Share this emailCopy the public link or share it on your favorite channel.
masthead2014
Wednesday, December 17, 2025 - Volume 18, Issue 10
Dear Saints Community,

It was an amazing month here at St. Benedict! With various extracurriculars in full swing, the magnificent production of our school Musical - “The Descendants”, and many Students Activity Council events school spirit has been alive and well.

As we wait in joyful anticipation of the celebration of birth of Jesus Christ this advent season, we wish all our students and families a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday.
Wishing you all the best in 2026!

Sincerely,
SBCSS Admin Team

Admin Team

Mr. J. Figueiredo
Principal

Mr. M. Anderton
Vice Principal

Mrs. L. Craftchick
Vice Principal

Mr. T. Mandich
Vice Principal

@stbenedictwcdsb

Christmas Supports: Food, Toys/Gifts for Families in Need

As we approach the holiday season, we recognize that this year has brought financial challenges for many in our community. With rising costs and economic uncertainty, the joy and warmth of Christmas may feel out of reach for some families. Organizations that are providing Food Hamper and Gift supports can be found here:
https://christmassupport.ca/community/registration-in-cambridge-and-north-dumfries/.

In addition, Family Outreach Workers walk with families by problem-solving solutions together, connecting them with services in their community and providing direct support when necessary. Contact information can be found here:
https://houseoffriendship.org/how-we-help/family-neighbourhood-supports/family-outreach-program/family-outreach-program-cambridge/

Stay up to date with weather-related cancellations & delays

For up-to-date information on school bus delays, cancellations and school closures, please visit the Student Transportation Services of Waterloo Region website (www.stswr.ca).

The School Board also has a Delays and cancellations information page with more details about inclement weather procedures.

Class of 2026!

It’s time to start planning your Convocation!
Convocation is a celebration of all students of the Class of 2026, which is for all students born in 2008, regardless of Graduation status. The date has been set for Convocation: Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 at Centre in the Square.
Grad photos are now open for booking. Check your email and the school website for more information.
Please stay tuned to announcements, the school website and the BENN for further updates.

"Descendants: The Musical" takes the stage at St. Benedict CSS

From the WCDSB Newswire Service
Students and staff at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School are set to dazzle audiences once again as they present Descendants: The Musical in the school’s cafetorium this week.

We had the opportunity to attend the dress rehearsal, where the energy, professionalism and creativity on stage were unmistakable. This latest production marks the sixth full-length musical staged at St. Benedict since 2019, reinforcing the school’s strong commitment to the arts and offering students a vibrant space to showcase their gifts.

Rehearsals have been underway since September, with the cast dedicating countless hours to perfecting choreography, character work and musical numbers. The band adds a rich, dynamic soundtrack that elevates each scene, demonstrating remarkable skill and collaboration.

Staff members have also played a pivotal role, lending their expertise, time and enthusiasm to guide students through every stage of the production. From set design to technical direction, their dedication is evident in the quality and spirit of the performance.

Descendants: The Musical stands as a testament to the talent, teamwork and heart within the St. Benedict community, promising an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

Attention Dancers!

The Bennies Dance Showcase is back on January 21st! The Showcase is an evening of dance talent on display on the Bennies stage! Hip hop, jazz, musical theatre and more!

If you would like to perform a dance number for the showcase, fill out a registration form using the QR code on the Showcase poster by January 9th.

Contact Mrs. Rocha if you have any questions.

Looking for a quick way to navigate all things WCDSB for parents?

Check out the Board website for information and information pertaining to Aspen Portal, Brightspace, School Cash Online, Transportation updates, and other resources

https://www.wcdsb.ca/parents/

News from Guidance

Who is your Guidance Counsellor?

Welcome back to all our students, we look forward to seeing you again or meeting you for the first time! We hope you had a safe and restful summer and are ready for a new school year.

We are excited to welcome Mrs. Borba to our team. She will be joining us in Guidance and continuing to work in her role in student success. Mrs. O’Toole will be working with the International students this year.

