The 2025-2028 Mental Health and Addictions Strategy: Vision for Student Mental Health by the Wellington Catholic District School Board says, "We believe every student deserves to feel a deep sense of belonging, faith, hope and purpose. Through inclusive, compassionate environments and a commitment to lifelong learning, we empower students to prioritize their wellbeing, build resilience and build meaningful lives as engaged members of the Guelph and Wellington communities."
That vision speaks directly to the work we are doing now and the work still ahead. Student well-being and student achievement go hand in hand, and our responsibility is to make sure every student feels supported, connected and able to succeed.
SUPPORTING STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH
Mental health remains a significant issue for children and youth. Wellington Catholic’s 2025–2028 Mental Health and Addictions Prevention Strategy focuses on safe and mentally healthy schools, clear pathways to care, specialized mental health and addictions support and strong community partnerships.
The strategy builds on work already underway across our board, while setting clear priorities for the years ahead. These include strengthening mental health literacy in our classrooms, helping staff recognize when students need additional support, giving families access to evidence-based resources and improving connections between schools and community services.
EQUITY AND INCLUSION
Wellington Catholic has decades of inclusion practice in special education. We believe that all children have gifts and the right to achieve to the best of their abilities. Our mission is to be an inclusive community that empowers children and youth to grow their God-given strengths so they may be the heart and hands of Christ in the world.
That means continuing to create safe, welcoming schools where every student feels a sense of belonging and receives the support and encouragement they need. It also means listening to students and families and including their voices in the planning of programs and supports.
OVERALL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
During my tenure as a Wellington Catholic District School Board trustee, we as a system have accomplished a great deal. Some of the work I am particularly proud of includes the following:
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A strong and ongoing commitment to the well-being of our staff and students.
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Strong community partnerships that provide resources, mental health support, wraparound services and pathways to care. The board's current strategy continues that work, including stronger coordination with community agencies and partners.
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Continued investment in special education and supports that help students with different strengths and needs succeed.
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Strong stewardship of our school facilities and continued attention to the environments in which our students learn.
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The open and accessible International Baccalaureate Programs at Bishop Macdonell and Sacred Heart.
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Balanced budgets that continue to support the needs of our students, staff and schools.
There is still important work ahead, and for me, the goal remains straightforward: Every student should feel that they belong, that they are supported and that they have every opportunity to thrive.