As we round out the winter season of competitive sports, varsity girls’ basketball coach and Vice Principal, Ms. Cassie Lauang, reflects on what the tournament means to communities and the significance of high school sports for athletes, coaches and supporters.

This was written just before the start of Provincials, which would ultimately result with the girls coming in second place for a silver medal finish.

The gym always feels quieter the week before Provincials.

It sounds the same though.

The bounce of the basketballs echo. The shoes still squeak. The bounces off the rim and the clean swishes through the nylon are still there… but there’s something buzzing in the air that signals something has shifted.

The week before the Provincial tournament does feel a bit heavier, not because of what still needs to be done or taught but because everyone can sense that there is something meaningful approaching and it’s really not just about basketball. It’s about young people standing close to a moment that feels bigger than they’re used to carrying and the quiet work of helping them believe that they can step into it without losing themselves if things don’t go the way they hope… Read More

Living the Dignity of the Human Person

As we begin the month of March, our STMC community continues its focus on Catholic Social Teaching, with particular attention to the Dignity of the Human Person. This foundational principle reminds us that every human life is sacred — created in the image and likeness of God — and deserving of respect from conception to natural death.

This focus is also one of the Blessed Edmund Rice Essential Elements, calling us to stand in solidarity with the vulnerable and to build communities where each person is valued and heard. It beautifully coincides with our Lenten journey, as we reflect on the value of life and Christ’s ultimate act of love and sacrifice for humanity.

Throughout March and into April, students will engage in prayer, Reverence for Life conferences, classroom discussions, reflective activities, and initiatives led by our Blessed Edmund Rice Team. Together, we hope not only to learn more about this teaching, but to actively live it — in our words, in our online presence, in our relationships, and in the way we serve others.

May this season of Lent continue to form us as a community that sees Christ in one another and upholds the dignity of every person, both within our school and beyond.

“Live Jesus in our hearts… forever.”

Faith In Action: Service and College Pathways

On Friday, February 6th, our Senior students had the opportunity to take part in a day of faith, service, and exploration within our wider Catholic community.

Our first stop was Catholic Men’s Charities, where students dropped off donations collected from our school community and learned more about this incredible ministry led by Director Justin Milad. Students were given a tour and gained a deeper understanding of the dignity of the human person and the importance of walking alongside those experiencing hardship. It was a meaningful opportunity to see Catholic Social Teaching lived out in a concrete and compassionate way.

We then visited Corpus Christi College and St. Mark’s College, located on the campus of University of British Columbia. Students learned about post-secondary opportunities within a faith-based university setting and explored what it means to continue growing intellectually and spiritually after high school. It was inspiring for our students to see how Catholic higher education integrates academic excellence with faith formation and community life.

We concluded the day by partnering with students from Corpus Christi to prepare sandwiches for The Door Is Open, a ministry serving those in need in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. This shared act of service beautifully captured the heart of the day — learning, faith, and action working together.

The experience was a powerful reminder that our Catholic education extends beyond the classroom and continues well after graduation. Students interested in exploring university opportunities are encouraged to look up Corpus Christi College and St. Mark’s College to learn more about the programs and community they offer.

Reverence for Life: Isabella Comuzzi

Isabella Comuzzi reflects on her experience helping to organize a Reverence for Life Expo that brought together hundreds of attendees for thoughtful and respectful dialogue. She shares how the event challenged common stereotypes and demonstrated that open, informed conversations can foster greater understanding.

For Isabella, reverence for life is not about politics or popularity, but about affirming the inherent dignity of every person. She emphasizes that choosing a pro-life stance means choosing compassion, standing with the vulnerable, and recognizing the value of every human life.

Read her speech here

Upcoming Grade Level Retreats

Parent Participation Program

Thank you to all our parents for your feedback, ideas, and ongoing support as we roll out our Parent Participation Program. Many of your suggestions have been added to the program.

Volunteer sign-ups will open in late March / early April, with a staggered release to ensure a smooth and fair process:

Day 1: Current Grade 11 & 10 families
Day 2: Current Grade 9 & 8 families
Day 3: Incoming Grade 8 families

Each family will receive their own login details prior to their designated release date.

If you are interested in applying for a Lead or Coordinator role, please complete the Google Form using this link.

1. Leads work with all coordinators within an area and communicate directly with the PPP Lead.
2. Coordinators support hourly volunteers and serve as the main point of contact for their specific role
   (e.g., Athletics Lead – Ultimate Coordinator – Parent Driver Volunteer).

Selections for Lead and Coordinator positions will be made and families notified before the OnVolunteers.com sign-ups open.

All final dates will be confirmed and shared by the end of Spring Break.

If you have any questions, please contact Kyle at or 604.790.0677.

Thank you for helping strengthen our community through your involvement.

Reading Mentorship Program

Thank you to Sofia Sales, a Gr. 11 student, for coordinating (with Mrs. DeWith) volunteers as reading mentors for primary students at 12th Avenue Elementary School. STMC Gr. 8-10 volunteers will read with their buddies on 5 upcoming Wednesdays.

