PVNC Catholic Literacy Team Given 2025 Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Award

The Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board has been awarded Dyslexia Canada’s 2025 Educational Excellence Award for its outstanding commitment to evidence-based literacy practices, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of PVNC.

The award recognizes the leadership of Superintendent of Learning Sheila Piggott, Literacy Consultant Lindsay Bowen, and Reading Coaches Maggie Sullivan, Sarah Hurley, Kate Keating, Kathleen Laroque and Dan Chronowic. It also honours the broader team of coaches and expert advisors from 2022 to 2025.

“We’re honoured by this recognition from Dyslexia Canada. It reflects the thoughtful, collaborative work of so many—reading coaches, educators, principals, and central staff—who have embraced change with a shared commitment to doing what’s best for students,” said Sheila Piggott, superintendent of learning. “This work continues to evolve, but we’re encouraged by the progress we’ve made together in building a stronger foundation for early literacy across PVNC Catholic.”

The team’s work is rooted in the recommendations of Ontario’s 2022 Right to Read report, according to a press release.

PVNC Catholic established a central literacy team and funded seven reading coach positions, supporting over 170 classrooms across 30 elementary schools.

Throughout the 2023–2024 school year, the Board expanded training for all K–6 educators, Special Education staff and principals, embedding structured literacy practices system-wide.

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Trent University Launches Create Centre for Entrepreneurship

Trent University has opened the doors to the Create Centre for Entrepreneurship, a space that provides an inclusive entry point for students to explore problem-solving, leadership and collaboration, on Monday.

The fourth floor is known as the Moore Innovation Hub made possible through Dr. David Moore '93 (hon) and Joan Moore. The University also plans to expand the Create Centre for Entrepreneurship programming to Trent University Durham GTA. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“The Create Centre for Entrepreneurship reflects the spirit of Trent – collaborative, student-centred and deeply engaged with the world around us,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Our goal is to challenge the conventional ideas around what entrepreneurship means, allowing every student to think differently and take risks, and make a meaningful impact.”

The new Centre shares space with the Leadership and Democracy Lab. Dr. Cristine de Clercy, Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership, leads it.

The new building serves as a connector between students and faculty, existing programming and services at Trent, as well as the business sectors in both Peterborough and Durham according to a press release. In addition to skill-building and mentorship, students will gain access to networking opportunities, hands-on experiences and curated programming.

“Create embodies the powerful engine of human progress at this seminal moment in the human journey,” said Gavin Marshall, Trent’s Momentous Campaign leader. “In a time when digital interaction often replaces human connection, this model emphasizes collaboration, shared problem-solving and real human leadership. Whether our students go on to launch a company, work in the non-profit sector or lead public policy reform, or however they do the essential work of tomorrow building, Create (Centre) will help them understand that big change never happens in isolation.”

The Centre’s physical space is in Bata Library on the fourth floor.

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Trent University Breaks Ground On Its Latest College, Gidigaa Migizi

Trent University has officially broken ground on Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee College residence as staff and faculty celebrated the occasion on Thursday afternoon.

Staff and faculty head the groundbreaking ceremony of Gidigaa Migizi College just behind Otonabee College. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The new college is considered one of the largest infrastructure developments for both the University and the Peterborough area since Trent’s founding in 1964. 

“We are about to embark on a defining chapter at Trent University,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee residence will offer modern, inclusive spaces where students live, learn, and form lasting connections. It’s our most ambitious campus project yet. This new project will contribute tremendously to Trent’s vibrant learning and living environment.”

Gidigaa Migizi College is projected to open in the fall of 2028. It covers 700,000 square feet and is situated on the East Bank of the Symons Campus.

According to a press release, Trent University’s Housing Strategy, approved by the Board in 2019, is a long-term plan to modernize on- and off-campus housing, improve its accessibility, support the University’s growth and the City’s housing needs.

Trent is positioned to contribute up to 32 per cent of the City housing target of 4,700 new homes by 2031, through the addition of 1,300 beds between Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee residence, as well as other strategic and creative housing solutions, including the addition of a 224-bed long-term care home on campus.

“Today’s groundbreaking marks a major milestone in our journey to create a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable campus,” said Tariq Al-idrissi, Trent vice-president of finance and administration. “These buildings will meet the needs of a growing student body while reflecting Trent’s vision for education and community placemaking.”

@ptbo_canada Trent University has officially broken ground on Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee College residence. #ptbocanada #ptbo #peterborough #journalism #journalist #news #fyp #education ♬ Rockin - Chris Alan Lee

Gidigaa Migizi College is named in honour of the late Elder, alumnus, and professor Doug William. The professor, elder, and community leader was known for his dedication to Trent students and for protecting Anishinaabe's treaty rights.

