Much like the work of education, its beauty is shaped over time through care, patience, dedication, and the many hands that help it flourish. Some growth is seen in bright, joyful moments, while other growth happens softly beneath the surface, steady, meaningful, and deeply rooted.
At the heart of our shared garden are the extraordinary individuals who rise each day with purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to our students and school communities. Tonight, we honour those whose dedication continues to nurture our collective mission, recognizing those marking 15 and 25 years of service, and those stepping into a well-earned new chapter through retirement.
In this Night Garden, we celebrate quiet growth, lasting impact, and the many ways education continues to bloom.
Retirees!
“YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO SET A NEW GOAL OR DREAM A NEW DREAM.” —C.S. LEWIS
O.E.C.T.A Elementary
Jolene Abick
James Angus
Leslie Belluz
Robert Bertolin
Marc Blais
Mary Ellen Cain
Peter Cameron
Terry Cano
Lori-Ann Carpino
Mona Chiasson
Christina Corness
Jane Evans
Dawn Ferris
Catherine Jacobson
Julie-Ann Mathieu
Leanne Oger
Donna Paxton
Melissa Sdao
Kathleen Sottile
Anna Tocheri
Mary Vasko
Debra Williams
O.E.C.T.A Secondary
Catherine Gaudino
Julie Filipetti
Suzanne Morgan
OSSTF
Marcela Greer
Kallie Hall
Maria Kiviaho
Jodilyn Kukkee
Loralee Morrow
Nancy Nascimben
Lisa Vic
COPE
Trina Smallwood
Unifor
Gerard Lesschaeve
Danny Nistico
LRS
Melynda Young
AESS
Janet Carroll
CPCO
Carol Pascuzzo
15 Year Anniversary!
“IF YOU LOVE YOUR WORK, IF YOU ENJOY IT, YOU’RE ALREADY A SUCCESS.” - JACK CANFIELD
OSSTF
Kimberly Boisvert
Ashly McKillop
Dennis Pasinelli
Rosario Pilato
Jennifer Querry
OECTA Secondary
Elizabeth Buset
Laura DePiero
Samantha Legros
Vincenzo Mollicola
Hannah Persichino
Vincenzo Riccio
OECTA Elementary
John Bortolussi
Joan Esquega
Julie Fuentes
Samantha Gatien
Ashley Kibzey
Crystal Macys
Trafford Parry
OECTA Occasional
Chelsea Crispino
Hailey Powell
COPE
Tammy Kadikoff
Jana Matikainen
Debra Veneruz
“THE
25 Year Anniversary!
SECRET TO HAPPINESS IS DOING WHAT YOU LOVE AND THE SECRET TO SUCCESS IS LOVING WHAT YOU DO.”
–
VANNY ANGEL
UNIFOR
Judy De La Rosa
Kevin Horne
Linda Sharp
OECTA Elementary
Laura Adams
Christie Andreacchi
Filomena Arnone
Keri-Lynn Arthur
Lynsey Atkinson
Marc Blais
Jeff Blieske
Terry Cano
Franco Donato
Lesley Facca
Ginny Gallo
Lucia Goldberg
Cheryl Harrison
Sherrie Lampi
Rosa LaPlante
Leanne McLean
Barbara Parnham
John Prezio
Amy Romito
Michael Tracz
Julie Tsekouras
Mary Vasko
Chantal Wright
COPE
Patricia Bond
OECTA Secondary
Kristie Belcamino
Michael Busch
Shane Comeau
Janice Hakala
Greg Johnsen
Riley McWhirter
John Power
Sabrina Tassone-Peterson
OSSTF
Debbie Guitard
Wendy Javor
Carolyn Mounayer
Elaine Muller
Lisa Sawchuk
CPCO
Michelle Donato
Cynthia Gordon
John Ianni
Tracey Rabachuk
Jolene Abick
Special Education Teacher, St. Vincent School
Hired: 2000
33 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I have had an amazing teaching career filled with opportunities for professional development, supportive teams of dedicated people, inspiring students, and incredible colleagues who have become true friends over the years. We have not only worked together professionally, but also supported one another through many of life’s important moments and challenges. The relationships that have been built truly feel like family. It has been a privilege to work among such a special group of people, where joy, energy, and a true love of learning fill the school community.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
One of my most memorable experiences has been supporting students as they develop their reading skills. Through programs such as Empower Reading, I’ve had the opportunity to watch students move from uncertainty and struggle to confidence and independence. Seeing the pride and excitement on their faces when they are able to read words on their own is very rewarding. Being part of those learning journeys and witnessing students begin to believe in their own abilities has been one of the most meaningful parts of my career.
