Like the phases of the moon, our journey in education is marked by moments of steady light, quiet transformation, and luminous impact.
At the heart of it all are the extraordinary individuals who rise each day with heart, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to our students and school communities. Tonight, we honour those whose dedication continues to shape our collective mission - recognizing those marking 15 and 25 years of service, and those stepping into a well-earned new chapter through retirement.
This evening is a celebration of excellence, longevity, and the kind of legacy that, like moonlight, continues to shine long after the day is done. Because it’s not just what we do - it’s who we are. This is us.
RETIREES
OECTA Elementary
Laurie Balec
Helene Breton
Cathy Cho-Chu
Kristen Grillo
Tracey Halushak
Claudia Lenardon
Paul Mackett
Helen Livingstone
Carolyn Roberts
Susan Ruberto
Maria Soulias
Jennifer Otto
Loretta Walberg
Monica Wilson
OECTA Secondary
Sandra Caputi-Campbell
Antonio Curciarello
Carlo Fanti
Joanne Hallarn
Michelle McClymont
Alicyn Papich
COPE
Lori Dysievick
UNIFOR
David Booth
George Cordeiro
Robert Kepes
Ross Parkin
OSSTF
Joyce D’Angelo
AESS
John Colosimo
LRS
Rosa Lombardo
15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
AESS
Matt Goetz
Kimberley Strickland
UNIFOR
Glenda French
Travis Oshimo
COPE
Andrea Lajoie
Allison Levesque
Debra Staruch
LRS
Susanne Jewett
OECTA Elementary
Lisa Auger
Danielle-Jaee Baillie
Grace Baxter
Jennifer Bencharski
Melissa Mae Braithwaite
Jason Cupp
Katie Eaton
Carolyn Gallo
Emily Hartman
Kristen Heikkila
Lyndsay Hupka
Peter Labine
Brittany MacKenzie
Catherine Mallon
Joshua McDonald
Ryan Oster
Jasmine Petch
Genevieve Riva
Chris Whitley
OECTA Occasional
Katrina Jones
Laura Lankinen
Sean Murphy
Jerry Nardi
Tammy Wilson
OECTA Secondary
Karen Cameron-Powell
Michelle Cvornjek
Heidi-Lynn Friedrich
Cory Gannon
Chris Golden
Erica Lorentz
Corinne MacLeod
Michael McDermott
Kristen McFarlane
Sean McFarlane
Laura Nigro
Lukas Olson
Lauren Provenzano
Daniel Puiatti
Lindsay Tuuttila
OSSTF
Michelle Charbonneau
Denis Tennier
CPCO
Patricia Del Paggio
Lindsay Wowchuk
25 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
AESS
Joanna Lacaria
UNIFOR
Dean Kopachynski
Phil Roussin
William Taskinen
OECTA Elementary
Jolene Abick
Catherine Bakich
Joel Biesenthal
Melanie Biesenthal
Elizabeth Bursey
James Hiscox
Myra Hupet
Kerri Kluchkowsky
Christy McCracken-Mann
Leanne Oger
Cathy Prpich
Leslie Prpic
Barbara Rzeszut
Laura Sutton
Lina Turco
Jennifer Williamson
Laura Zappitelli
OECTA Occasional
Lisa Vilcek
OECTA Secondary
Michael Marcon
David Sacino
OSSTF
Lee-Ann Bresolin
Tami DePiero
Jennifer Hoover
Pamela Kozyra
Terra Moquin
CPCO
Peter Rzeszut
Laurie Balec
French Immersion Teacher, St. Bernard School
Hired:1996
29 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
My experience working with the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board has been very rewarding. I have truly enjoyed and am appreciative of the friendships I have made over the years with my St Bernard Family. I am thankful for having had the opportunity to collaborate with some of the best colleagues in our Board.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
I’ve had so many memorable moments that it is hard to pick just one. Most of my career has been spent teaching Grade 2 French Immersion, and I’ve always loved the Social Studies curriculum. I have wonderful memories of the pride in students’ voices as they presented their heritage projects. I, in turn, was thrilled to share my heritage with them! I will miss the children, their enthusiasm to learn and their eagerness to learn a second language.
What are your future retirement plans?
