Day of Remembrance - Recognizing One-Year of COVID-19

March 11, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians, 

Today marks the one-year anniversary of the World Health Organization’s declaration of the global pandemic. The world has changed drastically during this time. COVID-19 has impacted all of us in different ways, while causing massive disruptions to families, society and the economy. 

This year has been one of tremendous challenge. The most troubling of which has been the significant loss of life that has occurred. Many members of our own Durham Catholic community have experienced tremendous pain and suffering since the onset of the pandemic. In some cases, the loss has been directly related to COVID-19, while others have lost loved ones and have been deprived of the physical, in person supports that would normally be put in place during times of mourning.   

Today is a special day of remembrance when as a country we reflect upon and pray for all those who have died, knowing that we will always keep our loved ones close to our hearts.

 Together, we have faced challenges, while adapting to remote learning. We embraced virtual meetings, Zoom, Edsby and D2L. We listened to our families’ needs and provided supports. We developed summer programs to help students bridge the gaps in learning. In September, we welcomed students back to school for in-person learning with enhanced safety measures, launched virtual elementary and secondary schools, and introduced quadmesters. In December, we shifted back to online learning and recently added hybrid learning at the secondary level. A special thank you to all of you, our families for your patience during these unprecedent times.  

During all this, we continue to witness large and small acts of kindness and generosity – from our students and staff making face shields with our 3D printers and sewing masks, to the board’s donation of masks and safety supplies to Lakeridge Health, to students recording videos to bring smiles to residents in senior homes, to staff delivering technology, supplies and food to our families in need, and students and families writing messages of love, faith and hope. The outpouring of love and willingness to help others is a true testament to our Catholic values and beliefs. 

As we look ahead, the rollout of vaccines offers us hope for a brighter future. As it will take time to vaccinate everyone against COVID-19, we must remain vigilant and adhere to the safety measures by maintaining physical distancing, wearing masks, and practicing hand hygiene to ensure we stay safe. 

Let us continue to pray for the health and safety of our school communities. 

Yours in faith,

Morgan Ste. Marie                           Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board                           Director of Education