STAR Catholic Outreach

Dear STAR Outreach Families,

It feels wonderful to say — welcome back! After a challenging few weeks apart, it is such a joy to have our teachers and students reconnecting and returning to the routines that make our school community so special. While the recent lockout period was an unexpected interruption, it also reminded us of the deep commitment our educators have to their students and the power of faith, perseverance, and hope that carries us through times of uncertainty.

As we step into November, we look forward to regaining our rhythm — focusing on course completion, re-establishing good study habits, and setting clear goals for success. For Outreach students, consistency is key. Taking time each day to log in, complete assignments, and communicate with teachers will help you stay on track and finish the semester strong. Remember: small, steady steps forward lead to big accomplishments.

November is also a time for reflection and gratitude. We will soon pause to honour those who have served and sacrificed for our freedom during Remembrance Day, and we give thanks for the opportunity to gather again as a school community, united in learning and in faith.

I am so grateful to be back — surrounded by such dedicated staff and resilient students who remind me daily why I love this work. Let’s make this month one of renewed energy, focus, and hope.

With blessings and gratitude,

Mrs. Tracy Melnyk, M.Ed
Principal, STAR Catholic Outreach School

November 2 - Time Change! Fall back 1 hour

November 3 - Instructional day - school is OPEN

November 7 - No School PD Day

🌻Fall Break - November 10-14🌻

November 11 -Remembrance Day

November 17 - Welcome Back from Fall Break

December 3 - Parent Teacher Interviews

December 4 - Parent Teacher Interviews

🛐Christmas Break - December 22 - January 2🛐

January 5 - Welcome back from Christmas Break

January 6 - Epiphany

📝Diploma Exam Schedule📝

January 12 - English 30 (-1 & -2) Diploma Exam - Part A

January 13 - Social 30 (-1 & -2) Diploma Exam - Part A

January 19 - Math 30 (-1 & -2) Diploma Exam

January 22 - Biology 30 Diploma Exam

January 23 - Chemistry 30 Diploma Exam

January 26 - Physics 30 Diploma Exam

January 27 - Science 30 Diploma Exam

Need to get a hold of us?

Call us at STAR Catholic Outreach 780-980-0955

Mrs. Jennifer Nelson - Administrative Assistant

780-980-0955 ext: 1

outreach@starcatholic.ab.ca

jennifer.nelson@starcatholic.ab.ca

Mrs. Tracy Melnyk - Principal & English Language Arts

780-980-0955 ext: 2

tracy.melnyk@starcatholic.ab.ca

Mr. Brandon Geiger - All things Math & Science!

780-980-0955 ext: 3

brandon.geiger@starcatholic.ab.ca

Mr. Daniel Hughes - Social Studies, Religion, Off Campus & Options

780-980-0955 ext: 4

daniel.hughes@starcatholic.ab.ca

Every year on November 11, Canadians pause for Remembrance Day to honour the brave men and women who have served—and continue to serve—our country in times of war, conflict, and peacekeeping. We wear poppies, observe a moment of silence, and reflect on the sacrifices that made our freedoms and daily lives possible. For our students, Remembrance Day is not just about the past; it’s about understanding the cost of peace, recognizing the courage of others, and carrying forward a commitment to respect, empathy, and gratitude. We encourage all students and families to take time on November 11 to remember. Lest we forget.

We’re looking forward to connecting with families during our upcoming Parent-Teacher Interviews on Wednesday, December 3 and Thursday, December 4 from 3:30–6:30 p.m.

This is a great opportunity to touch base about your child’s progress and celebrate their growth so far this term. Please take a moment to check PowerSchool for up-to-date information on your child’s courses. To book a time, simply reach out directly to your child’s teacher to set up an appointment that works best.

We look forward to seeing you then!

School fees for the 2025-2026 school year have now been sent out. Please check your email boxes and click on the School Cash Online link provided to complete the transaction. We kindly ask that you submit payment at your earliest convenience.

We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and your continued support of our school community. If you have any questions or require assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our school office—we are happy to help 780-980-0955.

Students and parents... PLEASE check your PowerSchool portal for your up-to-date grades. We are now beginning Module 5 and all September work that has not been completed is now showing a ZERO in PowerSchool. Please ensure that you have completed all work so you can progress towards course completion! Zeros are showing as a placeholder and can be changed upon assignment completion. Any questions? Please reach out to your teacher(s).

Students who have IPPs, they will be sent out to the parents and/or guardians for signing. Keep an eye out for this email!! This is an important document and must be signed and sent back as soon as possible.

