Edmison Heights Public School Presents The Wizard of Oz
/Edmison Heights Public School is performing The Wizard of Oz May 2 to 4 at Adam Scott CVI.
Photo courtesy of edmison heights Public School.
Peterborough Blogs
Trent University President Leo Groarke Announces Intention to Step Down From Presidency
/Trent University President Dr. Leo Groarke to step down from his presidency as of June 2024, deciding not to pursue a third term as president.
photo courtesy of trent university.
Dr. Leo Groarke has announced that he will not pursue a third term as president, and has instead decided to conclude his tenure as president and vice chancellor of Trent University at the end of June 2024. He will be leaving a legacy of accomplishments that have advanced Trent’s academic, administrative and community profile, says Trent.
“A university president and vice chancellor wears many hats, and President Groarke has donned them all,” said Debra Cooper Burger, chair of Trent University’s Board of Governors. “Over the past decade, the postsecondary sector has evolved in the face of both opportunities and challenges. President Groarke, through careful, critical, and compassionate leadership, has helped Trent University flourish as an academic institution, here in our local communities in Peterborough and Durham GTA, as well as globally. We are confident in the future of Trent, due in large part to President Groarke’s work ensuring a strong and healthy position for our University.”
Among the many highlights, President Groarke has led unprecedented year-over-year undergraduate and graduate enrolment growth, establishing a strong financial basis for the future of the University across both its Peterborough and Durham GTA campuses. Other fiscal successes have included a groundbreaking inaugural debenture, program development, the careful fiscal management of the institution, and, most recently, Trent’s partnership with the University Pension Plan established by the University of Guelph, Queen’s University, and the University of Toronto.
Emphasizing student success through the interdisciplinary education that Trent values, President Groarke spearheaded the launch of four Schools of Study at Trent—focused on the Study of Canada, Environment, Business, and Indigenous Studies. More than 20 undergraduate and 13 new graduate programs have also launched during President Groarke’s tenure. They include: Conservation Biology, Social Work, Data Science, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, the Medical Professional Stream, and Child & Youth Studies, as well as Master of Instrumental Chemical Analysis, Master of Nursing, Master of Management and Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Social Research.
Other initiatives have included creative international partnerships like the Law & Arts/Business, Chemical Engineering dual degrees and medical science programs with Swansea University, as well as innovative agreements for medical pathways with several institutions in the Caribbean.Recent initiatives include: the launch of paid co-op streams in more than 20 academic programs across the Humanities, Social Sciences and Sciences; the creation of the Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership; the addition of eight prestigious Canada Research Chairs; and a major expansion of experiential learning opportunities and study abroad programming. During President Groarke’s two terms, international enrolment at Trent has grown from 7 per cent to 15.5 per cent of University enrolment.
“I have been very fortunate to work with a strong Executive team, supportive Boards of Governors, and positive labour and student unions,” Dr. Groarke commented. “Together it has allowed Trent to evolve in ways that are good for our students, our researchers, and our communities. I am inspired when I see the hustle and bustle on our two expanding campuses, note the growth of the reputation of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni, and witness the breadth of our community engagements. There is always more that can be accomplished and I hope to contribute more in the year to come, and then as a professor when I pass the torch on to a new president on June 30, 2024.”
President Groarke has made connections with alumni and a culture of philanthropy key priorities during his two terms. He has overseen the successful completion of the $56.8 million Unleash the Potential Campaign, a $6.6 million Campaign for Trent Durham GTA, and recently launched the University’s most ambitious campaign to date – the $100 million Campaign for Momentous Change. These campaigns have added dynamic new spaces to Trent’s campus landscapes – including the Student Centre, Forensic Crime Scene Facility and Trent Durham’s residence and academic building. A personal philanthropic supporter of the University, President Groarke established the Louis and Paul Groarke Philosophy Endowment.
Equity, diversity, inclusion has been another priority during Dr. Groarke’s presidency. He has continued to emphasize Trent’s role as a leader in reconciliation and Indigenous education; prioritized the health and well-being of students, the campus and our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic; supported initiatives stemming from an anti-racism task force report; and emphasized positive labour relations between administration and Trent’s unions.
Trent University’s continued ranking as the #1 undergraduate university in Ontario for 12 years in a row is further reflection of President Groarke’s contributions to the institution’s growing reputation nationally and internationally, and testimony to his leadership and pursuit of excellence for the institution and its staff, faculty, and students.
