Over a century of dedicated service to Catholic education has earned the Sisters of St. Ann - St. Joseph’s Community the prestigious 2020 Justice James Higgins Award.

Throughout their illustrious history, the sisters have worked tirelessly in education, healthcare, pastoral ministry, spiritual accompaniment and social justice across Canada. Established in 1850 to meet the educational needs of poor families, the Sisters of St. Ann St.- Joseph’s Community began in Quebec and soon migrated west to Victoria, British Columbia. Before long, they set up schools and ministries across the Pacific Northwest.

In memory of a distinguished Canadian jurist and Catholic School Trustee, the Honourable Justice James Higgins (1913-1974) of St. John's, Newfoundland, the Board of Directors of CCSTA annually presents an award to a person or group that has made an outstanding contribution to Catholic education in Canada. The Justice James Higgins Award is the highest honour provided by CCSTA. It reflects recognition of an exceptional contribution to Catholic education in this country.

Sister Marie Zarowny expressed her gratitude for the annual award on behalf of the Order.

“This award recognizes the often hidden and very challenging efforts of hundreds of Sisters throughout 162 years,” explains Sr. Marie Zarowny. “Those who came before us lived with enormous hardship and their faith, trust and commitment has been phenomenal. We were very surprised and at the same time pleased, humbled and grateful.”

The Annie’s, as they are affectionately called by their friends, recognized the power of Catholic education and mobilized to help the underserved before it was mainstream.

Read more: The Sisters of St. Ann - St. Joseph’s Community honoured for commitment to Catholic education with...

The Canadian Catholic School Trustees' Association wishes trustees, administrators, clergy, school staff and all students and their families across the country a peace-filled and blessed Easter.

During these challenging times, we are reminded of Jesus’ steadfast love for us and his willingness to make his great sacrifice for our eternal salvation.  With the knowledge of what Jesus endured for us, we go forward with the confidence and strength we require to face our current challenges and to live out the values of peace, kindness and love for which he advocated.  

May you feel the light of the Lord in your hearts and may it fill the hearts of your family and homes.

Paula Scott, CCSTA President

In a unanimous decision, Saskatchewan’s highest court has upheld the right of Catholic schools to receive provincial government funding for non-Catholic students.

The ruling stems from a legal dispute almost 20 years in the making. In 2003, Good Spirit School Division closed the only school in Theodore, Saskatchewan. In an effort to keep a local school, parents worked with Christ the Teacher Catholic School Division to open a Catholic school. As a result, the public school division took the matter to court.

This decision overturns the 2017 ruling that sought to limit public funding for students who choose to attend Catholic schools in Saskatchewan but lack a Catholic baptismal certificate. The initial ruling ran contrary to the inclusive values of Catholic education and undermined the educational decisions of parents.

“This appeal decision confirms what we have said and believed all along: parents know what is best for their children and they should be able to choose Catholic, faith-based education if that is what they want - no matter their reasons, faith backgrounds or traditions,” explains Tom Fortosky, Executive Director for the Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards Association.

Although this ruling is based in Saskatchewan, it speaks to the rights of all Canadian students and their parents.

Read more: Saskatchewan’s Highest Court Rules in Favour of Catholic Education