Monday, January 19th

DAY 1

MORNING PRAYER

This week, we are exploring some of the advice Pope Francis had for us.  Today, the advice almost sounds funny, but it has a good point.  Pope Francis’ advice is to finish the food we have for our meals.  Pope Francis indicates that sometimes we live in a culture of waste, where we throw away so much food that we neglect the fact that there are poor and hungry people around us. In a very direct statement, Pope Francis reminds us that we should all remember that throwing away food is like stealing from the tables of the hungry.  He goes on to encourage all of us to reflect on how much food we waste and to identify ways to address this issue.

Loving God,

Forgive us for taking for granted the many gifts You give us. 

Help us to see the food that we eat as a blessing from You

and that to work on reducing the wasting of this precious gift. 

Help us to change our ways

so that we may work to create a world

where everyone has the same access to good food

in our community and world. 

We ask this through Christ our Lord, 

Amen

SCHOOL SUPERVISION

Main Entrance - Mrs. Barrett

North Entrance - Mrs. Schrader

South Entrance - Mr. Noble/Mr. Schellenberg

CAFETERIA

Monday - Cheesy Hotdog on a Bun with Bacon Bits $4.00 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SEMESTER 1 FINAL EXAMS

Period 1 – Tuesday, January 20^th (AM)
Period 2 – Tuesday, January 20^th (PM)
Period 3 – Wednesday, January 21^st (AM)
Period 4 – Thursday, January 22^nd (AM)
Period 5 – Friday, January 23^rd (AM)

HOMEWORK CLUB: Open Final Exams Days
During final exam days (Tuesday, January 20th - Friday, January 23rd), students who need a place to study, or access to a laptop to work on assignments, are encouraged to go to Mr. Kirilenko’s room (B20) anytime during the day from 8:45 am to 3:25 pm, as well as during lunchtime.

SEMESTER 1 STUDENT RESOURCES

Students are to return all Semester 1 resources by Friday, January 23^rd:
·        textbooks
·        English class novels
·        calculators

2026 UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO MATH CONTESTS

Students who are interested in challenging math problems may choose to compete in the University of Waterloo math contests. The Grade 9 (Pascal), Grade 10 (Cayley) and Grade 11 (Fermat) math contests will be written on Wednesday February 25th, while the Grade 12 (Euclid) math contest will be written on Tuesday, March 31st. Students who want to compete in a math contest that applies to their grade level must complete the Forms survey by Thursday, January 29th. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Rissling in room 136. Click on this link to complete the Forms survey or use the QR code below: 

KIN CANADA BURSARY: $1,000

The Kin Canada Bursary is open to any student who is in the process of graduating from high school or currently studying, or registered, at a post-secondary institution. Applicants will be evaluated on their community and school involvement, knowledge of Kin Canada (Kinsmen, Kinettes and Kin Clubs) and financial need. The application form must be submitted by Sunday, February 1st, 2026 and winners will be notified before June 30^th by their sponsoring club. For additional information and to apply, please go to 

https://www.kincanada.ca/EN/Web/OurBursaries/Apply.aspx

2026 AMAZON CANADA YOUTH SHORT STORY AWARD: $5,000

The Youth Short Story Category invites authors between the ages of thirteen and seventeen to submit a short story under 3,000 words. The winner in this category will receive $5,000 and the five finalists will each receive $500. Submissions for the Youth Short Story Category must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. (EST) on Sunday, February 8, 2026. For additional information regarding Rules & Regulations, as well as how to Submit, please go to https://thewalrus.ca/afna

AFFINITY CO-OPERATIVE AWARD: Grade 11

This is a unique opportunity for Grade 11 students looking to learn about money, leadership, cooperatives and a whole lot more. This program is designed for young Affinity Credit Union members who are looking to do something big with their future. This year, 21 students will be welcomed into the leadership program, and upon completion, each student will receive a $2,500 award to help fund their post-secondary education. This program is proudly offered by our member councils who represent Affinity in communities across Saskatchewan. It gives recipients the chance to gain real life experience, find out what it means to be a part of a co-operative organization, participate in a local member council meeting and more throughout their Grade 12 year! The deadline to apply is Saturday, February 8, 2026. To be eligible to apply, students (or their parent or guardian) must be a member of Affinity Credit Union. More information about each of these scholarship opportunities, along with application forms, can be found online at affinitycu.ca.  

