Special Board of Trustees Meeting: Monday, June 16, 2025 @ 6:30 p.m. – Agenda: 2025-06-16_Board-of-Trustee Agenda
Location: 1st floor Board Room, Catholic Education Centre, 35 Weber Street, Kitchener
General Information About WCDSB Board Meetings
Information About the Board of Trustees
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Last week, St. Mark Catholic Elementary School welcomed a week of meaningful learning as part of the Waterloo Catholic District School Board’s Indigenous Week of Learning. The experience offered students an opportunity to connect with Indigenous culture, history, and traditions in a hands-on, heartfelt way.
This special initiative was created through the leadership and vision of Superintendent Jenny Ritsma, who oversees the Indigenous Education portfolio, and Jen Staats, Indigenous Consultant K–12. Together, they imagined a week that would bring Indigenous learning to life in every elementary school—moving beyond textbooks and into classrooms, conversations, and community. Inspired by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, the goal is to help students learn from, with, and about First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.
Thanks to a team of dedicated Indigenous educators and Knowledge Keepers, that vision came to life at St. Mark. Classrooms and shared spaces were transformed. The library became an Indigenous Museum, filled with traditional clothing, instruments, furs, and sacred medicines—offering students a chance to see, touch, and learn. Outside, students picked up lacrosse sticks to play Canada’s national sport, first created by Indigenous Peoples.
Each grade experienced something unique.
Katie Croft, Indigenous Special Assignment Teacher, worked with students, guiding them through the Indigenous Peoples Map of Canada and teaching about how Indigenous communities lived off the land, the formation of Canada, and the diverse names and locations of First Nation communities. Additionally, her in class lessons for grade 4-8 students were closely tied to the Social Studies and History curriculum.
Darlene Schaffer, an Inuk Knowledge Keeper, spent time with Kindergarten to Grade 3 students, sharing stories, traditions, and lived experiences from Nunavut. Her additional Inuit presentation for the whole school really brought the Inuit culture to life for students.
Teresa Pitt, a Métis Knowledge Keeper, visited Grade 1 and 2 classrooms with stories and teachings that celebrates Métis identity, language, the arts and community.
Jen Staats offered a canoe presentation, highlighting its cultural and historical importance in Indigenous life—connecting students to traditions of travel, trade, and connection that continue today.
Creating space for Indigenous teachings helps students grow in knowledge and respect—and reminds us that reconciliation begins with listening and learning together.
Please be advised that the Special Board Meeting – Budget Presentation, originally scheduled for June 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m., has been rescheduled to June 16, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
Thank you for your attention to this change.
At the May 26, 2025, Board of Trustees meeting, the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) approved Option 3 of the Southeast Galt Boundary Review. This decision follows extensive consultation and careful consideration of enrolment trends, school capacities, and community feedback.
What This Means:
We are committed to ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for all students and families. More information is available on the Southeast Galt Boundary Review webpage.
Thank you for your continued partnership in Catholic education.
This week marked the final staff Pickleball game of the school year—an initiative that has quickly become a beloved WCDSB tradition. It began in the fall of 2023, sparked by Administrator Pat Runstedler and Consultant Andrea Pfeiffer, who shared a vision of promoting staff wellness through movement, connection, and fun.
What started with just 3 or 4 courts and a dozen participants at St. David soon gained momentum. By February, all 9 courts were in action, with more than 35 staff members taking part each week.
“Staff wellness through movement and connection has always been a priority for Andrea and me,” said Pat. “Healthy, active living—and Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the world—provided the perfect opportunity for both.”
Titles were left at the door. ECEs, teachers, principals, retirees, spouses—and sometimes even children—joined in. The motto was simple: Always room for one more, echoing the inclusive spirit of the PALS (Playground Activity Leaders in Schools) program.
All skill levels were welcome, and the energy on the court reflected a vibrant, supportive community. Even the Communications Team found themselves swept up in the fun, thanks to some encouragement (and lessons) from Pat—who dreams of becoming a Pickleball coach in retirement. He even convinced one hesitant Communications Team member to pick up a paddle and give it a go.
While this final game marked a bittersweet milestone for Pat, he expressed nothing but joy at seeing the initiative flourish. “It’s become more than a game,” he said. “It’s a community built on wellness, laughter, and a little friendly competition.”
Rest assured, while Pat may be retiring from the board, he’s certainly not retiring from the court. He’s already taking enrolment for new “students of Pickle” this September, and the Communications Team is first in line.
The Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) is preparing for the future—and we want to hear from you.
As we reflect on our current Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) (2022–2025), we’re also beginning the important work of shaping our next plan to guide the years ahead. To support this process of reflection and renewal, we’re inviting staff, families, caregivers and community members to complete a short survey.
Deadline Extended: You now have until May 30, 2025, to make your voice heard.
Take the survey here: WCDSB MYSP Feedback Survey
The survey takes just 10–15 minutes to complete. Your input will:
• Help assess the impact of our current plan
• Identify shared values and emerging priorities
• Shape the next MYSP to reflect the voices of our community
All responses are anonymous and will be reviewed to identify key themes for the Board of Trustees and senior leadership.
If you have questions, need support, or would like to request a translated version, please contact research@wcdsb.ca.
Thank you for being part of this important conversation. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive future for Catholic education in Waterloo Region.
