Oapce in action

Thank you to all the parents who shared their voices in this year’s survey. Your feedback helps us understand what’s happening in our Catholic schools and how OAPCE can best serve families across Ontario. Here are a few highlights: OAPCE is listening. These insights will help shape our advocacy, programs, and resources in the year ahead.

Advocating as a Parent for Catholic Education & The Role of OAPCE As parents, we are the primary educators of our children, entrusted not only with their academic development but also with the nurturing of their faith and values. In Ontario, we are blessed with a publicly funded Catholic education system that allows our children to grow academically, spiritually, and morally—guided by the teachings of Christ. However, this gift is one that must be protected, promoted, and continually strengthened. That is where advocacy becomes essential. Advocating for Catholic education means standing up for the values that set our schools apart: faith-based learning, a focus on community and service, and an education rooted in the Gospel. It means staying informed, involved, and vocal about the importance of Catholic schools in our province. Whether it’s participating in school councils, engaging with trustees, or voting in school board elections, parents have a critical voice in shaping the future of Catholic education. Meeting with your Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) helps to ensure that the gift of Catholic Education remains a vital part in our children’s lives. The Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) serves as the official voice of parents within Ontario’s Catholic school system. Established in 1939, OAPCE has a long history of representing Catholic school parents and advocating on their behalf with the Ministry of Education, school boards, and other educational partners. The organization works to ensure that the Catholic identity of our schools remains strong and visible, and that parental input is respected and valued in all matters affecting our children’s education. By connecting parents across Ontario, OAPCE provides resources, hosts conferences and workshops, and supports the formation of engaged, informed parent communities. Most importantly, it reminds us that Catholic education is not only a system—it is a mission, one that we are all called to support. Faith Joseph, former Director from London, has been supportive of OAPCE and parents in Catholic education – as a new former parent in Waterloo Catholic DSB and a new parent in the LDCSB she continues to help where she can “In today’s ever-changing world, where faith and values can sometimes be overlooked, the role of Catholic schools is more vital than ever. As parents, we must continue to advocate boldly and faithfully—not just for the future of our children, but for the future of Catholic education itself.”  We thank F. Joseph for her advocacy and meeting with MPP Ernie Hardeman.

To highlight this important milestone anniversary we have created our OAPCE position paper “Empowering Parents and Preserving Catholic Education: Ensuring Student Success and Well-Being in Ontario” which emphasizes the critical importance of publicly funded Catholic education in Ontario to ensure the success and well-being of students. It highlights the crucial role of parents as primary educators and advocates for their rights within the educational system. The paper addresses key issues such as supporting student well-being and mental health, enhancing communication between parents and the school board, ensuring equitable access to quality education, promoting faith formation and Catholic identity, and advocating for parental involvement in decision-making processes. By addressing these concerns and focusing on collaboration, advocacy, and support, the paper aims to underscore the significance of preserving and promoting Catholic education for the benefit of all students. Take a look at the paper here DOWNLOAD HERE

Get ready for an inspiring day of learning, connection, and faith at one of the most anticipated events of the year! 📅 Date: May 24, 2025📍 Location: Saint Michael Catholic High School, Niagara Falls, ON🏫 Address: 8699 McLeod Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S5🤝 In Partnership With: Niagara Catholic District School Board🛏️ Exclusive Hotel Offer: Special rates & free parking at Old Stone Inn for conference attendees. Call +1 (905) 357-1234 and mention booking ID “137575” to secure your room. This is an incredible opportunity for parents, educators, and community members to come together, gain insights, and strengthen our Catholic education system. Expect dynamic speakers, meaningful networking, and powerful moments to empower and inspire! ✨ Our Sponsors: Niagara Catholic Parent Involvement Committee. 📌 Mark your calendars, spread the word, and stay tuned for more details. We can’t wait to see you there!

  Parents: Your Role in Supporting Catholic Education in Ontario Catholic education in Ontario is a cherished tradition that provides students with an academically excellent and faith-based learning environment. As a parent, your involvement is essential in sustaining the vibrancy and future of our Catholic schools. One of the most impactful ways you can contribute is by ensuring that your property taxes are directed to the Catholic school system. Why Does Tax Designation Matter? Your property taxes play a crucial role in funding Catholic education. By designating your taxes to support Catholic schools, you help ensure that essential resources—such as faith-based programs, student support services, and classroom materials—remain available for current and future generations. This simple yet significant step strengthens our Catholic schools and helps maintain the quality of education that students receive. How to Designate Your Taxes to Catholic Schools Confirming your tax designation is a straightforward process. As a Catholic school supporter, you must ensure that your property tax status correctly reflects your choice. This designation directs your education tax dollars to the Catholic school board, reinforcing our shared commitment to faith-based learning. For step-by-step instructions on how to verify and update your tax support designation: School Support Designation We encourage all parents to share this important message within their school communities. Together, we can continue to uphold the values and excellence of Catholic education in Ontario. Thank you for your ongoing support in preserving and strengthening Catholic education for our children and future generations.

  We WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! As our ongoing advocacy for Parents in Catholic Education we would like to hear from you! We meet regularly with the Ministry of Education and provide ongoing feedback to them. OAPCE is surveying parents across the province to receive integral engagement in order to advocate! Please take a few minutes to fill in this anonymous form!  Start Survey