At yesterday evening’s Regular Board Meeting, Trustees were updated on the tremendous contributions of Noelle’s Gift to students and families over the past several years.

“What a remarkable legacy for Noelle Paquette,” says Deb Crawford, Director of Education.  “The support that is provided to our students and families by the Paquette family on behalf of the Noelle’s Gift foundation is truly amazing.”

Noelle’s Gift was established in January 2013 to honour Noelle Paquette, who was a dedicated and caring teacher with the St. Clair Catholic District School Board.

“Noelle recognized that there are many students who experience circumstances beyond their control and require assistance,” says Lisa Demers, who administers the Noelle’s Gift fund on behalf of St. Clair Catholic.  “She was always aware of others in need and believed that every child deserves an opportunity to become a ‘smash hit,’ as she would often say to her students.” 

The Noelle’s Gift mission is to improve the lives of children in the community.  The organization values learning, healthy nutrition, physical activity and the provision of necessities to support student success.  

The funds from Noelle’s Gift are instrumental in supporting our students and families,” says Ms. Demers.  “The additional hardships faced by families during the COVID-19 global pandemic has resulted in an even greater number of requests from our principals to access these funds.”

Funds expended over the past three years include: 

• $24,238.79 from September 2018-August 2019
• $55,766.82 from September 2019-August 2020
• $33,790.34 from September 2020-January 2021

The funds are utilized to provide necessities such as groceries and clothing, assist with medical expenses and provide other miscellaneous items to support students and their families.

“Noelle’s Gift stays true to its mission,” says Mrs. Crawford.  “It supports our families every day by improving the lives of the children we serve both at St. Clair Catholic and right across our community.”

The Board of Trustees expressed its sincere appreciation to Lynn Paquette, the mother of Noelle Paquette.  Ms. Paquette was invited to yesterday evening’s virtual Board meeting for the presentation of the report to Trustees.

“This is an amazing gift,” Chair of the Board John Van Heck told Mrs. Paquette.  “But the real gift was Noelle.  We knew her, we worked with her and we remember her.  You and your family are in our prayers.”