Board of Trustees Meeting: Monday, May 26, 2025 @ 6:00 p.m. – Agenda: 2025-05-26_Board-of-Trustee Agenda
Location: 1st floor Board Room, Catholic Education Centre, 35 Weber Street, Kitchener
General Information About WCDSB Board Meetings
Information About the Board of Trustees
(Note: Agenda files can be large. If you are experiencing issues downloading a file, right-click on the link and choose “Save Target As…”.)
Cambridge, ON:
The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) held a groundbreaking ceremony yesterday at the future location of the New Cambridge Joint Elementary School, at 605 Wesley Boulevard in Cambridge.
Rendering of SE Galt School.
We were joined by representatives from the Region of Waterloo, City of Cambridge, YWCA Cambridge and Ontario Education Minister, Paul Calandra, as we look forward to the new school serving WRDSB and WCDSB students, families and communities.
“Our government is focused on supporting students, teachers, and parents while ensuring school boards are equipping our students with the tools they need to succeed,” said Paul Calandra, Minister of Education. “Once completed, this project will offer an inspiring learning environment that helps students prepare for the jobs of tomorrow. Our government will continue to provide the resources students need for ultimate achievement.”
“As someone who has spent a lifetime in education and community service, I know the power of collaboration to build spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed,” said Maedith Radlein, Chair of the WRDSB Board of Trustees. This joint-use school shows what is possible when we work together to meet the needs of a growing and diverse community.”
“Today marks a new chapter for elementary school construction in Waterloo Region as we begin the joint school build in South East Galt,” said Renée Kraft, Chair of the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. “We are excited to take part in this inspiring partnership with the Waterloo Region District School Board. This milestone stands as a strong example of how collaboration and a shared vision can serve the greater good of our community. Together, we will work to create a space that honours the unique values and traditions of each board, and supports WCDSB’s vision: success for each, a place for all.”
Photo from the October 2024 land acknowledgement and blessing ceremony.
Designed by J.P. Thomson Architects Ltd, a full-service architectural firm located in Ontario, the project represents the first joint use elementary school in Waterloo Region and is an effort to combine our resources to maximize our ability to better serve the Cambridge community. The new design will feature shared gymnasiums and library spaces, a purpose-built child care centre, and a remarkable steel truss feature at the main entrance. Inspired by the historic bridges that span the Grand River, the truss symbolizes the connection between the two school boards and reflects the local architectural heritage.
“This groundbreaking marks more than the beginning of a new school building – it represents a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and the future of education in Cambridge,” said Scott Miller, Director of Education for the WRDSB. “Together with our partners at the WCDSB, we are creating a space where students will thrive, families will feel welcomed, and our community will grow stronger.”
Left to right: Trustee Robert Sikora, Director Tyrone Dowling, Vice-Chair Tracey Weiler, Trustee David Guerin and Trustee Kathy Doherty-Masters
“We are thrilled to be part of this joint venture, which speaks to the spirit of collaboration and community that defines our region,” said Tyrone Dowling, Director of Education for the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. “This project reflects our shared hope for the future—and our belief, grounded in faith, that when we come together, we can build learning spaces where every student feels a deep sense of belonging, purpose, and possibility. We’re grateful to our partners at the Waterloo Region District School Board and look forward to opening the doors in September 2026.”
As construction continues, the New Cambridge Joint Elementary Schools will also receive names, in accordance with WRDSB and WCDSB policies.
About the New Cambridge Joint Elementary Schools
The New Cambridge Joint Elementary Schools, located at 605 Wesley Blvd in Cambridge. The school will provide:
The school is tentatively scheduled to open in September 2026.
About the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB)
Waterloo Region District School Board serves more than 65,000 students in 122 schools and alternative and continuing education sites. Our school district partners with staff, families and caregivers to build students’ confidence and success in learning and in life.
About the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB)
The Waterloo Catholic District School Board is the sixth largest Catholic school board in Ontario, proudly serving students and families across the Region of Waterloo. The board oversees 45 elementary schools, five secondary schools, an alternative education high school, and an Adult and Continuing Education program supporting more than 13,500 learners. With roots dating back to 1836, WCDSB continues a long-standing tradition of faith-based education in the community.
Reminder: Share Your Voice in WCDSB’s Strategic Planning
The Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) is preparing for the future—and we want to hear from you.
As we reflect on our current Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) (2022–2025), we’re also beginning the process of developing a new plan to guide our priorities moving forward. To support both reflection and renewal, we’re inviting staff, families, caregivers, and community members to complete a short survey.
Take the survey here: WCDSB MYSP Feedback Survey
The survey is open until May 23, 2025, and takes just 10–15 minutes to complete.
Your feedback will:
All responses are anonymous and will be reviewed to identify key themes for the Board of Trustees and senior leadership.
If you have questions, need support, or would like to request a translated version, please contact research@wcdsb.ca.
Thank you for helping us build a stronger, more inclusive future for Catholic education in Waterloo Region.
We’re pleased to confirm that St. Mary’s High School will reopen for in-person learning on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
Following the school’s temporary closure due to a confirmed case of measles, Region of Waterloo Public Health has worked closely with WCDSB staff to complete a thorough review of immunization records. This process required significant time, care and coordination, including dedicated efforts over the weekend.
We sincerely thank the staff at St. Mary’s and our partners at Region of Waterloo Public Health for their responsiveness and commitment to student and community safety.