Celebrations to honour President Groarke at the end of his term in June 2024 will be planned and announced at a later date. The Board is currently developing the new Presidential Mandate, and details regarding the search for Trent’s ninth president and vice-chancellor will be shared as they are developed. Updates will be shared online.
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Trent Day Raises Over $460,000 to Support Students and Programs at Trent University
/On Trent Day (April 4), the Trent community came together to raise $462,525 to support students and programs, set a new single-day record of increasing monthly donors, volunteer at service sites to support the community and collect 1,795 pounds of non-perishables for local food banks.
photo courtesy of trent university, facebook.
“What a momentous day for the University community as we came together to showcase our founding values of support, service and spirit,” said Sherry Booth ’98, associate vice-president Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement. “It was heartwarming to see increased monthly philanthropic support for our students, various department teams – dressed in Trent gear – joyfully carrying bags of non-perishables to the food drive booths, and alumni across the country volunteering for causes close to their heart. Thank you to everyone who showed their generosity by taking care of our students and campuses, while also shining the Trent spirit on our local communities.”
The third annual Trent Day was celebrated by staff, faculty, students, community members and alumni from around the world.
Highlights of Trent Day 2023 include: 31 new monthly donors signed up to support Trent students; 115 alumni participated in service and spirit activities in their communities across the country and beyond including working with Cuddles for Cancer, Peterborough Museum & Archives, Kawartha Food Share, Feed the Need in Durham, Teachers for Kids, and Casey House (Toronto); nearly 1,800 pounds of food collected for Kawartha Food Share in Peterborough and Feed the Need in Durham – a nearly 80 per cent increase in food donations from last year.
The Trent community also celebrated Trent Day and shared their Trent spirit through stories and photos across social media using the #TrentDay hashtag.
“We hope alumni around the world enjoyed celebrating their Trent memories and thank all those who donated so Trent can continue to offer a transformational experience to future generations,” said AVP Booth.
Trent Day marks the April 1963 signing of the Trent Act, which formalized the incorporation of the University as a degree-granting institution, and pays tribute to the University’s history, values and community. On Trent Day, the Trent community comes together to support student needs, showcase school spirit, and give back through volunteer service and philanthropy.
Fleming Athletics Celebrates Student Athletes at the Annual Fleming Athletic Varsity Banquet
/Fleming College’s student athletes were celebrated during the Annual Fleming Athletic Varsity Banquet on March 31.
photo courtesy of fleming college.
In a night full of surprises, former Athletic Coordinator Fred Batley was honoured by former colleague Jane Bolin for his induction into the Ontario College Athletic Association (OCAA) Hall of Fame.
Fleming College also created an award in Batley's name, to further honour the long-time standing member of Fleming College's Athletic Department.
The Fred Batley Coaches Award honours current Fleming coaches. Loggersports coach Al Cavers and Rugby Women’s 7’s coach Donnie Maillet were the inaugural recipients this year.
Team Awards were presented to the following student athletes who excelled on their teams:
Cross Country
MVP: Frances Emery
Rookie of the Year: Ainsley Taggett
Men’s Curling
MVP: Nolan Galardo
Rookie of the Year: Cameron Fraser-Freeman
Women’s Curling
MVP: Carissa Stauffer
Rookie of the Year: Kelly Galt
Women’s Volleyball
MVP: Holly Pennings
Rookie of the Year: Zofia Boruta
Men’s Volleyball
MVP: Sam Deschenes
Rookies of the Year: Tim Akers and Calvin Dekok
Loggersports
Female MVP: Alexandra Bennett
Male MVP: Desmond Burman-Martin
Female Rookie of the Year: Madelyn McInnes
Male Rookie of the Year: Jakob Ursic
Men’s Basketball
MVPs: Theon Esseboom and Kyle Shiferaw
Rookies of the Year: Keandre Jackson and Brock Stupar
Women’s Rugby 7’s
MVP: Rachael King
Rookie of the Year: Abby Todd
Women’s Soccer
MVP: Ainsley Taggett
Rookie of the Year: Hannah Vallier
Men’s Soccer
MVPs: Logan Scott and Sahil Bhardwaj
Rookie of the Year: Sam Barker
OCAA All Academic Awards were presented to student athletes who maintained a 3.6 GPA or higher during their season:
Chloe Bender, Amy Browett, Emma Janes, Hollie Phillips, Montana Rank, Abby Todd, Sam Barker, Aaron Molenhuis, Rob Ryan, Pushkar Patel, Maggie Hope, Nicole Nielsen, Breann Maillet-Goodfellow, Zofia Boruta, Keeley Cox, Alexandra Joli-Coeur, Kaitlyn McConkey, Emma Sluggett, Ted Davis, Paul Molay, Nate Stephen, Kaden Bulmer, Leo Arseneault, Jordan Brown, Cameron Butyn, Ethan Johnston, Scott McDonald, Scott Gauer, Blake Fellman, Alexandra Bennett, Claeyr Townsend, Tanya Pelerine, Madelyn McInnes, Brittany Smith- Kelso, Anna Westwood, Sarah D’hondt, Arden Curran, Emma Holder
OCAA Honour Awards were presented to our student athletes based on their athletic performance. Recipients were selected and voted on by other OCAA institutions.
