We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.
—Pierre Teilhard de Chardin
This quote has always struck a chord with me, because it speaks to me about the heart of Catholic education. If you have not had the experience of Catholic education, you may wonder what the "difference" is. I believe we are indeed spiritual beings and Catholic education recognizes and celebrates that, and allows us to share a common foundation in faith. This collective faith extends out into the community, "thus enhancing the fabric of society" (as so aptly captured in This Moment of Promise, by the Ontario Council of Catholic Bishops).
When you combine my personal history of coming from an immigrant family with no education with my passion for children, it’s easy to understand why running for trustee is so important to me. I have said many times that education can "level the playing field" for kids, and not just in terms of learning. Education offers experiences, opportunities and caring adults who can change the course of a child’s present and future. The impact of an education ripples throughout a person’s entire life. As a trustee, I have had a voice in the governance of those opportunities and experiences, fulfilling my lifelong calling to serve and support all children.
The Ontario Catholic School Trustees' Association holds that the Catholic School Trustee has an accountability to be in part:
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Witness to the faith
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To promote, protect and advocate for Catholic education
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To work inside the foundational triad of home, school and parish
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To articulate the mission and vision of the system
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To provide governance and policies inspired by the values of the Catholic faith and the principles of democratic and accountable governance
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To monitor student realization of the Ontario Catholic School graduate expectations
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To build significant partnerships within the Catholic community and beyond in support of Catholic education
Education is about developing creative thinkers who become lifelong learners. I would go a step further and say it's about helping students identify their God-given gifts and passions, and providing the tools to share those gifts with the world. Teaching them to be creative thinkers gives them the ability to grow and change and to face ever-evolving circumstances in their lives.
My five granddaughters all attend or have graduated from Catholic school (my grandson is still in daycare!)
Make sure your school support designation is “English Separate” (Catholic) and that you ask for the appropriate ballot. It’s a important step in support of Wellington Catholic District School Board schools and Catholic education. Click here for the forms and more information.