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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 are welcome to nominate a DCDSB student or staff member that exemplifies and embodies the theme for the month. Nominations will be taken via Microsoft Forms.
Click here to Nominate a Student
Click here to Nominate a Staff Member
Please see below for the monthly themes, nomination criteria and nomination deadlines.
| January 2025 - A Reflective, Creative and Holistic Thinker |
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| February 2025 - A Caring Family Member |
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| March 2025 - A Collaborative Contributor |
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| April 2025 - Love |
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| May 2025 - A Responsible Citizen as a Pilgrim of Hope |
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| June 2025 - A Self-Directed, Responsible, Lifelong Learner |
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DCDSB Beacons of Hope Recipients
| October 2024 - A Discerning Believer | ||||||||||||
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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.
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| November 2024 - An Effective Communicator | ||||||||||||
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An Effective Communicator is an individual who speaks, writes and listens honestly and sensitively, responding critically in light of gospel values.
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| December 2024 - Patience | ||||||||||||
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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.
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Shanaya was nominated by Ms. Neubauer, Vice-Principal at St. Anne Catholic School. Ms. Neubauer said: “Shanaya is kind and quick to show love to others. She is always willing to help someone in need, and often volunteers to lead the class in our prayers. Shanaya shows leadership in the classroom when it comes to various activities and leads with a positive attitude, always encouraging others. In addition, she always advocates for the justice of all in the room. Shanaya is an active member of her parish and volunteers her time as an Altar Server.”
Jade was nominated by Ms. Spitale, a teacher at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School. Ms. Spitale said: “Jade exemplifies a true celebration of God's presence in our daily lives. With a heart full of faith and joy, she radiates the sacred mystery and love of God to everyone around her. Her warmth and kindness extend beyond words, as her smile has the power to light up not only a room, but the entire school. Her genuine love for her faith and her embodiment of God's light makes Jade a shining example for her peers and the whole community. Jade truly touches and transforms the lives of those around her every single day.”
Timothy was nominated by several of his educators, including Ms. Najera, Ms. Bruno, and Mr. Catangui. They said: “Timothy is a kind-hearted and thoughtful student who embraces new experiences with an open mind. Timothy always remains positive and faces everyday with perseverance, gratitude, humility, and a strong willingness to learn and grow. He always enters the classroom by greeting everyone with a smile and he never leaves without saying thank you and goodbye. Always considerate of others, Timothy will often be seen offering a helping hand whether it is time to clean up after a science lab or collaborating with a partner. He lives life being present in the moment and teaches us what it truly means to be courageous, selfless, and compassionate while demonstrating a love for others and life.”
Adrianna was nominated by Ms. Polidano and Ms. Amaratunge from All Saints Catholic Secondary School. They said: “Adrianna is a discerning believer, actively participating in morning prayers, and serving as a model of respect during prayers related to the subject topic in discussion. She is open and honest in class discussions with her peers, and regularly attends to her faith.”
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.”
Terrique was nominated by school administrators who said: “Terrique has an exceptional ability to express himself with clarity, honesty, and empathy. Whether speaking with friends, family, or teachers, Terrique consistently reflects gospel values by promoting understanding and harmony in all interactions. His strong communication skills make him a positive influence in his community, showing that age is no barrier to being a profound communicator.”
Jonathan was nominated by Ms. Paul, Principal of St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School. Ms. Paul said: “Jonathan is an Effective Communicator as he is open to diversity and respects everyone through words and actions. Jonathan makes Jesus’ story his own and integrates it into his communications with others. He is a kind and caring person who always looks for opportunities to serve others.”
Jennavie was nominated by a St. Mary Catholic Secondary School community member and school educators. They said: “Jennavie is a kind individual, who often enters class with a smile on her face. She always helps others where she can and speaks with a positive mindset and heart. Jennavie always senses when it is best to listen to others and through this, she communicates effectively in light of gospel values.”
Jaydon was nominated by his teacher, Mr. Drake, who said: “Jaydon is thoughtful before he speaks to others, listens empathetically and curiously, and is always measured in his responses. I sincerely enjoy talking to Jaydon throughout the day; we readily make new connections and explore ideas and concepts that adults confront as they take on the world.”
Sandy was nominated by a parent from St. Anne Catholic School, who said: “Sandy has an unwavering dedication to amplifying the voices of all students. Sandy is compassionate and she listens, understands, and acts with love and empathy. Whether she's guiding parents through unfamiliar situations, speaking up for students who need support, or ensuring that both the school and the broader community remain aware of student needs, Sandy’s communication is always thoughtful and inclusive.”
Christine was nominated by Mr. O’Hare, Principal at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School. He said: “Christine is someone who takes extra time on behalf of the whole community to keep us organized and informed, always listening to staff and students with compassion and sensitivity! Her thoughtful responses are well articulated and reflect the sincerity and critical awareness of Christ and the gospel values we so dearly embrace at our school and throughout the DCDSB.”
Ainsley was nominated by a staff member at her school, who said: “Ainsley exemplifies the virtue of patience through her consistent efforts to support and include students with special needs in her school community. She demonstrates exceptional understanding and compassion, taking the time to assist her peers with academic tasks and ensuring they feel valued and included. She is a role model of patience and kindness, creating a positive impact on her classmates and the broader school community.”
Schimry was nominated by his Vice-Principal, Ms. Liuzzi. She said: “Schimry is a newcomer to Canada and has just arrived at St. Isaac Jogues this month. He comes to school smiling, eager to learn and interact with his peers. Although Schimry's only language is French, he has found ways to build relationships with staff and students. Schimry displays patience as he learns to navigate life in a new country and new school. Schimry shows a willingness to learn and his spirit shines bright as a child of God.” 
Bejan was nominated by his school Principal, Mr. MacNeil, who said: “Bejan is seen as a student with quiet strength—an ability to wait calmly, to endure setbacks, and to approach challenges with a positive and steady outlook. Among his peers, this quality stands out as a key to success in both academics and personal growth. He exhibits good patience as someone who understands that achievement is not always immediate, and that real progress often requires time, effort, and persistence.”
Clara was nominated by her school Principal, Ms. Plouffe. She said: “Clara exemplifies patience. Clara has a spare period every day, and she chooses to give herself to our students with special needs. She will go with our high needs students into Drama class and sit with them, making them feel seen. Clara’s presence is often requested from these students. Clara also loves math. She will use her time during third period to help students in our resource room with any math questions they may have. Clara has become an integral part of the Program Support department, and we are truly blessed to have her.” 
Eugenia was nominated by a parent from the Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School community, who said: “Ms. Jabal is the pure definition of a gentle soul. She is so kind and patient with her students. She really makes other students feel safe, heard and respected as little individuals trying to find their way in this world. Her continued patience for her students and willingness to teach them based on specific needs is truly inspiring. She has built on their strengths and encouraged their confidence as individuals."