News Archive

That’s a wrap 🇵🇪✨ Our students are on their way home after an unforgettable journey—filled with learning, service, culture, and connection. We were so grateful to share part of this experience with a school from Washington, building new friendships along the way that made it even more meaningful. This is one we’ll carry with us forever 🤍

Wrapping up our time in Lima with the heartbeat of tradition 🥁 Grateful to learn, listen, and experience the rhythms that carry culture, story, and community forward.

Our students stepped into the heart of a local neighbourhood market today for a learning experience that was as lively as it was meaningful. With only the Quechua names to guide them, teams worked together to identify four items and capture them on camera—stretching their thinking, listening closely, and embracing the challenge. A little friendly competition made it even more fun, with our top two teams earning keychains from our tour guide. Quechua, the traditional language of the Inca people, remains the most widely spoken Indigenous language in Peru and across South America. What a powerful reminder that language is not only a tool for communication, but a living connection to culture, history, and identity.

Another day of adventure and learning 🇵🇪✨ From crafting traditional Peruvian chocolate to experiencing the rich story of Peru through dance, our students stepped into history in the most meaningful way. Each performance reflected a different time period, bringing culture to life right before our eyes—and yes, some of our students even took the stage themselves! Learning here isn’t just seen… it’s felt. 💃🍫

Privileged to explore another incredible architectural and engineering feat of the Inca civilization. Long before modern technology, these stones were carefully shaped and placed with remarkable precision—creating a space for celebration, worship, and community. A powerful reminder of the ingenuity and deep cultural richness that continues to inspire.

Students enjoyed a day in the sun exploring the historic Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site. As they walked through this remarkable place, they deepened their understanding of the impact of Spanish colonial conquest, while also learning about the enduring efforts to preserve Inca heritage and Peruvian identity. A meaningful reminder that history lives on not only in places, but in people, culture, and story.

Two days in the Andes that we won’t soon forget ⛰️🤍 We were welcomed with such generosity—sharing meals each day that filled more than just our stomachs. And in return, we had the opportunity to volunteer in a meaningful service project—digging holes, planting flowers, hauling rocks, and carrying heavy cement up a hill (much harder than it sounds 😅). All of it in support of a new artisan center where this community will share their story, teach their traditions, and invite others into the beauty of their culture. Grateful for the work, the people, and the perspective. This is what it means to learn beyond the classroom.

At Machu Picchu—one of the Seven Wonders of the World—our students stood in a place where history, mystery, and beauty meet. Built by the Inca in the 15th century, high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is more than ancient ruins—it is a testament to human ingenuity, faith, and connection to creation. And on Easter Sunday, standing here felt even more meaningful. A reminder of new life. Of resurrection. Of something greater than ourselves. From the heights of this wonder of the world, we are reminded: there is beauty in the journey, and hope that rises again.

A moment that will stay with us ✝️ This morning in Calientes, our students stepped into something sacred—walking alongside a community alive in faith, witnessing the procession of the Risen Christ, Mary Queen of Heaven, and the Blessed Sacrament. Flowers filled the air—an offering of honour, of joy, of deep devotion. A beautiful expression of love for Christ truly present among us. The resurrection is not just remembered… it is celebrated, lived, and carried into the streets. We are so blessed to have been part of it. #HeisRisen #Easter2026

He is not here. And everything changes because of it. The stone was rolled away, not just from a tomb— but from every place we thought hope had ended. Death does not have the final word. Darkness does not win. Love… does. Today, we remember that even in our hardest moments, even in the silence, even when it feels like everything is lost— God is still moving. Resurrection isn’t just something that happened. It’s something still happening. In us. Through us. Around us. He is risen. And because of that… so are we. Happy Easter. ✝️

Learning from a master. 🇵🇪 Our students had the incredible opportunity to explore traditional Peruvian pottery techniques alongside renowned artist Pablo Seminario. From shaping clay to understanding the stories and symbols behind each piece, this was hands-on learning rooted in culture, history, and craftsmanship. An experience that will stay with them long after the clay has dried.

Cusco moments we won’t forget 🦙🇵🇪 From ancient streets to unexpected new friends, our crew is soaking in the beauty, culture, and joy of Peru—one llama at a time.

