March 2026

Dear YCS families, 

As we move into March, our Yellowknife Catholic Schools community enters a significant season of reflection and renewal. The journey of Lent is a unique time in our JK–12 system, where we set aside the noise of the everyday to focus on prayer, fasting, and service to others. This journey leads us eventually to the solemnity of Good Friday and, ultimately, the great joy of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday.

In our schools, we believe that an authentic Catholic education means more than just following tradition; it means providing a program that is academically serious and spiritually deep. This month, our classrooms are vibrant spaces where students are encouraged to ask big questions about their faith, ensuring that their spiritual growth is as rigorous and engaging as any other subject they study. This engagement was on full display during Indigenous Languages Month, which was a huge success at YCS. Students took part in authentic learning experiences that furthered their use and understanding of the local Dene language, Weledeh Yati, connecting our spiritual journey with the deep cultural roots of our community.

February also marked Black History Month, and it was inspiring to see students across our schools engaging in meaningful learning and reflection. Classrooms were filled with thoughtful research projects, as students explored and celebrated Black leaders, innovators, and community figures who inspire them. Students came together to share stories, presentations, and meals, creating opportunities to learn from one another and celebrate the richness and diversity of cultures within our community.

One of the most inspiring aspects of our school division is the way our staff embraces the role of faith leadership. We often look to the example of Jesus, who distributed his leadership to his disciples to ensure the Good News reached the world. At YCS, we see this same spirit in our teachers and staff. We believe that when every adult in our building models faith and spirituality, it builds incredible confidence and spirit within our student body. I want to give a big shout out to the ESPHS Lamplighters for letting their light shine at the high school. Their Lamplighter award signifies their care for their fellow students and the Gospel values of Jesus Christ, and serves as a beautiful example of this leadership in action.

Beyond the classroom, our students have been busy building community through athletics. I want to add a big congratulations to all the school basketball teams that participated in the Jr. Cager and Sr. Cager Basketball tournaments. The athletes showed amazing sportsmanship throughout the tournaments, making their coaches and schools proud. It was great to see all of our athletes have so much fun and achieve such tremendous success on the court.

As we prepare for March Break, let us take a moment to appreciate the warm light of our schools, the daily moments of prayer, the scholarly exploration of our values, and the community we continue to build together. This break offers a welcome opportunity to rest, recharge, and spend meaningful time with family and friends. We wish all of our students, families, and staff a safe, restful, and enjoyable March Break, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed for the weeks ahead.

God bless,

Adam