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Please note: On the last Friday of every month, all St. Charles offices will be closed at 2 pm.

 

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Phone: 905.577.0555

email: info@stcharles.ca


 

Bob Goodwin, 
Principal
St. Charles Adult Education Centres

 


St. Charles News . . .


The HWCDSB has a new Buzz Board filled with great news stories. Click the picture above to read the St. Charles stories from it.

Click here for all of the school board's stories

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Archive of Older Stories


October 2011

Check out our story at the HWCDSB's Buzz Board about our graduation ceremony


June 2011

Book Brings Out a Love of Multi-Culturalism and Reading in LBS Students

St. Charles Barlake LBS instructors, Dino Garofalo and Kathy Gebel, decided to start an outdoor book club for their students.  There was some initial resistance but it turned out to be a wonderful experience.

Here is what the instructors had to say about the experience: 

Most afternoons, you will find the LBS students from Barlake sprawled out comfortably on the front grass of the school. Fond childhood memories of warm June days when the teacher would let the class do their work outside, along with a need and desire to teach our learners to read for pleasure, prompted us (Dino and Kathy) to have an outdoor book club/novel study.

The students were apprehensive at first. Many had never considered reading for pleasure and were even less excited when they discovered the book we would be reading was about a young Afghani girl. “Why don’t we read about something that has to do with Canada?” and “What does this have to do with our lives?” were just a few of the questions posed to us.

Those attitudes changed quickly. As we began to read The Breadwinner, the students quickly identified with the young protagonist, Parvana. They were all amazed when we would point out the parallels between Parvana’s difficult life and the lives that many of the LBS learners had lived, despite being worlds away. 

After just a few chapters, the learners couldn’t wait to find out what happened next, and great discussions erupted about what they thought would happen. It came to the point where we, the instructors, barely had to facilitate any discussion. They were, without any provocation, drawing their own parallels, courteously debating points of the story and predicting what would happen next. Best of all; they were reading for pleasure!

Upon the conclusion of our book club, we wanted to bring a little more Afghanistan into our students’ lives. Amin Sidiq, an Afghani student in Donna Metcalfe’s class, generously offered to make and deliver a delicious, authentic meal. The students eagerly spooned out the tasty basmati rice with beef, raisins, carrots and many exotic spices that had probably never touched their Canadian palates. That delicious dish was rivalled by another that had chicken, chick peas and potatoes, swimming in a yummy sauce. It was all rounded out by a lovely fresh salad.

The LBS students acquired much more than just a little vitamin D from this whole exercise. They have learned to enjoy reading, broadened their knowledge of the world and, perhaps most importantly, became aware of how lucky they are to have been born Canadian.

Links


June 23, 2011

St. Charles LBS Student Overcomes Cardiac Arrest and a Coma to Win Adult Literacy Award

Hamilton Police Officer Jeffrey Lennox went though cardiac arrest, a coma, rehab, and more. After his brave recovery, the Hamilton Literacy Council and St. Charles helped him earn an Adult  Literacy Award.

In December 2008, Jeff experienced the cardiac arrest that left him in a coma for 14 days. Doctors were surprised when he started showing movement. After an eight week rehab program, he started to learn to read, write and speak again.

About a year after the accident, Jeffrey was assessed by St. Charles.  This led to referral to  the Hamilton Literacy Council and then to the St. Charles Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) program at the East 5th (mountain) location.  He rapidly progressed through the levels.

In honour of all his hard work, Jeffrey won the 2011 Hamilton Spectator Adult Literacy Award at the Adult Basic Education Association (ABEA) Awards ceremony on June 23, 2011.  St. Charles staff and senior administration were there for his proud moment.

One of them was his instructor, Laura Prinsthal.  She expects him continue his amazing work in the future. She feels Jeff will work hard to achieve his goals.

"He is an inspiration to his peers and staff at the Mountain Centre. Jeff is always the first to arrive in the morning, with a positive attitude and gentle manner", Laura said, "Jeff will go out of his way to help others in any way he can. His sense of humour is a welcomed attribute to the classroom." 

Jeffrey is looking forward to re-entering the police force in the near future.