My future retirement plans include having more time for physical fitness, maintaining my health and wellness, as well as more time for reading, gardening and volunteering. I plan to explore Canada by rail and take a trip or two back to Europe with my family.
David Booth
Head Custodian, St. Vincent School
Hired:1994
31 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I really enjoyed getting to know so many wonderful people throughout the various schools I worked in. Some of these connections have turned into life-long friendships—which is pretty incredible to find in a workplace!
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
There have been so many memorable moments, especially when you’re working around kindergarten students and the hilarious things they say! But two really stand out: the first was when I became Head Custodian at Holy Cross, which was a proud milestone. The second was my last day at Holy Cross - my friends from the Pipe Band came to pipe me out. It was emotional, unforgettable, and truly special.
What are your future retirement plans?
I’m looking forward to slow mornings with a coffee in hand, especially relaxing out on the deck in the summer. I’ll finally be able to stay up late, enjoy bonfires, and spend more time with my kids, Heather and Andrew and their partners. I’m also incredibly excited to travel with my wife, Dianne as we’re planning trips to visit my sisters in Scotland and Australia. More than anything, I’m looking forward to life without a schedule, where I can do what I want, when I want!
Helene Breton
Teacher, St. Bernard School
Hired: 2000
26 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Appreciated the abundance of learning opportunities with unique challenges that encouraged both personal and professional growth. I especially valued the chance to interact with peers and learners, share insights, and build cherished friendships along the way.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
So many memorable moments and events to list. This quote from Maya Angelou sums it up “I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.”
What are your future retirement plans?
My retirement plans are simple: plan a trip, enjoy it, then start planning the next one! I’m looking forward to a life of exploration, new experiences, and the freedom to travel as often as I like.
Sandra Caputi-Campbell
Cosmetology Teacher, St. Patrick High School
Hired: 2004
20 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Arriving every day and being part of such an amazing team of wonderful precious gifts from God!
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
Many many moments of student success, taking students and colleagues, travelling around the world and making memories!
What are your future retirement plans?
Travelling as much as possible, spending more time with grandchildren and staying active and healthy!
“
HAVE FUN! NOT TOO MUCH! JUST ENOUGH!”
SANDRA CAPUTI-CAMPBELL
Cathy Cho-Chu
Transitions Teacher, Bishop E.Q. Jennings School
Hired: 1992
33 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
What I liked most was arriving daily and working alongside the best of the best at every level.
What was your most memorable moment/ event while working for the Board?
Remember that teacher who wore his NASA space suit to school and launched rockets in the back schoolyard? That was pretty cool!
Then there was the one who practiced his golf swing daily with a meter stick, only to rake in the golf paraphernalia at Christmas time and not understand why.
Remember the last day of school tradition: all of us standing outside, waving off the students and sending the buses on their merry way as summer vacation began. Or the legendary OECTA golf tournaments, where driving a golf cart became a questionable adventure of its own.
There was also that incredible sense of family when gathering for lunch in the staffroom, where laughter echoed non-stop. (And of course, what happened in the staffroom stayed in the staffroom!) Those mini “staff meetings” in the hallway at the end of the day? Somehow, we managed to solve all the world’s problems, mostly with humour.
Let’s not forget the after-hours get-togethers filled with dancing, laughter, and the kind of fun you don’t easily forget. Then there was that one administrator you went the extra mile for, simply because they always did the same for you. And who could forget that one special person, often referred to as “The Voice of Reason”? They always seemed to have the perfect solution, which always guided you to a better resolution. Thank you!
All of this was possible because of the incredible people I was fortunate to work with every day, people who became lifelong friends. There are far too many memories to list, but these are just a few that I will cherish forever.
What are your future retirement plans? I plan to sit back and enjoy the view. Life is too short and I’m looking forward to where it takes me next.
John Colosimo
School Technician, Information Technology
Hired: 1993
32 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I enjoyed the many and varied aspects of the job. Assisting in finding solutions to technical needs. Something new every day.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
The many personal connections I have made over the years, as well as all the opportunities I have had for personal, and professional development over that time.
What are your future retirement plans?
To relax and enjoy my free time.
Antonio Curciarello
Teacher-Librarian, St. Patrick High School
Hired:1994
31 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I found great fulfillment in two key roles during my time with TBCDSB. Firstly, coaching volleyball and organizing successful tournaments, such as the highly anticipated St. Pat’s tournaments, were highlights. These events brought together enthusiastic teams and families and fostered a strong sense of community and sportsmanship among the athletes.