2026 GRAD CLOTHING STORE
Another grad clothing store is now open.  We are working with Source for Sports again this year.  All orders will be delivered to St. Mary for pick up once finished.  If there is enough interest, we will have one last store the beginning of April. Online ordering for Ecole St. Mary GRAD 2026 ends on Monday, February 16, 2026 (11:59 PM CST). To order, please use the link in the Edsby message.

AGRICULTURE STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP: $3,000

Saskatchewan Grade 12 students and recent high school/GED graduates (within the last two years) have the chance to win a grand-prize scholarship of $6,000 or one of three runner-up scholarships of $3,000 when they submit a three-minute video or 1,000-word essay on solutions to challenges in agriculture. This year’s scholarship theme asks young people to clearly articulate a challenge that the agriculture industry faces, with special consideration to how this affects public trust in agriculture, then explore creative solutions to solving the challenge. Submissions can focus on how the industry can improve its practices, adopt new technologies, communicate practices more effectively or other ways the industry can enhance trust with the public. Applicants are encouraged to be thoughtful with their submissions and to include sourced evidence along with personal perspective. A good submission includes facts to support the analysis/commentary. This scholarship program is designed to identify intelligent and ambitious young agriculture leaders and provide successful candidates with financial support for their education. To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must be planning to take an agriculture-related post-secondary education program beginning in the fall of 2026. The deadline to apply is Sunday, March 1, 2026. For more information, visit saskatchewan.ca/ag-scholarship or contact agriculture.scholarship@gov.sk.ca.

THE JAKE WEITZ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

In 2025, we awarded $10,000 in scholarships, and we are excited to continue investing in future mechanics across Canada. The Jake Weitz Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to support Canadian High School graduates pursuing a career in the trades, specifically in mechanics. This scholarship was created to honor Jake Weitz, a young man whose love for mechanics was matched only by his generosity and willingness to help others. We aim to carry his legacy forward by supporting students in the field of mechanics (automotive, heavy duty, agriculture, and aviation mechanics). Eligibility criteria includes (but is not limited to):

·         Proof of application/enrollment to a post-secondary course for Automotive Services, Heavy Duty, Aviation, etc., Mechanics at an accredited College or University (Board discretion applicable) in Canada.* applying for university scholarships applying for college scholarships

·         Academic Requirements Include: English 30-3 or English 12, Math 30-3 or Math 11 Physics 20 or Physics 11, Science 20 or Science 11, related CTS courses. **

·         Maximum of one Jake Weitz Memorial Scholarship can be acquired in each student’s academic lifetime.

·         Canadian citizen or permanent resident (Birth certificate or proof of residency if not Canadian Citizen).

·         Preference will be given to students who demonstrate financial need.

·         A short 2-3 minute video is welcomed, not required - detailing why the student desires this scholarship and why he/she believes they would be a good fit for the Jake Weitz Memorial Scholarship.

·         Complete the application form containing basic info (name, address, phone etc.).

* If registration is not open/available at your College/University by March 1st, provide the date when registration opens and course date/details.
** Official High School Transcript required for verification. Scholarship value: $1000 per student. Use the following link to find information and complete an application: Jake Weitz Memorial Scholarship Deadline to apply: Sunday, March 1st, 2026.

JUNIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR STEM AWARD $3,000

The Junior Citizen of the Year Award has honoured the youth of Saskatchewan for over 40 years. The program is sponsored by The Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association, in partnership with SaskPower, and the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan. These prestigious awards are given to students who:

• have an aptitude for science, technology, engineering or mathematics
• have a positive lifestyle,
• are dedicated to community and school,
• have a strong sense of caring and responsibility,
• have the ability to overcome life’s challenges,
• inspire others, and
• are between ages 8 to 18.

Four award recipients are chosen each year and receive a $3,000 bursary, provided by SaskPower, to be used for post-secondary education. For more information, please go to https://swna.com/junior-citizen-of-the-year/ The deadline for nominations is March 31st, 2026.

AFFINITY FOR COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIP: Grade 12

This scholarship is for any person entering their first year of university, college, vocational or trade school within the next year. Each year, we award 30 scholarships of $1,000 to individuals beginning their post-secondary education. This scholarship recognizes and supports students who've demonstrated a strong commitment to uplifting their community. This scholarship will open on Monday, January 5, 2026 and the deadline to apply is Wednesday, April 15, 2026. To be eligible to apply, students (or their parent or guardian) must be a member of Affinity Credit Union. More information about each of these scholarship opportunities, along with application forms, can be found online at affinitycu.ca.  

