HAMILTON-WENTWORTH CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
New Catholic Teachers Called to Teach, Called to Witness

Twenty-five newly hired permanent Catholic teachers were officially welcomed to the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board (HWCDSB) on October 5, 2026, World Teachers' Day, during a commissioning ceremony celebrating the unique mission and vocation of Catholic education.

Held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church and led by Fr. Greg Merkley, the commissioning was part of the Board's New Teacher Induction Program (NTIP).

Under the theme "Called to Teach, Called to Witness," the ceremony highlighted the vital role of Catholic educators in sharing the Gospel message of Christ through word and action, while nurturing the faith, dignity and potential of every student.

Bringing greetings on behalf of the Board of Trustees, Chairperson Mr. John Valvasori invited the new educators to reflect on a simple question:

"Who was the most significant teacher you ever had throughout your education, and what effect did that teacher have on you?"

The question served as a reminder of the lasting influence a teacher can have, often extending well beyond the classroom.

Putting that influence into perspective, Valvasori shared that the 14 elementary and 11 secondary teachers gathered could collectively reach approximately 70,000 students over the course of 35-year teaching careers.

He emphasized that their impact would extend far beyond academic achievement, helping to shape the future of the Catholic Church, the Catholic community and society as a whole.

During the commissioning ceremony, each new teacher held a lit candle, symbolizing their call to teach as Jesus did.

Together, they affirmed their shared commitment to Catholic education:

"As Catholic educators, we commit ourselves to teaching with faith, compassion, and integrity. We will strive to nurture the dignity of each child, foster a community rooted in Gospel values, and witness to Christ in all that we do."

The ceremony reflected the day's theme, "Called to Teach, Called to Witness," reminding the new educators of their responsibility to be witnesses to Christ through their words, actions and relationships with students.

OECTA Hamilton-Wentworth Elementary Unit President Mr. Joshua Mamer and Hamilton-Wentworth Secondary Unit President Mr. Sergio Cacoilo also extended words of welcome and best wishes on behalf of the elementary and secondary Catholic teachers of the Board.

Through the New Teacher Induction Program, newly hired teachers receive ongoing professional development, mentoring and support as they begin their careers with the Board.