What are your future retirement plans?
I am looking forward to spending time with family and friends, travelling, camping and enjoying the outdoors and nature. It will be nice to have time to do things I haven’t always had time for and to explore other interests.
MaryEllen Cain
Teacher, Pope John Paul II
Hired:2004
22 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
The staff and the kids.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
Leading choir at Masses, Remembrance Day services, the Grand-friend Program, and yearbook.
What are your future retirement plans?
Moving to Winnipeg, being Nana to my 17 grandchildren and counting, and continuing to serve at church and in the community.
Peter Cameron
Guidance Teacher, Pope John Paul II
Hired: 1994
32 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
What I valued most about working at TBCDSB was the opportunity to be part of two wonderful school communities; St. Elizabeth and Pope John Paul II. What made each day so meaningful were the people.
On the bulletin board in my Guidance office you’ll find each of my class pictures. They’re a reminder of why I come to school every day. Just as I hope I engaged, inspired and provided my students with the tools to succeed in life, they in turn taught and challenged me to evolve, adapt and to focus on the things that really matter.
I was also fortunate to work alongside great staff members, many of whom became some of my closest friends. Of course, each day was filled with challenges and some days were definitely easier than others, but the humour, good will, camaraderie and so many laughs made my 32 years of going to “work” incredibly rich and rewarding.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
Although every day was an adventure, a few particularly memorable moments and highlights come to mind.
I was proud to be part of and carry on a Christmas tradition of giving which was started by Gerrard “Smitty” Smith over 40 years ago at St. Elizabeth School and still continues today.
For two weeks I travelled aboard the National Geographic Quest along the Inside Passage of Northern BC and Alaska as a Grosvenor Teacher Fellow and the power of technology allowed my students to “virtually” travel with me. Through a chance encounter along the shores of Lake Superior, I met Josephine Mandamin-ba and invited her and author of the Water Walker, Joanne Roobertson to my classroom. Their visit inspired the Junior Water Walker initiative by my students which has reached hundreds of classes from around the world.
Walking through the doors of St. Elizabeth school with my wife Cheryl for over 20 years was a unique privilege. Having our son, Kai, walk with us through those same doors to be taught by his mom is my most cherished memory.
What are your future retirement plans?
Adventure, xc skiing, cycling, fishing, hanging with Drift, travel, family, wine and coffee (not necessarily in that order)!
LoriAnn Carpino
Special Education Consultant, Catholic Education Centre
Hired: 1993
33 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
What I enjoyed most about working for TBCDSB are the staff and students that I have met along the way. I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with incredible people throughout my 33 year career between St. Ann and the Catholic Education Centre. Many have turned into lifelong friendships.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
It is difficult to pick just one memorable moment from an amazing 33-year career, but I will be forever grateful for the endless memories, lifelong friendships, and the many laughs we shared along the way. I will always fondly remember our staff room conversations at St. Ann, where our laughter would echo through the hallways - sometimes all the way to the main office.
Beyond the joy, I am incredibly proud of the challenges we overcame together and the deep sense of community we built. Having the privilege to support the many students and
families who walked through our doors will never be forgotten.
What are your future retirement plans?
My future plans include travelling, spending quality time with family and friends and discovering new hobbies.
WISE WORDS: JIMMY BUFFETT
I know a girl made of memories and phrases, lives her whole life in chapters and phases.
