Thirty-five years ago, in July 1985, Catholic education in Ontario took a major step forward when Bill 30 was passed by the Ontario Legislature, granting full public funding to Catholic schools through Grade 13. The battle for equal funding with the public boards was a long one, finally won when Premier Bill Davis, who had rejected the idea in 1971, announced the change in policy in June 1984. Here’s The Catholic Register’s report from its June 23, 1984 edition:
Young harpist provides light in darkness
By Quinton Amundson, Catholic Register SpecialPerhaps one of the most enduring images of angels is the sight of these messengers of God singing celestial hymns of praise while twanging heavenly harps.
Educators adapting to distance learning
By Wendy-Ann Clarke, Catholic Register SpecialEducators across Ontario have rejigged curriculum to meet the needs of quarantined students and many seem to have found their virtual teaching groove — but not without challenges.
Igniting hope for post-pandemic world
By John B. KostoffThis year’s theme for Catholic Education Week is “Igniting Hope,” apt at any time but especially now when hope is so much needed.
Schools find new ways to gather
By Richard OlsonOur schools have been closed for several weeks due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. As we celebrate Catholic Education Week, midway through the Easter season, we are challenged to ignite and inspire hope for our anxious children in our panicked world.
‘Igniting Hope’ theme comes at right time
By Mickey Conlon, The Catholic RegisterIt isn’t just during a time of pandemic that the world has an overwhelming need for hope. It’s something that is always on the agenda in Ontario’s Catholic schools, says Anne O’Brien.
Schools connect with community
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterWhen the call went out amid the global pandemic for 3D printers to make parts for face shields, St. James Catholic High School principal Mike MacPherson immediately thought of his technology teachers Mike Moore and Kevin Reid.
Pandemic evokes memories of SARS
By Alan Yoshioka, Canadian Catholic News SpecialWhen retired nurse Hedda Canlas first heard about the outbreak of COVID-19 in Canada, her response was immediate. “Can I volunteer?” she wondered.
After the pandemic: History shows plagues change the world
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterAs people grapple with the new realties of daily life ravaged by COVID-19, it’s hard to believe the world will ever be the same.
Easter Drawing Contest 2020 winners
By Catholic Register StaffIn times like these, few things can lift a person’s spirits like the unvarnished cheerfulness and optimism of children.
Choirs seek harmony in online world
By Wendy-Ann Clarke, Catholic Register SpecialAlthough choirs are prevented from gathering physically due to COVID-19, it has not stopped many from finding creative ways to come together in song at Easter.