Guidance counselor assignments are based on the student’s last name. Please take some time to review guidance counsellors, as assignments have changed.

Counsellor’s Name

Ext

Last names

Mrs. O’Toole
5190
A - B, International
Mrs. Borba
5639
C, ICP
Ms. Varriano Lane
5635
D - Ho
Mrs. Novakovich
5636
Hu- Me
Mr. Betik
5633
Mi - R
Mrs. O’Neill
5634
S – Z
Administrative Assistant: Mrs. McAulay-Arruda, ext. 5631

Post-Secondary Institutions Disclosure of Information Consent Form

If you are planning to apply to College or University this year, you must complete the disclosure form. This will allow us to share your marks with post-secondary institutions. If you do not complete this form any applications, you submit will be incomplete.

If you are unsure about your plans, please complete the form allowing us to share your marks. If you do apply it will make the application process easier.

If you are not planning to apply to post-secondary this year, please complete the form and indicate that on the form. The form can be found on School Cash Online.

Information on how to set up an account can be found here

After you complete the form and check out, you will receive a confirmation email.

Tip: if you can see the form in your School Cash online account, then it has not been completed.

GUIDANCE D2L

For additional information throughout the year, please visit the Guidance D2L page.

Clubs & Activities

Are you looking to Grow in Faith?

Are you looking for a moment in your week to pause, reflect and connect? Our new Bennies Bible Study Club would be the place to engage in meaningful conversations inspired by God's Word and by one another. We will build our faith and grow together. The Bible Study club will run Biweekly on Fridays, during lunches A and B. All Bennies students and staff are welcome. If interested, please contact Mr. Ghali or Mrs. Bosagri, on the 3rd. Floor - in the Language and Communication Workroom.

Athletics

Junior Girls Volleyball team Paris tournament champs

A huge congratulations to the Junior Girls Volleyball team for an outstanding performance at their Paris tournament on Friday, December 12th. The team went undefeated all day and didn’t drop a single set, dominating every match on their way to bringing home the gold once again.

It was an incredible display of teamwork, focus, and determination—amazing work, team!
Volleyball thumbs up

Sports Results

NOVICE BOYS BAKETBALL
St. Benedict CSS 66, St. David CSS 32
Resurrection CSS 36, St. Benedict CSS 22

JUNIOR BOYS BASKETBALL
St. Benedict CSS 65, Monsignor Doyle CSS 62
St. Benedict CSS 51, Woodland Christian HS 26
St. Benedict CSS 76, Pere-Rene de Galinee 42

SENIOR BOYS BASKETBALL
St. Benedict CSS 77, Monsignor Doyle CSS 25
St. Benedict CSS 72, Woodland Christian HS 39
St. Benedict CSS 77, Pere-Rene de Galinee 48

JUNIOR GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
St. Benedict CSS 3, Woodland Christian HS 0
St. Benedict CSS 3, ESC Pere-Rene de Galinee 0
ESC Pere-Rene de Galinee 3, St. Benedict CSS 0

SENIOR GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
St. Benedict CSS 3, Woodland Christian HS 0

SENIOR BOYS ICE HOCKEY
Monsignor Doyle CSS 6, St. Benedict CSS 4
St. Benedict CSS 8, Resurrection CSS 3
St. Benedict CSS 8, St. Mary's HS 0

SENIOR GIRLS ICE HOCKEY
St. David CSS 10, St. Benedict CSS 0
St. David CSS 6, St. Benedict CSS 1

Senior Boys Volleyball Go All the Way!

The Senior Boys Volleyball team delivered a spectacular season defined by pride, sportsmanship, and relentless energy. From the opening serve to the final whistle, the Saints played as a united force, dominating District 8 with an undefeated 7–0 regular-season record.

Their remarkable overall season record of 33–1 speaks for itself.

