I extend a heartfelt welcome to all families and community members as we embark on the 135th year of Catholic Education within Edmonton Catholic School Division (ECSD). Our mission is deeply rooted in providing a Catholic education that not only inspires students to learn, but also prepares them to live fully and serve God in one another. In the words of Pope Francis, we are guided by the belief that schools should educate students in "the true, the good, and the beautiful."
Catholic education in Edmonton has a proud tradition that dates back to before Alberta was a province. Our journey began in 1888 when three sisters from the order of the Faithful Companions of Jesus sailed from France and began teaching 23 students in the first Catholic school in the city. Today, our Division has grown into a family of 94 schools, nurturing the academic and spiritual growth of more than 47,000 students. 135 years later, we remain resolute in our commitment to Catholic education and celebrate the gift of Edmonton Catholic Schools. We extend a warm invitation to join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and the gift of publicly funded Catholic education as we mark this special anniversary.
At ECSD, we are unwavering in our commitment to maintaining an environment of Catholic educational excellence. It is through our collective efforts and the inspiration drawn from Galatians 6:9, "let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up "that we continue to strive towards realizing Pope Francis' vision of a rich student experience enriched with truth, goodness, and beauty.”
Catholic Education Sunday
Date: Sunday, November 5, 2023
Details: On Catholic Education Sunday, our school division and local parishes will come together to celebrate the gift of publicly funded Catholic education. This year's theme, "Courage to Lead," emphasizes the importance of leadership rooted in faith and values.
Catholic Education Week
Date: May 6 - 10, 2024
Details: Every year through the celebration of Catholic Education Week, give thanks for the gift of Catholic education, which has served nations for centuries by teaching students in their faith.
World Catholic Education Day
Date: Thursday, May 9, 2024
Details: Wear blue on Thursday, May 9! Every year, 40 days after Easter on Ascension Thursday, Catholics across the globe give thanks for the gift of Catholic education through the celebration of World Catholic Education Day.
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