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Tips for Parents to Get Involved: OAPCE recognizes that some parents might find it daunting to get involved in their child’s education due to a lack of support or direction. Here are a few tips for parents to actively engage and support their child’s success in Catholic education: 1. Attend OAPCE Events and Workshops: OAPCE regularly organizes events, workshops, and webinars on various educational topics. These events offer a platform for parents to learn, ask questions, and gain insights from experts in the field. “I attended an OAPCE Conference and it provided me with practical strategies to enhance my child’s learning at home. I highly recommend attending these events as they are informative and inspiring!” – OAPCE Niagara Representative  2. Establish Open Communication: Foster open and regular communication with your child’s teachers and school administration. Actively seek feedback on your child’s progress and discuss any concerns or questions you may have. “Open communication between parents and educators is key to fostering a supportive and successful learning environment for our children. By actively seeking feedback and voicing our concerns or questions, we can work together with teachers and school administration to ensure our children’s academic and personal growth.” – R. Takawy, OAPCE Dufferin Peel, Director. 3. Volunteer Opportunities: Look for volunteer opportunities at your child’s school or within the broader Catholic education community. Volunteer work allows you to connect with educators, parents, and students, creating a sense of community and shared responsibility. 4. Stay Informed: Keep updated with educational policies and changes within the Catholic education system. Attend information sessions, read OAPCE newsletters, and connect with other parents to stay abreast of important developments. “As parents, it is essential to stay informed about educational policies and changes within the Catholic education system. By staying updated, we can effectively advocate for our children’s needs and ensure they receive the best possible education.” – J. Perri, Co-Executive Director, OAPCE. As a Ministry of Education recognized organization, the Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) serves as the voice of parents and guardians in supporting and enhancing Catholic education in Ontario. By providing information, resources, and advocacy opportunities, OAPCE empowers parents to actively engage in their child’s education, leading to improved student success. By partnering with other stakeholders, engaging with media, and organizing annual conferences, OAPCE further supports the continuation and preservation of publicly funded Catholic education for generations to come.

Walking in Faith: A New School Year Reflection for Parents September is a season of fresh starts. New teachers, new classrooms, and new routines often leave families juggling homework, schedules, pizza days, school sports, and fundraising forms. In the middle of all this busyness, we are reminded that our journey as Catholic parents is more than just managing the calendar — it’s a pilgrimage of faith. This year’s theme for Catholic Education Week is “On the Path to Holiness.” It reminds us that in our Catholic schools we are not only students and teachers, but pilgrims, walking together in faith toward holiness. That theme inspired me to pause and reflect on what this means in daily family life — especially in the ordinary but sometimes stressful moments of parenting. Parents are often reminded of life lessons in these small, everyday moments. For example, picture a parent helping a grade 8 child work through multiplication of decimals. The numbers don’t line up, the answers are wrong, and frustration builds. At 9 p.m., the night before the quiz, trying to explain why zero is an important place holder can stretch anyone’s patience. It is in these moments that the depth of patience required of parents is revealed — not only in guiding homework, but in every role they play. Sometimes, parents need to pray for patience. As a priest often reminds us, prayer is most powerful when it is specific. We can ask God for patience with schoolwork, patience in the middle of busy schedules, and patience with ourselves and our children. When parents turn to prayer in these ordinary struggles, they are teaching their children what faith looks like in action. Parents are the first teachers of faith. Our children learn from the way we pray, the way we forgive, and the way we serve. When we remain in God’s love, we give them the anchor that grounds their lives and helps them walk their own path to holiness. This is exactly why OAPCE exists — to walk alongside parents in this sacred role. OAPCE’s mission to Engage, Advocate, and Enhance keeps parents connected, supported, and encouraged in Catholic education. We Engage when we join parent councils, volunteer, and strengthen school communities. We Advocate when we connect with trustees and leaders, ensuring Catholic voices are heard. We Enhance when we build strong parish–school–home partnerships that help children see faith lived out daily. By working together, OAPCE reminds parents that we are not alone on this journey. Just as prayer gives us patience in homework struggles, OAPCE gives parents the voice and support needed to guide our children’s education in faith. Ideas for Parents: What You Can Do Choose a Gospel verse together and make it a screen saver or sticky note to spark conversation. Share a favourite worship song on the way to school or at bedtime as a prayerful moment We Enhance when we build strong parish–school–home partnerships that help children see faith lived out daily. Revisit the sacraments — it’s never too late for Baptism, First Communion, Reconciliation, or Confirmation, for our children or even for ourselves. Look for ways to connect with parish and school events to strengthen the bond between home, school, and Church. Holiness doesn’t mean perfection — it means remaining in God’s love, step by step, in the ordinary moments. Even in late-night homework struggles, we are pilgrims walking with our children, guided by faith, patience, and love. And with OAPCE, we walk this path together as a community of Catholic parents.

