HAMILTON-WENTWORTH CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
HWCDSB staff and students recognized with Pandemic Hero Award

The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board is full of everyday heroes.

During the pandemic, these individuals stepped up to do the "heart" work by making others in their school community feel safer both in and outside the classroom and bringing a sense of "normalcy" and joy amongst the chaos.

For Josie Pini, principal of St. Thérèse of Lisieux Catholic Elementary School, that meant postponing her retirement a year to ensure her staff, students and families were supported and felt comfortable with a school year that looked dramatically different than any previous years.

"During all the uncertainties of this unprecedented time, Josie kept us all calm," said Vice-Principal Joanna Shamon. "As we transitioned back to school, she ensured that all of the safety protocols were in place and followed. Josie is always there to greet parents outside the school with any questions and concerns they may have regarding their children."

"There are endless hours of quick emails and/or telephone calls to help anyone in need with questions and concerns, even if it means that she be available after school hours."

At Guardian Angels Catholic Elementary School, Head Custodian Pino Mesaros has been tackling COVID-19 on the front line by maintaining the cleanliness of the school and equipping the facility with appropriate protective equipment.

"Even now, while most staff and students are home remotely teaching and learning, Pino along with his custodial staff under his leadership, still report to school and continue sanitizing/disinfecting the entire school and preparing the school for a safe and clean return," said Principal Peter Messina.

In Binbrook, Head Custodian John Gatto from St. Matthew Catholic Elementary School was also recognized for keeping the health and safety of others a top priority.

As a whole, staff at St. James the Apostle Catholic Elementary School first worked tirelessly to ensure all students were following new protocols for in-class learning to then shifting seamlessly for a smooth virtual learning experience.

To celebrate these contributions to their school community, MPP Donna Skelly awarded them with a Pandemic Hero Award on June 2, explaining that these individuals "represent the best of who we can be during a time of crisis."

In addition to staff, brother and sister duo William and Olivia Pang from St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Elementary School were honoured for their organization of a live virtual trivia contest hosted every Friday beginning in March. The pair drew about 150 people to the game each week, providing a sense of community and entertainment for students and their families.

"It was nice to see how happy people got when we were trying to bring joy to them," said Olivia.

"We like making people happy."

Congratulations to all recipients for your everyday heroic actions!