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- Written by Jenny Connelly
- Category: Blog
At a special meeting held on August 5 , the ACSTA Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Dawn Miller as Vice President and unanimously elected Andrew Gustafson, Trustee and Vice-Chair of Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools, to serve as Interim Vice-President of the Association.
Now in his first term, with nearly four years of service, Andrew represents Okotoks in his capacity as a trustee for Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools. Andrew has also been a member of the ACSTA Board of Directors for three years, chairing the 2023 Nominations Committee and contributing to both the 2024 Awards Committee and the 2024 AGM Planning Committee.
Catholic education is deeply personal for Andrew — his wife has been a Catholic school teacher and administrator for 27 years and their three children are all graduates or current students of Catholic schools in Okotoks. Andrew has also coached basketball within the Catholic school community for many years. His longtime immersion in Catholic education has solidified Andrew's conviction that publicly funded Catholic education in Alberta is a gift that he is proud to protect for future generations.
Andrew has served in various community capacities over his 20 years as a small business owner in Okotoks. His investment in local community has included leadership roles with the Chamber of Commerce, Sheep River Health Trust, Foothills Okotoks Recreation Society, The Okotoks Rotary Club, and The Okotoks Basketball Association. He is also the Executive Vice Present of Calgary Minor Basketball. In recognition of these community contributions, Andrew and his wife received the Canada 150 Award in 2017 and the Heart of Okotoks Award in 2015.
Andrew considers it an "honour and privilege" to serve in a formal leadership role with the ACSTA and looks forward to the opportunity to learn and contribute during his term as interim Vice President.
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- Written by Charlotte Taillon
- Category: Blog
Last week, ACSTA was proud to join over 140 participants at the 2025 Mission Collaboration Initiative (MCI) Summit: Artificial Intelligence and the Church.
Hosted in collaboration with the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton and Catholic partners across the province, the event brought together leaders in theology, health, education, social services, and technology to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is already shaping our world and how the Church can thoughtfully engage with both the opportunities and challenges it presents.
The day began with the celebration of the Eucharist at St. Joachim Catholic Parish in Edmonton. Bishop William McGrattan, Vice President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, Bishop of Calgary, and ACSTA’s Episcopal Liaison, presided at the Mass.
Bridging Faith and Innovation
Matthew Harvey Sanders, a Canadian entrepreneur with deep roots in Catholic mission work, opened the summit with a powerful keynote. His work as founder of Magisterium AI demonstrates how faithful innovation can help make Church teachings more accessible to people around the world. He also emphasized the crucial role laypeople have in bringing their professional expertise to the mission of the Church.
Next we heard from Fr. Michael Baggot, LC, a professor and bioethicist at the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum in Rome led a compelling session titled The Human Side of Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact. With his background in bioethics and Catholic moral theology, Fr. Baggot helped frame AI within a broader ethical context. He invited participants to reflect on human dignity, virtue, and the moral boundaries that must accompany rapid technological advancement.
Rounding out the expert panel was Joseph Pedrola, Product Owner - Training at the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii). Pedrola joined Sanders and Fr. Baggot for a Q&A panel, where they responded to questions from participants on everything from AI in education to practical use cases in ministry. With his background in AI literacy and stakeholder engagement, Pedrola brought a valuable perspective on responsible use of AI tools in our communities.
Listening, Sharing, and Discernment
One of the most meaningful parts of the day was the group discussion time, facilitated using a method known as ‘Synodal Listening’. This intentional format, championed by the Council of Catholic School Superintendents of Alberta (CCSSA), ensures that everyone has the opportunity to speak before discussion begins.
Each table reflected on the questions posed throughout the day and identified key messages to bring back to Alberta’s bishops. This collaborative, Spirit-led process allowed all voices to be heard, capturing a sense of where the Holy Spirit might be leading the Church in the face of emerging technologies.
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Looking Ahead
As ACSTA continues to advocate for Catholic education, we are grateful for opportunities like the MCI Summit that bring together thinkers, educators, and pastoral leaders.