Parents are the first educators of their children.  What we do in a school is to build on the foundation of that education as we encourage children to grow intellectually, socially, emotionally and spiritually.  As a result, we expect that parents continue to support their children in this process.  They often do this by assisting their children with homework, supporting their children in extra-curricular events and encouraging them in their relationships with others.  Moreover, our parents make a commitment to nourish the spiritual dimension of their children’s growth by assuring that what schools accomplish for seven hours out of a day is reiterated at home. Religious instruction in our schools is only valuable when our students have a time and a place to live out their religion.  The teaching of Gospel values is only understood when our students have the opportunity to serve in the community, attend worship services on the weekend and witness positive behavior in their homes and in their neighborhoods.  So when parents choose a Catholic education they are choosing more than a school.  They are choosing a way of life for their children and their family and they are making a commitment to raise their children in homes that reinforce the lessons that are taught at school. We are most grateful to parents who make these choices every single day.  Yet the real value of a Catholic education does not lay only in name.  Instead, the value of a Catholic education is measured in the character of the children that we have educated together.  Some say teaching is a thankless job.  Others say parenting is a thankless job.  We have come to realize that both statements are false.  Neither are jobs.  They are vocations to which we have all been called.   We are confident that the end result for all of us is to help nurture young children into young men and women  who exhibit academic achievement and spiritual growth so as to become active participants in building the Kingdom of God.

Catholic education has long been a topic of debate, often focusing on its funding and place within public education systems. However, there is no denying the significant impact Catholic education has on the faith formation of children. It provides them with a strong religious foundation, instills the values and teachings of the Catholic Church, and nurtures a sense of community. “Catholic education has been instrumental in nurturing my child’s faith. The incorporation of religious studies throughout their education has enriched their understanding of Catholic values and helped cultivate a strong sense of belonging within the community.” – Jennifer Pilzecker, OAPCE Niagara Director. “We must remain vigilant in protecting the gift of Catholic education in an increasingly secular society, ensuring that we do not succumb to the influence of fleeting social trends.” One of the key ways in which Catholic education enhances faith formation for children is through its integration of religious education into the curriculum. In Catholic schools, students have the unique opportunity to learn about the teachings of the Catholic Church and actively participate in religious rituals and practices. This not only deepens their understanding of their faith but also fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity with others who share their beliefs. “Working in a faith-filled environment allows me to not only educate my students academically but also guide them in developing their relationship with God. I consider it a privilege to be able to support their faith formation along with their academic growth.” – A. Madonna, OAPCE Simcoe Muskoka Director, Educator Catholic schools also provide a faith-filled environment where children can grow in their relationship with God. The presence of dedicated teachers and staff who are committed to their own faith journey serves as a positive role model for students. These educators not only teach academic subjects but also nurture the spiritual lives of their students, guiding them to develop a personal relationship with God and encouraging them to live out their faith in their daily lives. Furthermore, Catholic education promotes moral values and ethical behavior. Catholic schools actively cultivate a culture of respect, compassion, and social justice. Students are taught to treat others with kindness and dignity, promoting inclusivity and acceptance. They are also encouraged to be conscious of their responsibility to care for those less fortunate and work towards creating a more just society. Through service projects and community outreach programs, students actively engage in acts of charity, solidifying their commitment to living out the Gospel values they learn in school. “I firmly believe that Catholic education, supported by the active involvement of parents through organizations like OAPCE, provides a unique and valuable opportunity for children to develop a strong faith foundation alongside their academic journey. Our partnership with OAPCE allows us to work collaboratively in ensuring that the needs of students in Catholic schools are met and that their faith formation is nurtured in a holistic manner.” – Most Rev. Bishop Mathieu, OAPCE Liaison Bishop, Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario. The Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) plays a vital role in supporting and enhancing the faith formation of children in Catholic schools. Recognized by the Ministry of Education, OAPCE works closely with other stakeholders such as Bishops, Principals, Trustees, and Teachers to ensure a holistic approach to supporting Catholic education. This partnership strengthens the connection between school, home, and parish, fostering unity and shared purpose in nurturing the faith of children. OAPCE also provides valuable opportunities for parents to get involved in their child’s