Mona Chiasson
Primary/Junior Itinerant Music Teacher, St. Martin, St. Paul, St. Vincent
Hired: 2007
19 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Collaboration with staff and students, daily chats and visits, preparing for liturgical celebrations, and singing with students.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
Preparing and participating in liturgical celebrations throughout the year, especially singing together with students.
What are your future retirement plans?
Enjoying the local area, staying active, spending time with grandchildren, and enjoying slower mornings.
Tina Corness
Coordinator of Special Education, Catholic Education Centre
Hired: 2001
25 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I loved working and advocating for students with special needs and their families. I loved that every day brought opportunities and challenges to learn from and to make a difference in the lives of our students. I am grateful for the camaraderie and support from my ‘work family’ throughout the Board.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
In 2016, I was fortunate enough to be chosen by the Board to travel to North Caribou Lake on a small 6 seater plane, to spend the day at their school and on the land. Truly a beautiful and humbling experience with teachers, children and a community, that I will never forget.
What are your future retirement plans?
I plan to spend more time with family and friends, and doing more of the things I love to do...sailing, skiing and travelling.
Dawn Ferris
Grade 1/2 teacher, Corpus Christi
Hired:1995
25 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
What I valued most in working with the Catholic board was the strong relationships I built with colleagues and students. I especially appreciated witnessing the wonder and curiosity in young learners, and seeing them grow in confidence, achieve personal success, and develop a genuine love of school.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
It’s difficult to choose a single memorable moment, as there have been so many throughout my career. Having spent most of my time teaching Grades 1 and 2, I have felt especially honoured to help prepare Grade 2 students for the holy sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion. Teaching Grade 1 has also been incredibly rewarding, particularly watching students learn to read and write. Seeing their pride when they realize, “I’m a reader!” is a moment that never loses its impact.
What are your future retirement plans?
In retirement, I look forward to slowing down and appreciating life’s simple moments. I am excited to spend more time with my family and friends, as well as enjoying activities I love - long walks, time in nature and staying active. I also hope to do more travelling and volunteering (especially reading with young children), as well as exploring new interests. I look forward to the “next chapter.”
Julie Filipetti
Special Education Teacher, St. Ignatius High School
Hired:1994
32 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I loved working at St. Ignatius, where I truly felt part of the Falcon family. I also valued being part of a faith-based board, where those beliefs were reflected in our daily interactions, sense of community, and support for one another.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
I enjoyed student–staff sports events for the fun and energy they brought. I also valued the moments when I made a difference in a student’s life and thoroughly enjoyed coaching basketball and volleyball.
What are your future retirement plans?
I am looking forward to having more time to explore creative pursuits, including interior decorating, drawing, and other artistic interests. I am also excited to finally be able to travel during non-peak seasons.
WISE WORDS: BILL WATTERSON
There’s never enough time to do all the nothing you want.
Catherine Gaudino
Teacher - Literacy support, Alternative Education and Gateway, St. Patrick High School
Hired:1998
32 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
As an employee of the TBCDSB, I loved being able to pray openly on a daily basis. Knowing it is welcomed and encouraged in our schools has never been something I have taken for granted, and as a Catholic teacher, I realize what a privilege this has been. I have always looked forward to Faith days and feel grateful for the many guest speakers who shared wisdom from the perspective of the Roman Catholic faith.
I am also blessed to have fulfilled my vocation as a Catholic teacher at St. Patrick High School for my entire career (since being hired in 1998 in Thunder Bay). This school has been the most incredible place to work! Both staff and students, throughout ALL of these years, have made this a truly welcoming and supportive place to live and grow.
What was your most memorable moment/ event while working for the Board?
I have several but here are a few....
Teaching Religious Education - I learned so much about the Roman Catholic Faith over the years and feel blessed to work in a Catholic school where this knowledge of our faith can be fostered and shared.
Being the Literacy support teacher for several years has also enabled me to meet and get to know virtually all of our students, so I have always felt connected to our student body as a whole.
Finally, having my daughters, Grace and Anna attend St. Patrick was an experience I know few parents have, and it was extremely special to be alongside them in their Catholic Education journey.