Secondly, serving as the teacher librarian was particularly rewarding. Being centrally located allowed me to connect with a large portion of the student body, becoming a dependable resource for assistance. I’ve always had a passion for helping others, and this role allowed me to support students and staff alike actively.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
One of my most memorable moments was finally becoming a fulltime member of the Math Department at St. Pat’s. I began my career teaching outside of my subject area, so stepping into a role that aligned with my passion and expertise felt incredibly rewarding. It marked a significant milestone in my journey as an educator and deepened my sense of belonging within the school community.
What are your future retirement plans?
In retirement, I look forward to travelling, spending quality time with family and friends, and becoming more involved with Ontario volleyball. I’m especially excited to watch my niece and nephew grow up and to be more present in their lives. I also plan to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and embracing all the new opportunities this next chapter has to offer.
Joyce D’Angelo
Designated Early Childhood Educator, Holy Cross
Hired: 2011
40+ Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
It seems as though I was meant to be around children most of my life. When I was a teen, my first job was “babysitting” and summer councillor at Chippewa day camp. The longest years of service was 25+ years with the George Jeffrey Children’s Centre. However, I wanted a new challenge and I found it with TBCDSB. I have worked over 14 years with the Board and I am incredibly grateful for the many experiences, meaningful connections and professional growth I have achieved. It was challenging and rewarding. Students and families… memorable. Colleagues…like family. The friendships I have built will always hold a special place in my heart.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
A few moments/events that stood out for sure. How do I pick? I will say the spontaneous laughter that makes your day in kindergarten. Laughing from being entertained by this age group who innocently shared stories of things that would happen at home. Or when the students using creative materials proudly made interesting shapes or words! And the many giggles that were shared with my teaching partners over the years at Holy Cross School.
What are your future retirement plans?
I have so many plans but this is what comes to mind now. Spend more quality time with my parents and friends, rest, self care, stay on track with my physical, health and fitness goals, sharpen my dance skills, continue renovating my home and yard, landscape, garden, try various crafts, learn more languages, safely motorcycle with my “Road Angels”, travel abroad and more if I could fit it in! I’m smiling. My new adventure awaits.
“ I have worked over 14 years with the Board and I am incredibly grateful for the many experiences, meaningful connections and professional growth I have achieved.”
JOYCE D’ANGELO
Carlo Fanti
Science Teacher, St. Patrick High School
Hired:1994
31 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
The thing I liked the most was having the opportunity to work with young people. I hope that I was able to plant a life long seed of learning, making a positive difference in the way that they see the world around them and have them recognize the potential that they all have.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
I have made many memories, friendships and shared many laughs over the years with many of my colleagues. As well I have made many memories with many of the students that I taught and coached throughout the years.
What are your future retirement plans?
I would like to rest a little more, relax a little more, travel a little more, fish a little more, golf a little bit more but most of all spend time with my family and close friends.
Kristen Grillo
Guidance Counsellor, Bishop E.Q. Jennings School
Hired:1992
32 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
One of the best parts of working for the TBCDSB has been the people I have met along the way, both students and staff. I truly value the connections I made with children and their families and enjoyed many memorable moments, in and out of the classroom. I’ve had a wide range of experiences throughout my career — from my early days teaching Grade 2 French Immersion, to my time in Senior Elementary, and finally to my role in guidance. It’s been a privilege to support students not only academically, but as individuals too.
Serving on the OECTA social committee for many years, I had fun planning and attending events, and it gave me the chance to get to know many of my fellow teachers. I have had the pleasure of working with incredible colleagues, many of whom have become lifelong friends.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
It is difficult to pick one moment or event from a career filled with so many positive experiences. I will remember “aha” teaching moments with students, the fun and excitement of extracurricular activities, sporting events and assemblies, shared laughs with colleagues and some really rocking staff parties. One memory that I’ll probably never forget is the time when I was teaching a Grade 8 Science class and, during an experiment, a student dropped and broke what turned out to be an old mercury thermometer. The sight of a team of cleaners in full hazmat suits climbing out of a van, entering the school and making their way to my classroom to deal with the “spill” is something that will stay with me forever!
