It is often said that “if you enjoy your career, you will never work a day in your life”.  So, how does STMC prepare students for a personally rewarding career that will inspire, motivate and highlight their strengths and passions?

One way to encourage students to reflect on personal growth, career planning and the skills needed is to invite excellent presenters who share their knowledge and experience.  Examples of guest speakers from this year include video game/screen time addiction (Cam Adair), Model Her Way (Katie McCullum), mental health & healthy masculinity (Bernard Piprah), drug awareness (Dr. Legge), LinkedIn & Networking (Kyle O’Genski and Leo Recila), and the impact of driving under the influence (John Westhaver/ICBC).  

Because STMC is blessed to be a part of a large network of dedicated alumni, there are many opportunities for networking & connection between students and alumni. A huge thank you to the many alumni who come and share their expertise through Career Days (speakers share about their careers and their educational journey), mock interviews (all grade 10 students participate in a 1:1 interview as practice for potential jobs), recent graduates (panel discussion about first year experiences, trials and tips for post-secondary success), and mentors (many grade 11 students connect with alumni as mentors for their capstone projects). 

In addition to guest speakers, Career Life teachers plan and deliver lessons on topics such digital safety & citizenship, cyber bullying, mental wellness, time management, how to write a cover letter & resume, identifying your strengths, financial literacy, post-secondary exploration and application process for post-secondary institutions and scholarships. 

Career Life teachers are always on the lookout for presenters and alumni connections. If you are interested in presenting or know someone whose expertise would be valuable for our students, please contact Yvonne DeWith (Career Life Coordinator). 

Building Bridges Through Faith & Culture

Written by Chloe Lorico, Krish Puri, and Evsey Uchaykin (Grade 10 Students from St. Thomas More Collegiate).

Annually, Grade 10 students from St. Thomas More Collegiate in Burnaby come together for a retreat. This year was an especially unique experience as we focused on learning about different religions and cultures. In one day, we travelled around Vancouver to the Musqueam Cultural Centre, the Jewish Temple Sholom, and the Islamic Masjid Ul Haaq. At these places, we met with several community representatives who graciously shared with us about their faiths.

We began at the Musqueam Cultural Centre, where we learned about their traditions, knowledge, wisdom, and cultural practices. They placed special emphasis on the universal call to care for creation. Afterwards, we gathered at Temple Sholom where we learned more about the Jewish faith in connection to our Catholic point of view. It was there that Rabbi Philip Bregman educated us on the lasting horrors of antisemitism. Later at the synagogue, Rabbi Bregman organized for us a session with The Other People Panel—where two representatives from the Islamic community, Yusuf Siraj and Tariq Tyab, along with a Christian representative, Gary Gaudin, and Rabbi Bregman, answered our questions and emphasized the commonality between all of our religions.

Our last stop was the Masjid Ul Haaq where we learned about the Islamic faith and the importance of modesty. The mosque’s Imam helped us to understand the value of religion and how it can provide personal meaning, guidance on ethics, and cohesiveness within communities, ultimately leaving us with an impactful lesson.

On behalf of St. Thomas More Collegiate, we would like to thank all the leaders and representatives who helped us grow in our understanding of what it means to walk in the path of holiness. Dialogue between different faiths fosters peace, reduces conflict, and helps build mutual respect in our increasingly diverse world.

As students in a Catholic community, regardless of our backgrounds and beliefs, it is important to expand our worldviews, especially now, in times of war, hate, and turmoil—for a world of peace is a world built on understanding and listening. In modern society, we must work on making “every effort to do what leads to peace…” (Romans 14:19). This starts with our generation. This starts with us.

Thank you!

Grade 11 Retreat: Camp Charis

Our Grade 11 students recently participated in an overnight retreat at Camp Charis, centered on the themes of servant leadership and community. The retreat provided students with a meaningful opportunity to step away from their daily routines and focus on personal growth, reflection, and connection with one another.

Throughout the retreat, students engaged in a variety of activities including team-building exercises, small group discussions, affirmation activities and moments of prayer and reflection. These experiences encouraged students to deepen their understanding of what it means to lead through service—putting others first, building up their peers, and striving to live out their faith in everyday life.

As our Grade 11 students prepare to enter their senior year, this retreat served as an important step in forming them as leaders within our school community—leaders who are called not only to lead, but to serve with humility, compassion, and purpose.

A special thank you to our chaplain, Father Yoon, for his guidance, leadership, and continued dedication to the spiritual life of our school. His presence and commitment made a lasting impact on all who attended.