Helping out with “Mama Mia” was a memory that will forever bring warm thoughts as it was an experience I was able to share with my daughter, Anna.
What are your future retirement plans?
Not unlike my fellow retirees, I plan to spend more quality time with family and travel to visit those who are in other parts of the country.
Pursuing something in health/fitness is also a possibility.
Marcela Greer
Student Support Professional,
Hired: 2004
20 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Working as a Student Support Professional with the most vulnerable students in TBCDSB was fulfilling for me. I enjoyed the connection with the students I supported. Helping students to learn new skills and seeing their progress was rewarding. I appreciated learning something new every day. I enjoyed working with a lot of wonderful SSPs and teachers who shared their passion for teaching while raising a new generation.
WISE WORDS: THE TRAGICALLY HIP
First thing we’d climb a tree and maybe then we’d talk. Or sit silently and listen to our thoughts... No dress rehearsal, this is our life.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
I will never forget small acts of kindness that made a huge difference. Older students helping younger one. Greetings with smiles from staff when I was supplying in a new school. Compassionate cards from coworkers when experiencing sorrow. Friendship and humour when we were overcoming challenging times. Homemade cards from students that showed their appreciation.
What are your future retirement plans?
Retirement for me is a time to unwind from a routine. It is time to spend more with my family and friends here and overseas. Waking up without an alarm clock is the luxury I am looking forward to.
Catherine Jacobson
Elementary Teacher Librarian, Holy Family | St. Ann | St. Thomas Aquinas
Hired:1992
34 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Working with great staff and the friendships that I made along the way. Being a Teacher Librarian and being able to work with different classes each day.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
Working in some of the same schools that I went to as a child (St. Vincent) and working in a school library that my mother worked in during her career as a Teacher Librarian (St. Francis). During this last school year, being able to work and reconnect with co-workers/friends from my early years.
What are your future retirement plans?
I plan to rest and relax. Spend quality time with my family and friends. And enjoy each day without having a set schedule.
Jodilyn Kukkee
Registered Early Childhood Educator, Corpus Christi
Hired: 2011
24+ Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I am grateful for my 14 and a half years with the school board and for the many opportunities, experiences and meaningful connections I have made. I truly enjoyed working with some amazing colleagues and staff. Throughout my career, I have met many wonderful families and children and have made friendships that I will forever cherish.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
A few memorable moments are: the reaction that I would get from the students when I would tell them my last name. “Kukkee”. is your name really “Cookie”. like the cookie you eat?” Some students would even tell me what kind of cookie they thought I should be. The ongoing laughter and some of the phrases and comments the children would make on a daily basis. The look of accomplishment and a feeling of pride that a student would display when they were able to successfully do something they initially struggled with. The daily excitement and energy that the students display and their ongoing enjoyment in their learning experiences. Every day was a new day, full of surprises and challenges. I will miss the love and appreciation I received from the students and families over the years. Also, having the opportunity to facilitate the Roots of Empathy Program to the little learners for almost 5 years.
What are your future retirement plans?
To enjoy spending time and creating memories with my two teenage children and my two cats by camping, hiking, fishing, travelling. To enjoy quality time with my parents, and family at camp and helping them out in any way I can. Rest, self care, work in my flower gardens, complete many items from my Ongoing To Do List as well as continue working on my Mental Health and Well Being. Spend some time with friends I have lost touch with and engage in opportunities where I can meet new people. I would like to do some volunteering and help others. Live Life to the Fullest, Dance like nobody is watching and Enjoy each and every day.
Gerard Lesschaeve
Head Custodian, St. Francis School
Hired: 1986
39 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Having a great job that helped me provide for my family. The variety of work throughout the year that kept the job interesting and meaningful. I took pride in my work and appreciated the compliments from those who entered the Schools. I have also worked with many great Administrators, Custodians, Contractors who have helped make my job easier. What I will miss the most is my many School Families and Friends that made going to work every day an adventure.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
There have been many in 40 years. The biggest one for me was the 1996 snow storm that shut the City down. The Custodians were tasked with clearing entrances and sidewalks, while contractors did Playgrounds and Parking Lots. Then Custodians were teamed up to clear snow loads off various School roofs that needed attention. Second most memorable moment was getting a shed and a snowblower at St. Francis School. I thanked the Plant Department for my new snowblower for my 30 anniversary with the School Board!
