At the Kenora Catholic District School Board (KCDSB), student success is about more than report cards and diplomas it's about creating a sense of belonging, building confidence, and opening doors to the future. At St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Kathleen Holmstrom is leading that work in a powerful way as the First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Graduation Coach.
"It's like being a mom," Kathleen shares with a smile. "My role is about meeting each student where they're at academically, emotionally, spiritually and walking alongside them."
A Relationship-First Approach
Kathleen's work begins before students even reach high school. She connects with students as early as Grade 6, attending transition events and visiting classrooms to build trust early on. "Grade 6 to Grade 7 is a huge transition," she explains. "When they walk into the high school for the first time, it's important that our students see a familiar, friendly face."
From that first connection, Kathleen supports students all the way through Grade 12, helping them choose courses, explore career paths, and pursue post-secondary plans.
"Goal planning doesn't start in Grade 12 it starts in Grade 9," she says. "We work on refining passions, finding strengths, and setting students up for success long before graduation day."
Breaking Down Barriers to Learning
Kathleen's role is flexible and responsive. Whether it's setting up tutoring sessions, advocating for mental health supports, or creating quiet spaces for focused learning, every solution is customized.
"You can't blanket support," she says. "Each student is unique, and they deserve an approach that honours who they are and how they learn."
From hands-on learners to students facing home life challenges, Kathleen ensures no one falls through the cracks. She works closely with community agencies, families, and the school's guidance team to remove barriers and clear the path to graduation.
Creating a Culture of Belonging
One of Kathleen's proudest accomplishments this year was forming individual connections with every Indigenous student at STAHS. She spends time in classrooms, runs lunch programs, and organizes activities that give students a sense of home at school.
"Food brings people together," Kathleen laughs. "Lunchtime in my room isn't just about eating it's about building relationships, sharing stories, and letting students know they are valued."
Attendance, often a major hurdle to graduation, is met with compassion. "When a student returns after being away, the first thing I say is, We're so happy you're here,'" she explains. "We meet students with kindness, not judgment."
Expanding Opportunities
Beyond academics, Kathleen champions opportunities for cultural connection and leadership. This year, she organized trips to the Indspire Soaring Conference in Vancouver, introduced Indigenous culinary workshops, and partnered with Kenora Chiefs Advisory for land-based leadership training at Strecker's Farm.
"Our students need to see what's possible," she says. "They need real-world experiences that show them they belong in every room whether that's a college or university classroom, a skilled trade, or a boardroom."
Looking Forward
As the school year wraps up, Kathleen is already planning bigger for the future. She plans to expand leadership opportunities, grow partnerships with trades programs, and continue building pathways that honour both culture and academic excellence.
"Every student deserves to know they matter," she says. "When we believe in them, they start believing in themselves and that's where transformation happens."
Through her dedication and commitment, Kathleen Holmstrom is not just guiding students to graduation she's helping them discover their strengths, find their voice, and realize that their journey is only just beginning.
