Hope and Harvest Message

Dear Families,

I hope that the first month of the 2024-2025 school year has been filled with joy, community, faith and learning. I have had the opportunity to visit our schools and meet with students, staff, families, and parish and community partners, and am filled with gratitude for our Durham Catholic learning community.

We continue to celebrate this year’s spiritual theme, Living in Hope, as we place our trust in Christ’s promises, relying not on our own strength, but on the help and grace of the Holy Spirit. This fall, as I reflect on hope, harvest, and gratitude, I have been reminded about how, in life – whether it be personally, professionally, or in our learning - we can get caught up in daily productivity and expect immediate success and achievement. However, both in life, and in our schools and students’ learning, most of our time is spent “sowing the seeds” and planting the foundation, so that in time we can grow to achieve our personal versions of success, and to truly be who God has called us to be. 

Throughout October, many celebrate the harvest with friends and families by honouring and participating in different traditions or ceremonies. The Thanksgiving holiday may look different for each of us. For many families it is a time of giving thanks and gathering. It may also be an opportunity to learn more about its complicated history. In keeping with our board’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, I invite you to explore resources available on the Indigenous Education page of our website. 

I want to thank you for your continued partnership and engagement in your child’s education. By working together, we can ensure all students feel safe, welcome and supported in their learning.

In this season of gratitude, I am thankful for the gifts of hope and community as we listen, learn and live in faith together at the Durham Catholic District School Board.  

Yours in hope and faith,

Gerard Winn
Director of Education