2022 OCAA Women's Rugby Sevens Championship All Star: Rachael King
2022 OCAA Women's Rugby Sevens Championship All Star and 2022 OCAA Academic & Athletic Excellence Award: Montana Rank
2022 OCAA Academic & Athletic Excellence Award: Abby Todd
2022 OCAA Women's Cross Country Second All Ontario Team: Frances Emery
Women's Cross Country Second All-Ontario Team: Ainsley Taggett
Men's Volleyball Second Team All-Star: Dion Pearson-Laviolette
The Fleming Athletics All Academic Knight award is presented to a first-year athlete with a 3.6 GPA or higher. This year’s award recipient is Kaden Bulmer.
This year’s Rachael Spearing Award is presented to a women’s rugby player who demonstrated heart, spirit, sportsmanship, and dedication on the field. This year’s Rachael Spearing Award recipient is Amy Browett.
The Kris Starr Award and Adam Evans Award are each presented to Loggersports athletes who show their heart, spirit, dedication, and love of sport. This year’s awards were presented to:
Kris Starr Award: Matthew Douchant
Adam Evans Award: Ethan Johnston
All-Around Athlete Awards are presented to a male and female athlete who performed at a high level both on and off the field of play. These athletes demonstrate great leadership, commitment, and dedication. This year’s winners are:
Male All Around Athlete of the Year: Stephen Cadamuro
Female All Around Athlete of the Year: Ainsley Taggett
Fleming Athletics Athlete of the Year Awards go to a male and female athlete who performed exceptional achievements within their sports while maintaining academic eligibility. Our 2022-2023 Athlete of the Year awards go to:
Male Athlete of the Year: Scott Gauer
Female Athlete of the Year: Abby Todd
Fleming College and the Fleming Athletics and Recreation department would like to congratulate all our student athletes, coaches and award recipients who showed their dedication and hard work throughout the 2022-2023 varsity season, and wishes all the graduating athletes well as they move on throughout their post collegiate lives.
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Lakefield College School Presents 'Something Rotten' Musical
/Lakefield College School is bringing Shakespeare and rock-and-roll to the stage with the musical production of ‘Something Rotten’ starting Feb. 28.
A cast and crew of over 50 staff and students from Lakefield College School (LCS) have been working since October to bring this production of the annual musical to the Bryan Jones Theatre.
Now that pandemic regulations have eased and LCS is able to invite a wider audience to the show, Something Rotten director and producer Geoff Bemrose says that he is excited to see the show come together.
“It’s kind of a show within a show. It’s a good send up of Shakespeare, tons of musical theatre and jokes as well,” he says.
The show is based off of the novel by Karen Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell. Something Rotten takes place in 1595 London, England. The Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel are trying to find success by writing plays, but are outshined by the rock-star playwright of the Renaissance, William Shakespeare. Nick gets help from a soothsayer for the next big hit, who foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time. Nick and Nigel then set out to write the world’s first musical’ Omelette: The Musical.’ But amidst the excitement of opening night, the Bottom Brothers realize that reaching the top means being ‘true to thine own self.’
Ben Freeman, who plays Nicholas Bottom, has been apart of LCS musicals since Grade 9, and is now in Grade 12.
“They’re probably the most fun part of the year, although a little stressful. Because on top of classes and preparing for tests, I also have to memorize all my lines,” says Freeman. “At the end of the day it’s really satisfying and everyone really loves it. Not only the cast, but the people at the school because they get to see their friends on stage.”