What are your future retirement plans?
More time with Family, projects around home, and of course Hunting and Fishing!
Julie-Ann Mathieu
SHSM Healthcare Teacher, St. Patrick
Hired: 2008
18+ Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Teaching is my second career after a successful career in architectural design and consulting; then an HBSc and BEd degree, which led me to my true calling as a teacher! There are many wonderful friendships and memories with my colleagues at St. Pat’s. I most enjoyed working with young people in the SHSM healthcare program, and hopefully I played a small role in igniting their spark and ambition to overcome obstacles & reach for greater heights as they pursue their interests and future career.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
There are many memories with students -- seeing them progress, their excitement for learning, and getting to know them as individuals. I am proud of the knowledge I shared, but even more grateful for the relationships built and the lives of students in which I got to play a small part. Seeing students in their chosen careers in our community gives me great pride.
What are your future retirement plans?
I hope to maintain my health, travel and work on my bucket list, as well as spend more time in nature camping.
Suzanne Morgan
English Teacher, St. Ignatius
Hired: 2003
23 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I have greatly enjoyed seeing reluctant students find their voices and confidently express their ideas through lively discussions, writing or creative work. I love that staff and students often share common values and traditions, which foster deeper connections in a collaborative environment.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
While the day to day teaching and student interactions hold a special place in my heart, it is also the school events, liturgies and coaching that will always have cherished memories for me to look back upon.
What are your future retirement plans?
My plans for retirement are to stay fit, sleep in, read more books, watch the birds and explore this great country of ours!. I will miss the students, staff and my cozy room in the 600 wing.
Nancy Nascimben
Student Support Professional, St. Patrick High School
Hired: 1995
30 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
It allowed me to obtain a balanced work and home life. I was able to work beside people who were making a difference in other’s lives.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
I was working at a high school when I got my permanent status, then going to almost every other Catholic school before finishing off where I started. My career has gone full circle and that to me is the most memorable part.
What are your future retirement plans?
While still maintaining a job in a group home I would like to concentrate on getting back to competing in the pool and going to Master Worlds in Japan in May 2027.
Carol Pascuzzo
Principal, Corpus Christi
Hired:1991
34 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
What I have treasured most during my time with the TBCDSB is the wonderful community of staff, students, and parents who have made every day meaningful. The genuine connections and deep relationships we built together are what I will carry with me most fondly into retirement. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve TBCDSB.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
No one moment or event was more memorable than others. It was the daily glimmers through interactions with staff and students that brought joy and meaning to my life throughout my career.
What are your future retirement plans?
While I don’t have a specific road map just yet, I am excited to step into this next chapter and embrace whatever new adventures await. My immediate plans are simple. Surround myself with family, friends, and my beloved furbabies, while filling my days with the simple joys of gardening, cooking, baking, and traveling.
All of us get lost in the darkness, dreamers learn to steer by the stars.
WISE WORDS: GEDDY LEE
Melissa Sdao
Hired:1996 26 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
What I liked most about working for the TBCDSB was being part of a Catholic school community. I was truly blessed in my position as an Itinerant Christian Living Teacher for over 20 years at St. Martin School. I embraced my role as Faith Ambassador and thoroughly enjoyed preparing and participating in so many liturgical celebrations, social justice initiatives and outreach activities with the staff and students. I was not only able to teach about the Catholic faith, but to live it and share it with everyone, each and every day!
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
The most memorable times I spent at St. Martin school were organizing and implementing the monthly popcorn days in support of the Holy Childhood Association (HCA); a Catholic charity whose motto is “Children Helping Children”. Over the years, there were so many dedicated staff, parents and volunteers that assisted with this initiative. And the students participated by reading the announcements and delivering the popcorn to the classrooms. And of course, everyone enjoyed devouring the popcorn! It was a very rewarding and humbling experience knowing that the money that was raised by our school community was used to help so many children in need all over the world.