Gr.9 Retreat: Faith and Connection

Our Grade 9 students recently participated in a retreat led by the National Evangelization Team (NET), focused on faith, community, and personal reflection. The day included games, small group discussions, testimonies, and meaningful prayer experiences, creating a balance of fun and depth.

A highlight for many students was the opportunity for silent and personal prayer, where they could slow down and connect with God. One student shared it was “a chance to actually sit, reflect, and share my thoughts with Jesus.”

Students were also impacted by the stories shared by NET leaders, helping them see that faith is a journey and that God’s love is constant and personal. A key message that resonated was that “God loves you for who you are,” encouraging students to be authentic and open in their faith.

Overall, the retreat was a great success, strengthening both faith and community among our Grade 9 students. We thank the NET team for their leadership and witness

Walkathon

Our annual STMC Walkathon is here, and we are excited to come together once again to continue a tradition that has been part of STMC for many, many years.

This year, the goal is to raise $40,000! Every dollar raised will directly go toward improving student spaces at the school. Some suggestions that have been made includes new softer seating for the cafeteria, as well as permanent outdoor ping pong, foosball, and chess tables in the courtyard.

This will be a school-wide event where all students will be involved, have tons of fun, and help make this year’s Walkathon a huge success.

To make things even more exciting, we’ll be offering some great prizes and school-wide incentives along the way:

• The top fundraiser each week for the next three weeks will receive a $100 gift card
• The overall top 3 student fundraisers will win a pizza party for themselves plus 5 friends
• If our school reaches the halfway mark of $20,000 by May 22, the entire school earns a Jersey Day! (note: no jeans or sweatpants)
• House Points will also be awarded throughout the campaign, giving students another way to support their House while fundraising

Students – If you haven’t signed up yet, please do so here: CanadaHelps STMC Walkathon

Parents – To volunteer, please sign up here: https://volunteersignup.org/BHEYT

Walkathon Dress Code:

Students are encouraged to show their school spirit by wearing RED. Wear your best red STMC gear, accessories, and colours as we walk together as a community.

We encourage everyone to participate however they can. Every donation, share, and contribution helps us move closer to our goal while building school spirit across the community

Thank you in advance for your support, enthusiasm, and generosity. Let’s make this year’s Walkathon one to remember!

House Games

A huge congratulations as well to Limerick for taking home the House Games championship!

Greek Olympics

Congrats to the Grad Class of 2026 and to all our students for a Greek Olympics for the ages. This one was truly one for the books!

What a way to cap off an incredible week of competition, spirit, and community.

Living Jesus in Our Hearts Through Solidarity

As St. Thomas More Collegiate begins to conclude another school year, our community will spend the months of May and June focusing on the Catholic Social Teaching of Solidarity. Throughout the year, students and staff have reflected on how we are called to live out our faith through action, and our final focus reminds us that we are all connected as one human family.

Solidarity calls us to stand with and support others, especially those who are vulnerable or in need. It encourages us to recognize the dignity of every person and to respond with compassion, kindness, justice, and service.

As part of this initiative, students and staff are invited to participate in our Solidarity Ring Activity located in the front foyer. Participants will create a paper “Solidarity Ring” by writing their name or initials along with a person, group, cause, or issue they stand in solidarity with. The rings will then be connected together to form a visual reminder that we are stronger when we support one another.

We encourage all members of the STMC community to take time during these final months of the school year to reflect on how they can continue to “Live Jesus in Our Hearts” through solidarity, compassion, and service to others.

Expo for Life Conference

This past March, students from St. Thomas More Collegiate had the privilege of attending the annual CISVA Expo for Life Conference, a gathering that brings together Catholic schools from across the Lower Mainland to celebrate faith, leadership, and service.

STMC was especially proud to have members of our Reverence for Life (R4L) team play an active role in the conference. In the weeks leading up to the event, several of our students helped organize, plan, and lead key aspects of the day—demonstrating strong leadership and a commitment to living out their faith in action.

Throughout the conference, students engaged in a variety of meaningful sessions that challenged them to think critically about human dignity, service, and leadership. Students heard from Justin Milad, who shared about his work with the Men’s Hostel, offering insight into serving those experiencing homelessness. Raphael Freston from Development and Peace invited students to reflect on global justice and solidarity, while Kimberly Bromley spoke on the important work of supporting mothers through Pregnancy Concerns. Students also participated in a session on pro-life apologetics led by the Canadian Centre for Bio-Ethical Reform, and heard from Blenda Ann Furlan of Providence Health Care, who offered perspective on compassionate care within the healthcare system.

