Each year during the first week in May classrooms across the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board (ALCDSB) will celebrate Catholic Education Week.
This year’s theme, Pilgrims of Hope: On the Path to Holiness, invites school communities to reflect on a shared journey of faith. Throughout the week, educators will bring the theme to life with daily resources, including sub-themes, scripture, music, and events.
Catholic Education Week also recognizes outstanding contributions within the community. This year’s awards ceremony will be held on Friday, May 8 at the Board Office in Napanee.
To learn more about Catholic Education Week, please visit OCSTA’s website:
https://www.ocsta.on.ca/project/we-are-called-to-love/
Catholic Education Week 2026 Award Recipients:
Archbishop Francis J. Spence Catholic Teacher of the Year Award
Maureen O’Connor, Classroom Teacher
Sacred Heart Catholic School (Marmora)
About the Recipient: Maureen’s unwavering dedication to students, families, colleagues, and community, along with her presence within the school, is a reflection of her deep commitment to nurturing the whole child academically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Maureen ensures every student feels known, valued, and capable of success as beloved children of God. She champions equity and dignity, meeting students where they are and gently guiding them forward in faith and learning - which makes her truly deserving of this honour.
About the Award: The late Archbishop Spence chose to honour all teachers in the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board by specifically recognizing one teacher during Catholic Education Week with the Archbishop Francis J. Spence Catholic Teacher of the Year Award. This award recognizes a teacher who exemplifies the spirit of the ALCDSB Mission Statement, meritorious service, and commitment to Catholic education and to the teachings of the Catholic Church. We honour the legacy of Archbishop Spence by presenting this award, which bears his name.
Excellence In Supporting Catholic Education: CUPE, Support Staff and Senior Managers
Izabela Machan, Elementary Office Administrator
St. Marguerite Bourgeoys CS
About the Recipient: Izabela exemplifies a deep commitment to Catholic education, consistently upholding the dignity of every person she encounters. Known as the heart of the school, she brings compassion, professionalism, and a faith-filled presence to her work. Guided by values of kindness, patience, service, and respect, she creates a welcoming environment where all feel safe, valued, and supported.
About the Award: The Excellence in Supporting Catholic Education Award – CUPE, Support Staff Association and Senior Managers recognize an individual who demonstrates excellence in the workplace while supporting faith-based education; community service, social justice initiatives; involvement in workplace and/or community life and personal accomplishment.
Contribution to Catholic Education Award
Geoff Mackler, Teacher
Regiopolois-Notre Dame Catholic High School
About the Recipient: Geoff is a true servant leader who lives the ALCDSB mission every day through humility, faith, and care for others. Geoff builds a community where everyone feels known, valued, and inspired - always leading with respect, kindness, and quiet dedication. An incredible role model in Catholic education and recognized for his passion for education.
About the Award: The Contribution to Catholic Education Award is meant to recognize an individual, group or organization which has made a significant visible contribution to the school system but particularly to either or both of the staff and students of the system.
The Katharine Award
Ron Wynn, Volunteer
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School
About the Recipient: Ron is recognized for his many years of dedicated volunteerism and his invaluable role in daily school life. With warmth and consistency, he supports students both in and out of the classroom, helping them feel confident, included, and cared for. His patient guidance and genuine kindness create a safe, encouraging environment where every child can thrive.
About the Award: The Katharine Award honours an individual, group or school whose charitable efforts honour the spirit of giving of the late Katharine Splinter and are consistent with the character of the system as expressed in its mission statement.
Adult Volunteer Award
IIdaco Rutledge, Volunteer
Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School
About the Recipient: Ildaco is recognized for her exceptional service and unwavering commitment to the school community. Highly valued by staff, students, and families, she is known for her generosity, reliability, and readiness to help. Through her leadership and hands-on support, she fosters an inclusive, compassionate environment where all students are cared for with dignity.
About the Award: The Adult Volunteer Award recognizes exemplary volunteer services to the benefit of staff and students.
Secondary Student Volunteer Award
Lydia Reilly, Grade 12
St. Paul Catholic Secondary School
About the Recipient:
Lydia is being recognized for her outstanding commitment to service, leadership, and community. Lydia is a dedicated leader in social justice initiatives, contributing to programs like Cardboard City and Relay for Life in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.
Known for her kindness, inclusivity, and strong sense of responsibility, Lydia leads by example and makes a lasting impact on her school community. She truly embodies the values of service, leadership, and compassion.
About the Award: The Secondary Student Volunteer of the Year Awards recognizes an individual who has provided exemplary services to a school, to the benefit of the students and staff of that site.
Elementary Student Volunteer Award
Chloe Graham, Grade 8
Holy Name Catholic School
About the Recipient: Chloe is recognized for consistently embodying the spirit of service within her school community. With enthusiasm, responsibility, and a genuine desire to help others, she is a dependable and positive presence who makes a meaningful difference for both students and staff.
About the Award: The Elementary Student Volunteer of the Year Awards recognize an individual who has provided exemplary services to a school, to the benefit of the students and staff of that site.
About Catholic Education Week:
Each year during the first full week in May the ALCDSB recognizes the significant contributions that Catholic Education has made to the community, the province and to Canada.
Learn more: ocsta.on.ca