What
are your future retirement plans?
My future retirement plans are to enjoy working as an occasional teacher with the school board for a few more years. I will continue to be an active member of St. Agnes Parish by serving in the various church ministries. Although I look forward to spending more time with my family and my friends, I also want to explore opportunities to volunteer more within the community. My future travel plans include visiting the east coast of Canada during the summer and heading to a warm island destination during the winter.
Trina Smallwood
Administrative Assistant, St. Elizabeth School
Hired:2017
9 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I was made to feel welcome from my very first day. It has been a true joy to come to work each day, and I will deeply miss the incredible staff and students at St. Elizabeth School. I am profoundly grateful to have spent the last nine years of my career in such a big-hearted community.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
I loved the year end family picnic where all the families come together and enjoy a fun evening.
What are your future retirement plans?
Looking forward to enjoying life and relaxation. Spending time with friends and family.
Kathleen Sottile
Kindergarten Teacher, Corpus Christi
Hired: 1993
33 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Without a doubt — the people. The students who brought energy, honesty, and the occasional chaos, and the colleagues who turned busy days into shared laughter and support.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
When asked to reflect on the most memorable moments of my career, I realized something surprising — the moments I cherish most aren’t really moments at all. They’re people. Of course, there are plenty of “moments” along the way. Like the joy on a child’s face when they finally get it — and yes, I still maintain that sometimes you can actually see the imaginary lightbulb flicker on above their heads. Those are the wins teachers live for.
Then there are the behind-the-scenes moments: the laughter in the staff room, the conversations that solved the world’s problems (or at least helped us get through the day), and the unwavering support of colleagues who somehow became family. I will always have a soft spot for those one-hour lunch breaks — real lunches, with real conversations, before life got quite so busy. There’s also nothing quite like the excitement of late August in an elementary school. Hot classrooms, stacks of supplies, big plans, and that unmistakable mix of anticipation and nervous energy that only teachers truly understand. Add in assemblies, dance-a-thons, and school-wide events, and you have the kind of organized chaos that builds school spirit — and lifelong memories. Over the years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to learn from so many people — mentors who guided me, colleagues who supported me, and students who challenged me in the best possible ways. And then there are the little ones.
I began my career in Kindergarten, and it feels perfectly fitting that I am ending it there. After all, it’s the little people who have taught me the biggest lessons. They have a way of keeping things simple and honest. To them, what matters most is clear: feeling safe, having friends, laughing often, and finding joy in the smallest things. They remind you daily of what’s important — and they don’t let you take yourself too seriously, either. Watching them grow, learn, and discover the world around them has been, without question, the most rewarding part of my career. I may have been their teacher, but the truth is, they have taught me just as much — if not more.
What are your future retirement plans?
I look forward to spending more time with family and friends as I begin this new chapter in retirement. At the same time, I’m also embarking on another exciting chapter as a newlywed, and I can’t wait to share new adventures with my husband, Randy. I’m looking forward to tackling projects around my home and garden, and I hope to stay connected to the joy of teaching by occasionally returning as a substitute teacher.
“ Then there are the behind-the-scenes moments: the laughter in the staff room, the conversations that solved the world’s problems (or at least helped us get through the day), and the unwavering support of colleagues who somehow became family.”
- KATHY SOTTILE
Anna Tocheri
Bilingual Kindergarten Teacher, St. Martin
Hired: 1992
34 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
What I’ve valued most has always been the people. I’ve been blessed to work alongside so many wonderful colleagues who have become lasting friends. Working with generations of students and families in this community has been one of the greatest honours of my life. Teaching within the tradition of Catholic education has been a fulfilling journey. These relationships and sense of community are what have truly made this career so special to me.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
There are so many funny, poignant and cherished memories of my time in the classroom and staff room that it is difficult to choose just one. What stays with me most, though, are the everyday moments — the sound of the children laughing with abandon; the wonder on their faces when they realize they can read; the coziness of winter mornings in a cloakroom overflowing with jackets, hats and mitts waiting to be sorted out later; and seeing families gathering from our windows each morning, trusting us with their children.
