As we approach the close of another school year, we are invited into a natural moment of reflection, one that calls us to pause, give thanks, and look ahead with hope. This year has been one of both challenge and grace. While our community faced disruption, including the ATA work action that impacted many families and staff, we also witnessed something deeply meaningful: resilience. Across our district, students, staff, and families leaned on one another with patience, understanding, and compassion. In moments of uncertainty, we saw the strength of what it truly means to be part of the Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD), rooted in faith, guided by hope, and committed to one another.
National Indigenous History Month
We also recognize that June marks National Indigenous History Month, a time to honour the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. It is also a time for reflection on our shared history and the ongoing journey of truth and reconciliation.
We are deeply grateful for the wisdom of Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers who walk alongside us, guiding our learning and helping to shape a path forward grounded in respect, relationship, and understanding. Their presence reminds us that learning is not only about knowledge, but about connection to one another, to the land, and to truth. At CCSD, Indigenous Education remains one of our four board priorities, and we are committed to this journey, knowing that together is always better, and that meaningful reconciliation requires both humility and action.
Congratulations 2026 Graduates!
To our graduating class of 2026, we offer our heartfelt congratulations! You leave our schools shaped by a system deeply committed to Faith Formation, Student Success, Well-Being, and Indigenous Education. These priorities are not simply words; they are lived experiences that have guided your journey and helped form you into the individuals you are today.
We are called to live and learn in our Catholic Faith so that students, centred in Christ, realize their full potential. This mission has supported your growth not only as learners, but as compassionate, resilient, and faith-filled individuals. You carry forward the values of Catholic education; faith, hope, love, and a commitment to the common good. As you take your next steps, may you continue to live out these values in all that you do, contributing meaningfully to your communities and to the world around you.
Farewell to Chief Superintendent Dr. Bryan Szumlas
As we close the school year, we also mark a very significant and heartfelt transition at CCSD. This August, we honour and bid farewell to our Chief Superintendent, Dr. Bryan Szumlas.
As CCSD’s chief superintendent, the role has not been about titles or years of service, but rather a vocation focused on presence. A steady, grounded presence. The kind that brings calm in moments of uncertainty, clarity in moments of complexity, and faith when the path forward is not always clear. For 35 years, Dr. Szumlas has served this district with unwavering dedication, and for the past six years as chief superintendent, he has led with humility, integrity, and a deep love for Catholic education.
Through his leadership, he has helped shape a culture rooted in care, connection, and purpose, truly Creating Calgary Catholic Together. His legacy is not only found in decisions made or milestones achieved, but in the relationships he has built, the people he has mentored, and the sense of community he has strengthened across our district. His leadership has shaped CCSD in ways that will be felt for generations to come. With gratitude, we thank our Chief Superintendent Dr. Bryan Szumlas and wish him every blessing in the next chapter of his journey.
As the school year draws to a close, may we carry forward a spirit of gratitude, for the lessons learned, the relationships strengthened and the many blessings received. May the God of hope fill you all with joy and peace as you move into the summer months, and into all that lies ahead.
Lory Iovinelli
Chair, CCSD Board of Trustees
cssd.ab.ca/board-column; [email protected]