Yesterday, our community gathered for our Holy Thursday liturgy, where our junior high drama brought to life the final hours of Jesus’ life. In a powerful and reverent way, we were drawn into His suffering, His humility, and His deep, unwavering love—a love poured out completely for others. As we commemorate Good Friday today, we are reminded that Jesus chose the cross. He chose sacrifice. He chose us. We left the building together in silence, holding that truth in our hearts. ✝️

Our Grade 5 students spent the morning at Bow View Manor, sharing joy, connection, and compassion. 💛 Through an Easter egg hunt, heartfelt cards, and simple conversations, they brought light to residents living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. In return, they received something just as meaningful—an eye-opening experience in empathy, presence, and what it means to truly serve others. So proud of the way our students showed up today—with kindness, dignity, and open hearts. You could feel the joy in every interaction. ✨

Up bright and early for a 4:00 AM start, our Peru team is at the airport and ready to board ✈️ Wishing them safe travels as they begin this incredible journey. We are so proud of our students for choosing to spend their spring break in service to others while experiencing the beauty of the world beyond our walls. 💙

What a fantastic day of basketball! 🏀 St. Francis of Assisi Academy was proud to host the CTR tournament, welcoming teams from GSS, STM, and HSA for a day of competition, teamwork, and school spirit. A huge thank you to Mr. Walton and our incredible student officials whose leadership made the day run so smoothly. We are also so grateful to our dedicated coaches—Mrs. Ellis, Mrs. Benassi, and Mr. Baldwin—for the time, care, and commitment they pour into our students. And… keep an eye out for our new mascot! 👀 We are still the Storm, but have introduced the wolf as a symbol of who we are. Inspired by St. Francis of Assisi and the story of the Wolf of Gubbio, it reminds us that even what feels wild or uncertain can be met with courage, compassion, and peace. A great day to be together in sport, spirit, and community!

A beautiful tradition to carry into Holy Week 🌿✝️ Today, we’re showing how to transform blessed palms into crosses to display at home as a reminder of Jesus’ journey. As these are sacramentals, we treat them with care and reverence—never throwing them away. When the time comes, palms can be returned to the church, burned, or respectfully buried.

Hosanna! 🌿 Our students beautifully share the story of Palm Sunday—the joyful beginning of Holy Week—as we walk with Jesus toward Easter. ✝️

Our Science Fair is underway until 12:00! 🔬✨ Families are warmly invited to stop in, tour the projects, and experience the incredible curiosity, creativity, and innovation of our young scientists in action! #WeAreSTFA

Week at a Glance ✝️ A full and meaningful week ahead as we journey into Holy Week. These final days invite us to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts for Easter. Amid the busyness, may we hold space for what matters most—faith, community, and the promise of new life. Easter break commences on Friday. Classes resume April 13

Holy Week invites us to walk the journey of Christ—through humility, sacrifice, and ultimately, hope. As a school community, we enter into this sacred time together, remembering that even in the quiet and the darkness, we are never alone. From the cross comes new life, and from every ending, the promise of resurrection. May this week be one of reflection, prayer, and renewed faith—for in Him, we are always held, always loved, and always made new. ✝️

Hip hop, heart, and a whole lot of confidence! 💥 Today our K–6 students took the stage for their Artist in Residence final performance, showcasing a week of creativity, courage, and growth. From first steps to full routines, it was incredible to see students shine, take risks, and celebrate one another. Thank you to Mr. Mars for inspiring our students—and to our families for joining us!

Two of our littlest voices taking on a big story… 💙✨ Tune in to hear what we’re celebrating today. You might just learn something new. 👀 #ibelieveincatholiced

Our Science Fair is just around the corner this Monday, March 30! 🔬✨ Students participating are asked to arrive with all materials ready to set up by 9:30 a.m. Parents are welcome to join us at that time to support with display setup if needed. The fair will run from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with students proudly sharing their learning and answering questions as classes visit throughout the morning. We are grateful to have science and health professionals from our community joining us as judges, and winners will be announced during Tuesday morning announcements. Families are warmly invited to stop in and experience the incredible curiosity, creativity, and hard work of our students. We can’t wait to celebrate this meaningful learning together! 🐾 Bonus fun: our image today features some very special members of our community… our staff dogs! Can you guess who they belong to?

