Caring Family Member

September & Renewed Purpose

/ Anthony_Perrotta

Excitingly, the opportunity to reflect and act upon renewed purpose comes with each September and the start of a new school year. With a commitment to both community and self, Saint Oscar Romero of El Salvador reminds us that “peace is generosity. It is right and it is duty.” As such we’re all called to be caring family members and responsible citizens who understand the relevance of such duty and purpose.

A school community that holds true the generosity of peace allows for love to grow and be shared. Equally, as etched in our school crest, the mission of “community, justice and knowledge” reminds us that schooling is more than marks on a report card or “curriculum” taught in class. It’s about character, the journey of learning and who God calls us to be.

Whether it be the pursuit of academic excellence, contributing to classroom life in a positive way or thriving in sport through friendly competition, a school community that believes in peace will excel and transform in God’s likeness. 

Like Saint Oscar Romero who lived and served with humility and in pursuit of the common good, a commitment to community means being courageous, selfless, kind, honest, respectful and loving.  

Looking to self, embrace the opportunity to learn, unlearn and relearn. In particular for students, believe in yourself and know that you can achieve personal success. 

Set personal goals, plan, reflect, adapt, try hard, be resilient, ask for help, have an open mind, help others, practice patience, be responsible for your actions and committed to your success. Thrive towards your personal best all while being challenged by a culture of high expectations that respects and looks to nurture your God-given potential. Equally, know you are loved and supported by a school community grounded in faith. You are not alone.

With the new school year beginning, embrace peace and the duty that comes with it. Let the life and words of Saint Oscar Romero guide you.

A Call to Do What is Right and Just

/ Anthony_Perrotta

Recently, members of St. Oscar Romero’s student council took part in a TCDSB virtual leadership workshop. This workshop provided members with an opportunity to share with other student leaders from across the TCDSB and to further grow in our journey to do “what is right and just,” in our school community and be what God intends us to be as future Ontario catholic school graduates.

As members of St. Oscar Romero’s student council, we hold our family motto very close to our hearts. As a school family navigating all things COVID, we recognize that student council is more important than ever before. Thus, we grow as caring family members, with a deep committed to the well-being of St. Oscar Romero CSS.

For the past two years, students been thrust into a new world of schooling where learning has taken place at home, school schedules have been modified and extra curricular activities have been paused. All of these changes have not been easy for many.

As we approach the two-year mark of when Ontario schools first went virtually due to COVID, we have to recognize the toll such realities have had on students’ mental health and the well-being of all invested in schools.

It is not easy for students or staff to switch to remote learning in order to accommodate a pursuit of an education. Since this has happened, students have been feeling isolated and alone, and are not yet accustomed to being back in school. Because of this, it is important for student leaders to engage meaningful and bring some much needed joy. Over the course of the past two years, many students did not have a chance to have a full high school experience. Thus, as school leaders, it’s important that we try our best to engage in activities that will help boost self-esteem, confidence, and bring people together.

With COVID responsible activities and through positive role modelling, student council has lifted students’ spirits. Day-by-day, the goal is to restore enthusiasm and remind the St. Oscar Romero school family that through hardship rises new beginnings.

Recently, we’ve had the pleasure of offering a series of activities, raffle prizes and candy grams for the Christmas and Valentine’s seasons. Just this week, we’ve also worked to support those impacted by the crisis in Eastern Europe through fundraising. We look forward to hosting a carnival day in the Spring and hosting a number of other activities that will bring people together. With all of this, special thanks are extended to Ms. Borean, who is currently the student council staff moderator. Ms. Borean’s dedication and mentorship is much appreciated.

With all of this, all members of student council recognize that serving is a true privilege. Through student council we have the opportunity to grow and learn about ourselves and others. We all thank the school community for their trust and partnership.