LAKE COUNTRY CO-OP STUDENT BURSARY: 3 x $2,500

Lake Country Co-op Student Bursary Program is offering three $2,500 bursaries to secondary schools within the trading area. To be eligible, the student must be: a grade 12 student graduating in 2025 and enrolled in full-time studies at a University, Post-Secondary Institution, or Technical Institute for the fall 2025 term; a permanent resident in the Lake Country Co-op trading area; a Lake Country Co-op Member (parent/guardian membership will be accepted); and willing to allow Lake Country Co-op to use submissions for advertising purposes. Applicants will be evaluated based on involvement in school and community activities, as well as the successful completion of grade 12, and acceptance in post-secondary studies. To be considered, the application requires the completion of the questions, as well as a written essay and a video submission. Written Essay Question: What can Lake Country Co-op do to better serve the youth of our communities and encourage their involvement in the local Co-op? (minimum 200 words) Video Question: What positive impact has Lake Country Co-op had in your community? (additional points for creativity and individuality) Use the following link to complete the application: Lake Country Co-op Bursary Application Deadline to apply: Friday, June 5th, 2026. 

THE SASKATCHEWAN INSTITUTE OF AGROLOGISTS

The Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists understands that youth are the future of the profession of agrology. To support youth in attaining a career in agrology-related sectors, including agriculture, bioresources, food, or the environment, the Institute’s six branches each award a scholarship of $1,500 to candidates who meet the eligibility requirements and demonstrate a desire to pursue a career in agrology and become agrologists. Eligibility: Presently a Saskatchewan Grade 12 high school student or recent graduate, have plans to enroll as a first-year full-time student in the fall in a post-secondary program related to agriculture, bioresources, food, or environment, which meets the eligibility requirements to apply for registration with the Institute after graduation. How to Apply: Application Requirements: Résumé demonstrating work and volunteer activities, Title page including full name and contact information – mailing address, phone number, and email address, high school information – name, location, phone number, principal’s name, and email address, Post-secondary information – the name of institution and program, Written essay (maximum of 500 words) titled “Why I’ve Chosen to Pursue a Career in Agrology”, which includes a 250-word answer to each of the following questions: What challenges or opportunities will the agriculture, bioresources, food or the environment industries be facing in 5 years? 10 years? (50% of the essay). What role do you wish to play in addressing the above challenges or opportunities? (50% of the essay). Use the following link to find information and complete an application: Branch Scholarships - Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists Deadline to apply: Monday, April 20, 2026.

IDW 2026 CLASSROOM ART CONTEST: K-12

This year’s IDW Classroom Art Contest challenges classrooms to get creative and inspire others through art. Add your voice - and your classmates’ voices - to the global movement toward building a better, more inclusive world. All entries must be submitted by Friday, January 30, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. (CST) Additional information, including contest rules and guidelines, is available here.

DRIVER EDUCATION 2025 - 2026

Students who are interested in the 2025 - 2026 driver education program are to register online through Microsoft Forms: Driver Education Registration 2025 - 2026 (This link is also posted in Edsby.) Mr. Bourdon will then place students into groups on Edsby. A reminder that spots fill up quickly, so it is important for students to select their two top options to best accommodate each student. 

The start dates for session are as follows:

Session 2: Oct. 7 - Oct. 28 (3:30 pm - 5:30 pm) 

Session 3: Oct. 20 - Dec. 2 (12:15 pm - 1:10 pm) 

Session 4: Nov. 12 - Dec. 3 (3:30 pm - 5:30 pm) 

Session 5: Jan. 5 - Jan. 23 (3:30 pm - 5:30 pm) 

Session 6: Feb. 2 - Feb. 27 (3:30 pm - 5:30 pm) 

Session 7: Mar. 3 - Apr. 22 (12:15 pm - 1:10 pm) 

Session 8: Mar. 9 - Mar. 30 (3:30 pm - 5:30 pm) 

Session 9: Apr. 13 - May 1 (3:30 pm - 5:30 pm) 

Session 10: May 4 - May 26 (3:30 pm - 5:30 pm) 

Session 11: July 2 - July 10 (9:00 am - 1:00 pm) 

Please note the following:

• Students must be 15 years old by the start of the session.
• Sessions will be in the Room 246.
• All sessions begin at 3:30 pm and end at 5:30 pm. (except for the summer/lunch sessions).
• During your driver education class, you will need:
•  your birth certificate
• a pencil/pen and notebook
• your MYSGI account number. (needed on the first day of class)
• Students must go to SGI to get their MySGI customer number.

