Friday, February 6th

DAY 2

MORNING PRAYER

Often, we want to be able to see into the future. We say, “How will next year be for me? Where will I be five or ten years from now?” There are no answers to these questions. Mostly we have just enough light to see the next step – what we have to do in the coming hour or the following day. The art of living is to enjoy what we can see and not complain about what remains in the dark. When we are able to take the next step with the trust that we will have enough light for the step that follows, we can walk through life with joy and be surprised at how far we go. Let’s rejoice in the little light we carry and not ask for the great beam that would take all shadows away.

God our Father,

There are many difficulties and challenges in life,

and we see or experience more of them each day we live.

Give us the power of Your Holy Spirit

that we may have courage and determination,

and may live in such a way that we encourage one another.

Enable us to transform whatever is negative,

and remain positive in attitude throughout our lives. 

Lighten our darkness and keep us safe. 

Amen.

SCHOOL SUPERVISION

Main Entrance - Mr. Phalen

North Entrance - Mr. Kirilenko

South Entrance - Mme. Martin

CAFETERIA

Breaded Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy $4.50 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

EDSBY MESSAGE: February Overdue/Lost

In a few days, all Grade 9 – Grade 12 students with Overdue/Lost library books, textbooks, novel sets and calculators will be receiving an Edsby message titled “February Overdue/Lost”. It will have a screen capture of their library account listing these items. All Grade 10 - Grade 12 students with Overdue/Lost textbooks, novel sets and calculators will have these items added to their SchoolCash account. These items can be paid online (SchoolCash access on the division website at www.pacsd.ca) or in the main office. 

SLC LOGO CONTEST VOTING OPENS
The SLC logo contest will be open to voting on Monday, February 9^th (at 9:00 AM) and will run until Friday, February 13^th (at 6:00 PM). Be sure to have your say in the logo that will be used on school merch. The Forms page will be posted on the river in Edsby on Monday morning, and posters will be placed around the school with QR codes to access the Forms page as well. The SLC can't wait to see what our student body decides on! 

MANN ART GALLERY: High School Juried Art Show

The annual High School Juried Art Show at the Mann Art Gallery (April 14^th – June 6^th) showcases the incredible talent of young artists from the local high schools. This eagerly anticipated event provides a platform for students to display their artistic creations in various mediums, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. For additional information, and to apply, go to https://www.mannartgallery.ca/annualhighschooljuriedartshow or see Ms. Hawryluk (B18).

SCOTIABANK: Financial Wellness Scholarship (10 x $3,000)
Scotiabank is offering 10 scholarships worth $3,000 each available to Grade 12 students across Canada. Phase 1 of the application process consists of a written submission about your financial wellness goals and how this scholarship will support your post-secondary journey. The deadline for Written Phase 1 is April 24, 2026 11:59:59 PM ET. Top applicants from Phase 1 will be invited to submit a short video for Phase 2 to complete their application. The deadline for Video Phase 2 is May 19, 2026 11:59:59 PM ET. For additional information, and to apply go to https://education.myblueprint.ca/scotia/#financial-wellness-scholarship-details

VALENTINES SPIRIT WEEK: February 9^th – February 13^th
Monday, February 9^th – Dress Comfy
Tuesday, February 10^th – Dress as Your Type
Wednesday, February 11^th – Dress as What You Love
Thursday, February 12^th – Monochrome Day
Friday, February 13^th – Valentine Colour Day (Red, Pink, White)

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: School Events

To celebrate Black History Month, we are excited to host a series of events throughout February. All students are welcome and encouraged to participate!

Panel Presentation: Influential Black Figures

Wednesday, February 11 at 12:30 PM in the Lecture Theatre

Students are invited to present on an influential Black figure. Spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up using the Forms Link on Edsby or here 

Cultural Showcase

Monday, February 23 at 12:30 PM in the Lecture Theatre

Students are invited to share something from their culture (dance, song, food, storytelling, etc.). Interested students should message Ms. McLeod on Edsby to sign up.

Cultural Attire Day

Friday, February 27 all day

Students from all cultures are invited to wear their cultural attire to school and celebrate the diversity within our community. Let’s come together to learn, share, and celebrate!

U of S: Competitive Entrance Awards

Competitive Entrance Awards include numerous scholarships and bursaries that can be accessed by many students with diverse experiences. Students will be considered based on academic achievement, financial need and/or contributions to school and community life. Some awards recognize particular backgrounds, acknowledge contributions to certain clubs or reward achievement in music and athletics. All entering students are encouraged to apply. To be considered:

• Complete your U of S application for admission by Sunday, February 15th
• Fill out and submit the Competitive Entrance Awards online application by Sunday, March 1st in PAWS

ST. MARY WRESTLING DUEL INVITATIONAL
The 2026 St. Mary Dual Invitational is a showcase for wrestling in Prince Albert and surrounding areas to build community and the sport of wrestling in our province. This “pack the gym” event is Tuesday, February 10^th at 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm in the main gym with team dual competitions featuring live event commentary and music.

