The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is delighted to introduce the Beacons of Hope recognition program. Beacons of Hope is connected to the 2024-2025 Spiritual Theme, Living in Hope, and will recognize two elementary students, two secondary students, and two staff members each month. Throughout the year, themes have been assigned based on the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations (OCSGE) and Catholic virtues. The selected nominees will be recognized at the monthly Board Meeting for a special award presentation, and will also be featured in the DCDSB News, school websites, and DCDSB social media.
Families, students, and staff nominated DCDSB students and staff member that exemplified and embodied the theme for the month.
Please see below for the selected recipients.
A Discerning Believer is an individual formed in the Catholic Faith community who celebrates the signs and sacred mystery of God’s presence through word, sacrament, prayer, forgiveness, reflection and moral living.
Courtney was nominated by St. Joseph Catholic School (Oshawa) Principal, Ms. Principe. Ms. Principe said: “Courtney models what it means to live as a follower of God. She is dedicated to our most vulnerable students in her care and treats her colleagues, students, and parents with the utmost respect and dignity. She encourages and nurtures students daily. Courtney is an active member of her church and devotes her free time to giving back to others who are less fortunate. Courtney plays a pivotal role within our school community through her actions to encourage students to become who they are meant to be. She strives to help students to be seen as created in the image and likeness of God as modelled in Jesus Christ."
Manfred was nominated by Ms. Remiz, the Principal at St. John XXIII Catholic School, and Mr. O’Neill, a secondary teacher at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School. They said: “Mr. von Vulte actively engages with scripture, church teachings, and the sacraments to strengthen his faith. He is very involved in his Catholic church community and is the Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Newcastle. Mr. von Vulte is committed to supporting the faith journeys of his students where classroom discussions and shared experiences enrich his students' spiritual growth and often focus on social justice and the dignity of the human person. Mr. von Vulte strives to align his life - both personally and professionally - with God’s will, fostering both personal and communal faith.”
An Effective Communicator is an individual who speaks, writes and listens honestly and sensitively, responding critically in light of gospel values.
The liturgical season of Advent is a time of waiting in joyful hope for the coming of our Lord. In light of this season, we recognize individuals who are Patient in their ability to wait and persevere, even when things are difficult, by trusting in the promises of Christ.
A Reflective, Creative and Holistic Thinker is an individual who solves problems and makes responsible decisions with an informed moral conscience for the common good.
A Caring Family Member is an individual who attends to family, school, parish and the wider community.
A Collaborative Contributor who finds meaning, dignity and vocation in work which respects the rights of all and contributes to the common good.
Lent is a time to reflect upon our relationship with God as we journey towards Easter. This month's Beacon of Hope nominee shares the Love of God with others by selflessly caring for their needs, especially with those in the school or community who may feel left out or in need of hope.
This month’s theme combines the OCSGE of being a Responsible Citizen and this year’s Catholic Education Week theme, Pilgrims of Hope. To be a "Pilgrim of Hope" is to be a Responsible Citizen who gives witness to Catholic social teaching by promoting peace, justice, and the sacredness of human life.
Nicole was nominated by her school Chaplain, who said: "I nominate Nicole as she wholeheartedly reminds me of St. Mother Teresa's words: 'The fruit of silence is prayer. The fruit of prayer is faith. The fruit of faith is love. The fruit of love is service. The fruit of service is peace.'
As the Chaplaincy Leader at her school, I reached out to Nicole via Edsby, inviting her to be part of the DCDSB Easter video. Without much notice, her response was, 'That sounds like a lot of fun! I’d love to be a part of the video.' Nicole, touched by the great silence of Holy Saturday Vigil, explained that the Easter vigil mass is 'an amazing mass. It starts off completely dark. There's one candle. one light, which is Jesus,' and that 'slowly lighting the candles is like bringing light into the world.' Nicole has taken the ritual of the Easter vigil and has applied it in her school and parish community, sharing her faith with love and joy. She is also one of our Chaplaincy students who lead a prayerful reflection on the Stations of the Cross at our school Holy Week assembly.
Nicole was a driving force behind the school's Multicultural night. She recruited me to lead a pavilion; she was a top contributor in two pavilions and recruited her mother to help out at the event. Nicole is an active Chaplaincy member and Life Teen core member at Holy Family Parish. Moved by Christ's love for all humanity, Nicole shares her love for Christ. Nicole is a responsible citizen, who is formed in Catholic tradition, appreciates the value of contributions toward the common good, and understands that each person has a gift to share."
Her tireless support for the board's equity initiatives is evident in her willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty. As a leader, Tamika implements a culturally responsive approach to student achievements and discipline, centering and valuing their lived experiences. This approach had a profound impact on student conduct and engagement within her previous school communities, as noted by teachers.
Tamika exemplifies strong leadership by mentoring and uplifting her colleagues with love, compassion, and a vibrant sense of humour. She is deeply committed to listening with empathy and offering guidance that inspires others to grow. Through her words and actions, she empowers educators to recognize and reach their full potential, often encouraging them to pursue leadership opportunities within the board.
Tamika's strength and resilience in the face of adversity have inspired people around her, as she supports others based on her experiences. Her love, care, and commitment to creating a more inclusive environment make her a true beacon of hope."
A Self-directed, Responsible, Lifelong Learner is a person who develops and demonstrates their God-given potential.
Amelia was nominated by Trustee Hall, who said "It is my pleasure to nominate two students as our June Beacons of Hope. Amelia R. and Gianna R. exemplify what it means to a self-directed, responsible, lifelong learner who develops and demonstrates their God-given potential.
As a former principal who chose to return to teaching, Mr. Hutchinson's dedication to understanding and improving the school system is commendable. His continuous pursuit of knowledge through professional development and collaboration with peers showcases his commitment to both personal and institutional growth. His impact extends beyond the classroom, as he shares his love for sports and an active lifestyle through his voluntary leadership roles. Serving as the President of the Jamaican Lacrosse Association and Vice President of the Pan-American Lacrosse Association, he has played a pivotal role in promoting sportsmanship, discipline, and community engagement.
A true inspiration, Mr. Hutchinson embodies the principles of self-improvement, leadership, and service. His ability to set ambitious goals—both for himself and his students—and work tirelessly to achieve them is testament to his character. His dedication to family and personal growth further reinforces his role as a mentor and positive influence on those around him.
We wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Hutchinson, knowing that his passion, integrity, and commitment to excellence will continue to uplift and inspire those he serves."
Even while navigating life as a full-time student, Dean continues to support schools as a supply teacher and hasn’t stepped back from being involved. In fact, while on leave from his permanent role, he’s taken on the massive responsibility of coordinating the board’s folk dance program—an enormous undertaking that brings joy to hundreds of students and staff across the region.
He manages all of this with humility, heart, and an unwavering commitment to learning and leading. You can see his passion in everything he does. Dean doesn’t just talk about being a lifelong learner—he lives it. And in doing so, he inspires the rest of us to do the same."