A huge thank you to all the staff who rolled up their sleeves (literally!) and to our incredible students and families for your support. Your generosity is helping make an unforgettable experience possible for our students travelling to Peru this Easter! What a fun way to come together for something meaningful! #WeAreSTFA #STFAPeru2026

In this Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi, our community is slowing down and leaning in. Together, staff and students will journey toward a deeper, more intimate understanding of St. Francis—not just as a patron saint, but as a person whose life, faith, and choices continue to guide us today. This year invites us to go deeper than we ever have before, allowing his spirit of humility, peace, and love for all creation to shape how we learn, lead, and live together. #WeAreSTFA

💗 On Wednesdays, we wear pink. 💗 Pink Shirt Day is happening February 25th and we’re excited to collaborate with our local partner @beanandbear.co to make it extra special! Order a custom Pink Shirt Day tee featuring our school logo, and show your support for kindness, belonging, and community. Even better—a portion of every shirt sold comes back to support our school. 🗓 Order deadline: February 10 👕 Wear it: February 25 Let’s come together, wear pink, and advocate for a place where everyone belongs 🩷 🔗 Link to purchase in our bio!

Temporary tattoos. Permanent impact. 💛 Help fund our students’ Peru trip this Easter by sponsoring a teacher sleeve tattoo on an arm or leg! Participating staff include: • Mrs. Bilawchuck • Mr. Walton • Mrs. Avramovic • Mrs. Sziva • Mrs. Olynyk • Mrs. Gatto • Mrs. De Mederios • Mrs. Groger • Miss. Riccio • Miss Behm • Mr. Paul • Ms. Riccio • Ms. Showalter • Mrs. Benassi • Mrs. De Orbe

📝 Division 1 Spell-A-Thon is happening this Thursday! Our youngest learners are putting their spelling skills to the test and have been encouraged to gather sponsors as they work toward their goals. More information has been shared by homeroom teachers. Thank you for supporting our students and celebrating their hard work! 💙📚

Our February Newsletter is here! Inside, you’ll find important dates, upcoming events, highlights from our school community, and ways to stay connected throughout the month. We invite you to take a few moments to read and stay informed as we journey through February together. 🔗 Link in bio!

⚠️Just a reminder that there is no school tomorrow! This week, we are excited to kick off Literacy Week—please be sure to check agendas and teacher communications for grade-specific activities and details. A special thank you to our Grade 4 and Grade 7 families: please take a few moments to complete the AERR Survey and the CTR Faith Survey that were shared with you last week. Your voice is an important part of our ongoing growth and reflection! Thank you for your continued partnership and support 🫶🏻

Christmas Eve. ✨ Did You Know? Over 800 years ago, St. Francis of Assisi created the first Nativity to help people see, feel, and fall in love again with the humility of Christ’s birth—God choosing simplicity, closeness, and love. This manger scene, drawn by Aria in Grade 5, reminds us of the Nativity as St. Francis of Assisi first helped the world imagine it — real, human, and anything but silent. Contrary to popular belief, that night was likely noisy, crowded, and uncertain. A newborn crying. Animals shifting. Tired parents. Very little comfort. And yet, this is exactly how God chose to enter the world — not in perfection, but in the middle of mess, movement, and humanity. May this Christmas Eve remind us that even in the noise, the waiting, and the full hearts — God is with us. 🕊️

Today we gathered for our final Pace e Bene of 2025 🤍 Together, we reflected on our call to live with compassion, generosity, and love—especially through our focus on the preferential option for the poor. From our Adopt-a-Senior initiative to the joy and purpose behind our Kids’ Christmas Market, our students showed us what it looks like to see dignity, respond with kindness, and act with open hearts. We also shared a heartfelt goodbye to Ms. Cives, who will be beginning an exciting new chapter in New Zealand. She will be deeply missed! At the same time, we look forward with joy to welcoming Mrs. Austen back to our community in the new year following her maternity leave! As we close this year, we are grateful for a community that truly lives peace and goodness—not just in words, but in action. #WeAreSTFA

Holiday mode: ON! 🎉 Jumping into Christmas break with excitement… and hearts full of gratitude for Jesus, the reason we celebrate. Wishing all of our families a Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year! ✝️ 🎄

Our first-ever Kids’ Christmas Market, a joyful twist on a traditional church bazaar—where families donated items for children to shop for their loved ones, not themselves. Watching our students carefully choose the perfect gift for a mom, dad, or sibling was pure joy. Thoughtful hearts, generous spirits, and so much excitement filled the room! A huge thank you to Lexi in Grade 9 for leading the charge with gift wrapping—she’s been busy all week alongside a wonderful team of Grade 9 elves! 🎁✨ This will now be an annual tradition 🤍 If you’re thinking of donating items, please consider holding onto them and saving them for next year’s bazaar—we can’t wait to do this again!