The decision to select an Anishinaabe name for the new college was a recommendation of the University’s Champlain Report to honour the treaty and traditional territory on which Trent University sits. Meaning ‘spotted eagle’ in English, the name Gidigaa Migizi College was recommended by the University’s Elders and Traditional Knowledge Keepers Council and approved by Trent’s Board of Governors.

The new residence will house more than 600 beds and include indoor connections to existing dining facilities. Signature red metal accents will pay tribute to the original college, while its pedestrian-friendly design and outdoor communal quad will create new spaces for connection and reflection.

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Fleming College Expecting Nearly 4,800 Students In 58th-Annual Convocation

Fleming College will see roughly 4,800 students from over 100 programs walk across the stage at the school’s 58th annual convocation at the Peterborough Memorial Centre this Tuesday and Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

“Convocation is one of the most meaningful moments in the academic journey—it’s a celebration of hard work, resilience and achievement,” said Al Lambert, acting co-president.

Students are graduating from programs in the School of Health and Community Services, School of General Arts and Sciences, Haliburton School of Art and Design, School of Business and Information Technology, School of Environmental & Natural Resource Sciences, and School of Trades and Technology. 

“We are incredibly proud of our graduates and the dedication they have shown throughout their time at Fleming. As they take their next steps, we know they will continue to make a difference in their communities and beyond,” said Dr. Theresa Knott, acting co-president.

A schedule of the two-day event, a link to watch the live stream and more is available on Fleming’s convocation website.

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2025 Convocation Expects Largest Graduating Class In Trent University History

Trent University is celebrating its largest graduating classes in history this year, with 3,755 graduates during 16 convocation ceremonies taking place in Peterborough and Durham from June 3 to 13.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Peterborough sees a record-breaking 2,657 graduates, while 1,098 graduates of Trent University Durham GTA – the campus’s largest ever cohort – will be celebrated during three ceremonies on June 12 and 13 at the Tribute Communities Centre. 

“Each graduate has dedicated tremendous time and effort to reach this moment. Graduation is a major milestone that marks a path of accomplishment and success. That path has led to deeper and broader knowledge, the formation of lasting networks, and the building of a toolkit of skills with purpose. It is wonderful to see our graduates striding across the stage,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “In its 60th anniversary, Trent has a record number of students graduating—and our global alumni community has grown to well over 65,000. It is remarkable to see how the Trent network is expanding locally and across the globe.”

This year marks the inaugural graduating cohorts from three of Trent’s new programs: Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Criminology, Master of Management (Peterborough), and Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Aging Studies.

Each year, Trent University bestows honorary degrees to those demonstrating leadership in their fields and around the world. The 2025 honorary degree recipients are Claudette McGowan, an internationally recognized cybersecurity leader; Alice Olsen Williams/Minaajimokwe ’69, a globally renowned Indigenous artist and activist and Zabeen Hirji, a celebrated workforce equity advocate.

Indigenous traditions are part of this year’s continued annual convocation ceremonies. Each ceremony is led by Trent’s Eagle Feather, gifted by Curve Lake First Nation, symbolizing the University’s relationship with the community. According to Trent, the Eagle Staff, representing the strength and honour of First Nations Peoples, is also present and carried by a member of a local First Nation. Nibi (water), drawn through ceremony from the Otonabee River, is carried in a copper pot and returned following convocation. Faculty processions are led by the Condolence Cane, a gift from the Trent Aboriginal Education Council, symbolizing the Haudenosaunee governance structure.

Each year, Trent University awards accomplished students with special medals and honours that recognize the highest academic achievements and overall standing in undergraduate and graduate studies in Peterborough and Durham. Renowned Canadian sculptors and Indigenous artists designed several of the medals.

This year’s recipients are:

• The Governor General’s Academic Gold Medal:
  Dylan Stone, Materials Science.

• The Governor General’s Academic Silver Medal:
  Caden Drover, Mathematical Physics.

• The President's Medal:
  Madison Moore, Cultural Studies; Sasha Newar, Environment & Life Sciences; Jacob Van Haaften, Canadian Studies & Indigenous Studies.

• The Symons Medal:
  Karolina Wawrzyczek, Psychology; Cassandra Haydock, Computer Science; Lora Vassiliadis, Chemical Physics; Dhan Shivekam Nagra, Business Administration.

• The Bagnani Medal:
  Maeve Benedict, Computer Science; Lexy Jindrich, Indigenous Studies.