“I’m also excited for my friends to see it. I’m not really like my character at all, he’s very egotistical. He’s almost polar opposite of me. So I’m excited to see how I can be like that,” says Alex Bemrose.
Alex, who plays William Shakespeare in his second musical production with the school, says that with many rehearsals under their belt the Something Rotten cast is enjoying the “fun part.”
“As (the show) goes on, you just get more comfortable, and it gets more fun,” he says. “And now we’re at the fun part. You know your lines, you get to play more, and you get to really get into your character.”
Along with the other seasoned musical theatre students, Isabelle Kim, who plays Portica, says that the seniors of the school help to foster a comfortable environment for newer performers.
“It’s been a really supportive, really fun team, and everyone’s just had this shared passion and I think that’s what makes it so fun. People feel free to express themselves, try new things and not be afraid to explore their characters,” she says. “That’s something really cool about Something Rotten, everyone has the ability to develop their own character and how they want that to translate on stage.”
Kim says that the students in the audience can look forward to some familiar jokes and characters in the performance.
“It aligns with what the different English classes are working on right now, they’re all studying Shakespeare, so I think it’ll be really cool for them to kind of connect those dots and see how many jokes they catch on to,” she says.
‘Something Rotten’ will run from Feb. 28 to Mar. 3 starting at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.). The opening night show is already sold-out.
Those interested in seeing the production can purchase tickets online for $10 (plus applicable fees) here.
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PVNC School Board and CUPE Local 1453 Reach Local Collective Agreement
/Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board announces that it has reached a local collective agreement with CUPE Local 1453, approved on Feb. 7.
file photo.
PVNC employs about 800 CUPE members, representing support staff such as custodians, maintenance staff, secretaries, educational assistants, early childhood educators, learning commons specialists, paraprofessionals and central IT employees among others.
A tentative agreement was reached on Jan. 24 after eight days of local bargaining, and it was ratified by local CUPE members on Jan. 28. Trustees approved the agreement during a special board meeting held on Feb. 7.
“This agreement is a reflection of a commitment to working together to negotiate in good faith and reach a deal that benefits the Board and CUPE Local 1453 members. I am pleased that a deal was reached, and I couldn't be happier for the members of CUPE Local 1453,” said Nora Shaughnessy, president of CUPE Local 1453.
CUPE and the Ontario government reached a tentative central agreement in November, which was ratified by the union in December.
The collective bargaining framework for the education sector features a two-tier bargaining process involving both central and local bargaining. Central bargaining typically includes significant monetary and policy issues (e.g. compensation, benefits and paid leaves), while local negotiations typically involve non-monetary issues or matters specific to the local board.
“We are so pleased to have reached this agreement with our dedicated support workers. It’s an indication of the strong working relationship we enjoy with our CUPE partners,” said Joan Carragher, director of education. “I thank all the hard-working members of the bargaining teams on both sides for their dedication to the process and their spirit of collaboration and cooperation.”
St. Peter CSS Returns To the Showplace Stage With 'GREASE: The Musical'
/St. Peter Catholic Secondary School is set to return to the Showplace Performance Centre with the production of GREASE The Musical starting Feb. 15.
For the first time since 2018, St. Peter’s is taking the Showplace stage with Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey’s GREASE The Musical, running performances until Feb. 18.
The production includes close to 200 students and staff within the school community, and is directed by drama teacher and arts chair Paul Crough. St. Peter’s staff Jennifer Riel (choreographer), James Wright (music director) and Dyanne McDonald (stage manager) are among the production crew as well.
“It’s always an exciting time, we have students from Grade 9 through 12 in the musical. The part that I love about the whole experience that the audience doesn’t get to see is the process,” said Crough. “We have students who have never sung publicly in front of someone, and they’re terrified at auditions, and we witness the growth that takes place within their confidence with a like-minded group.”
Cast leads include Ryan Forsyth as Danny and Macayla Vaughan as Sandy. The two say they are excited to see the production come to fruition with all of the hard work going on behind the scenes.
“This is a dream role of mine, and as the first and last show I get to be a part of with this school, it is something special,” said Vaughan.
General admission tickets are $28.50 plus fees and are available for purchase at the Showplace Performance Centre box office (290 George St. N) or online.