Along the way, they captured three tournament titles—Paris, District 8, and the Saints Invitational—showcasing consistency and competitive fire.
Their remarkable overall season record of 33–1 speaks for itself.
District 8 recognized several Saints for their outstanding play: Christian Samoy, team captain and starting setter, was named League MVP, while teammates Jacob Harrison, Liam Roche, and Drew Harris earned well-deserved spots on the All-Star Team.
At CWOSSA, the Saints faced their toughest challenges yet. After finishing pool play 1–1—including a hard-fought loss to Laurel Heights—the boys rallied with determination. In the semifinals, they battled past Centennial of Guelph in a gritty 2–1 victory. The rematch with Laurel Heights in the finals proved unforgettable: a back-and-forth five-set thriller that ended in a nail-biting 15–13 win to punch their ticket to OFSAA. This achievement marked a historic moment—the first time in school history that the Senior Boys Volleyball team advanced to OFSAA, and the first time a District 8 school earned the CWOSSA berth. The Saints closed CWOSSA with an impressive 3–1 record.

OFSAA brought out the very best in the Saints.

OFSAA brought out the very best in the Saints. Day one showcased their competitive power, starting with a gutsy three-set win over Ursuline College before facing the reigning three-time champions from Uxbridge.

On day two, the boys found their stride, defeating Holy Cross and Espanola in straight sets to finish round-robin play 3–1 and secure second place in their pool.
In the semifinals, they delivered yet another electrifying five-set win—this time over Louis Riel—earning their place in Saturday’s Championship bracket. Though the boys dropped tough matches to Eden and Bishop Reding, they finished 4th overall out of 20 teams, bringing home antique bronze and adding another milestone to an already historic run. Their OFSAA record closed at 4–3.

... the Saints capped off a phenomenal season with an extraordinary 67–5 overall record.

In total, the Saints capped off a phenomenal season with an extraordinary 67–5 overall record—a testament to their resilience, skill, and unwavering team spirit.

Thank you for an unforgettable season. Coaches Edwards, Kreuger, and Meadus are so proud of you!

Novice girls volleyball win two

Congratulations to our Novice Girls Volleyball Team on an incredible performance last Thursday! The girls faced Père René, St. David’s, and Resurrection and finished the day undefeated, an amazing achievement.In their close match against Père René, the team showed unbelievable determination, grit, and heart. These girls gave everything they had, diving and fighting for every point. They supported one another until the very last whistle. Their effort, resilience, and teamwork made all the difference.

Special shoutouts go to Danica Dougherty & Alison Mendoza, who went all-in on the court and played a key role in the team’s success with their hustle and positive energy.

Wish them luck for their next games this Thursday at Resurrection!

Other News

News from the Library

From the Librarian's Desk

We hope that you use the next few weeks to reconnect with family and friends. You may also want to see about finding some "me time" and reconnecting with a good book--your library has this and much more! Visit our website, or come in during the break to see what we have to offer.

Wishing everyone a safe and restful winter break!
Email librarian Ryan at rorr@cambridgepl.ca for any and all library questions!

For your virtual library needs, visit the St Benedict Library Learning Commons page on the school website or the Cambridge Public Library site.

Calendar of Events

Thursday, December 18
10:35am: Student Equity and Engagement Council
10:40am: GSA Club
12:00pm: Student Equity and Engagement Council
12:00pm: GSA Club
12:00pm: Scratch Cafe
2:00pm: Math Club
2:15pm: Weight Room Club
2:15pm: Concert Band
3:45pm: Jazz Band
4:00pm: Novice Boys Basketball @ St. Mary's HS
5:00pm: Novice Boys Basketball @ Resurrection CSS

Friday, December 19
10:40am: Indigenous Students & Friends Club
10:40am: Cosmo Club
12:00pm: Girls Garage Club
12:00pm: Cosmo Club
2:15pm: Ping Pong club
2:15pm: Model UN Club
2:15pm: Doctor Who club
2:30pm: Bouldering Club