Sprinkles, smiles, and thoughtful details — Grade 3 Behm focused on decorating and making each creation their own. #WeAreSTFA 🎄

Ms. Cives’ class building North Pole stations and elf cottages!

Beautiful hearts in action. These students delivered your Adopt-a-Senior gifts with compassion, seeing each person’s story and the dignity that remains beyond a disease that can be so crippling.

This past Monday, the St. Francis of Assisi community brought joy to Bow Valley Manor. Thanks to the generosity of ALL STFA families, the Adopt a Senior gifts shared sparked smiles and warmed hearts, but it was the presence of our students that meant the most. For many residents, this season can be lonely, and visits like these offer connection, comfort, and a sense of belonging. We are especially mindful of those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, for whom this time of year can be particularly challenging. Moments of kindness, conversation, and shared joy matter deeply. We are grateful for the opportunity to spend time together and to remind one another that we are never alone. **Not all visits/pictures could be shared due to the request of the families at Bow Valley Manor.

Not sure who had more fun with Elf on the Shelf Spirit Day… the kids or the grown-ups. 🎄✨ Holiday jammies tomorrow! #WeAreSTFA

When the staff fully commit to the spirit day. 🎅✨ #WeAreSTFA

Grade 7 students put their baking skills to the test in Foods class—measuring, mixing, problem-solving, and learning the science behind great baking. A hands-on lesson with sweet results! #WeAreSTFA

📢 Attention St. Francis of Assisi Parents! Think you know online safety? Join expert Paul Davis for tips to keep kids safe on devices, gaming, and social media. 📱 This is a ticketed event for St. Francis of Assisi parents. Exclusive link to reserve tickets was emailed yesterday—secure yours now! Open to all CTR parents starting January 1.

We’re heading into the final week before Christmas, full of joy, fun, and festive spirit! From holiday activities to celebrating together, it’s a week to make memories and embrace the magic of the season. 🎄💫 #WeAreSTFA

Congratulations to our girls’ team on capturing 1st place and our boys’ team on taking 3rd at our home tournament! 🏐 Our athletes represented us so well—both in their play on the court and in their hospitality to our guests. A big thank you to our coaches for their leadership and to Mr. Walton for organizing such a successful event! #WeAreSTFA #GOSTORM

🕊️ Happy Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi! On Thursday, our students, staff, and school were blessed , marking 10 years of St. Francis of Assisi Academy and the celebration of our school patronage. In this moment of prayer and thanksgiving, we were reminded that God’s presence dwells here—in our classrooms, our friendships, our laughter, and our faith. Guided by St. Francis’ call to live with joy, humility, and peace, we continue to build a community where every person knows: You are Loved 🫶🏻 We love you STFA. We’ll see you soon ♥️

Congrats to the Grade 5 / 6 STFA Rugby season at the CTR Jamboree! Thank you to @holytrinityacademy.ctr for hosting, Mr. Krueger for organizing and the HTA Rubgy high school coaches and Mrs. Hastings for a great rugby season🏉 #WeAreSTFA

✨ Today is a truly special day in the life of our school. We gathered as one family to take a whole-school photo in celebration of two beautiful occasions: the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, our patron saint, and the 10-year anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi Academy. 📸 This photo will be placed in a time capsule to be buried and opened at our 20-year celebration—when today’s Kindergarten students will say farewell as grade 9 graduates. 🎓 What a powerful reminder of how quickly time passes and how deeply we grow together as a community of faith. Over the past 10 years, countless students, staff, and families have built this school into more than just a building—it is a family, a community, and a living witness to the Gospel. Guided by St. Francis of Assisi’s example of simplicity, compassion, and peace, we carry forward the truth that echoes in our motto: Peace & Goodness (Pace e Bene). 💙 Here’s to the next 10 years and beyond—filled with faith, friendship, and love. 🌿 #STFA10Years #STFATimeCapsule #WeAreSTFA