What are your future retirement plans?
I am looking forward to enjoying the colours and the smell of autumn without sharpening 3 million pencils; to spending more time with my wonderful family as well as with my dear friends; to travelling whenever the mood strikes; to taking care of myself through walking and yoga and rest; and to taking the time to enjoy a leisurely morning coffee.
MaryVasko
Physical Education Health and Second Step, St. Vincent + St. Francis Schools
Hired: 2000
26 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
More than just colleagues, my colleagues became a source of strength and lifelong friendship. I deeply valued our collaboration and the shared support system we built, especially during challenging times. The true joy of teaching lies in cultivating strong relationships and witnessing students joyfully wonder, explore, and evolve into confident, independent learners.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
A standout moment at St. Martin’s was when a visiting Canadian author showcased my students’ art—inspired by his book—on his personal website, thrilling the class to see their work featured online. Another was when our librarian, Marlo Currie, allowed my grade 4s to display their larger-than-life Habitat animals on the library shelves for over 2 months. She said she had grown to love them there and extended our showing! This project involved 2 weeks of full afternoons as students engineered their creations. Carpets of poly, pizza boxes, newspapers, and glue everywhere! Students buzzed as they collaborated, problem-solved and tested their papier-mache techniques. It was fantastic!! Watching my students’ faces light up as our Habitat and Geology units came to life was truly magical. By bringing in a diverse collection of specimens—rocks, minerals, skulls, teeth, bones, and furs—the classroom transformed into a buzzing laboratory of exploration. It was incredibly rewarding to see them apply their knowledge of adaptations and predator-prey relationships, eagerly sharing their findings and speculating on their samples. That kind of authentic engagement is exactly why I love teaching. A defining theme of my career has been fostering deeper student engagement, which I achieved by integrating visual arts projects into the curriculum. Watching students make these meaningful connections—and seeing their enthusiasm for art-based learning—remains a highlight of my professional journey.
What are your future retirement plans?
Oh, where to start! For 26 years, my art was confined to holidays, leaving many projects—like the wire walleye destined to swim around the trees at my camp—waiting in the wings. After years of my husband patiently watching me hoard materials for ‘someday,’ I am finally out of excuses. I am eager to return to drawing, painting, and sculpting. After retiring, my top priority is making up for lost time with my daughters and grandchildren out west. I’ve missed too many trips, and I can’t wait to finally join my husband in retirement and be there for all the moments that matter. And enjoy the great outdoors!! I will continue to do yoga, snowshoe, ride my hydrobike across Kashabowie, hike and run the hydrolines and dirt roads at camp. Trips involving camping, fishing and hunting during “work” months will now be possible-No flies; no obligations!! Life is too short. My plans also involve supply teaching 1 or 2 days a week until I feel it’s truly time to walk away. Waking at 5:50 a.m. five times a week will sorely be missed. HA!
Debra Williams
Itinerant Music Teacher, St. Martin, St. Francis, St. Jude and Our Lady of Charity
Hired: 2005
20 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
I loved, loved the students and introduced them to new musical experiences.
What was your most memorable moment/event while working for the Board?
There are too many to mention just one.
What are your future retirement plans?
Help with my grandchildren and relax!
WISE WORDS: TINA FEY
In most cases being a good boss means hiring talented people and then getting out of their way.
Melynda Young
Lunchroom Supervisor, Our Lady Of Charity
Hired: 2005
13 Years in Education
What did you like most about working for the Board?
Getting to see the children grow from year to year.
What was your most memorable moment/ event while working for the Board?
When I was able to share my crocheting with the grade 3 class at St. Margaret school.
What are your future retirement plans?
Crocheting full-time, and hanging out with my grandchildren.
TO OUR 15- AND 25-YEAR PIN RECIPIENTS AND OUR INCREDIBLE RETIREES!
Tonight, we are honoured to celebrate our 15- and 25-year pin recipients, as well as our incredible retirees.