education and faith formation. Through its network of local OAPCE representatives and regional committee meetings, parents have a platform to voice their concerns and engage with like-minded individuals. These meetings provide a supportive network for parents, allowing them to connect with others in their local Catholic education community. By fostering this sense of community and collaboration, OAPCE further enhances the faith formation of children by creating an environment where parents actively participate in their child’s education and faith journey. “OAPCE hosts regional committee meetings where parents can come together to share best practices, exchange ideas, and get to know other parents in their regions”- quotes R. Takeaway, OAPCE Dufferin Peel Director,  “as well as providing guest speakers such as Dr. Josephine Lombardi and Teresa Hartnett who help with our Faith formation as Adults, which in turn inspires us as parents to our children.” In addition to advocating for Catholic education at the provincial level, OAPCE ensures that the parent voice is heard and considered in decision-making processes that impact Catholic education. Through its involvement in various Ministry of Education initiatives and working tables, OAPCE plays a crucial role in promoting parent involvement and fostering a strong partnership between parents and the Ministry. “Our organization is dedicated to empowering parents and guardians in supporting the faith formation of children in Catholic schools. Through advocacy, information sharing, and community-building initiatives, we aim to enhance the partnership between parents and the Ministry of Education for the benefit of all students.” – J. Perri, Co-Executive Director, OAPCE. In conclusion, while Catholic education may be controversial to some, it undeniably plays a pivotal role in the faith formation of children. It provides them with a solid religious foundation, promotes moral values, and creates a faith-filled environment. Through the Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE), parents and guardians have a voice in supporting and promoting Catholic education. OAPCE’s advocacy efforts, information sharing, and community-building initiatives contribute to the enhancement of faith formation in children attending Catholic schools in Ontario.

Beyond Giving Up Chocolate: A Parent’s Journey Through LentBy Dianne Pawlowski, OAPCE Nipissing/Parry Sound Director As Ash Wednesday approaches each year, my children and I inevitably begin our usual Lenten conversation: What are we going to give up this year? I can almost hear the familiar answers echoing through my mind—“I’ll give up chocolate,” or “I’ll stop fighting with my brother.” As a mom, I’ve come to expect these answers, and I remember having similar thoughts when I was their age—things that seemed significant at the time, but were more about sacrifice than true growth. With each passing year, as my children grow, so does my desire to help them embrace Lent on a deeper level. It’s not just about giving something up—it’s about transformation. The three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—are opportunities for spiritual growth.  I’m reminded of one particular Lent when my middle son, about 10 at the time, decided to give up pop. He was determined, proud of his commitment, and the first few weeks were easy enough—after all, we weren’t buying it at home. But one Sunday, we went to church, and there it was—a cold can of pop offered during fellowship. The temptation was overwhelming. As the can was placed in his hand, he froze. I could see the internal struggle on his face—he wanted to keep his promise to God. Then, tears. He wanted a sip, but he had promised not to drink pop. Just then, another parishioner approached and gently said, “Remember, fasting doesn’t always mean giving something up completely. You could have it on Sundays, you know!” I chuckled under my breath—the Sunday loophole, Sundays are not counted in the 40 days of Lent! But my son wasn’t swayed. After a deep breath, he smiled and said, “I think I’m okay. I’ll stick with it.” By the end of Lent, my son had completely lost interest in pop. He didn’t crave it anymore and turned it down on his own. That break from his habit helped him make better, healthier choices without even realizing it. Fasting isn’t just about denying ourselves. It’s about creating space for something else—whether that’s prayer, reflection, or growth. By consuming less—whether it’s food, entertainment, or distractions—we make room for what’s important. In those moments, we invite God to transform us, preparing us to embrace the joy of Easter. The song Sign Us with Ashes by Mark Friedman beautifully guides us through the three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—reminding us how each one brings us closer to God. The chorus reminds us: “Sign us with ashes, the sign of your cross, Give us the grace to know your mercy, Lord. Renew our spirits and open our hearts. Help us remember the love you gave us.” Prayer: Connecting with GodThe song begins with the verse, “Help us pray so we might be, closer to you and to God’s family.” Prayer is the first pillar, and it’s worth considering how we can deepen our prayer life during Lent—both individually and as a family. Instead of focusing solely on what we’re giving up, we can also focus on adding more prayer to our lives. One simple way to deepen your family’s prayer life is by attending an extra Mass each week during Lent. Whether it’s a weekday Mass or a special Lenten service, it’s a practice that extends beyond Lent. Another meaningful way is to set aside a few minutes each evening for family prayers before bedtime. Reflect on the day, offer gratitude, and pray for one another. You could even incorporate the Bible into your bedtime stories, reflecting on how the readings apply to your lives. A priest once