St. Alphonsus Catholic Elementary School marks 75 years of faith and learning in Peterborough
May 6, 2025
It was a day of reflection and community spirit as St. Alphonsus Catholic Elementary School marked a major milestone—75 years of providing Catholic education in Peterborough.
The school, which opened its doors in 1950 on what was then the southwestern edge of the city bordering North Monaghan Township, held a special assembly in the gymnasium on May 6, 2025.
Students, staff—both past and present—parents, alumni, and community members gathered to celebrate the school’s enduring legacy.
Among those who shared reflections was a current staff member and parent, who also attended the school as a child in the 1970s and ’80s.
“I first walked through these doors in 1978 as a Kindergartener. Welcomed in a community that not only shaped my education, but my very understanding of what it means to grow up with faith, compassion and purpose,” Special Education Resource Teacher Mary Sheehan said. “By the time I graduated Grade 8 in 1987, I had been blessed with many incredible teachers, who not only taught me academics, but also life lessons such as kindness, respect and a deep sense of responsibility towards others. These educators were key in shaping who I am today.”
The student voice was also strong during the celebration.
Grade 7 student and Prime Minister of the Student Council Sophie Scarlett-Davis addressed the assembly.
“Think about all the students who have walked these halls before us. They learned here, just like we do. They played on the same playground, maybe even in the same classrooms,” Sophie said. “They also learned about their faith here, building a strong foundation for their lives. Our school has a long and amazing history, rooted in our beliefs, and we are all part of that collective history.”
The Director of Education for the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board Stephen O’Sullivan and the trustee representing Peterborough schools Loretta Durst also spoke, offering congratulations and heartfelt reflections.
“Inside these walls, countless friendships have blossomed. Students have discovered their strengths, overcome their challenges, and built the skills they needed to succeed. Generations of dedicated educators and staff have committed themselves not only to teaching but to shaping young people rooted in faith, compassion, and community,” O’Sullivan said. “Today’s celebration is not just about looking back. It’s also about looking forward.”
“Congratulations to your school! 75 years is a long time,” Durst said. “What’s nice about 75 years is there are a whole bunch of people that came to our school and grew up and graduated and are part of our community. We have former staff members, parents and grandparents here celebrating with us.”
In between speeches, the school’s choir sang three songs for the crowd.
The day concluded with a commemorative Mass at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church.