What are your future retirement plans?
I will be happy to spend more time with family and friends. I look forward to travelling and having time to pursue hobbies such as pottery, gardening and perfecting my sourdough loaf. I plan to improve my golf game and get back into curling.
Joanne Hallarn
Geography Teacher, St. Patrick High School
Hired:1998
27 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I liked being part of something bigger than myself and to help shape the educational experience for students. I enjoyed collaborating with educators along with the support of administrators.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
There was no one event. Each year brought new faces, new challenges and countless joys. I am proud of the knowledge I shared, but I’m more grateful for the relationships built and the lives I got to be a small part of. I didn’t yet realize how much my students would teach me in return about resilience, curiosity, and the endless capacity for growth.
What are your future retirement plans?
My plan is pretty simple at first: to just breathe. I am looking forward to slowing down and sipping morning coffee. It’s time to rest, to get used to a new pace of life and fully enjoy the freedom that comes with it. Eventually I will continue to give back to the community in new ways.
Tracey Halushak
Empower Teacher, St. Elizabeth and St. Martin
Hired:1991
34 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I really have enjoyed my time teaching for our Board. Working and learning from my colleagues throughout my years was wonderful. I had the opportunity to teach at different schools and grades during my career, having taught children in kindergarten up to grade six, as well as Special Education Resource and Teacher Librarian. I was able to be a part of many different initiatives with our Board, to help our students to better learn and grow. Ending my career teaching the Empower Reading Program has been very rewarding. While I missed having my own class, it has been amazing to see the progress my students made in the program.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
There are many memorable moments over my many years with our Board. I enjoyed the opportunities that I was given to advance my own learning and use this knowledge with my students. Learning with my colleagues and friends has been amazing. Some of my closest friends began as co-workers and I am so grateful for knowing them. Leading and coaching extra-curricular activities throughout the years, also stands out as a special time to get to know the students, through sports and musicals.
What are your future retirement plans?
In my retirement, my hope is to travel more with my husband, to visit family and friends. I will have the time to seek out new adventures. No longer having a set schedule and school calendar to follow, grants me the chance to be more impulsive and try something new.
“Teachers plant the seeds of knowledge that grow forever.”
ANONYMOUS
ClaudiaLenardon
Kindergarten Teacher, St. Bernard Elementary School
Hired:1998
30 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board? First and foremost, I wish to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible opportunities and support I have received throughout my time at TBCDSB. Working alongside such talented individuals has been both rewarding and inspiring. The friendships I have formed within our team are priceless, and I will cherish the memories we have made together over the years. The Board’s guidance and mentorship have played a pivotal role in shaping my career for which I am truly grateful.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
I have so many memorable moments and experiences that I will take with me for a lifetime. As a Social Justice Committee Member for years, I was very proud of the work our group participated in. I enjoyed assisting annually with Coats for Kids, co-chairing and organizing the Dew Drop Inn volunteers for our OECTA Elementary teachers to help serve those in need in our community,
and worked closely with the Salvation Army to organize the Christmas Kettles for our members. I enjoyed teaching all primary grades from Kindergarten to grades 1, 2, and 3. I taught ESL for the Board and was part of the Success by Seven Team delivering literacy intervention programs to our primary grades. Early on, I participated in an Early Learning project which looked at children’s paintings and how their art work interpreted their literacy and communication skills. I especially enjoyed my dedication to fostering a love of learning to our youngest of learners. I have been a Kindergarten teacher since the full time program was implemented. I would like to quote from Robert Fulghum, the best selling Author of, All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten, a testament of “how the world would improve if adults adhered to the same basic rules as children. Think what a better world it would be if we all - the whole worldhad cookies and milk about three o’clock every afternoon and then lay down with our blankets for a nap. And it is still true, no matter how old you are - when you go out into the world, it is best to hold hands and stick together.” As a parent of children in our Board, I was a very active member of each Parent Council since both my children started Kindergarten to their graduations in Grade 12. I experienced the best of both worlds!
What are your future retirement plans?
