Catholic Education Week is upon us! Across the country, Catholic School Boards are highlighting the wonderful and important work happening within our Catholic education system.

Naturally, with so many good things being celebrated within our classrooms, our attention turns to ensuring Catholic education is available to all Canadians, including those living in jurisdictions that have no or partial publicly funded Catholic education.

Which is where the Toonies for Tuition Endowment Fund comes in.

Traditionally, we at CCSTA see a surge in fundraisers for the Toonies for Tuition Endowment Fund during Catholic Education Week.

With schools functioning remotely throughout the country, Catholic Education Week looks a little different than most years. With those changes comes an unexpected consequence: fewer local fundraisers are happening for Toonies for Tuition.

As a result, there will be a potentially reduced funding for Toonies for Tuition this year. To curb the negative impact on the fund, CCTSA is asking our supporters, followers, stakeholders and fellow educators to consider donating to the fund.

Upon hearing about the funds’ challenges this year, many administrators from across the country reached out to share stories that might inspire action. They shared stories of belonging, family ties and the benefits of faith-based education, and how the Toonies for Tuition program supported those experiences.

“The Toonies for Tuition Endowment Program has afforded many children the opportunity to avail of Catholic education in a safe and caring environment which has enabled them to have a sense of belonging,” shares Elaine King, Principal of Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Corner Brook, Newfoundland. “They have flourished in a faith based learning that is so important to them and their families.”

Read more: Catholic Education Week and Toonies for Tuition: A missed fundraising opportunity this year

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