Left to right: LBS Supervisor Christine Hendrie, LBS Instructor Laura Prinsthal, Hamilton Spectator Adult Literacy Award Winner Jeffrey Lennox, and LBS Assessor at the ABEA Awards

Links


June 21, 2011

Notre Dame House Grads Take First Step to Pursuing Their Dreams

Students from the Notre Dame House overcame many obstacles in their lives in pursuit of a dream of higher education and a bright future.  On June 21st, 2011 their graduation ceremony celebrated the result of the grads' hard work.

The successful education program was a result of a partnership with the Brothers of the Good Shepherd and the St. Charles Adult Education Centres. Notre Dame House is a shelter for homeless youth, located in downtown Hamilton.

"The ceremony was a testimony to the dedication of the teachers at Notre Dame House: Tom Montgomery, Kathy Lukasik and Phil Aref, who strive to help their students achieve to their potential. " said St. Charles Principal Bob Goodwin, " St Charles is proud of our partnership with the Brothers of the Good Shepherd in providing a classroom of hope for the students at Notre Dame House."

Notre Dame House grads enjoy their success

Links

 


June 16, 2011

PSW and Chef Training Grads Start Their Journey

The St. Charles graduates from both the Personal Support Worker (PSW) and Chef Training programs united to celebrate the beginning of their new life.  As a result of their many challenges, the St. Charles East 5th gym filed with laughter and tears at the graduation ceremony on June 16, 2011. 

For the Chef Training Program, this was the very first graduating class. For months, the students learned how to prepare food and even served staff and students at the St. Charles cafeteria.  On top of that, they used their newfound skills at employment placements.

"We had a great first group of students, " said Chef Training Teacher Luis Chiarini,  "They were patient, talented, fun and enthusiastic and always willing to learn.  Everyone has what it takes to succeed in the hospitality industry."

Like the Chef graduates, the PSW students will soon be moving on to employment (many have already been hired).  The success rate for the program is extremely high and health-related industries are growing.

"The Personal Support Worker graduates have shown a true sense of commitment to learning about all aspects of becoming an outstanding caregiver. " said PSW instructor Joanne DeRubeis, "I know that through their work with the ill, the disabled and the elderly, they will make a difference in the lives of those in need."

The Chef Training grads (standing) and the PSW grads celebrate the start of their new life.

 

Chef Training Teacher Lui Chiarini cuts the cake at the grad.

 

Links


June 15, 2011

St. Martin's Manor Grads Juggle Motherhood and Education With Pride

It's hard enough being a mother to a newborn baby.  Getting an education on top of that can be a major challenge.  With the help of Catholic Family Services and St. Charles Adult Education Centres, a number of dedicated new moms earned their high school diplomas.

St. Charles supplied the educational components at St. Martin's Manor, a residence and resource centre for pregnant mothers.  After all their hard work and perseverance, the students held their graduation at the Manor on June 15, 2011.

Dignitaries from the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic School Board were on hand.  Chairperson Pat Daly, Director of Education Patricia Amos, and St. Charles principal Bob Goodwin saw the pride in the students' eyes after getting their diplomas.

"St Charles is proud to announce a new group of alumni. Two students from St Martin's Manor received their high school diplomas," said St. Charles Principal Bob Goodwin, "We wish to congratulate everyone on their achievement and wish them all the best as they pursue their post-secondary school goals."

St. Charles Principal, Bob Goodwin speaks to the St. Martin's Manor grads.

Links


June 1, 2011

PSW Students Help Teach About Health

The St. Charles PSW students have certainly learned a lot from their course.  The Community Health at St. Charles East 5th on June 1st gave them a chance to give back. Students offered important information about  diabetes, mental illness, Alzheimer's, dementia and much more.

The annual fair also includes booths from community agencies such as the Canadian Cancer Society, Alzheimer Society and Heart and Stroke.  It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase their services to the various St. Charles students.

“The fair is not only an opportunity for PSW students to share their knowledge with other students at St. Charles, but a chance for St. Charles to interact with the community,” said PSW Instructor Joanne DeRubeis.