These sessions emphasized forming young people who are “spiritually grounded, mission-oriented, and equipped to live their faith boldly”—a message that strongly resonated with our students.

The Expo for Life Conference was a great success and a powerful witness to the leadership of STMC students, who continue to model what it means to live Jesus in their hearts through service, compassion, and courage.

Supporting the Needy in Burnaby

This week, STMC students with Mr. Mattiazzo organized a donation drive for hygiene products and business casual clothing.

They visited the Burnaby Emergency Shelter and delivered 15 interview kits to support individuals in our local community facing barriers to employment. Each kit is meant to improve interview preparation l to help promote confidence and opportunity.

Sofia Sales in grade 11 contributed by making cookies and various grade 9 students made sandwiches and cards the following day for this organization. Laura Brant Franqueira

Art

On March 3rd, senior STMC art students had the opportunity to travel downtown and immerse themselves in a wide range of artistic experiences. Upon arrival, they visited the Vancouver Art Gallery, where they received a private tour of the exhibition We Who Have Known Tides: Indigenous Art from the Collection. This exhibit featured Indigenous artworks across various mediums, all highlighting a deep connection to the Pacific Ocean. It explored how proximity to water has shaped Indigenous culture in Canada and their ways of life, while reflecting on the ever-changing nature of the tides.

Following the tour, students participated in an immersive workshop led by gallery staff, where they created their own stop-motion films inspired by the ocean and themes from the exhibit. They learned a variety of new techniques and really enjoyed the creative process. Before leaving, the group also explored That Green Ideal: Emily Carr and the Idea of Nature, an exhibit focused on the relationship between land and artistic expression.

After lunch, students visited the Pendulum Gallery, where they viewed Under the Canopy, a collection centered on trees and forest landscapes. Overall, the students had an enriching and memorable day, and they would like to thank Ms. Codd for organizing such a thoughtful and engaging field trip.

Music

Whistler Music Festival

Congratulations to our Senior Band and Senior Choir on a successful tour to Whistler. The students participated in the Con Brio Festival and received gold ratings!

They were also part of massed ensembles of over 1,000 students performing together!

Junior Music Knight

Congratulations to all of our Grade 8, Junior, and Elementary music students who participated in Junior Music Knight!

Jazz Knight

Jazz Knight is coming up on May 25 at Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy. Come out and support our amazing student jazz musicians at an annual favourite event!

Tickets: https://trellis.org/jazzknight26

Music Showcase

May 13 is our Music Department Showcase, presented by Music Council. This student-led event features a variety of performers and acts.

The event is happening on May 13, from 6:30pm-8:30pm and is taking place in the cafeteria.

For tickets: https://trellis.org/stmcmusicshowcase26

Canadian Junior Honour Band

Congratulations to Lana MacCharles, grade 9 tenor saxophonist and clarinetist, for being selected to participate in the National Canadian Junior Honour Band.

This is a tremendous opportunity for talented musicians across Canada!

Inaugural Athlete’s Banquet

Student Athlete’s Council is hosting our first ever Athlete’s Banquet in our gym, the StanJean Centre, on May 30th from 5-8 pm.

We are now collecting nominations from students to inform our student-athlete awards!

Awards include:
The Rising Star
The GRIT Award
Multi-Sport Excellence
Unsung Hero
and more…

Students can submit multiple nominations, so make sure you take this opportunity to recognize a teammates who have made a positive impact on you, your team, and/or our school community as a whole.

Nominations will remain open until the end of the day on May 1st. Nominate a teammate HERE

Make sure to follow @stmcstac on Instagram and stay tuned for more information about the banquet!

Gr. 8 Boys Basketball

Towards the end of February, the Grade 8 Boys Basketball team wrapped up a season that was defined by resilience, hard work, constant improvement and camaraderie.

The year started off slow, the team faced tough competition early on, taking some time to find their rhythm and chemistry. As the season progressed and players returned from illness and trips, their steady improvement every day began to show. Practices became sharper and confidence grew.

Through the middle of the season, the team was in full stride and went on a bit of a winning streak. By the time zone playoffs arrived, this was a changed team. Going up against the #1 seed who were undefeated in our league, the Gr. 8 Knights delivered their strongest performance of the season, pushing the opponent to the brink of elimination. Ultimately, they came just one point shy of coming out on top, ending their chances of a provincial berth in a hard-fought game with a result that could have gone either way up until the very last minute.