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Fleming College Students Earn Global Recognition Through International Business Competition
/Three Fleming College teams were ranked within the top global 100 during the Glo-Bus international business competition in November.
Fleming College has more than 6,800 full-time and 10,000 part-time students and 80,000 alumni. Photo courtesy of Fleming college, Facebook.
The competition ran from Oct. 1 to Nov. 27, and the students competed against 2,076 teams from 108 colleges and universities from around the world. Students were tasked with running companies which compete for global market leadership in two product categories-high quality wearable cameras and sophisticated, camera-equipped copter drones.
Teams had two practice rounds followed by seven weeks of competition over a period of nine weeks. Each round represented one business year. During the week’s final competition, three Fleming teams placed within the top 100.
C Company, made up of Fleming College students Benjamin Allan Gomes, Fathimathzuhara Makkara Thazha Kuni, Yasir Mukhtar and Subhasis Samuel Xess were recognized as having the 57th-best Return on Average Equity for the week.
Sri Subrahmanyam Ayyagari, Polash Karmokar and Jaya Surya Sangaraju Mohan, who made up Company A, were recognized for having the 75th Best Stock Price of the week.
The co-managers of Company B, The Road Runners, made up of Fleming students Rohan Ashutosh Jokhakar, Priya Prem Kumar, Gagandeep Singh Tiwana and Navroz Vyas, were recognized for their overall Game-To-Date score, tying for the 97th spot.
GoFundMe Created For Local Teacher That Suffered Fatal Injuries From Single-Vehicle Accident
/A GoFundMe has been set up to honour the memory of grade 5/6 teacher Lucia Colacci who passed away in a single-vehicle accident on Pigeon Lake Road on Monday.
Facebook photo.
The 51-year-old St. John Paul II Catholic Elementary School teacher was married to her husband Jeff Kitney and had three children, Mateo, Marco and Natalia.
The money raised will ease the financial burdens following Colacci’s death.
On Monday, Kawartha Lakes OPP responded to the scene of a single-vehicle rollover on Pigeon Lake Road around 8:30 a.m. near Downeyville.
Colacci was transported to the hospital from the scene where she later passed away.
Kindergarten teacher Patricia Campbell says she worked together with Colacci for years, calling her both a friend and a colleague.
“If you knew Lucia, you knew that her presence was undeniable. When she walked into a room, she oozed confidence, enthusiasm, and self-assurance,” said Campbell. “She had a big smile, a big voice, and an even bigger personality but her students never felt intimidated by her. That was because in addition to being a great speaker, Lucia was also a great listener and an even better observer.”
Campbell and Colacci worked together at St. John Paul II and previously at St. Dominic CES.
“Lucia was the kind of educator that all educators aspire to be. Over the course of her teaching career she motivated and inspired hundreds of young people and she undoubtedly left a lasting impression on each and every one of them. Lucia had a way of breaking down walls and reaching even the most reluctant of learners. In her classroom, everyone was seen. Nobody was forgotten or ignored. Lucia made each of her students feel valued, respected, and cared for,” continued Campbell. “Her absence will be felt deeply. In our community, in our school, in our hearts. But even in her absence, Lucia will continue to teach all of us; about generosity, kindness, empathy, patience and faith, along with a multitude of other things. We were all blessed beyond measure to know her.”
Additional social workers were assigned to the school on Tuesday and are available for any students who require additional support.
Mental health support is offered through the Kids Helpline 24/7. Text CONNECT to 686868, or call toll-free at 1-800-668-6868.
The school’s flag was lowered at half-mast to honour Colacci’s memory.
Keith Wightman Students Throw Celebration For Teacher With Breast Cancer During Terry Fox Walk
/This year’s Terry Fox walk for Keith Wightman Public School brought special meaning to these kindergarten through grade six students.
Photo courtesy of Keith Wightman Public School.
Kindergarten teacher Mrs. Lytle was diagnosed with breast cancer last school year and got to see her students at the walk on Thursday for the first time since her diagnosis.
The school has done a number of activities to raise awareness in Lytle’s honour including designing Terry-inspired running shoes and wearing pink.
The beloved teacher was greeted with high-fives and written notes from students upon her arrival.
“We teach because we love kids, and being away from them has been hard,” said Lytle. “I’m super excited to see what’s going on, and to be here (at the school) again.”