SEMESTER 2 PICTURE DAY
Lifetouch will be here on Wednesday, February 11th for Semester 2 photos.  All students are required to have their photo taken for identification purposes and to update photos on Edsby. If you are a new student at St. Mary, or have yet to have your photo taken, this day is for you!  Students who have had their photo taken in Semester 1 can also have a retake, if needed. Grade 9's will be called by classroom to the Conference Room (beside Mr. Bourdon's office).  Grades 10-12 students will be called by last name initials. Students who have a spare or free time may also stop by at their convenience.

RIBBON SKIRT MAKING EVENT

Students are invited to sign up for a Ribbon Skirt Making event on Tuesday, February 24th and Wednesday, February 25th from 4:00 pm –7:00 pm. This is a great opportunity to learn and to create. An additional session may be added based on interest. Space is limited, so interested students are encouraged to sign up early. For more information, please see Mrs. Constant. Please complete the Forms link to sign up: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ktew3fs5vE6W1gmVNKysT6vocE7fn19DkR5uT6YzcyBUNUZZTEpYNTk5Sk40RUpaQ1hBUDFZUTJPRyQlQCNjPTEu

FEBRUARY: Indigenous Storytelling Month

For Indigenous people, storytelling is both a gift, and a very old custom, used to teach, entertain, and remember. In December 2022, the provincial government declared that February would be the official month of Indigenous storytelling. “Culturally, when the snow has hit the ground, it has been a very old custom to gather together and share stories to learn culture and language and teachings”. 

To honour this tradition of storytelling, consider reading a Cree legend:

1) “Chahkabesh and the Giant Woman” available at https://www.pathoftheelders.com/images/docs/14x2.pdf.

2) "Chahkabesh Snares the Sun" is available at https://pathoftheelders.com/images/docs/15x2.pdf

3) "Chahkabesh is Swallowed by the Giant Fish" available at https://www.pathoftheelders.com/images/docs/16x2.pdf

4) "Chahkabesh is Drawn Up by the Moon" available at https://www.pathoftheelders.com/images/docs/17x2.pdf

5) "Weesakechahk Carries Around His Song Bag" available at https://www.pathoftheelders.com/images/docs/18x2.pdf

6) "Weesakechahk Tricks the Bear" available at https://www.pathoftheelders.com/images/docs/19x2.pdf

7) "Weesakechahk Flies South with the Waveys" available at https://www.pathoftheelders.com/images/docs/20x2.pdf

8) "The Man who was Devoured by Rabbits" available at https://www.pathoftheelders.com/images/docs/21x2.pdf

FEBRUARY: Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to celebrate and remember all the ways that Black Canadians have contributed to Canada’s history and culture. Throughout February, this celebration provides a chance to learn about African cultures. 
The story of Black History Month dates back to 1926 in the United States. At that time, an African-American historian named Carter G. Woodson founded a week that focused on celebrating the accomplishments of African Americans. He decided on a week in February because two important men were born in that month. 
The first man was Frederick Douglass, a former enslaved person in the 1800s who spoke out for the freedom of enslaved people, as well as equal rights for women. The second man was Abraham Lincoln. As the 16th president of the United States, Lincoln fought for the freedom of all enslaved people throughout the country. While Woodson’s idea began as a one-week celebration, it eventually became a month-long event called Black Heritage Month in the United States in 1976. In 1995, Canada’s government officially recognized February as Black History Month.

SASKPOLYTECH: Indigenous Student Spend-a-Day

Saskatchewan Polytechnic is pleased to invite Indigenous Grade 11 students to the Indigenous Student Spend‑A‑Day event on March 4, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Prince Albert Campus – Technical Building (Gymnasium). This event is designed to introduce Indigenous students to the wide range of programs available at Sask Polytech. Throughout the day, students will have the chance to explore hands‑on activities, learn about different career pathways, meet instructors, and gain a clearer understanding of their options after high school. The goal is to create a welcoming, informative experience that supports students as they begin planning their post‑secondary journey. This year's focus is Grade 11 students so they are exposed to Sask Polytech early enough to explore programs, identify their areas of interest, and be ready to apply when applications open next fall. Lunch, snacks and transportation will be provided. Indigenous students who are interested in attending must complete the form using the link SK Poly Indigenous Student Spend a Day- March 4th – Fill out form by Wednesday, February 11^th at noon. Please see Mrs. Gibson if you have any questions. 

GRAD 2026 AWARDS
Grade 12 students are invited to apply for the following graduation awards:

• École St. Mary High School Scholarship ($2,000)
•  John M. Cuelenaere Memorial Scholarship ($2,000)
  

An Edsby announcement has a PDF that outlines the scholarship criteria, including eligibility requirements and the focus of each award. There is also a Microsoft Forms application that students must complete using their school email login.
The deadline to apply for the awards is Tuesday, February 24^th at 9:00 am.
Students are encouraged to review the criteria carefully before submitting their application. Students who have questions or require clarification are to Ms. McLeod.

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.

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 - Pancakes & Breakfast Sausage $4.50 

Tuesday - Taco in a Bag $4.50 

Wednesday - Pizza OR Chicken Strips $3.50 

Thursday - Dry Ribs & Potato Wedges $4.50

Friday - Breaded Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy $4.50