Monday, May 12, 2025

Hockey great Ted Nolan shares message of perseverance and respect with NNDSB students

Hockey legend Ted Nolan visited a large group of NNDSB students at West Ferris Secondary School auditorium to share stories from his book Life in Two Worlds: A Coach’s Journey from the Reserve to the NHL and Back and his message of hard work, perseverance, and respect.

Nolan was the third youngest of 12 children in Garden River First Nation near Sault Ste. Marie and lived in a house without plumbing or electricity. From those humble beginnings, he went on to play in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings. After a back injury ended his playing career at the age of 26, he coached the Buffalo Sabres, New York Islanders and Latvian national team. He also established the Ted Nolan Foundation, which provides scholarships to First Nation women across Canada and the 3NOLANS First Nation Hockey School with his sons Brandon and Jordan.

NNDSB students in the Grade 11 English Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices classes (NBE) studied Nolan’s book as part of the curriculum, and his visit was made possible as part of a collaboration between NNDSB, the Kinoomaadziwin Education Body (KEB) and Dokis First Nation.

Students from across the board attended the presentation both in person and virtually which included the Indigenous Youth Circle, NDE students from all Near North secondary schools, Nbisiing Secondary School students, Oshki Shkode students from Parry Sound High School, 7 Stones Learning Centre students and staff as well as Near North Sports students from West Ferris.

Nolan spoke to the assembled students about his life growing up in Garden River, his sports career and the challenges he faced as an Indigenous person. Afterward, he spent time answering students’ questions, taking photos and have one-on-one conversations.

Woven throughout his talk was a message of hard work and perseverance.

“The only thing we could control growing up was to work with what we had. We didn’t have too much but that didn’t make us give up. I kept that mentality my whole life. I didn’t have the best skates, I didn’t play in the best leagues but that didn’t stop me from being the best I could be,” Nolan said.

When asked why he devotes his time to speaking to and inspiring youth, Nolan said that there weren’t too many people in his community growing up that were giving a message of hope and he resolved to change that from an early age.

“I thought I would share my story with kids coming up behind me. Not how to be a professional athlete, just be a good human being, a good citizen. I recognized that from the beginning,” Nolan said. “I saw a lot of elders in our community who were a little down and out, maybe had a bad hand dealt to them, and things just didn’t work out. I wanted to find out why and how to overcome and get through some of the obstacles. It’s just passing out your knowledge to the next generation, so they become stronger and better.”

Almaguin Highlands Secondary School NBE teacher Courtney Berger said that Nolan’s book was a great tool for her students to connect to the broader themes of the class.

“Ted Nolan’s book was the entry point for this group of students. Ted’s perspective as an athlete written as a memoir, made the teachings accessible. It paired the students love for hockey while addressing some very important issues surrounding racism and discrimination in the world of professional sports, and well beyond,” Berger said. “His honest and authentic writing detailing his journey from the Sault Ste. Marie area to the NHL, and back, helped the students engage with the course in a meaningful way.”

Hayley, one of Berger’s NBE students, said Nolan “showed real emotion when sharing his experiences. I liked his messaging about the importance of hard work. He seems like the kind of coach who really cares about the well-being of his players.”

Northern Secondary teacher Nathan MacLean hopes Nolan’s visit will inspire his students.

“I hope that students will have a chance to recognize that no matter their circumstances, if they are true to themselves, trust those who are willing to help them and support them, that they can achieve success, whatever that may look like for them,” MacLean said.

“Class discussion is a big part of my group and brings about many great ideas and questions, so naturally we will discuss what we were able to learn from Mr. Nolan’s keynote. This will include both new learning, clarifications from his book as well the value of engaging in a live presentation from an author,” Maclean said.

The message that Nolan hopes students receive from his visit is a simple one:

“That we are all special human beings, whether your skin is brown or black or white it doesn’t really matter. It’s the spirit inside, we should all be treated with respect,” Nolan said. “Growing up as a First Nation person on reserve, I didn’t think I was any better than anyone else, but I didn’t think anyone outside the reserve was any better either. I think we are all God’s children, and we all deserve respect.”

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Monday, May 12, 2025

West Ferris Secondary School revving up for 2nd annual car show

West Ferris Secondary School is excited to announce that it will be hosting the West Ferris Car Show on May 31, 2025.

The primary goal of this fundraising car show is to acquire new tools and equipment for the school’s technology classes while actively engaging students in a hands-on learning experience. This event not only provides financial support but also fosters a sense of community and education among participants.

West Ferris student volunteers will take on the important role of judging the vehicles, utilizing criteria they have developed in class. This process allows them to apply their skills in a real-world setting. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to interact with car owners, enhancing their people skills while learning valuable information about vehicle maintenance and care.