• The Muldoon Medal:
  Michelle Hunt, Psychology (Honours) and Shahzan Tariq, Computer Science (General).

The ceremonies can be viewed live on Trent’s website.

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Students Make a Splash At Peterborough Children's Water Festival

The Peterborough Children’s Water Festival (PCWF) saw students in Grades 2-5 participating in more than 35 interactive learning centres designed for children to explore concepts of water conservation at the Riverview Park and Zoo.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The two-day event saw over 700 students on both days. There were 67 classes from over 29 schools that participated in the event.
 
“Pipe Patrol is a new activity centre offering a unique and engaging learning experience. Kids will dive into the fascinating world of urban infrastructure and discover how sewers are maintained,” said Patricia Skopelianos, Chair of the PCWF Organizing Committee. “They'll learn all about how the city is using cutting-edge CCTV cameras for inspection and powerful vacuum trucks for cleaning. It's a great way to foster an early understanding of essential community services and environmental responsibility.”
 
The PCWF is one of 25 water festivals taking place across the province this year. Since 2001, it has reached more than 31,000 elementary students and 6,500 teachers and parent helpers from across Peterborough City and County according to Skopelianos.
 
”We are very fortunate to once again have tremendous community support for this year’s Peterborough Children's Water Festival. Although local businesses and individuals have always made generous financial contributions, over 10 new supporters have come on board this year to help us make an impact,” she explained. “Our community helps make this Festival happen for so many classes across the region and offers this experiential opportunity to 140 high school volunteers.”

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Photos: PVNC Students Get Hands-On Experience With Indigenous Skilled Trades Day

Around 215 Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic students from 26 schools got their hands-on learning experience at the Indigenous Skilled Trades Day at Trent University on Wednesday.

Zain Kailsli, 12 (left), gets a hands-on quilling lesson from Sandra Moore of Creators Gifts Fabric & Art (right). All Photos by David Tuan Bui.

There were 30 tradespeople vendors, with nearly half as Indigenous, showcasing their respective trades. These including quilling, hide scraping and more. Other trades were present at the event that included framing, carpentry, welding and others.

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Fleming College’s Academic Upgrading Program Moves to Cobourg

Fleming College has moved its Academic Upgrading classes to Cobourg at Venture13 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre, located at 739 D'Arcy St., announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

Fleming says the move offers students a bright, open and welcoming space equipped with modern amenities and convenient access.

“Our Work and Academic Upgrading courses in Northumberland County are now better positioned to serve the community,” said Kate McIntosh, Fleming College Student Experience Vice President. “Being based out of Venture13 allows us to connect more directly with local businesses, creating opportunities for organizational assessments and customized skills training. It also gives our learners the chance to network and gain exposure to potential employers, which can inspire their career paths.” 

“The Town of Cobourg is pleased to host Fleming College’s Academic Upgrading program at the Venture13 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre,” said Mayor Lucas Cleveland. “This program aligns with Venture13’s vision as a community learning hub and supports greater opportunity for Cobourg youth and adults looking to upgrade their education and improve their employment prospects.”

Fleming’s Academic Upgrading program is free with training in English, math, science and computer literacy. It is meant to prepare students for post-secondary studies, apprenticeship programs or employment. 

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Trent University Gives $900,000 In Grant Funding to Youth-Led Community Impact Projects

To foster youth leadership and equip young Canadians with meaningful life skills and experiences, Trent University’s new Impact Microgrant Program has distributed $900,000 in grant funding from the Government of Canada’s Canada Service Corps (CSC) to support student—and youth-led projects that address community needs across Canada.

Intending to award 180 microgrants by spring 2027, the Impact Microgrant Program has already distributed nearly $40,000 in support of youth-led initiatives. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

This joint initiative is led by the Office of Student Affairs and Careerspace at Trent, the Impact Microgrant Program. It is for Trent students, non-Trent students and community members aged 15-30 to receive up to $5,000 to help them lead small-scale, innovative community service projects they conceive. 

“The Impact Microgrant Program is a catalyst for social innovation and long-term civic engagement, empowering young people to work in partnership with local organizations to bring fresh, community-focused ideas to life,” said Glennice Burns, associate vice-president of Trent International and Careerspace. “We look forward to supporting diverse and meaningful projects that will emerge from this program, creating positive and visible change across our region and growth for the individuals who lead them.” 

Early projects feature efforts to empower black children in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, foster cultural connectivity within Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory and create inclusive outdoor spaces in Peterborough.