Mrs. DeWith and the 12th Avenue librarian were so impressed with how the STMC students interacted and supported their new little buddies! What a great example of service in a very practical way.

LRC Work Opportunity

Students from the LRC are looking for work experience opportunities within the community. A staff member will be with them the whole time. If anyone has a company or knows of opportunities for us to explore, please reach out to STMC.

Thank You Note from the Good Shepherd Ministry

Linda Noel from the Good Shepherd Ministry sent STMC a letter of thanks for working with them and also providing financial donations as well. Here is her message:

Faculty and staff of STMC

Our faith is not something to be kept secret, but should shine brightly for others to experience. We are called to let our light illuminate the world, revealing the truth and love of God through our actions and words.

St. Thomas More Collegiate is a symbol of that illumination in so many ways. Whether it is the collection and bagging of candy, bake sales, knitting soft, warm hats and scarves, creating wrist rosaries, walking the streets of the DTES of Vancouver after a long day of classes and donating much needed funds, you shine His light on this dark and desperate neighborhood.

Strangers giving to strangers; for women alone and frightened, living with memories most of us could never endure, men doing whatever it takes to survive another endless and tormented day of life on the street, all of them suffering beyond anything we could ever imagine.

All of us at the Good Shepherd Ministry thank all of you, students and faculty, for your ongoing support.

Linda Noel

STMC Mission Integration Visit

On Monday, February 23, members of the STMC Mission Integration Committee had the privilege of visiting an Indigenous Education Centre, a temple, and a mosque to connect with faith leaders across our broader community.

This visit was part of “The Other People” initiative, which arose from the shared concerns of prominent BC faith and cultural leaders. The initiative seeks to address growing concerns around hate, racism, and misunderstanding in Canada through meaningful dialogue and relationship-building.

These interactive programs are designed to enhance cultural competence and help participants thoughtfully navigate complex social issues. By engaging directly with leaders from Asian/Buddhist, Black, Christian, Indigenous, Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh communities, we are challenged to examine personal assumptions, question media narratives, and develop a deeper appreciation for the lived experiences of others.

We are grateful for the relationships being formed and look forward to continuing this important work of dialogue, reconciliation, and bridge-building.

Supporting the Vancouver Men’s Shelter

On Friday, February 27th, Grade 12 student leaders Arianna Ogilvie and Caleigh Wong put their faith into action by preparing homemade brownies for the Catholic Men’s Shelter, a ministry that welcomes and supports over 100 men each night in Vancouver.

Along with the baked goods, students also donated mugs for shelter patrons. We are especially grateful to Justin Milad, Director of the shelter, who personally picked up the donations on his way to serve the evening community. His leadership and dedication continue to inspire our students as they learn what it means to live out the Gospel through service.

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40

Senior Art Studio: Emily Carr Workshop

In the first week of March, our Senior Art Studio class will be heading to the Vancouver Art Gallery for an Emily Carr workshop and guided tour. Students will also explore the Pendulum Art Gallery and CICA, learning about local artists and contemporary work within our own community.

As the final Art excursion of the year, this trip offers a meaningful opportunity for students to experience art and culture firsthand, engage with professional spaces, and deepen their understanding of the creative landscape around them.

Music

Kiwanis Jazz Festival

Congratulations to Jazz A and Jazz B for outstanding performances at the Kiwanis Jazz Festival! Students had the opportunity to work with renowned jazz adjudicators and hear other schools perform.

The jazz bands are looking forward to performing later this spring at Jazz Knight!

Jazz A workshop

Jazz A had the opportunity to work with the phenomenal music educator and drummer, Chris Haas in a workshop this month.

Record-Breaking Performance for STMC’s Jada Waite

St. Thomas More Catholic High School is proud to celebrate Grade 9 student-athlete Jada Waite, who continues to be successful on the track. This past weekend, Jada competed at the Canadian Indoor Track & Field National Championships in Toronto and delivered a great performance in the 60m sprint. She ran a blazing 7.75 seconds, earning the title of 2nd fastest U16 60m time in Canada and the fastest time ever recorded in British Columbia for her age group.

In doing so, Jada broke the previous BC record of 7.84 seconds — setting a new provincial standard and achieving a personal best in the process.
Her accomplishments do not stop there. Jada is also:

• BC High School Champion – 100m 200m Silver
• BC High School Champion – 4x100m Relay

We are proud of Jada’s accomplishments and look forward to watching her continued growth and success in the years ahead.

Senior Girls Basketball

Congratulations to our varsity girls for finishing second in the BC AA Provincial Final, the best ever finish for our girls’ program. Coming in seeded #3, they took down St. Jean Brebeuf, #6 Pacific Academy and #2 Credo Christian on the way to the final. They showcased heart and toughness all the way through and we are proud of their battle against Holy Cross in the final.