SMHS RESOURCES EDSBY GROUP: Students/Parents/Staff

All staff, students and parents are encouraged to select and SIGN UP for the SMHS Resources Edsby Group. It contains information pertaining to the Ecole St Mary High School website (morning prayer, daily announcements, cafeteria menu etc.), the Learning Resource Centre website (Book Promotions, Library Search, Ministry databases etc.) and SMHS Career Planning website (Blog entries for scholarships/events, high school graduation credits, post-secondary requirements etc.)

HOMEWORK CLUB
Need a quiet spot to focus on your homework, use a computer, study for an exam, or simply to enjoy your lunch in peace? Then come join us in Room B20 (Mr. Kirilenko's classroom)! Homework Club runs Monday to Friday from 12:14 pm to 1:14pm. All students are welcome to attend!

ART CLUB 

Art Club is every Thursday from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm in the Art Room. Drop-ins are always welcome! 

GAMES CLUB 

Games Club is every Tuesday and Thursday in the Lecture Theatre at lunch. Drop in and play some board games or test your skills on the Switch. 

YEARBOOK CLUB 

Help capture school memories! A camera is supplied! No experience is needed! Students who are interested should contact Mrs. Janay Cantin.

INDIGENOUS ART CLUB 

Students will begin to enhance their skills by working primarily with beads. Artisan trainees will start learning to bead using the 2-needle applique method during the following meeting times: Monday to Friday from 8:00 am - 8:45 am and lunch hour, as well as Wednesday: 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm, unless otherwise posted for special event teachings. All participants will be asked to log their hours. The expected time that a project may require ranges from 4 to 30 hours or more. Sessions will enhance students’ skill levels, enabling them to confidently participate at regional, provincial and national levels of Skills Canada competitions. Students will be able to compete at the school level, city and provincial levels this year based on performance and dedication to the skill required. See Mrs. Longjohn-Constant in room B26 for more details. 

FREE FEMININE MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS

École St Mary High School has received free feminine menstrual products to support our students. Students can go to the main office for their free products (box of tampons and a box of pads). Menstrual Equity in Saskatchewan Schools is a three-year initiative. 

EDSBY SUPPORT

Information and instructional videos are available at https://pacsd.ca/our-students/edsby-for-students/

FREE MICROSOFT 365 FOR STUDENTS

Students enrolled in the Prince Albert Catholic School Division have the opportunity to install Microsoft Office 365 on their desktops, laptops and mobile devices. Instructions and additional information is available at http://pa.pursueonline.com/index.php/community/

COMMUNITY

PRINCE ALBERT PUBLIC LIBRARY (PAPL)
Find out about all the FREE print and digital access to novels, graphic novels, music, movies, comedy shows, crafts, book clubs and more that is available at the Prince Albert Public Library. For detailed information visit https://princealbertlibrary.ca/ 

PA PUBLIC LIBRARY: Transparent Language Online

With over 100 languages to choose from (aboriginal languages, ESL programs, American Sign Language etc.) Transparent Language Online is a simple and effective way to learn a new language from the comfort of your own home. Available for desktop or mobile. (A Public Library card is required.) Please see the Information Desk at the public library for a handout on how to download the Transparent Language Online mobile app for Android or iOS.

PA PUBLIC LIBRARY: Fiero Code

Fiero Code is a web-based computer-programming education resource for kids (ages 8+), teens, and adults. Learn how to code using Code Blocks, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, SQL, and much more. This educational resource will teach users how to create video games, apps, websites, animations, programs, etc. Fiero Code provides courses, tutorial videos, contest events, and more. From beginner to advanced, there is something for everyone with Fiero Code! (A Public Library Card is required.)

CAFETERIA

Monday - Cheesy Hotdog & Bun with Bacon Bits $4.00 

Tuesday - Chicken Strips & Fries $4.50 

Wednesday - Pizza $3.50 

Thursday - Beef Ramen Noodles $4.50

Friday - Pork Dry Ribs & Wedges with Gravy $4.50