PSW Students show off their booth at the Health Fair

 

Links


May 25, 2011

St. Charles Staff Members Earn Director's Awards

Two St. Charles staff members were honoured for their exceptional work at the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board's Director's Awards on May 25, 2011. Each year, the ceremony recognizes individuals for outstanding dedication to students and staff as well as their contributions to the Catholic school community. 

ESL Instructor Cathy Coruzzi and Credit Teacher Katie O'Connell received their well-deserved plaques directly from director Patricia Amos.  Both are great examples of the love and energy St. Charles staff brings to their work.

St. Charles Principal, Bob Goodwin, was understandably proud of the two. "Cathy and Katie exemplify the spirit of excellence in Catholic education and are worthy recipients of this prestigious award." he said, "The entire St Charles community joins in congratulating Cathy and Katie "

 

HWCDSB Director Patricia Amos (right) awards Cathy Coruzzi (top) and Katie O'Connell (bottom) for their superb work at St. Charles.

 

Links


May 2011

St. Charles Means Business for Grads

The graduates of the St. Charles Basic Business Terminology course are well on their way to a new life in Canada.  As part of the Specialized Language Training Program (SLTP), the class offered students a chance to learn about Canadian business terminology and practices (not to mention an employment placement).

With increased knowledge and Canadian job experience under their belts, the grads begin a journey to employment and a better life for themselves and their families.

SLTP instructor Danielle Marchese, got to see first hand how dedicated the grads were.  "The students in the business class were prepared, organized and creative," she said, "These characteristics will take them far. I wish them the best of everything."

SLTP Business Terminology students proudly display their certificates

 

Links


April 15, 2011

St. Charles Helps Honour Those Who Make a Difference

On April 15, St. Charles helped celebrate the efforts of wonderful people who believe in equity and inclusion.  The East 5th location hosted the the HCCI (Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion) Community Mobilization Training program graduation. 

The successful graduates learned about political and social engagement as well as networking and volunteering. They also focused on sharing resources and issues affecting diverse cultures in Canada. 

"You could feel the excitement in the room as the students received their certificates and had their pictures taken so proudly" said Vice Principal Sandra Mlekuz, "It was a great moment and one could tell that these are great Canadians in the making"

Joining them were the Chairperson of HWCDSB Mr. Patrick Daly, the students and staff from St. Charles, local MPs, MPP Ted McMeekin and the HCCI staff.   Also on hand was LINC/ESL Supervisor, Susan Friscolanti, who helped co-ordinate the HCCI program and the graduation ceremony itself.

Chairperson Daly spoke about how our Board truly believes in empowering our students. He commended the HCCI staff for delivering a great program in civic inclusion and leadership. 

Great job everyone!

Politicians, St. Charles and HWCDSB Staff join the HCCI grads in cheering their good work

 

Link


April 2011

St. Charles School Rallies to Support a Student in Need

St. Charles Main Street East ESL student, Zara Idriss Abakar received tragic news from Chad (her homeland). Zara's 6 year old son, who remained in Chad with his two siblings and grandmother, passed away from a lengthy illness. Zara's dream to bring her all children to Canada within the year was shattered. 

Swiftly, St. Charles Main Street instructors and students rallied with an outpour of support for their student and beloved peer. Although Zara was absent, she was in the heart and minds of all. Words of condolence were expressed in many different languages and those who did not even know her well expressed their deepest sympathies. Stories were shared in classrooms of other experienced tragedies and created a bond of emotional support within the walls of St. Charles Main Street East.

Generous donations of money have been pouring in from students, many who were financially stressed. To date the students and staff have raised $400. Zara's ESL instructors will be taking the money to Zara to help her journey home. Her journey will be arduous because flights to Africa are restricted with the unrest in Libya. Zara will fly into Africa as close to Chad as possible where she will be reunited with her family and able to lay her son to rest. 

St. Charles staff and students want to send a message to Zara: "Know you are surrounded by much support, strength and love. Even though we were not blessed to have made your son's acquaintance we do know you. Your faith, inner beauty and goodness will be reflected in his soul. Upon your return, we will be here for you."

 

Links


Archive of Older Stories

 

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