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Personal Christmas Reflection from CCSD’s Board Chair Lory Iovinelli
As the Christmas season quickly approaches, so do the many lists that come with preparing for this special time of year. I have always made it my purpose to make every Christmas meaningful for my now four adult children – from decorating our home with ornaments that tell the story of their childhood, to baking sugar cookies delicately iced and shared with family and friends, to wrapping each gift with care adorned with a satin bow of their favourite colour. I cherish finding that one gift that brings both a smile to their face and warmth to their heart.
Yet, the true gift we give to those we hold dear is not found wrapped beneath the tree. It is the gift of hope, peace, joy, and love – the very essence of the season and the virtues we are called to share. As we prepare not only our homes, but more importantly our hearts, to celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ, we recognize the many blessings that surround us: the gifts of our precious families, of publicly funded Catholic Education, and the Calgary Catholic School District.
This year, following the October Municipal Election, the Board of Trustees welcomed two new members – Trustees Steven Chapman and Terry Thuo – and celebrated the re-election of returning Trustees Cook, Dur, D’Souza, and Vecchio-Romano. The minds and hearts gathered around the table bring unique and diverse perspectives reflective of the students and families we are humbled to serve.
We also bid farewell to two of our most senior trustees, Mary Martin and Linda Wellman. Their wisdom, dedication, and faith-filled leadership have left a lasting imprint on our district and in our hearts as we embark on a new term.
Our teachers and students returned to the classroom this fall after a strike. We pray for healing, restoration of trust, and a renewed sense of mission and collaboration in our schools. May we, together – board, administration, teachers, students, and parents – walk forward united in our shared calling to form young minds and hearts, to inspire hope, and to shine the light of Christ’s love in every classroom.
As we prepare for this blessed season, may we, like the candles of the Advent wreath, be reminded of the pillars of our faith: Hope, that every student may reach their full potential and know God. Peace, for our teachers during times of uncertainty, that they may feel valued, respected, and supported. Joy, for the gifts of talent, creativity, and passion that thrive within our schools and the district. Love, for the students we are privileged to serve and for the gift of Catholic education itself.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Calgary Catholic School District, we wish you and your families abundant joy, peace, hope, and love this Christmas season.
Lory Iovinelli, Chair, CCSD Board of Trustees