These conversations are essential to our discernment of how best to guide the next generation – not away from technology, but toward a more ethical, faith-filled, and human-centred approach to it.
We look forward to seeing how the ideas and insights from this Summit will inform future work in Catholic Education, support pastoral decision-making, and help shape a Catholic response to artificial intelligence rooted in both divine wisdom and hope.
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- Written by Charlotte Taillon
- Category: Blog
The Council of Catholic School Superintendents of Alberta (CCSSA) proudly presented the 2025 Excellence in Catholic Education Awards at this year’s SPICE & Blueprints Retreat Banquet.
SPICE and Blueprints are annual retreats put on by the Alberta Catholic School Trustees’ Association. SPICE is a retreat-style conference that supports teachers, chaplains, and school-based leaders in deepening their understanding of Catholic education. Blueprints is a similar gathering featured for Catholic School-based Administrators, Catholic Central Office Administrators, Catholic Trustees, Curriculum Leaders, Parish Priests and Religious Leaders to reflect on and strengthen the mission of Catholic education at the system level.
These awards recognize outstanding Catholic educators who exemplify the spirit of faith-filled teaching and leadership in their communities. Congratulations to the following recipients:
- Brooklynn deWaal – STAR Catholic Schools
- Victoria Hoddinott – Calgary Catholic School District
- Stephanie Krueger – Christ The Redeemer Catholic Schools
- Danielle Dallaire – Conseil scolaire FrancoSud
- Cain Collins – East Central Alberta Catholic Schools
- Tia Myrick – Edmonton Catholic Schools
- Christopher Ferguson – Edmonton Catholic Schools
- Daniel Moisan – Edmonton Catholic Schools
- Kim Frey – Elk Island Catholic Schools
- Mary-Anne Kinahan – Evergreen Catholic Schools
- Sheri Crowston – Greater St. Albert Catholic Schools
- Lori Fox – Holy Family Catholic Regional Division
- Siobhan Squires – Lakeland Catholic Schools
- Sharon Davyduke – Living Waters Catholic Schools
- Kendra LaRocque - Lloydminster Catholic School Division
- Robert Dumanowski - Medicine Hat Catholic School Division
- Linda Downey - Red Deer Catholic School Division
- Ginette Plante - St. Paul School Division
These educators have made extraordinary contributions to the formation of students in Catholic schools through their faith, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Their work continues to strengthen the mission of Catholic education across Alberta.
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- Written by Charlotte Taillon
- Category: Blog
On April 15, 2025 the Alberta Catholic School Trustees’ Association welcomed over 40 members of the Legislative Assembly and more than 60 Catholic school board trustees from 17 separate and francophone member boards to our 2025 MLA Reception in Edmonton.
This annual event provides a valuable opportunity for trustees to build relationships with legislators from across the province, and to advocate for the future of Alberta’s publicly funded Catholic Education system.
The formal portion of the evening began with a prayer led by Archbishop Richard Smith. It was a particularly special moment, marking his final time with ACSTA in his role as the Education Liaison Bishop before departing from the Archdiocese of Edmonton to take on his new role as Archbishop of Vancouver. We are deeply grateful for his years of leadership and support, and we ask that God’s blessings be upon him as he embarks on this next chapter of service.
In his remarks, ACSTA President Kelly Whalen reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to working collaboratively with all MLAs to support Catholic education.
“Catholic education is not only a constitutional right but a choice that thousands of Albertan families continue to make. As we look to the future, ACSTA remains committed to working with all of you – across party lines – to ensure Catholic education continues to flourish and remains a strong and accessible choice for Alberta families.”
Kelly Whalen, ACSTA President
Premier Danielle Smith underscored her government’s support for school choice and faith-based education. “Catholic education presents an excellent choice for families,” she said, “laying the foundation for academic excellence, moral development, and a deep sense of community service.”
Leader of the New Democratic Party of Alberta, Mr. Naheed Nenshi, emphasized the importance of removing barriers to education for all Alberta children, regardless of their background. “You don’t have to lobby any of my colleagues here tonight, we get it. We understand,” he said. “Every single child in this province, growing up in every single circumstance, deserves the best education in the world without any barriers. Catholic public education is a really critical part of that. We've heard that it's an important part of our history; it is an important part of our future.”