Beyond the car judging, the dedicated student volunteers will oversee various engaging activities, including registration, a BBQ, a penny sale, a thrilling Hot Wheels race, face painting, and even pampering from the esthetics class offering nail painting and hand massages.

This year, there will be three incredible items in the silent auction: a beautifully crafted six-seater picnic table made by West Ferris construction students; and two stunning hand-made car-themed quilts generously donated by Melissa Steward.

The West Ferris Car Show will award 30 unique trophies, crafted by students from both the construction and manufacturing classes, celebrating the outstanding vehicles on display.

The goal of the West Ferris car show is to engage and inspire students while creating a successful community event that brings everyone together. At last year’s event, there was an impressive turnout with 197 registered cars, and optimism is high for an even larger crowd this year.

Attendance is free of charge, but donations to the North Bay Food Bank will be accepted. The rain date for the West Ferris Car Show is Saturday, June 7. Check the West Ferris Secondary School Car Show Facebook page for details.

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Wednesday, May 7, 2025                                   

Chippewa Secondary School makes history with gold at Hennessy Cup Mock Trial Competition

Chippewa Secondary School’s Criminal Justice Team has made history by claiming gold at the prestigious 2025 Hennessy Cup Mock Trial Competition held in Sudbury. The event brought together nearly 70 students from the Rainbow District School Board (RDSB) as well as the Chippewa team to compete in a full day of courtroom trials, culminating in a championship match judged by Madam Justice Patricia C. Hennessy herself. It is the first time a school outside of RDSB has won the event.

The team from Chippewa impressed judges and spectators alike with their exceptional preparation, courtroom presence, and legal acumen. Its victory marks a milestone for both the school and the competition, highlighting the talent and leadership of the young women in the field of law. The case tried, His Majesty the King v. Jo Silip, involved allegations of criminal harassment under the Criminal Code of Canada.

Two Chippewa students earned individual honours. Ellie Liddle received the Best Advocate – Defence award for her commanding cross-examinations and well-structured arguments, while Sydney Bruner was named Most Valuable Player, recognized for her exemplary leadership and courtroom confidence.

This win was not the result of individual performance alone – it was a true team triumph. Each student contributed skill, determination, and countless hours of preparation to build a cohesive, confident, and well-rounded legal team. Their collaboration, support for one another, and shared commitment to excellence exemplify the very best of student achievement. From opening statements to closing arguments, the Chippewa team delivered a powerful, unified performance that earned them the top spot in this competitive field.

Adelaide Murton, a Grade 11 student, said, “The mock competition felt realistic; they took us very seriously. It felt respectful of our intelligence, and it was an actual challenge, not something that was meant to be easy for kids. Our whole team was very consistent across the board, we had a very unified strategy. We all had the same through-line in our arguments. After the championship round, we were very confident that we had done well. Nothing the other team threw at us undermined our arguments or made us change course. No one had a tricky time making the points they wanted to make or getting their words out, so it went really well.”

The team was guided by a dedicated coaching staff comprised of Dawn McCaig, Zachary Huywan and Pierre Lambert-Belanger from the Crown Attorney’s Office, and Rory Currie of Perrin Ahmad LLP. Their expertise and mentorship helped empower students to develop courtroom strategy, legal knowledge, and advocacy skills to a high standard.

The Hennessy Cup, now in its 21st year, is named in honour of Madam Justice Patricia C. Hennessy, who launched the competition in 2001. A long-time advocate for experiential legal education, Justice Hennessy has continued to support and judge the event annually. The tournament provides secondary school students with an unparalleled opportunity to step into real courtrooms, argue real cases, and be evaluated by real judges. Since its inception, the Hennessy Cup has grown into a cornerstone of legal education in the region and has inspired many students to pursue careers in law.

The competition is part of the Ontario Justice Education Network and the Ontario Bar Association (OJEN/OBA) Competitive Mock Trials, a province-wide initiative. With the support of the Sudbury and District Law Association, local judges, and volunteer legal professionals, the program gives students access to hands-on learning that bridges classroom theory with real-world legal practice.

Judges presiding over the event included Ontario Superior Court Justice Patricia Hennessy, Justice Alex Kurke, Justice Susan Stothart, Justice Julie Lefebvre, and Justice of the Peace Erin Olesen-Schinke.

Chippewa law teacher Andrea Lefebvre said, “The success of this event reflects not only the students’ efforts but also the vital role that mock trial competitions play in developing public speaking, critical thinking, and civic understanding in young learners.”

Members of the 2025 Chippewa team are Adelaide Murton, Aila Van Haesendonck, Breanna Dumond, Ellie Liddle, Jaidyn Embrack, Molly Robertson, Sydney Bruner and Yeva Korotkykh.

