St. Mary family celebrates expansion

December 3, 2013 · 0 Comments

Father Paul Hancko blessed the montage of Mary at the school celebration.

By Mark Pavilons
There’s a really big family tucked away on quiet subdivision streets in Nobleton.
And it just got bigger.
Students, staff, parents and dignitaries gathered last week to officially celebrate the recent expansion to St. Mary Catholic Elementary School.
Principal Joeanne Bortolussi said this is a milestone in the school community. She’s overjoyed by the expansion and all of the new classrooms are filled, accommodating all 471 of her “children” in this close-knit school family.
“Theres’ a buzz of excitement in the air” at the school and this culmination of efforts was thanks to a great many people. Bortolussi lauded school board officials, staff, students and the tireless efforts of those who served on the blessing committee.
Bortolussi said the school prepared for months as they wanted to showcase student talent.
To that end, the audience was treated to a video presentation and liturgical dance, songs and a drama presentation “The Important Thing about St. Mary School.”
As a tangible reminder of this occasion, the school commissioned a unique montage of Mary, made up of all the students’ photographs.
Father Paul Hancko handled the blessing and told the youngsters gathered: “there is no school without you.”
King Mayor Steve Pellegrini presented certificates of congratulation from both King Township and York Region.
He noted a strong school is the foundation that students need to succeed in life.
Oak Ridges-Markham MPP Dr. Helena Jaczek brought praise from the provincial government, stressing they are strong supporters of Ontario’s education system.
“Look after your new and bigger home for you and your family,” she told the students. “You can achieve whatever you want to achieve.”