The event once again affirmed strong support for Catholic education across the political spectrum.
ACSTA is a non-partisan advocacy organization dedicated to celebrating, preserving, promoting and enhancing publicly funded Catholic education across Alberta, the Yukon and Northwest Territories. We represent 24 member boards, who collectively serve over 200,000 students and their families.
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- Written by Charlotte Taillon
- Category: Blog
Catholic school trustees are called to be faithful witnesses to the Gospel, especially in times of trial and transformation. Holy Week invites us into the Paschal mystery, the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a sacred time to pause and to reflect on the ways our leadership reflects Christ’s love and sacrifice.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells His disciples:
“No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends.” (John 15:13)
This self-giving love is at the heart of our vocation as Catholic leaders. As trustees, you are entrusted with shaping environments where faith is lived and where the values of the Gospel are not only taught, but witnessed in action.
Holy Week invites us to consider:
- Sacrifice: Are we willing to make decisions rooted in service rather than self-interest, even when they are difficult?
- Compassion: Do we lead with empathy, seeking to understand the needs of our school communities with a heart like Christ’s?
- Hope: Amid uncertainty, do we cling to the promise of the Resurrection, trusting that God is always at work bringing new life?
This Holy Week, let us take time to accompany Christ and to stand at the foot of the Cross and to wait at the tomb with faith. As trustees, may you walk with your school communities through both sorrow and joy, always pointing to the hope that Easter brings.
Closing Prayer:
Lord Jesus,
As we walk with You through Holy Week, deepen our understanding of Your love.
Help us, as Catholic school board trustees, to lead with courage, humility, and compassion.
May our decisions reflect the hope of the Resurrection and the promise of new life in You.
Grant us the grace to be faithful stewards of the mission entrusted to us, and witnesses to Your light in every school we serve.
Amen.
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- Written by Charlotte Taillon
- Category: Blog
The Alberta Catholic School Trustees’ Association (ACSTA) would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to Bridget Adedayo, the recipient of the 2024-2025 Justice Kevin Feehan Scholarship. Bridget is currently in her second year at St. Mary’s University, pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education, with a focus on English Language Arts.
Bridget’s deep commitment to Catholic education shines through in her academic pursuits and her aspiration to become a teacher in a Catholic school environment. Raised in the Catholic faith and having attended a Catholic high school, Bridget has experienced firsthand the transformative power of Catholic education. Her passion for teaching is driven by a desire to integrate her faith seamlessly into her classroom, ensuring that students not only receive academic instruction but also grow in their spiritual and personal development.
In her award application, Bridget expressed the importance of fostering an environment where students can learn about both academic subjects and the values of the Catholic Church. Her previous teaching experience in a Catholic school in Nigeria has shaped her commitment to nurturing compassionate individuals who are equipped to contribute positively to their communities and the world.
This scholarship is a testament to Bridget’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. The financial support provided by the Justice Kevin Feehan Scholarship will help ease the burden of her education and allow her to focus on her goals of becoming a teacher who not only imparts knowledge but also helps to shape the faith and character of her students.
We look forward to watching Bridget’s journey as she continues her studies and works toward her goal of becoming a compassionate and faith-filled educator in the Catholic school system. Her commitment to both academic excellence and her faith promises a bright future, and we are confident that she will make a lasting impact on the lives of those she teaches.
Once again, congratulations, Bridget, on this well-deserved recognition. Your dedication to both education and your faith is truly inspiring!
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- Written by Jo-Ann Kelly, RDCRS
- Category: Blog
Submitted by Jo-Ann Kelly, Religious Education and Curriculum Support Lead Teacher, Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools
On February 11-12, 2025, I had the incredible privilege of joining the Flying Fathers on the Red Deer leg of their first Alberta tour in 20 years. This unique team of hockey-playing priests, were born out of an act of charity. In 1964, Fr. Costello, a former Toronto Maple Leafs player turned priest, organized a hockey game to raise funds for a boy’s surgery. The overwhelming success of that event launched a movement that has since raised over $4 million over 900 games, proving that faith, sport and service are a powerful combination.