This game was a reflection of how far the boys had come, especially considering their first matchup with this opponent resulted in a lopsided loss. Despite this, the team stayed strong and rounded out the Fraser North Zone playoffs by winning their last three games of the season to finish in 3rd place.

We are excited to continue watching the development of these young Knights on and off the court, keeping an eye on what the future holds for them here at STMC.

STMC Track and Field Championship Season Ahead

The STMC Track & Field team is gearing up for an exciting championship run as the season reaches its peak. On May 6th and 8th, our athletes will compete at the Burnaby New West League Championships at Swangard Stadium, looking to build on last year’s outstanding performance that saw STMC bring home multiple banners including overall championships.

The top four athletes in each event will advance to the Fraser North Championships at Percy Perry Stadium on May 12th and 13th, where the team will once again aim for a strong showing and build on the championship from last year.

From there, qualifying athletes will move on to the provincial stage at the BC High School Championships, held at McLeod Athletic Park from June 4th–6th. Competing against the best in the province, our athletes will represent STMC with pride, determination, and excellence.

We wish all of our Knights the best of luck as they chase another championship season!

PA Annual General Meeting

The STMC Parents’ Association (PA) will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Executive Election on Tuesday May 12, 2026 @7:00p – in person only

At this AGM, there will be an election to vote in the Executive Members of the STMC PA for the 2026/27 school year. Only in-person votes will be counted. At least one parent must be present to vote and there will be no Proxies. You must be present at the AGM to run for any executive position.

If you would like to submit your name or the name of another parent/guardian for election to the STMCPA Executive Committee, kindly fill out and submit this online form on or before 7:00pm, May 12, 2026:

Nomination Form:

https://forms.gle/2026/27 Exec Nomination Form

MEETING DETAILS:

The STMC Parents’ Association (PA) will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on:

DATE – TUESDAY May 12, 2026
TIME – Starting at 7:00 pm
PLACE – STMC Library-Learning Commons

Every parent or guardian of a student enrolled at STMC is:

1. A member of the Parents’ Association
2. Eligible for nomination to the PA Executive Committee
3. Eligible to vote during PA Elections each year, unless they are currently employed by the school.

All positions on the PA Executive Committee are open for election during the AGM:

• President / Chairperson
• Vice-President / Co-Chairperson
• Secretary
• Treasurer

Nominations are due by 7:00pm at the AGM on May 12, 2026. Nominees must be present at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in order to accept their nomination.  Members must also be in attendance during the AGM in order to participate in voting.

Minutes from the 2024/25 AGM can be accessed here: 2024/25 AGM Minutes

Strategic Plan Survey

We’re getting ready to take an important next step in shaping the future of our school.

Over the coming months, we will be developing a new Strategic Plan that will guide STMC for the next five years and we want to include the voices and experiences of our entire community: students, parents, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the school.

We’ll be taking a close look at everything from our Catholic and Edmund Rice identity, to academics, student life, wellbeing, and how we prepare our students for the future.

If you’re part of the STMC community, your voice matters in this process. Keep an eye out, we’ll be asking you to be part of it very soon!

Link: Google Form Survey

GKO Golf Tournament

Don’t wait to get in on this fun day with friends. Whether you are an avid golfer or this is your one round this year, let’s get it going!

The GKO is open to the entire STMC Community to come a be a part of one of our largest fundraisers of the year.

The monies raised by the GKO will fund the Ripple Effect Campaign which provides tuition assistance ensuring we never turn away a child due to financial hardship.

Your register includes:

• Enjoy a tee gift
• Games and giveaways at the holes
• Dinner
• AND guaranteed there will be weather!

Class of ’23: Katrina Mrzljak and Helen Xu

STMC is proud to celebrate alumni Katrina Mrzljak ’23 and Helen Xu ’23, who recently earned 3rd place in Canada at the 2026 L’Oréal Brandstorm innovation competition. Alongside teammate Khaldoun Fansa, the group developed “Miu Miu Dualité,” a luxury unisex fragrance line featuring a disruptive bottle design and an innovative sustainability incentive.

What began as a spontaneous decision between friends evolved into months of brainstorming, creativity, and collaboration. Competing against more than 300 teams across Canada, the team advanced to the national finals in Montréal, where they were recognized as one of the country’s top student innovation teams.

Katrina and Helen credited mentors Jérémy Choquette, Julie Dulude, Aleksandra S., and Chloé Cadieux for their support and guidance throughout the experience. Their achievement is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and having the confidence to pursue an idea beyond the classroom.