A big thank you to @goodshepherd.ctr for hosting tonight’s Elementary Cross Country meet! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ We are so grateful to Mrs. Hastings, Mrs. Orr, Mrs. Benassi, and Mrs. Olynyk for coaching and cheering on our littles 💙⚡️ #WeAreATA

Every year on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Mrs. Stearn makes the 12 km walk or bike ride from her home to the site of the former Dunbow Industrial School, a residential school - located just down the road from St. Francis of Assisi. Standing on that land is always heavy, humbling, and deeply important—it’s a reminder that reconciliation isn’t abstract, it’s right here in our own backyard.

Mrs. Threlfall spent the day appreciating the beauty of the land with her family. Taking time to be present on the land is one way we honour Truth and Reconciliation—learning from creation, deepening respect, and giving thanks. 🌿🧡

Mrs. Romaniuk had the chance to slip away to a Truth and Reconciliation event in Manitoba in her hometown. She shared some beautiful dancing and even got to join in on the round dance—a powerful and memorable experience!

🍎 Last call! Apple fundraiser orders close Wednesday, Oct 1. Don’t miss this delicious, healthy snack that helps fund our school programs. Order now!

This week is an important one for our Storm family as we hold space for both local and national moments of reflection and celebration. On Tuesday, we join our country in recognizing the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation, a time to pause, participate in our communities, and remember that every child matters. Later in the week, we turn to our patron, St. Francis of Assisi, whose feast day we celebrate with a special school blessing on Thursday and a buddy activity on Friday that invites us to live out his example of peace, kindness, and care for all creation. Together, these moments call us to reflect, to learn, and to walk with open hearts toward reconciliation and gratitude. #WeAreSTFA

Thank you to our School Council Chair, and the NUMEROUS volunteers who commit every Tuesday and Thursday to delivering our hot lunches! Not only does this program bring joy to our kids as they look forward to their special lunches, but it also means one less lunch for families to prepare during the week AND money back to our school community—a win-win-win for everyone!

A huge thank you to Elder Saa’kokoto who spent the day with our junior high students. 🌿 His wisdom, stories, and teachings were a true gift to our community. We are so grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow together. 🫶🏻 #WeAreSTFA

Storm family ⚡ Here’s what’s coming up this week at a glance! Let’s make it another one full of joy, learning, and community. #WeAreSTFA

With great joy, we share that Mrs. Erick has welcomed a healthy baby girl – Catherine Mary Veronica Erick 💕👶. This beautiful blessing adds to both our St. Francis of Assisi family and @st.johnpaul2collegiate where proud dad Mr. Erick is also a teacher. Please join us in congratulating the Erick family on their newest little miracle! ✨🙏 #WeAreSTFA #STFAFamily

We’re excited to celebrate our Opening Mass tomorrow, Wednesday, September 17, at 10:00 a.m. at St. James Parish. Families are warmly invited to join us. Students are encouraged to come in their Sunday best to honour the celebration. Thank you for helping us begin the year in prayer, gratitude, and community. #WeAreSTFA #ibelieveincatholiced

✨ We realized we missed one teacher in our Guess Who video… and we couldn’t not share her photo because she was just too darn cute! 🥹💛 This one stumped so many of you… 👀 It was none other than Mrs. De Orbe! 🎉📸

🍎🍌 We are grateful to share that we’ve been gifted a nutritional grant again this year! Thanks to this support, our fruit bowls are back and started up again today. Students will always have access to healthy, fresh snacks in every classroom (with the exception of gym and music) or at the front office. These bowls are meant as a snack, not a meal replacement, but they’re a wonderful way to keep our students fueled and ready to learn throughout the day! 🥝🍇 #STFAHealthySchools

📅 A new week, a new chance to learn, grow, and gather in community. Here’s your Week at a Glance at St. Francis of Assisi Academy! #WeAreSTFA

Snack attack loading… 🌭🍿 Thanks to School Council, Hot Dog & Popcorn Day is almost here! 👉 Order online through Healthy Hunger.