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Thursday, April 3, 2025

Fundraising concert supports Chippewa’s music program

Music students at Chippewa Secondary School are getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse of what’s involved in a professional production as the school gears up for a fundraising concert by Nova Scotian singer-songwriter Dave Gunning. Gunning will be accompanied by Cape Breton fiddler and singer-songwriter Rose Morrison in a concert at the school Monday, May 26 at 7 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.)

Chippewa science teacher Jamie Carruthers, via East Coaster Studios, is the driving force behind the concert. He and Gunning are friends, and he asked his friend to support the initiative. Carruthers has been bringing East Coast musicians to North Bay as part of his East Coaster Studios present series. The concert will feature current and former Chippewa music students, and proceeds will purchase hanging microphones for the auditorium, which can be used for the school’s music events and theatre productions.

Gunning has released 14 albums and was inspired by legends like Stan Rogers and Gordon Lightfoot. His music is characterized by storytelling and often highlights the lives of underdogs while addressing social and environmental issues.

He is the recipient of 10 East Coast Music Awards, two Canadian Folk Music Awards, four Music Nova Scotia Awards and a Juno nomination for his tribute to the late John Allan Cameron.

Carruthers says the concert will also be a learning opportunity for Chippewa’s music students. They will be assisting with all aspects of the show. In addition to helping with marketing, students will be acting as greeters and ticket takers. Added benefits for the students, says Carruthers, are that they “get to see seasoned professional musicians deliver a top-tier show. Students will get a behind-the-scenes look at what is involved in a professional production. It also gives them the opportunity to open for a world-class performer and perform in front of an audience. Depending on Dave’s schedule and travel time he may be able to come to the school before the concert to work with the students to help prepare for the show.”

The schedule is not yet finalized, but there will be a number or two from former Chippewa student (and now musician recording engineer) Greg Aultman, and current Chippewa students Ireland Loeffen and Maddie Berwick will perform an original song or two. There are also plans for a vocalist group to join Gunning for one of his best-known songs, These Hands, and Chippewa’s guitar ensemble is set to perform.

Carruthers adds that the sound production for the show and equipment is being handled pro bono by retired Chippewa teacher Brian Risk.

“I am hoping to make this an annual event and continue to bring in big names in the music industry,” says Carruthers. “I would love to be able to raise enough funds to upgrade the theatre sound system at Chippewa completely.”

The event will also feature a silent auction to help raise additional funds the night of the show. Anyone willing to donate items can contact Carruthers at eastcoasterstudios@gmail.com.

Tickets for the show (general admission, not reserved seating) are now available through TicketScene. East Coaster Studios’ Instagram and Facebook accounts provide more information about this concert.

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Friday, March 21, 2025

The following are the highlights of the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, March 18, 2025.

Director’s report highlights achievements

Director of Education Craig Myles’ report to the Board noted the achievements and activities of students from across the district.

Chippewa Secondary School (CSS) students in French language classes celebrated Mardi Gras by making Carnival masks and learning the Carnival traditions in various countries. Mapleridge Public School celebrates students who demonstrate good character with a twice-monthly acknowledgement of students who have been nominated by their teachers. Sunset Park Public School held a February food drive that collected more than 1,200 pounds of food for the North Bay Food Bank.

In athletics, NNDSB teams have been participating in several events. Chippewa hosted the AA OFSAA girls’ volleyball championships at the beginning of March. The school and board are grateful for the support of co-host Canadore College for allowing the use of the new dome and main campus gym, and to the volunteers that contributed to running a great event and banquet. West Ferris Secondary School (WFSS) co-hosted the OFSAA boys’ basketball championships, and NNDSB schools were represented at NOSSA curling tournaments.

Many Special Olympics athletes have qualified in athletics for the provincial Summer Games in Brantford this summer. Seven athletes from WFSS and one from CSS will be competing against approximately 300 athletes to qualify for the 2026 National Games in Saskatchewan.

Congratulations to educators Scot Quarrington of WFSS and Shawn Plamondon of CSS who were named recipients of this year’s OFSAA Leadership in Sport Award, which recognizes educators who have made significant contributions to youth sport through coaching and convening.

Multi-year strategic plan mid-year report presented

A mid-year report for the multi-year strategic plan (MYSP) was included in the agenda package.

Among the highlights in the MYSP pillar of excellence in teaching and learning are training for the mental health team and select system leaders, training in The Third Path, a relational approach to education and participation in a pilot project in collaboration with

School Mental Health Ontario and Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario to promote mental health and delay substance use among Grade 8 students.

This school year, NNDSB educators have indicated they are comfortable with Acadience reading assessments, which is evidenced by the increased volume of students screened. The screening tool equips teachers with information about student literacy, strengths and needs. The assessments help teachers identify children at risk for reading difficulties and determine the skills to target for instructional support.