As I prepare for this new phase in life, please know that I leave with absolute confidence in the continued success of the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board. Although it is difficult to say goodbye to such an exceptional workplace like ours, I am very excited about what lies ahead for me personally. Retirement presents an opportunity for me to pursue other interests while cherishing more quality time with loved ones. I have a passion for photography, writing children’s books, owning my own business, travelling the world, and perhaps in the future, becoming a Trustee. I am a very proud parent of two children, one of whom is my son who is graduating this year from University with his Honours Bachelor of Commerce Business Degree and will be going into the Teaching Program in September. I always shared with my own children that teaching is not just a profession, it’s a vocation. As I finish my career, I look forward to him starting his journey, one that I know will be very rewarding and fulfilling.
Helen Livingstone
French Immersion Kindergarten Teacher, St. Bernard Elementary School
Hired:2003
22 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board? Always having very supportive colleagues to rely on.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
To see, each day, the excitement in the faces of my students.
What are your future retirement plans? Relax, visit family and enjoy every day.
Paul Mackett
Coordinator Of Digital Technology, Student Achievement
Hired:1997
29 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
The opportunity to support students and staff has been the most rewarding aspect of my current role. Whether working with an ELKP class in the morning or visiting a high school later in the day, I’ve truly enjoyed providing support across all 20 schools, whenever and wherever needed.
Being part of the Student Achievement Department has been a deeply meaningful experience. The collaboration within our team and the collective effort to support our colleagues have made each day both fulfilling and memorable.
“
Be Safe. Be Humble. Be Respectful. Laugh with Family and Friends.”
PAUL MACKETT
Supporting classrooms is one important part of the role, but helping to plan and coordinate board-wide events—such as Professional Development days, Welcome to Kindergarten nights, or a Skills Ontario showcase—has brought an extra layer of impact and pride. It’s during these moments that our team truly comes together to create something special for everyone involved.
I will never forget the many students I’ve had the privilege to teach, especially those I’ve supported through Special Education. These incredible individuals have shaped my beliefs, values, and deep love for what it means to be an educator. I will carry them in my memory for life.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board
One of the most meaningful moments in my career with Thunder Bay Catholic came during one of the most unimaginable times in education—the COVID-19 pandemic. The entire approach to teaching and learning shifted overnight, and being able to support and train so many of my colleagues through that transition was both challenging and inspiring.
Those days were long, often stretching into evenings and weekends, filled with one-on-one and small group sessions aimed at easing the stress and uncertainty staff were facing. It wasn’t just about professional support—it became just as important to be a listening ear and a source of encouragement. Helping staff develop strong personal connections with their students in virtual classrooms was critical, but so was creating those same supportive relationships among colleagues.
On top of everything, we also rolled out a new Student Information System and Report Card platform, which added even more pressure to already overwhelmed educators. Despite the many challenges, guiding and training others through that time remains one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my teaching career.
What are your future retirement plans?
Many doors to open and look into! “Stay Tuned!” As of July 1st, a new home location will begin in Ottawa, Ontario and the chance to be closer to our 2 sons, and watch their careers flourish, while my wife and I explore.
Michelle McClymont
Secondary Teacher, St. Patrick High School
Hired:1992
30 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board? I love chemistry and have enjoyed teaching the subject immensely. Working with great staff and students only enhanced my career.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
Seeing the joy and pride on the faces of struggling students when they find success has been the most rewarding moment.
Jennifer Otto
Kindergarten Teacher, St. Paul Elementary School
Hired: 1993
32 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
The friendships made with colleagues and connections made with families over the years are what I treasured most about working for the TBCDSB.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
Participating in various whole school concerts and plays stick out as memorable moments. The camaraderie from planning, practicing and performing all together always bonded the staff together. It was always rewarding to see the students’ excitement and pride when performing for their families.
What are your future retirement plans?
My future plans include travelling and enjoying life with family and friends!