✨ In all seriousness… while students are dismissed at 12:30 every Friday, our staff don’t spend the afternoon sprinting through the halls 🏃‍♀️ (that was yesterday’s post-learning fun 😉). Instead, we gather for professional development centered on three big questions: 💡 What do we want students to learn? 💡 How do we ensure they learn it? 💡 What evidence shows that student learning has improved? Of course, we also make time to laugh, connect, and grow together as a school family. 💙 Because when teachers learn and thrive, students do too! #STFAFaith #STFAAcademicExcellence #STFAHealthySchools #WeAreSTFA

📸 Say cheese, STFA! Photo Day is September 18—time to show off those fresh haircuts and big smiles!

☀️ Lunch recess looked a little different today—our Div I cross country runners laced up and hit the trail! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Full of energy, spirit, and joy in motion. Preparing our youngest for upcoming Jr. High programming! #WeAreSTFA

🌟 Finding joy in all things 🌟 One of our cross country runners showed up bright and early dressed in a blow-up dinosaur 🦖—reminding us that spirit, laughter, and joy can be found anywhere, even on a chilly morning run. #WeAreSTFA Ps. Our biggest cross country group yet! 🔥

Our September newsletter is now ready for you! Please take a few moments to read through—it’s filled with important updates (ex. new security system, open house, etc), celebrations, and ways we can continue to grow together as a community. Thank you for walking alongside us each day. We are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us and for the gift of your children in our care. Together, we are building a community where every child is known, loved, and encouraged to grow into their fullest potential! #WeAreSTFA

✨ We hope you’re having a wonderful long weekend under the sun! ☀️ Here’s what’s happening this week at St. Francis of Assisi Academy! ✨ We are so grateful for the energy, faith, and community that fills our halls each day. A new week is another opportunity to belong, believe, behave, become, and bless — together. 💙 #YouAreLoved #WeAreSTFA

Our halls are alive again as teachers gather for a day of learning and connection. With 100% of us committed to 100% of our students, we ground our work in a vision where every child can Belong, Believe, Behave, Become, and Bless. #WeAreSTFA

🌟 Please join us in welcoming Mme. Savage to our St. Francis of Assisi Academy family! Now in her second year of teaching after completing her studies at the University of Lethbridge with a specialization in French, Mme. Savage brings energy, creativity, and joy to her classroom. Through games and hands-on activities, she makes learning engaging and accessible, while encouraging students to take ownership of their education. Her passion is helping students grow into confident, independent problem-solvers who see learning as exciting, joyful, and full of possibility. 🇫🇷✨ Last year, Mme. Savage was honoured as the Edwin Parr Award Recipient at École Good Shepherd School. This prestigious award is presented annually to one exceptional first-year teacher in each Alberta school division, recognizing excellence in teaching, passion for students, and an outstanding start to a career in education. 🌟 Outside of school, Mme. Savage enjoys birdwatching, crafty projects, reading, and baking—and she especially loves spending time with her dog, Ollie. 🐾📚 We are so excited to welcome you, Mme. Savage—you are a wonderful addition to the STFA family!

🌟 Please join us in welcoming Ms. Cassidy Behm (though she’s no stranger to STFA!) back to our St. Francis of Assisi Academy family! Ms. Behm has always had a heart for teaching—beginning with coaching swimming and teaching lessons right here in the community. She feels blessed to have already taught so many children both in the pool and now in the classroom. 🏊‍♀️📚 Many of you will remember Ms. Behm from last year, when she graciously stepped in to cover two leaves in both Junior High and Grade 1 at STFA. We are thrilled to have her back with us full-time! A proud graduate of Christ the Redeemer schools from K–12, Ms. Behm has been deeply shaped by the values of faith, excellence, and belonging, and she now strives to carry those forward with her own students. This year, she is especially excited to begin her teaching journey in Grade 3, growing and learning alongside her class! Outside of school, Ms. Behm enjoys reading, crafting, and spending summers camping and exploring the outdoors. ⛺🌲 Welcome home, Ms. Behm—we’re so grateful you’re part of the STFA family! ♥️