Special congratulations goes out to Demicah Arnaldo who was named Player of the Game for the finals and first team all star, Mia Beliveau who was named Inspiring Bandits Award Scholarship and first team all star and Kyla Limon who was named the Defensive Player of the Tournament. Congratulations to all our Knights for their silver medal and an outstanding season and good luck to the Varsity Boys’ basketball team as they start their provincial tournament this week.

Lacrosse Team Reclaims Callahan Cup

On Tuesday February 17, the STMC Varsity Field Lacrosse team reclaimed the Callahan Cup, defeating Vancouver College 9-7 to capture the 2026 championship and bring the trophy back home.

The Callahan Cup is the BC High School Catholic Field Lacrosse Championship, bringing together Catholic secondary schools from across the province to compete for the title. Beyond the championship itself, the tournament is rooted in a larger purpose: to grow the game of lacrosse within Catholic schools throughout British Columbia and provide meaningful competitive opportunities for student-athletes.

After Vancouver College claimed the title last year, this season’s final carried added motivation. Facing the defending champions once again, STMC delivered a determined and disciplined performance to turn the tables and take the cup back.

The championship matchup featured two of the province’s premier programs, with intensity high from the opening faceoff. Both teams exchanged momentum throughout the contest, but STMC executed in key moments down the stretch, shutting the door defensively and capitalizing on offensive opportunities to secure the two-goal win.

The victory reflects the team’s commitment, preparation, and resilience throughout the season. Reclaiming the Callahan Cup from last year’s champions makes the accomplishment even more meaningful, as STMC once again stands at the top of Catholic high school lacrosse in British Columbia.

A KNIGHT TO REMEMBER GALA 2026

This isn’t just another event. It’s the night our community comes together.

Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with energy, generosity, and celebration. From the moment the doors open, you’ll step into a vibrant atmosphere built for connection, fun, and impact.

Try your luck at our Wall of Wine. Test your strategy at the Knights Bucks Casino tables. Bid big during our exciting Silent and Live Auctions. Celebrate excellence as we honour our STMC Hall of Fame 2026 Inductee. Then stay late for great entertainment, a DJ, and dancing that keeps the celebration going.

Every ticket purchased fuels the mission of our school and strengthens the community that makes it special. This is your chance to show up, show your Knight pride, and be part of something More

Dress sharp. Bring your friends. Be ready to celebrate.

Secure your tickets now and be part of A Knight to Remember Gala 2026.

PM Mark Carney Spotted with Alumni

Two STMC alumni, former Burnaby City Councilor Mike Hillman and Richard Liu (Class of ’88) were enjoying coffee while watching the Team Canada Olympic finals at White Spot. At that moment, Prime Minister Mark Carney stopped by, giving them a chance to take a quick photo.

Despite the eventual overtime loss, this definitely made the day a little more memorable!

2nd Annual Pickleball Event

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our 2nd Annual Alumni & Friends Pickleball Tournament! It was wonderful to see such a great turnout of alumni, current parents, and friends coming together—whether to play competitively or just for fun. Your enthusiasm and community spirit made the day a fantastic success.

We’re already looking forward to bringing everyone back for next year’s tournament! Special thanks to ’00 Grad Jason Dallavalle with Elevate Pickleball for all of his support running the event.

Watch the recap video below:

Darrell Hall: Lenten Mission & Book Launch

From Hays to the Heart: A Lenten Mission and a New Book Launch

Darrell Hall attended a three-day Lenten Mission in Hays, Kansas. He spoke about faith, science, purpose, suffering and the deeper questions that shape our lives during this sacred season.

In addition to this, Darrell Hall has also launched his new book, The 7 Essential Questions of Life. The eBook is currently available on Amazon.ca and the paperback edition will be released on March 4th.

Here is the book description:

The 7 Essential Questions of Life
There are questions that reach beyond time, questions that whisper to the deepest places of the human heart. In The 7 Essential Questions of Life, Darrell Hall invites you on a journey through the timeless questions that define our existence: Who are we? What do we value? Why are we here? And what truths give our lives meaning? From the breathtaking power of beauty to the courage of heroic living, from the mysteries of suffering to the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence, each chapter calls you to live with fire, focus, and freedom. With warmth, insight, and spiritual wisdom, Hall leads you on a journey on what it means to be fully alive while keeping your heart, mind, and soul aligned with your divine purpose. This book is a compass for the soul, a wake-up call to rise above the ordinary, to live a life that truly matters, a life that echoes into eternity.

Darrell Hall also would like to send a quick word of thanks: “Thank you to our incredible school community for your constant encouragement and support. I’m grateful to be part of a place that values both faith and the life of the mind.”

Lucas Chen

Lucas Chen (grade 8) trains and competes in alpine skiing with the Cypress Ski Club and delivered a strong performance in Whistler at the BC Games Qualifier, earlier in January. As a result, he has been selected to compete in this year’s BC Games.

Lucas will be away from school from February 26 to March 1 while he participates in the Games. We congratulate him on this outstanding achievement and wish him the very best as he represents his club at this provincial event.