Sunday, December 21
Winter Solstice
Fourth Sunday of Advent

Monday, December 22
Christmas Break begins

Wednesday, December 24
Christmas Eve

Thursday, December 25
Christmas Day

Wednesday, December 31
New Year's Eve

Thursday, January 1
New Year's Day

Monday, January 5
10:40am: Muslim Students Association
12:00pm: Muslim Students Association
12:00pm: Indigenous Students & Friends Club
2:00pm: Homework Club
2:15pm: Weight Room Club

Tuesday, January 6
10:40am: HOSA Club
10:40am: GSA Club
11:00am: Rosary Club
12:00pm: HOSA Club
12:00pm: GSA Club
12:20pm: Rosary Club
2:00pm: Sr. Boys Ice Hockey @ St. David CSS
2:30pm: Sr. Girls Ice Hockey @ St. David CSS

Wednesday, January 7
10:35am: Growing in Faith Club
10:40am: Reach for the Top Trivia
12:00pm: Growing in Faith Club
12:00pm: Girls Garage Club
12:00pm: Reach for the Top Trivia
12:00pm: Junior Guitar Club
2:00pm: Bennies Helping Hands
2:00pm: Finance Club
2:00pm: Homework Club
2:15pm: Weight Room Club
3:00pm: Jr. Girls Volleyball vs St. Mary's HS
3:00pm: Sr. Girls Volleyball vs St. Mary's HS
3:30pm: Sr. Boys Basketball @ St. Mary's HS
5:00pm: Jr. Boys Basketball @ St. Mary's HS
Thursday, January 8
10:35am: Scratch Cafe
10:40am: GSA Club
12:00pm: GSA Club
12:00pm: Scratch Cafe
1:00pm: Sr. Boys Ice Hockey vs Msgr Doyle CSS
2:00pm: Math Club
2:15pm: Weight Room Club
2:15pm: Concert Band
2:30pm: Sr. Girls Ice Hockey vs Monsignor Doyle CSS
3:00pm: Novice Boys Basketball @ St. David CSS
3:45pm: Jazz Band
4:00pm: Novice Boys Basketball vs St. Mary's HS

Friday, January 9
10:40am: Indigenous Students & Friends Club
10:40am: Cosmo Club
12:00pm: Girls Garage Club
12:00pm: Cosmo Club
2:15pm: Ping Pong club
2:15pm: Model UN Club
2:15pm: Doctor Who club
2:30pm: Bouldering Club

Monday, January 12
10:40am: Muslim Students Association
12:00pm: Muslim Students Association
12:00pm: Indigenous Students & Friends Club
2:00pm: Homework Club
2:15pm: Weight Room Club
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Basketball @ Resurrection CSS
3:00pm: Sr. Girls Volleyball vs Resurrection CSS
3:00pm: Jr. Girls Volleyball vs Resurrection CSS
4:30pm: Sr. Boys Basketball @ Resurrection CSS

Tuesday, January 13
10:40am: HOSA Club
10:40am: GSA Club
11:00am: Rosary Club
12:00pm: HOSA Club
12:00pm: GSA Club
12:20pm: Rosary Club
2:00pm: Sr. Boys Ice Hockey @ Resurrection CSS

Wednesday, January 14
BENN Newsletter release
10:35am: Growing in Faith Club
10:40am: Reach for the Top Trivia
12:00pm: Growing in Faith Club
12:00pm: Girls Garage Club
12:00pm: Reach for the Top Trivia
12:00pm: Junior Guitar Club
2:00pm: Bennies Helping Hands
2:00pm: Finance Club
2:00pm: Homework Club
2:15pm: Weight Room Club
3:00pm: Sr. Boys Basketball vs St. David CSS
3:00pm: Sr. Girls Volleyball @ St. David CSS
3:00pm: Jr. Girls Volleyball @ St. David CSS
4:30pm: Jr. Boys Basketball vs St. David CSS



IT-13

Be sure to check out the calendar on the school website for updates!

website instagram