Tonight our staff came together with their families to reconnect after the summer break! A little food, family, and fellowship. Tomorrow kicks off two days of professional development—District PD on Tuesday and our own staff PD on Wednesday—before we welcome back our amazing students on Thursday. 🍎✨ Here’s to a year filled with learning, growth, and joy—STFA, we’re ready for you! ♥️

🌟 Please join us in welcoming Mr. Arjay Hufalar to our St. Francis of Assisi Academy family! Born and raised in Calgary, Mr. Hufalar studied English Literature at Mount Royal University and also holds a certificate in Emergency Medical Response. Mr. Hufalar is new to us but not new to CTR. Holy Trinity Academy students maintain he’s the “GOAT” and that we scored a gem! He is passionate about getting to know students, creating space for kids to simply be kids, and bringing joy into the classroom every day. 🌟 Beyond teaching, Mr. Hufalar is an avid wakeboarder and skier, and he loves spending time outdoors—including an adventure this summer where he stayed in a ranger cabin with Mr. Booth! 🏔️ He’s also energized by coaching and looks forward to inspiring students both inside and outside the classroom. We are thrilled to welcome you, Mr. Hufalar—you’re a wonderful addition to the STFA family! 🌪️ #WeAreSTFA

🌟 Please join us in welcoming Ms. Isabelle Gemmill to our St. Francis of Assisi Academy family! Originally from Ottawa, Ms. Gemmill is a recent graduate of St. Mary’s University in Calgary, where she earned her Bachelor of Education. She also holds a Bachelor of Science from Dalhousie University in Halifax, with a background in biology and math. 🧪➗ As a new teacher, Ms. Gemmill is passionate about helping students build confidence in subjects that can sometimes feel intimidating. Beyond the classroom, she enjoys hiking, crocheting, and travelling—having already lived in five different provinces across Canada! 🇨🇦 This year, she is most looking forward to beginning her teaching journey at STFA and creating meaningful, memorable experiences with her students. 🫶🏻 Welcome to the STFA family, Ms. Gemmill—we’re so glad you’re here! #WeAreSTFA

🌟 Please join us in welcoming Ms. Sophie-Ana Cives to our St. Francis of Assisi Academy family! Ms. Cives is a recent graduate of St. Mary’s University and brings international teaching experience from her time teaching English in Taiwan. She has also spent the past four years coaching with the Okotoks Mavericks Swim Club, where she discovered her passion for guiding children to learn and grow through hands-on experiences. 🏊‍♀️ She is dedicated to helping students discover their unique strengths, talents, and sense of self through education. A fun fact about Ms. Cives? She loves to line dance 💃 and also plays the trumpet 🎺! Ms. Cives will be covering Mrs. Austen’s maternity leave until Christmas; Mrs. Austen will be returning in January after Christmas. We are so excited to welcome you, Ms. Cives—what a gift you will be to our community! 💙💛 #WeAreSTFA

👋 Please join us in welcoming Mr. Cian Booth to our St. Francis of Assisi Academy family! Mr. Booth is beginning his very first year of teaching with us after graduating from St. Mary’s University in Calgary. He is passionate about helping students discover just how special and powerful history can be when you know what to look for. Over the past four years, Mr. Booth has gained experience in CTR schools through coaching, supporting classrooms, and now stepping fully into his teaching role. This past summer, he also served as a Park Ranger in Kananaskis Country—trekking to backcountry patrol cabins, rescuing hikers, helping protect our mountain parks, and (as he puts it!) babysitting grizzly bears. 🐻 When he’s not in the classroom, you’ll likely find him outdoors hiking, camping, or fly-fishing in Southern Alberta’s beautiful trout streams. We are so grateful to have you here, Mr. Booth—welcome to the STFA family! #WeAreSTFA ♥️

Before & After School Care You Can Count On! Our amazing program, offered through 1st Class After Class, is open Monday–Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM—covering early dismissals, all PD days, and school holidays (summer not included 🥰) Fun, engaging, and worry-free care all year long!

