This July, 74 eager learners from Grades 1 to 3 traded in part of their summer mornings for a boost in skills, confidence, and faith-filled curiosity through St. Clair Catholic’s Summer Learning program.
For three weeks, from July 7 to 25, classrooms at St. Anne (Blenheim), St. Teresa of Calcutta, Holy Family, and St. Matthew were alive with problem-solving, teamwork, prayerful beginnings, and “aha!” moments. The program focused on the Number strand of the Ontario math curriculum, with interactive digital practice and small group instruction giving students the chance to deepen their understanding while building the confidence to tackle new challenges.
Pre- and post-assessments confirmed what smiles and high-fives already showed — students made measurable gains in their math skills. With smaller class sizes, teachers could work closely with each child, offering one-on-one support and celebrating individual milestones in both academics and personal growth.
“Our Summer Learning Camps are a perfect blend of skill-building and joy,” said Lisa Demers, Director of Education. “Students leave with sharper math skills, stronger friendships, and the belief that they can take on new challenges. That confidence is a gift they’ll carry far beyond September.”
Faith was woven throughout the program as students learned to lift one another up, celebrate each other’s gifts, and grow together in community. Principal Stephanie Orrange, who led programming at St. Matthew and Holy Family, said the atmosphere was inspiring. “The students come through the doors excited and ready to learn. Our staff works hard to create a summer classroom community where everyone encourages one another. Watching students cheer on their classmates and celebrate growth together is what makes this program so special.”
Daily experiential learning also brought lessons of responsibility, care, and stewardship into focus. At St. Matthew, Constable Nick McLean from the Sarnia Police Service showed students his cruiser, explained how police serve the community, and reminded them of the importance of calling 911 in emergencies. Students also played teamwork games with itinerant teacher Simon Karas, learning how cooperation helps everyone succeed.
At St. Anne, Blenheim, students explored coding and problem-solving with Chris Chandler from the Chatham-Kent Library, programming Sphero BOLTs through mazes and tackling STEM challenges with puzzles and Rubik’s cubes. And at Holy Family, Special Constable Nolan Hakr helped students understand the role of safe strangers like police, firefighters, and paramedics — reminding them that God places helpers in our community to keep us safe.
These engaging experiences were supported by a remarkable group of community partners:
Chatham Sites – Traveling Artist (Melissa Tosh), Arts & Crafts (Kathryn Lacina), Dairy Farmers of Ontario (Annette Marchand), Scientists in Schools, Let’s Get Active (Matt Serruys), Science with Michelle Brosseau, CK Play Rangers, CK Police (Cst. Lauren Oswald), CK Library (Erica Nauta, Chris Chandler), Leave Your Mark Lacrosse (Jamie Knight), Character Art (Lauren Davidson).
Sarnia Sites – Let’s Get Active (Simon Karas), Scientists in Schools, Arts & Crafts (Kathryn Lacina), Skilled Trades STEAM (Chris St. Amand), Sarnia Library (Angela Broda), Sarnia Police (Cst. Nick McLean), Dance (Jackie Burns & Reilly Fitzmorris), Outdoor Education (Mark Northcott, SCRCA), Oil Museum of Canada (Christina Sydorko), Character Art (Lauren Davidson), Lacrosse (Jamie Knight).
St. Clair Catholic also extends gratitude to Noelle’s Gift to Children and the Ontario Student Nutrition Program, whose nutritious snacks kept students energized and ready to learn each day.
With stronger math skills, new friendships, and a deepened sense of community, these students are stepping into September not only ready to excel — but also rooted in faith, eager to share their gifts, and confident that with God’s help, they can rise to every challenge.