For their Alberta tour, four priests from different parts of Canada traveled to Red Deer: Fr. Daniel Corso and Fr. Matt McCarthy from Ontario, Fr. Josh Gundrum from Manitoba, and Fr. Kris Schmidt from Camrose, Alberta. Their visit, made possible through the support of Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools and Elk Island Catholic Schools, provided a unique opportunity for students to engage with faith in a dynamic and personal way. As the Flying Fathers visited several schools, they shared their journey’s of faith and vocation, connecting with students in meaningful conversations and encouraging them to listen to God’s calling in their own lives.
As the Religious Education Lead Teacher for Red Deer Catholic Schools, I had the honor of accompanying the Flying Fathers during their visit to five schools. One of the more memorable moments took place at Holy Family School, where priests joined students for an exciting floor hockey game. The gym was filled with laughter and cheers especially when the students managed to score against the priests.
The tour culminated in a much-anticipated Staff vs. Flying Fathers hockey game at the Servus Arena, which drew a crowd of 1,350 students and staff. These priests, each with a rich background in high-level hockey, were not only excellent players but also incredibly inspiring. Their stories were filled with faith, courage, and a love for both God and the game.
The priests’ authenticity resonated deeply with students. They shared personal reflections on how hockey had shaped their lives and how they maintained their love for the sport, even as priests. Fr. Dan spoke about the lesson his parents taught him about prioritizing God over hockey, which later became invaluable during times of hardship. Fr. Matt shared a powerful testimony of finding peace through faith during a personal struggle, while Fr. Kris described the joy of continuing to play hockey after becoming a priest. They encouraged students to pray for guidance in discovering their own vocations and to trust God’s calling.
Reflecting on the experience, I am deeply grateful. The Flying Fathers’ visit was a powerful reminder of the happiness that comes from being together in faith and the importance of witnessing our faith with joy. It showed how the priesthood is relatable, accessible, and rooted in a deep love for both God and others. Their visit strengthened our community, and the memories created will stay with our students, bringing them closer to God, the Church, and each other. The Flying Fathers’ legacy continues, inspiring future generations with the message that faith, fun, and community go hand in hand.
- Jo-Ann Kelly
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- Written by Charlotte Taillon
- Category: Blog
The 2025 Alberta Catholic School Trustees' Association (ACSTA) Symposium, Answering the Call with a Servant’s Heart, drew Catholic education leaders from across Alberta for an enlightening gathering focused on the evolving role of trustees in shaping Catholic education.
The event included inspiring keynote speeches, insightful discussions, and a renewed dedication to the faith-based mission of Catholic schools, providing a powerful platform for reflection and collaboration.
Archbishop Emeritus Thomas Cardinal Collins set the tone for the symposium with a stirring keynote address. He urged attendees to recognize that Catholic trustees carry a profound moral responsibility, not just to govern, but also to safeguard the core values of Catholic education. His Eminence emphasized that trustees must ensure Catholic schools remain firmly anchored in faith and aligned with the teachings of the Church.
Honourable Adriana LaGrange – former Catholic school trustee, ACSTA president, Minister of Education and current Minister of Health – brought a wealth of experience and passion to her remarks. She spoke about the invaluable contributions trustees make in advocating for faith-based education. Her story of faith and leadership underscored the distinctive difficulties faced by Catholic school trustees in Alberta, and the importance of depending on God and leaning into our faith to help navigate and persevere through those challenges.
The symposium also featured a thought-provoking presentation from Dr. Dean Sarnecki, who examined the delicate balance trustees must maintain between upholding Catholic values and adapting to the evolving educational landscape. His insights emphasized the importance of staying rooted in faith while navigating the challenges of modern education.