📅 The countdown is on — our first day of school is Thursday, August 28th! If you missed the deadline to have supplies delivered to the school, you can still order through our website: 1️⃣ Visit the School Supplies section. 2️⃣ Select your child’s grade level. 3️⃣ Have your order shipped straight to your home. ✉️ Keep an eye on your inbox Monday, August 18th for our Back to School Essentials newsletter from Mrs. A with everything you need to know for a great start to the year! 🍎 #WeAreSTFA

School may be out for summer, but back-to-school comes quicker than you think! 🎒✏️ Save time and money by ordering your child’s 2025–2026 school supplies through School Start—delivered right to your door or school. Details on how to order here: https://stfrancis.redeemer.ab.ca/school-supply-lists

St. James Parish has officially opened registration for First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation for the upcoming year. If your child is ready to begin their sacramental journey, now is the time to register! Sessions begin this October. Programs for RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation for Children) and RCIT (Rite of Christian Initiation for Teens) are also available. These are offered for those who are longing to become Catholic ✝️ For full details and to register, please visit the St. James Parish website: https://www.stjamesparishokotoks.ca

🥇 Dodgeball champs! Congratulations to Team Yellow for taking the win in our annual Grades 4–6 dodgeball tournament!

Last day smiles with the best team 💛☀️

🎤✨ Our talent show has been moved up to a 10:30 AM start (instead of 11:00) to make room for all our amazing performers! 🎭🎶👏

Grade 5 completed their 3D cake sculptures this week! ❤️

We are so grateful to all the families who joined us for our Family Fun Fest—it was an evening filled with joy, laughter, and community spirit! Mrs. Benassi’s joy in this photo says it all: pure happiness, connection, and celebration. The photo captures the heart of what this event was all about—coming together as a school family and creating lasting memories. A heartfelt thank you to the countless volunteers, generous donors, and wonderful vendors who helped bring this event to life. Your time, talent, and contributions made all the difference. And a VERY special, sincere thank you to our incredible School Council for your vision, leadership, and hard work. You poured your hearts into this, and we are so blessed by your dedication. Thank you for helping us build a community where every family feels they belong. 💙 — St. Francis of Assisi Academy #FamilyFunFest #GratitudeInAction #YouAreLoved #CommunityJoy

We are getting ready for the last week of the year! See you on Monday for a great 3 days ❤️

Calling all vendors in our school community! If you have a small business, craft, or side hustle you’d love to share, we’re inviting you to set up a table at our Family Fun Fest this Thursday evening. For a $20 donation, you’ll have the chance to showcase your products, connect with families, and be part of a joyful school event that brings everyone together. Don’t miss this great opportunity to support and celebrate our amazing community!

We are ready to see you for another great week ❤️

Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads and father figures in our St. Francis of Assisi community! Your love, guidance, and strength shape our days in countless ways. Today we celebrate the nurturing, the laughter, and the heart you pour into every moment with your families and our school. Thank you for being a steady hand, a guiding light, and a source of inspiration. Enjoy your special day!

🎉 Calling all cake lovers, bakers, and sweet supporters! 🎂 We’re hosting a Cake Walk at our Family Fest on Thursday, June 19, and we need your help to make it a delicious success! We’re asking for donations of home-baked or store-bought cakes to fuel the fun (and the sugar rush!). Want to donate? Email schoolmomlaurie@gmail.com Drop off your sweet treats at the school office by Thursday, June 19 labelled “Family Fest Cake Walk.” Every cake helps bring joy—and yummy competition—to our students and families! Your generosity means the world to us. 💛 Let’s make our Cake Walk the sweetest walk in town!

We wrapped up our awards with recognizing students who achieved top marks in subjects, as well as those who excelled in band, chess, drama, and citizenship! 🏅🎶♟️🎭✨ Congratulations to all, we are so very proud of you!!

Today we celebrated the incredible academic achievements of our junior high students at the Honour Roll Awards! We are so very proud of you ❤️

Pace e Bene- Part 2 Grades 7&8❤️ Today we celebrated our Pace e Bene Awards — a special moment where we recognized students who live out peace and goodness in their everyday actions. 🌿🕊️ Their kindness, compassion, and quiet leadership shine brightly in our school community.

Pace e Bene- Part 1 Grade 9 ❤️ May we all be inspired to walk the path of Pace e Bene — peace with all, and goodness in all we do. 💛

Launch Pad fun to close out Farewell Day! Our Grade 9s wrapped up their celebrations with some swings, laughs, and memories at Launch Pad. A perfect way to end a meaningful day — golf, good food, and great company. Here’s to the Class of 2025! #WeAreSTFA #Classof2025