Under the MYSP pillar of excellence in innovation, the report included information about the expansion of specialist high skills majors (SHSM) programs in the board, Grade 10 civics students invited to take part in a tour of Queen’s Park, access for NNDSB students every month to psychiatrist consultation via the Hospital for Sick Children and a grant for Indigenous language revitalization.

Highlights under the pillar of excellence in relationships include several partnerships and collaborations with organizations locally and further afield. Partnerships include support for students experiencing mental health crisis, the YMCA fill the bus campaign to support camp for kids, working with the health unit on Planet Youth for well-being projects and initiatives, a pathways fair in partnership with the Children’s Aid Society, sponsorship support of Theatre outreach on Stage (TOROS) and continued contributions from communication organizations supporting student nutrition programs.

In the area of excellence in communication, the report highlighted the addition of attendance reporting via Edsby, continued work on the board and school websites, media training for principals and vice-principals as well as communications and privacy training for NNDSB leaders.

Indigenous Student Trustee’s report

Indigenous Student Trustee Riley Trudeau reported that the Indigenous Youth Circle (IYC)  will meet in person this month at Northern Secondary School. The group plans to collaborate with Student Senate to do team building and “get to know you” activities. Topics that IYC will discuss include planning for school powwows, end-of-the-year school initiatives and the IYC’s end-of-the-year retreat, which will be held at Nipissing University.

At Northern, IYC meetings for the next few weeks were planned. Upcoming events include a rattle-making workshop, a visit with guest speaker Perry Mcleod, an employment and training program presentation by the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre (NBIFC), another beading workshop, discussions about Red Dress Day and The Moose Hide Campaign within the school, and powwow planning.

At Chippewa Secondary School, they recently had a quill-making workshop with Nipissing First Nation (NFN) member Lily Armstrong. They are hosting two medicine pouch-making workshops, one with secondary students and one with intermediate students, with NFN member Sam Stevens, who will also provide teachings on the four sacred medicines.

At West Ferris Secondary School, IYC members continue to hold school-based Wednesday IYC meetings and women’s hand drumming and grandfather drumming weekly. Their upcoming events include a medicine bag, moccasin-making and mitten-making workshops with NBIFC and a beaded earring workshop with Karla Byers. Students will begin accessing tutoring, within their Indigenous Centre, through the Office of Indigenous Initiatives at Nipissing University.

At Almaguin Highlands Secondary School, students obtained additional copies of the Ted Nolan book, Life In Two Worlds, and organized a beading workshop. Almaguin continues to do its best to recruit more members. They are also interested in the NBIFC language conference happening in March and are planning to meet weekly to discuss plans for the rest of the school year.

Parry Sound High School held a Grade 8 info night with a silent auction for 7 grandfather teachings swag and proceeds go towards Indigenous youth-led and community initiatives. They also have weekly lunches with First Nation communities.

IYC hopes to create a place for the community to go to learn about the youth group and would like to complete its page on the NNDSB website. They are also working with the Indigenous education team, as they are supporting IYC in its efforts to get an Edsby page up and running again.

NNDSB schools have four powwow dates that have been chosen for four of the secondary schools, IYC members will be supporting the planning for each event.

Student Trustee’s report

Student Trustee Nanak Sidhu reported that several school teams have been successful in OFSAA competitions, including events that have been held at NNDSB schools.

Events that have been celebrated at area schools include a winter carnival at F.J. McElligott Secondary School, Pink Shirt Day to promote anti-bullying and pancake breakfasts.

Trustees vote to keep McDougall open one more  School year

Trustees of Near North District School Board (NNDSB) voted at the March 18 meeting to keep McDougall Public School open for one more year.

For more information, see this media release.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next Board meeting.

Trustees of Near North District School Board (NNDSB) voted at the March 18 meeting to keep McDougall Public School open for one more year.

The school was included in an accommodation review committee (ARC) decision that would see the closure of McDougall and Nobel Public Schools, the demolition of Parry Sound High School and the construction of a new JK-12 school at the site of Parry Sound High School. The new school is set to open in September 2025.

The decision will keep McDougall Public School open for another year.

In a recorded vote, Trustees Chantal Phillips, Louise Sargent, Jeanie Fuscaldo, Howard Wesley, Shane Hall, Julie Bertram and Ashley St. Pierre voted in favour of the motion, while Trustees Bill Steer and Caren Gagne voted against it.

Board Chair Ashley St. Pierre said, “Thank you to all that sent letters to our Board and the MPP’s office, expressing the concerns and support to keep McDougall Public School operational. Our Board heard your voices, and we listened. This is in the best interests for student achievement and well-being, which is our top priority.”

Following the meeting, Vice-Chair Howard Wesley, who chaired the meeting, said, “Thank you to the staff, municipal leaders, our Member of Provincial Parliament Graydon Smith, and the community members for your continued dedication and overwhelming support for the students of McDougall and Nobel Elementary Schools.”

For more information see this board report and this letter.

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