school community shine!
Today, our staff and students wore orange shirts to honour survivors of residential schools and to show that every child matters. As part of this day of reflection, our secondary students listened to Gord Downie’s powerful statement about why he wrote The Secret Path. He wanted Canadians to know the true story of Chanie Wenjack, a young boy who tried to walk home after running away from a residential school, but sadly never made it. Hearing Gord’s words helped our students understand the importance of truth and reconciliation, and why sharing these stories matters. Our learning does not end today. We remain committed to listening, learning, and walking the path of truth and reconciliation every day. 🧡
Rob Clark is a talented woodworker who runs a shop right out of his basement in Lively, Ontario, and he has been an incredible friend to our school community. Today we proudly received a cheque for $420 from Rob, who has once again gone above and beyond to support our student-led business, PEACE Pens & Beyond. Rob has been a true champion for our students — taking our handcrafted merchandise on the road with him as he travels to craft shows across Ontario. From Manitoulin Island’s Kagawong Market to Anderson Farm, Elliot Lake, and Timmins, Rob proudly displays and sells our students’ creations, sharing their story with everyone he meets. “As you know, I fully support this program and it is a privilege for me to be part of it. The presentation and story are so very important — very well done! These are not just pens… they are special.” – Robert Clark Rob’s passion for woodworking began with his Grade 7 & 8 shop teacher, and today he continues to dedicate time to the craft, creating beautiful pieces from exotic woods and resin, and mentoring others who want to learn. He not only volunteers his time but also donates wood and purchases materials for students to practice with, and inspires them to create unique masterpieces. One of our favourite stories is about the Executive Red Heart Pen that Rob sold to Mike Strobel, the former editor of the Toronto Sun. Mike plans to use this very pen to write his newspaper articles and upcoming books, making this a full-circle story about creativity, purpose, and legacy. Rob, thank you for being an incredible partner, mentor, and friend to our program. Your dedication helps our students believe that their work matters…because it truly does! Pictured: Rob presenting the cheque to Lynn, our PEACE Pens & Beyond shop boss!
This week, each student received an apple — but not just any apple! This was part of our “What’s at Our Core?” activity. Students were invited to reflect on: ✨ One strength they bring to our school community 🎯 One goal they have for this school year They wrote their answers on sticky notes and added them to our Core Values Chart — creating a beautiful display of the gifts, talents, and dreams that make our school community shine. Our entrance is now filled with positive energy and inspiration. These reminders will guide us as we focus on growth, success, and supporting each other all year long!