Alicyn Papich
Teacher, St. Ignatius High School
Hired:1988
37 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
What I value most is being part of a rich history and a strong faith community. I joined St. Ignatius in September 1990, the year it moved from Balsam Street to Gibson Ave. My commitment has been shaped by the steadfast dedication of the teachers who made that transition from the “old school” to the new — I’m proud to carry on that legacy. Each day, I pass the statue of St. Ignatius, brought from the old building, and the graduating class composites lining the halls — a daily reminder that our community continues to grow stronger each year. I’m grateful to celebrate Mass with our school community, mark Jubilee years, and serve as a Faith Ambassador, knowing that my role helps to form faith-filled, compassionate people. It’s a privilege to teach and mentor students, supporting their growth in faith, knowledge, and character.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
After more than 35 years with the Board, it’s tough to choose just one defining moment, but if I had to pick my top memories, they would be being part of an incredible basketball program that grew stronger with each passing decade, traveling with students to Europe, especially the trips to Vimy Ridge for the 95th and 100th anniversaries, hearing students say, “Hey, you taught my mom/dad”, celebrating the 50th Anniversary of St. Ignatius HS, the “Our God is an Awesome God” parade, and the tradition of morning coffee on the couches. It all started with a call from the Board office, and then my mom saying, “let’s go get you a new outfit”.
“What are your future retirement plans?
My dad often said he missed being in the classroom every day after he retired. I have a feeling I’ll feel the same way. That said, I’m already looking forward to travelling, reading, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.
Starting in November, you’ll still find me in the St. Ignatius gym, helping out with the basketball team— because some connections don’t end with retirement.
It all started with a call from the Board office, and then my mom saying:,
‘let’s go get you a new outfit’ .”
ALICYN PAPICH
Ross Parkin
Custodian, Pope John Paul II
Hired: 2008
17 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board? People, my position.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
Becoming full time, getting a permanent position, working with great people.
What are your future retirement plans? Family and friends, fishing and travel.
Carolyn Roberts
Itinerant Religion/Art/Science, St. Bernard Elementary School
Hired: 1993
32 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Being part of each student’s growth has been incredibly meaningful— watching them learn, develop confidence, and discover their potential every day has been a true privilege. What I’ve valued most about working with TBCDSB is the strong sense of community and teamwork. Being surrounded by people who genuinely care about students makes all the difference. I’m also grateful for the personal and professional growth I’ve gained through everyday experiences and professional development.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
The most memorable part of my journey has always been the students — seeing their progress, their excitement for learning, and getting to know who they are as individuals. I’ve also enjoyed being involved in educational technology, including work with Apple and Google tools, which opened up exciting new opportunities for teaching and learning.
What are your future retirement plans?
I look forward to traveling to explore new places around the world, spending time outdoors, and enjoying nature as much as possible. I’m also eager to stay active and try out new healthy recipes.
Susan Ruberto Teacher, St.
Vincent Elementary School
Hired: 1993
32 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some truly incredible people. What started as professional relationships quickly grew into genuine friendships. We’ve laughed together, leaned on each other during tough times, and celebrated one another’s wins—big and small. There’s been a true sense of family, a kind of love and support that I will always carry with me.
What was your most memorable moment/ event while working for the Board?
The heart of this work has always been the children. It’s been an honour to be part of their journey—to watch them learn, grow, and become more confident in who they are. Being even a small part of their development has brought me so much joy and purpose. Seeing those light-bulb moments, those quiet acts of kindness, beautiful smiles, those bursts of creativity… that’s the kind of reward that stays with you forever.
I leave with deep gratitude—for the friendships, the memories, and the chance to make a difference in the lives of children. It’s been more than a job—it’s been a calling, and I’m thankful for every moment.
What are your future retirement plans?
In retirement, I plan to trade lesson plans for travel plans. I’m looking forward to more time with family and friends, relaxing at camp, walking my dog, staying healthy, and embracing new adventures!
Maria Soulias
Teacher, Pope John Paul II Senior Elementary
Hired: 1997
29 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I am very grateful to the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board for entrusting me with the care of students and their learning. Students’ thirst for knowledge is unwavering at any age and I hope that I was a contributor in igniting their spark and ambition to always reach for greater heights and overcome obstacles with a firm belief in a better tomorrow. I am grateful for my opportunity to delve into teaching as a Language Heritage teacher for the Catholic Board of Education during my post-secondary studies.
My most memorable moment while working for the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board was the time I danced with my colleagues on stage to Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” for our school’s talent show. This was a small act, but what I learned as I watched students perform on stage in plays and talent shows held at Sacred Heart School and then Pope John Paul II was how students have so much to teach us. This year they even taught me the new Brain Rot lingual. That was a hoot!
My other memorable moment was when I was granted my wish to teach rotary Mathematics because I was able to focus my strengths in my favourite school subject from my early days in high school.
