Dear St. Raphael Catholic School Community,
As we embark on another enriching school year, we are delighted to extend a warm welcome to both new and returning families. We also want to welcome our new Vice Principal, N. Emslie, as well as all new staff to our school. Our school community continues to thrive as a beacon of Catholic education, guided by the principles of faith, virtue, and inclusivity.
This year, we will continue to celebrate the virtues of the month, which will focus on nurturing the moral and spiritual development of our students. Through teachings rooted in Catholic values, we aim to cultivate a community where kindness, respect, and compassion flourish.
At St. Raphael Catholic School, we recognize the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusivity. Our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all students is central to our mission. We believe that by embracing our differences, we strengthen the fabric of our community and prepare our students to be compassionate global citizens.
Our approach to education is deeply rooted in the love of God, neighbor, and self, as guided by Pastoral Plan and Multi-Year Strategic Plan of the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB). We strive for academic excellence while fostering a faith-filled learning environment. By integrating faith development into our curriculum, we aim to guide our students on a journey of both intellectual and spiritual growth.
Partnership is a cornerstone of our success. We value the collaboration between school, community, and parish, recognizing that together, we can provide a supportive network for our students to thrive.
As we navigate the school year ahead, let us continue to walk together on this journey of faith, education, and community building. With God's grace, may we inspire our students to embrace knowledge, embody virtue, and contribute positively to the world around them.
I leave you with the words of Mother Teresa: "Dear Jesus, help us to spread your fragrance everywhere we go. Flood our souls with your spirit and life. Penetrate and possess our whole being so utterly that our lives may only be a radiance of yours. Shine through us and be so in us that every soul we come in contact with may feel your presence in our soul. Let them look up and see no longer us but only Jesus. Amen."
Wishing you all a blessed and successful school year.
In faith and partnership,
M. Ochnik, Principal & N. Emslie, Vice Principal