An article by Rob Cicchelli, Principal of the St. Clair Catholic Remote Learning School, is featured in the Fall 2021 issue of Principal Connections, a magazine of the Catholic Principals’ Council of Ontario.

In the article, Mr. Cicchelli challenges all Ontario schools to develop a ‘culture of noticing’.

“At the age of 12, my elementary school principal may have noticed a young person lacking in confidence,” Mr. Cicchelli writes.  “First, he noticed and then he took time to listen, motivate and show confidence in me.   He put the wind in my sails and from that time moving forward, I knew I had the potential to learn and be well.” 

“Schools are blessed and thrive on the constructive voice and care of all adults who notice … The simple truth is that as Catholic educators and staff members, we are all called to be the voice and hands of God each day.  I would add that when we purposefully add our eyes and ears to this process, we create a pattern of noticing that leads to actions that manifest into a rich culture that will genuinely grace our school communities.”

“Rob’s observations paint a vivid picture of the caring and supportive school communities our principals and staff strive each day to create,” says Deb Crawford, Director of Education.  “We are blessed at St. Clair Catholic with strong, gifted and faith-filled Catholic leaders like Rob, who are committed to the wellbeing of their students and families.  I am grateful for the work they do in support of our schools.”