Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board

Six weeks. 13 camps. 500+ campers. Countless memories. 💙

That’s a wrap on another incredible Focus on Youth (FOY) summer! From arts and sports to Indigenous culture, campers had six weeks to explore, create, connect and make memories, while our amazing student leaders gained valuable experience and made a difference in the lives of others.

At our closing celebration, Director of Education David Hansen reminded our camp leaders just how much their work mattered: “The greatest compliment I can give you is that you made a difference this summer, and you should be very proud of it.”

A huge thank you to Rising Stars, our campers, student leaders, staff and community partners for making FOY 2026 one to remember.

Enjoy the rest of your summer! We can’t wait to see you back in September. 📚✨

🚌 Student Transportation Update

Getting ready for the new school year? Here’s some helpful information about bus details, how to access them, and HSR PRESTO passes for eligible students.

Learn more: https://www.hwcdsb.ca/cms/One.aspx?portalId=370250&pageId=1000385

📣 Waitlist spots are still available for Passport to Grade 9!

This program supports a smooth transition to high school, helping students build the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to succeed while growing in both faith and all aspects of life.

Register today: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=3mRnGrJqT0uzQfOY6ZcnB4Se-QloyANOrIT_82mgypZUMjhWWU1ZWDhZUDBYQUJEMThYU1I5WjNJTy4u&origin=QRCode

September is less than a month away! 🍎📚

🗓️ Have you downloaded the new school calendars yet? Make sure you have all the important dates at your fingertips, including holidays and PA days, so you're ready for the first day of school: https://www.hwcdsb.ca/school_life/school/calendars

Some more 📸 of our campers and leaders at St. Patrick's Catholic Church De Mazenod Farm!

For two decades, St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Elementary School and St. Marguerite d'Youville Catholic Elementary School have been shining examples of environmental stewardship, demonstrating what can be accomplished when faith, education, and care for creation come together in a shared mission.

As both schools celebrate 20 years of EcoSchools certification, we recognize not only an extraordinary milestone, but also a legacy of leadership that has inspired generations of students, staff, and families to become responsible caretakers of God's creation.

🔗 https://www.hwcdsb.ca/news/2025-2026/celebrating_twenty_years_of_caring_for_creation

Last month we celebrated another successful year of the Roots of Empathy program. The annual Baby Celebration brought together students, families, educators and community partners to recognize the 57 babies and their families who served as the program's "youngest teachers." 🌱

Their visits to classrooms throughout the school year helped students develop empathy, kindness and emotional understanding while building stronger, more caring school communities. This year's celebration also marked the 30th anniversary of the internationally recognized program.

Happy Canada Day! 🇨🇦

Earlier this month we celebrated 10 graduates from the Good Shepherd Notre Dame House and Regina's Place/Jeanne Scott Parent and Child Resource Centre School. 🎓

Held in partnership with Good Shepherd Centres, the ceremony brought together graduates, families, friends, senior administration, and staff from both organizations to recognize the accomplishments of the Class of 2026.

🔗 https://www.hwcdsb.ca/news/2025-2026/a_celebration_of_courage__growth__and_graduation