“I will always value the impact that my wonderful colleagues have had on me. They were my mentors and friends who taught me the gift of a smile to a child, the importance of socializing whether at lunch or after school, the joy of reading through our book club, and the importance of looking after myself in our hectic days.”
MARIA SOULIAS
What are your future retirement plans? I actually look forward to a change of pace in my retirement where I can get up at my own time, enjoy a nice cup of coffee, and leave the house at leisure. I plan on doing some travelling, continuing reading, going on my cherished walks, maybe joining a gym, and just settling nicely into the next chapter of my life.
Hello Freedom!
Loretta Walberg Teacher, Holy Cross School Elementary School
Hired: 1991
29 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
There are many reasons why I enjoyed my career teaching for the TBCDSB. I enjoyed working with so many wonderful students, watching them grow and learn. I also enjoyed working with a variety of staff members and developing friendships. I also enjoyed coaching soccer and basketball at the junior level.
What was your most memorable moment/ event while working for the Board?
There are many memorable events over my career but if I had to pick one it would be my retirement assembly. The students and staff of Holy Cross school organized a retirement assembly for me that reminded me of how special it was to work at such an amazing school. I am truly blessed to have worked at Holy Cross School for 18 years and to end my career with a special group of grade 2/3 students!
What are your future retirement plans?
In retirement I plan to live an active and healthy lifestyle that includes playing pickle ball, tennis, going to yoga etc. I look forward to traveling more often and have trips to Greece and Italy planned with my husband and adult children. Most of all I look forward to spending more time with family and friends.
“ I enjoyed working with so many wonderful students, watching them grow and learn.”
LORETTA WALBERG
Monica Wilson
Teacher Librarian, Pope John Paul II Senior Elementary School
Hired:2001
25 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board? The camaraderie between staff.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
The highlight of my career was coaching cheerleading.
What are your future retirement plans? To spend time with my grandchildren.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 15 + 25 YEAR PIN RECIPIENTS - AND OUR AMAZING RETIREES!
Words can never truly capture the depth of our gratitude for all you have done, and continue to do for our Board, and most importantly, for our students.
To our retirees: some of you have been walking these hallways for decades, giving your time, energy, and heart to every child who needed you. And just like that… it flies. On behalf of the Board, we extend our most heartfelt thanks for your years of unwavering service, your dedication to your craft, and the countless ways you’ve gone above and beyond.
We hope this commemorative booklet becomes a treasured keepsake - a reminder of a night filled with celebration, reflection, and community. May it spark memories of laughter, learning, and the legacy you leave behind.
Special thanks to our youngest contributors, who brought their magic to the evening:
The KinderOne class at St. Francis School, under the loving guidance of Mrs. Savioli and Ms. Tassone, created stunning tissue paper corsages and boutonnieres for our retirees. A huge thank-you to the ever-stealthy Mrs. Plumridge for her behind-the-scenes help, and to Mrs. Marchese for packaging these creations so beautifully.
To Ms. Janiec and Mrs. Taylor’s KinderGrow crew at St. Pius X School - thank you for the sweet dragonflies that adorned our tables! Their whimsical touch was more than just decoration - they represented transformation, lightness, and future potential. What a powerful symbol to share from students just beginning their journey, to those who have dedicated their lives in guiding them.
A heartfelt thank you to our Senior Team - Allison, Frank, Brent, and JP for your leadership and continued support.
To our wonderful speakers and our dedicated Trustees, thank you for being here tonight to help us celebrate the remarkable individuals who make our Board what it is. Your presence adds such meaning to this evening.
We extend our sincere thanks to Father Ciarán for leading us in grace and beginning our evening with such warmth and reflection.
We are deeply grateful to local potter Brad Hominick from The Pottery Cellar for crafting the stunning keepsake gifts presented to our 25-Year recipients and Retirees, your work adds a truly personal and lasting touch.
A special thank-you to educator Julie Fuentes for introducing a fun new feature this year, the Gira 360 photo booth! What a fantastic way to capture the joy and energy of this celebration.
To everyone who played a part in tonight’s event - thank you. Your contributions, big and small, help make this evening so special.
Wishing you joy, peace, and well-deserved celebration, With gratitude and love,
Your 2025 Board Recognition Team, Jill, Sarah, Kim, Karen, + Alex