🎓 Why It Matters — Now and Later

An IPP isn’t just about success in high school — it also helps you prepare for post-secondary life. Many colleges, universities, and training programs ask to see a student’s IPP when arranging academic accommodations or supports. Having a current and complete IPP means your learning needs are clearly documented and recognized, which makes for a smoother transition after graduation.

That’s why it’s so important to review and submit your IPP on time. Keeping it up to date ensures your teachers can provide the right supports now, and that your future school or program can do the same later.

Métis Week holds a special place in the hearts of the Métis people.

It provides an opportunity to celebrate our rich culture, history, and resilience, while also commemorating Louis Riel’s wrongful execution and honouring his enduring legacy.

This week serves as a reminder of the accomplishments of our ancestors and us, motivating us to continue striving for the full recognition of our rights. It is a time to come together as a community and nurture our connections with one another as a people and as a Nation.

Check out all of the local events here: https://albertametis.com/events/metis-week/

WHAT IS DUAL CREDIT?

In Alberta, Dual Credit programming invites high school students in Grades 10-12 to take approved postsecondary courses, earning them credit at both levels. When taking a Dual Credit course with Lethbridge Polytechnic, you are considered both a high school AND polytech student.

Dual Credit programming is an excellent way for you to:

• Experiment with subjects that might not be available at your school.

• Learn more about the post-secondary learning experience and environment.

• Meet new people and join our community.

• Earn credit in courses for application in future studies.

• Connect with advisors to plan your future post-secondary studies.

Get a head start on your post-secondary journey by enrolling in Lethbridge Polytechnic’s dual credit courses.

Interested in taking an online university course for high school credit? Contact the principal to find out the criteria: tracy.melnyk@starcatholic.ab.ca

FIRST EVER YOUNG WOMEN IN TRADES & TECHNOLOGIES SUMMIT

CAREERS at NAIT is hosting an inspiring day designed to empower the next generation of female and Indigenous youth.

Students will:

• Hear from a dynamic keynote speaker
• Connect with female role models in skilled trades & technologies
• Gain confidence through hands-on learning and exploration activities
• Enjoy free bussing, food, and swag
• Discover pathways to paid internships

This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for young women to see what’s possible in high-demand careers. Spots are limited — don’t let your students miss out!

EVENT DETAILS:

Friday, November 13, 2025

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

NAIT (South Lobby & Shaw Theatre)

See the flyer below - click the link 👇

HELP US HELP YOU!

Do you own a business or know an employer who could offer meaningful work experience for a student? We are always looking to connect with new partners who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of workers.

If you or someone in your network can provide a supportive and educational workplace, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us to learn how to get involved and help shape the future workforce.

tracy.melnyk@starcatholic.ab.ca

Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is the collection of principles the Church offers to guide how we live out our faith in society. Rooted in Scripture and Church tradition, these teachings remind us that following Christ isn’t only about private prayer but also about how we treat one another and care for the world.

AT STAR Outreach, we will be focussing on each of the Catholic Social Teachings. This month, we focus on the social teaching of Life and dignity of the human person. Every person is made in the image of God and deserves respect from conception to natural death.

5pm Saturday Evening

9am and 11am on Sunday

Welcome back! Here’s how you can access your Canvas account to get started with your courses:

1. Go to Canvas

   • Open your web browser and go to: https://starcatholic.instructure.com

2. Log in with your STAR Catholic account

   • Enter your STAR Catholic email address (the same email you use for all school accounts).

   • Enter your STAR Catholic password.

3. Access your courses

   • Once you are logged in, you’ll see your Dashboard.

   • Click on your courses to get started.

👉 Tip: If you have trouble logging in, make sure you’re using your STAR Catholic email (not a personal email). If you forgot your password, contact the school office and we’ll help you reset it.

Create a MyPass Account

All students require a MyPass account to obtain diploma marks, transcripts and so much more. If you have not created an account, please click on the link below and follow the instructions on how to do so.

Create a MyPass account

Watch the video below on how to get your MyPass Account!

Now is the time to mark your calendars for all of the cool Open House opportunities at our local Post Secondary Schools! October is a bust month for Post Secondary applications so make sure that you are ready with your MyPass Account and have everything ready to apply - Applications open to most school on October 1, 2025. Be PREPARED!

You can find all GrACE information here: https://secure.smore.com/n/dyw413

https://www.starcatholic.ab.ca/division/school-board/board-highlights