Dr. Dwayne Zarichny highlighted the profound impact of effective governance on faith-centered learning environments. His presentation focused on how strong leadership, transparency, and strategic decision-making can enhance the quality of Catholic education while ensuring its core mission remains at the forefront.
These discussions reiterated and affirmed the crucial role Catholic school trustees play in preserving the integrity of Catholic separate schools, advocating for our constitutional rights , and leading with unwavering faith. The event underscored that the commitment of trustees’ to faith, service, and governance will remain the guiding force of Catholic education in Alberta.
Dr. Bonnie Annicchiarico will now take on the work of compiling symposium data into a comprehensive document. This resource will provide Catholic school trustees with valuable guidance as they continue their mission to uphold and advance the values of Catholic education across the province.
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- Written by Charlotte Taillon
- Category: Blog
Pope Francis has designated January 2025 as a time to focus on the universal right to education, particularly for migrants, refugees, and those affected by war. He describes the current situation as an "educational catastrophe," noting that approximately 250 million children are deprived of schooling due to conflicts, displacement, and poverty. Catholic News Agency
For the Alberta Catholic School Trustees' Association (ACSTA), this papal intention resonates deeply with our mission to provide faith-based education to all children.
We are all called to be stewards of Christ's teachings. Providing education to those in need serves as a tangible expression of our faith in action. By embracing this mission, we not only educate minds but also nurture souls, guiding all students toward a deeper relationship with God.
Pope Francis' January prayer intention challenges us to reaffirm our commitment to educational equity. For Catholic trustees, it is a timely reminder of our vocation to serve all children, especially the most vulnerable, ensuring that the light of Christ illuminates every heart through the gift of education.
For a visual reflection on this intention, watch "The Pope Video" for January 2025:
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- Written by Charlotte Taillon
- Category: Blog
The Alberta Catholic School Trustees’ Association (ACSTA) joins with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary in mourning the passing of Most Reverend Frederick (Fred) B. Henry, Bishop Emeritus of Calgary; a towering figure in the preservation and promotion of Catholic education in Alberta. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the faithful he served so passionately.
His long-standing connection to the ACSTA spanned 18 years as the liaison Bishop on our Board of Directors. In recognition of his service, Bishop Henry was awarded the ACSTA Honorary Life Membership in 2009, a testament to the deep respect he earned from Catholic trustees across Alberta, Northwest Territories and Yukon.
Nationally, Bishop Henry was celebrated as the 2017 recipient of the Justice James Higgins Award, the highest honor conferred by the Canadian Catholic School Trustees’ Association (CCSTA). This award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Catholic education in Canada. Bishop Henry was nominated by ACSTA to honor his lifetime of dedication, beginning in Ontario as Liaison Bishop to the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities of Canada and as a member of the Ontario Conference of Catholic Bishops Education Commission. His work continued in Alberta, where he served as the liaison Bishop with ACSTA and played a pivotal role in curriculum development and advocacy for publicly funded Catholic education.
His extraordinary impact was also acknowledged by Cardinal Thomas Collins of Toronto, who praised Bishop Henry’s “prophetic voice” and Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton, who lauded him as “a man of God with a capacity for clear thought and bold proclamation.”
During his tenure as Bishop of Calgary, he was a beacon of faith and a stalwart advocate for the mission of Catholic education. He spoke eloquently and fearlessly on the importance of our schools as places where faith and learning come together to form future leaders rooted in the teachings of Christ.
His leadership inspired countless trustees, reminding us all of the essential role Catholic schools play in nurturing not just minds, but hearts and souls. Bishop Henry’s passionate advocacy, even in the face of adversity, remains a guiding light for all who continue the mission of Catholic education in Alberta.
ACSTA President Kelly Whalen said: “Bishop Fred Henry was a true champion of Catholic education, and his leadership and courage will be deeply missed. He reminded us all of the sacred mission of Catholic schools, and inspired us to remain steadfast in our faith and our calling. His impact will be felt for generations.”
As we honour his extraordinary life, we encourage everyone to pray for the repose of Bishop Fred Henry’s soul. May he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, whom he so faithfully served.
Requiescat in pace.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