told my children, “Prayer is how we speak to God, but reading the Bible is how God speaks to us.” By reading the Bible together, we invite God’s guidance, letting His words shape our hearts and minds. Fasting: A Journey of TransformationThe lyrics in the next verse remind us of the pillar of fasting: “Help us fast so we might know the wants of those within God’s family.” Fasting isn’t just about giving something up for the sake of it. It’s about reducing something in our lives to create space for what’s more important—prayer, reflection, or empathy for others. Fasting could mean reducing screen time, eating more mindfully, or letting go of unnecessary distractions. It helps us grow in empathy and compassion as we open our hearts to the needs of others. Almsgiving: Living GenerosityThe song’s verse on almsgiving says, “Help us give, so we might share, of what we have to serve God’s family.” Almsgiving is about more than just donations—it’s about sharing what we have, whether that’s time, talents, or resources. As a family, we can make regular donations, volunteer together, or commit to serving those in need each week. Volunteering together teaches children that generosity is about showing up for others, not just giving things away. It’s a beautiful way to model Christ’s love and to remind us that our blessings are not just for us but for others.  The Growing Journey of Parenthood and FaithAs parents, we have the privilege and responsibility to guide our children through this season of reflection and growth. But just as we guide our children in their faith, we too are growing in our understanding of Lent. It’s a reminder that, like when my youngest son recently suggested, “Oh, I’ll give up bacon… on Fridays?”—we all have room to grow. This journey of parenthood and faith is full of moments of humor, struggle, and transformation. Through the song Sign Us with Ashes, we see that each act of praying, fasting, and giving isn’t just about sacrifice—it’s about opening ourselves to God’s love, grace, and mercy. Through these pillars, we—and our children—become the people God wants us to be. SONG: Sign us with ashes – Mark Friedman

The Future is Bright in Skilled Trades – A Blog written by Elizabeth Wylie, OAPCE Hamilton Director. Attention Secondary School Parents: Encouraging Your Child to Explore Careers in the Skilled Trades As parents in Catholic Education, we want our children to find fulfilling and stable careers. While many families focus on university pathways, it’s important to recognize the opportunities available in the skilled trades in this economy.  Here are just a few of the advantages of considering a career in the skilled trades: high demand jobs & excellent salaries (Check out this provincial resource: Explore in-demand careers | ontario.ca) the ability to build strong personal relationships with crewmates and customers as an Ontario Catholic School Graduate, creating a sense of camaraderie and connection in their daily work.  training typically takes less time and costs significantly less than a traditional 3 or 4-year university program, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner with no or minimal debt.  The good news is there are programs available in Ontario designed to introduce high school students and new graduates to these rewarding careers. By learning more about these programs, you can encourage your child to explore their options and gain valuable experience that can be transferred to any career they ultimately choose. It is worth exploring what’s available at your own school board to see what programs your student can be taking advantage of in high school and after graduation.   Here are four excellent options for students and new grads to consider: 1. Cooperative Education (Co-op) Courses Cooperative education (co-op) courses allow high school students to gain real-world experience while earning credits toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). These placements take students out of the classroom and place them in workplaces where they can develop valuable skills and gain insights into different careers. Co-op courses provide many benefits, including: Hands-on learning experiences The chance to test-drive potential career paths Opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings Development of essential workplace skills and habits The ability to build a strong resumé for future employment Each co-op credit requires a minimum of 110 hours of workplace experience, and students can take as many co-op courses as they like. If your child is curious about a career in the skilled trades, co-op courses are a great way for them to explore their interests before making a long-term commitment. Learn more here: Cooperative education (co-op) courses | ontario.ca 2. Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) takes co-op learning a step further by offering students the opportunity to begin an apprenticeship while still in high school. Through OYAP, students can start earning hours toward becoming a certified journeyperson in a skilled trade while simultaneously completing their high school diploma. OYAP is an excellent choice for students who already know they are interested in a trade and want to jumpstart their careers. By participating in this program, they can: Begin an apprenticeship in a skilled trade Gain hands-on experience with industry professionals Reduce the time needed to become a certified tradesperson Earn money while learning valuable skills Encouraging your child to explore OYAP can set them on a path to a well-paying, stable career in an in-demand field. Find out more here: Prepare for apprenticeship | ontario.ca 3. Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a specialized high school program that allows students to focus their learning on a specific economic sector while earning their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Students in SHSM develop valuable career skills, gain industry certifications, and graduate with an SHSM seal on their diploma. To complete an SHSM, students must: Complete a specific bundle of 8-10 courses in their chosen sector Earn industry certifications such as first aid and CPR Gain hands-on experience through cooperative education placements SHSM programs are available in 19 different sectors, many of which align with skilled trades careers, including construction, manufacturing, transportation, and more. The benefits of completing an SHSM include: Tailoring high school education to individual interests and talents Developing specialized knowledge and skills Gaining career-relevant training and certifications Engaging in STEM-related activities that foster innovation and creativity Exploring and refining career goals to make informed future decisions Click here to learn more about SHSM: Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) | ontario.ca 4. Support Ontario Youth  Support Ontario Youth is a registered charity that helps students transition into skilled trades careers by addressing gaps in training and education. This program for youth 18+ provides mentorship, safety training, and hands-on tool experiences across multiple trades. They offer: Safety training to ensure students are prepared for the workplace Engaging one-day bootcamps in a variety of industries Mentorship opportunities with industry professionals Guidance on apprenticeship pathways Development of employability skills to support long-term career success By participating in Support Ontario Youth, students receive the support they need to navigate their career journey and find the right trade for them. Check out their webpage to find out more: Home | Support Ontario Youth The Future is Bright in Skilled Trades Encouraging your child to explore careers in the skilled trades can help students gain hands-on experience, develop essential skills, and start building a fulfilling career while still in high school or right after graduation. Talk to your child about their interests and suggest they discuss these programs with their school guidance counselor. The skilled trades offer rewarding, well-paying careers with plenty of room for growth.  

written by Elizabeth Wylie, Hamilton, Communications Director OCSGE’s: What do parents need to know about the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations? It is important for us as parents to be aware of the aspects of the Ontario Catholic Education system that make it unique. Catholic schools in Ontario have a dual mandate: First, to fulfil the educational needs of students in abidance with the Ministry of Education curriculum standards Secondly, to fulfil the mission of the Roman Catholic church and nurture the spiritual development of the children and youth within its care. In 1995, the Ontario Royal Commission on Education recommended a set of “graduate outcomes” be outlined that were to be “subject and skill-oriented”.   At the time, the Institute of Catholic Education (ICE), an organization initially established in 1986 by the Bishops of Ontario, worked with the Ontario Catholic education community to establish these graduate guidelines through a uniquely Catholic Lens. The resulting Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations were released initially for the 1998-1999 school year with subsequent re-releases containing new resources in 2011 and 2019. Today these expectations are classified as follows by the Institute of Catholic Education (ICE): A Discerning Believer formed in the Catholic Faith community who celebrates the signs and sacred mystery of God’s presence through work, sacrement, prayer, forgiveness, reflection and moral living. An Effective Communicator who speaks, writes and listens honestly and sensitively responding critically in light of gospel values. A Reflective, Creative and Holistic Thinker who solves problems and makes responsible decisions with an informed moral conscience for the common good. A Self-Directed, Responsible, Lifelong Learner who develops and demonstrates their God-given potential. A Collaborative Contributor who finds meaning, dignity and vocation in the rights of all and contributes to the common good. A Caring Family Member who attends to family, school, parish and wider community. A Responsible Citizen who gives witness to Catholic social teaching by promoting peace, justice and the sacredness of human life. These expectations form “a critical navigational instrument” for Catholic Education for what our graduates should be aspiring to in their adult lives.  They are the cornerstone for interpretation and discernment of policies and curriculum by trustees, educators and administrators.  How can we, as parents, support our students to meet these expectations? Read and become familiar with each of the expectations and how they help foster strong family, work and community relationships. Model these expectations for our children in our daily lives. These are expectations we adults can all aspire to as good citizens and members of the Catholic community.  Recognize when your students are exhibiting behaviours in accordance with the expectations. They need to know when they are on the right track! Talk about how the expectations fit into modern society.  These expectations prepare our students to fulfil their fullest potential.  Everyone’s contribution to the common good is valuable. Explain how their good choices will impact their life and the lives of their community members for their generation. Respecting others and their environment will allow them to build a compassionate, peaceful and harmonious future. For more information about the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations, please visit this document prepared by the Institute of Catholic Education (ICE): ©ICE OCSGEs Flipbook 2019