Mary-Catherine Kelly recognized

The Ontario Association of Catholic Parents (OAPCE) in Education recognized Director of Education, Mary-Catherine Kelly of the Northwest Catholic District School Board at its recent provincial conference and annual general meeting in Peterborough. The Association awards an Honorary Lifetime Membership to persons who support the aims and goals of OAPCE and who have contributed in a substantial way, through their expertise, time and effort, over a period of years, to the Association.

OAPCE President, Aimee Gerdevich said that “Mary-Catherine has a long career in Catholic education with her roots originating as a Principal in Peterborough”. “She has spent 8 years in the Northwest, where she has been a strong, consistent advocate for the parent voice and involvement in the schools she oversees. She has been a voice amongst Directors of Education and all Catholic partners, always in support of our Association,” said Gerdevich. She also noted that, “Director Kelly has worked tirelessly to encourage parents to attend events organized for their benefit, both in the region and outside, as well as ensuring OAPCE is included and invited to participate in their Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (CPIC) meetings.” This past year, Mary-Catherine was instrumental in supporting a regional PRO Grant that included all 4 Catholic District School Boards with strong turnouts of parents from Northwest Catholic. “Mary-Catherine is a genuine, generous support for parents not just in her board, but regionally and provincially and we wish her well in her retirement.” stated Gerdevich.

Director Kelly said that, “I have interacted with OAPCE President, Aimee Gerdevich since 1999 when I was the Catholic Principals Council of Ontario President (CPCO) and I believe strongly that our Catholic parent voice at the provincial level is very important, so I have always wanted to see this group supported.”

Kelly indicated that she was most humbled by the recognition of this award, and stated, “I would like to say that you don’t ever do things alone, it takes a team of dedicated people to make things happen. I would like to thank Chris Howarth and Seija Van Haesendonck for agreeing to look after the financials for the OAPCE Diocesan Conference.

I would also like to thank Joanne Querel, who has also been with me at the parent engagement meetings of (CPIC) offering practical hands on workshops for the parents so that they can engage their colleagues and other parents at the school council level.” Kelly concludes, “It is nice to be recognized provincially for service to Catholic education and I do thank my own Board team for helping the cause for parent engagement here in Northwestern Ontario.”