This evening is about recognizing more than years of service. It is about celebrating the people behind those years, the care you have given, the relationships you have built, the challenges you have met, and the difference you have made in the lives of students, families, colleagues, and school communities.
We are so proud of all that you have accomplished, no matter what stage of your career you are in. Our Board is stronger, kinder, and more vibrant because of you, because of your gifts, your talents, your dedication, and the many ways you have shared them with others.
We hope you savour this evening. Take photos in the photobooth, mingle, reconnect, laugh, reminisce, and enjoy celebrating your successes alongside the colleagues and friends who have shared in this journey with you.
We are so grateful to be celebrating with you tonight!
Thank You!
“NONE OF US, INCLUDING ME, EVER DO GREAT THINGS. BUT WE CAN ALL DO SMALL THINGS, WITH GREAT LOVE, AND TOGETHER WE CAN DO SOMETHING WONDERFUL.” —MOTHER TERESA
Board Recognition would not be what it is without the support, creativity, and generosity of our school communities. This year, we are especially grateful to have student-created artwork woven into our celebration in such a meaningful way.
These pieces are not only beautiful, but personal. Some are wearable, one of a kind, and lasting, created by students as a heartfelt tribute to the people we are honouring tonight.
CENTREPIECES
The beautiful floral centrepieces you see this evening were created by Tina Glymitsas, Rose Aegard and Lisa Sawchuk’s Grade 2 students at St. Margaret School.
These flowers became the inspiration for our theme, The Night Garden. Like each of you, every piece is unique, shaped with care, imagination, and inspiration from those around it. And like flowers in a garden, each of you has grown, changed, adapted, and transformed throughout the many seasons of your career.
Together, these centrepieces remind us that beauty is found in growth, in community, and in the lasting impact we have on one another.
RETIREE CORSAGES AND BOUTONNIERES
Our retiree corsages and boutonnieres were lovingly created by Krystine Janiec and Tracey Towle’s Grade 2/3 class at St. Pius X School.
With care and creativity, the students created beautiful hand-dyed florals for our retirees to wear with pride this evening. We hope these special pieces become treasured keepsakes, a small but meaningful reminder of your time with TBCDSB, the students whose lives you touched, and the legacy you leave behind.
May they remind you that your contributions have mattered deeply, and that the seeds you have planted throughout your career will continue to grow for years to come.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Tina, Rose, Lisa, Krystine, Tracey, and their students for the incredible care, creativity, and time they put into these beautiful pieces. What you see tonight is the result of many thoughtful moments behind the scenes, guiding little hands, encouraging big ideas, organizing materials, problem-solving, and helping each student contribute something special.
A heartfelt thank you to our Senior Team: Allison, Frank, Brent, and JP, for your leadership and continued support. We are grateful for you and for the talents and gifts God has given you. The weight you carry is significant, and much of it is not always seen by others. Yet you continue to lead with dignity, grace, and dedication. Thank you for all you do for our Board.
To our Trustees: steadfast and always supportive, thank you. You ensure that Catholic Education remains at the forefront of all you do. In challenging times, you continue to rally, advocate, and lead in support of students, staff, and families. We are grateful for your guidance, humility, and unwavering commitment to the mission of Catholic education.
We are also grateful to have Bishop Campeau and Father Ciarán with us this evening, leading us in prayer and spiritual growth. Thank you for taking the time to spend an evening with such an incredible group of people!
GIFTS
What retired person needs a watch? No one! And so, the tradition of giving a local gift was born!
For the past six years, we have had the privilege of working with Brad Hominick from the Pottery Cellar, and he is unbelievably talented! This year, Brad has created a beautiful handmade bowl for our 2026 retirees, crafted in his signature style. Cheers as well to our 25-year recipients, who will also receive pottery created by Brad!
To everyone who played a part in tonight’s event, thank you. This evening is special because it is truly a team effort, and it is the small details that make it a one-of-a-kind celebration.
Congratulations to our retirees and pin recipients! It has been a pleasure to create an evening tailored to you and your accomplishments. Wishing you a well-deserved celebration!