Successful program participants will also complete 15 hours of coursework to earn a complementary micro-credential in leadership and project management from Trent.

This program is a new iteration of Trent’s previous Impact Leadership Program, which facilitated hundreds of students' volunteer community service placements with organizations such as Special Olympics, United Way and the Kawartha World Issues Centre.

“When young people are given the chance to make a difference, they gain more than experience. They develop confidence, compassion, and sense of purpose that will serve them well in their academic, professional, and personal lives, while also enriching the communities they serve,” said Lawrence Lam, associate vice-president, Students.

Applications for the program’s next intake are being accepted until May 26. 

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36 Students Recognized With Catholic Student Leadership Awards

The Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board has recognized 36 students at the annual Catholic Student Leadership Awards ceremony at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School in Peterborough on Wednesday.

The ceremony occured In celebration of Catholic Education Week (May 4 to 9). Photo courtesy of PVNC.

The event honoured one student from PVNC Catholic’s elementary and secondary schools. Each recipient was presented with a commemorative medallion, symbolizing their outstanding contributions to their school and community.

Students were nominated by school principals, teachers, and, in some cases, their peers. PNVC says each award winner has demonstrated exemplary Catholic leadership, a strong commitment to family values, active participation in school life, meaningful community involvement, and remarkable dedication in facing challenges.

“As we celebrate our student leaders during Catholic Education Week, we’re reminded of the vital role faith plays not only in education, but in shaping compassionate, committed individuals,” said Kevin MacKenzie, PVNC board chairperson. “These students exemplify what it means to lead with purpose and heart. Their actions reflect the strength of our Catholic values, service, community, and faith and the meaningful impact those values can have in the world. We are incredibly proud to recognize their achievements and excited to see the difference they will continue to make, both within their schools and far beyond.”

“Our 2025 theme for Catholic Education Week, ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ invites us to reflect on what it means to journey together in faith. Our student leaders are showing us the way. They are living witnesses to hope — honouring human dignity, caring for creation, serving in solidarity, and building peace in their communities,” said Stephen O’Sullivan, PVNC director of education. “These young people remind us that leadership is not just about excellence — it’s about empathy. It’s about lifting others up. And it’s about living out our Catholic values with integrity and purpose.”

The following is a full list of all recipients:

• Elena Jacob - Good Shepherd CES, Courtice

• Julianna Taylor - Monsignor Leo Cleary CES, Courtice

• Paige Sexton - St. Mother Teresa CES, Courtice

• Addison Burge - St. Francis of Assisi, Newcastle

• Keira Humeniuk - St. Elizabeth CES, Bowmanville

• Koi Alcindor-Ojara - St. Joseph CES, Bowmanville

• Marc Najera - Holy Family CES, Bowmanville

• Georgia James - Immaculate Conception CES, Peterborough

• Hana Lee - Monsignor O’Donoghue CES, Peterborough

• Jola Adeniji - St. Alphonsus CES, Peterborough

• Laura Wicks - St. Anne CES, Peterborough

• Claire Sehn - St. Catherine CES, Peterborough

• Charlotte Coulter - St. John CES, Peterborough

• Mackenzie Edge - St. Patrick CES, Peterborough

• Ruby Hale - St. Paul CES, Peterborough

• Aaren Gomes - St. Teresa CES, Peterborough

• Faith Hickey - St. Joseph CES, Douro

• Cleodora McDonald - St. Martin CES, Ennismore

• Charlie Stone - St. Paul CES, Lakefield

• Kaitlyn Doherty - St. Paul CES, Norwood

• Finley Sedgwick - St. Anthony CES, Port Hope

• Nicholas Riccio - Notre Dame CES, Cobourg

• Elizabeth Maurice - St. Joseph CES, Cobourg

• Mary Katherine Marsden - St. Michael CES, Cobourg

• Gordie Gilders - St. Mary CES, Campbellford

• Abigail Chute - St. Mary CES, Grafton

• Caine Lucas-Mark - St. John Paul II CES, Lindsay

• Peyton O’Leary - St. Dominic CES, Lindsay

• Nora Woychesko - St. Mary CES, Lindsay

• Eli Kerr - St. Luke CES, Downeyville

• Henry Arteaga - Holy Trinity CSS, Courtice

• Talia Pudlik - St. Stephen CSS, Bowmanville

• Holly Heuchert - Holy Cross CSS, Peterborough

• Madison Nolan - St. Peter CSS, Peterborough

• Ava Liao-McDonell - St. Mary CSS, Cobourg

• Rachel Goodhand - St. Thomas Aquinas CSS, Lindsay

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