St. Anne CES community celebrates 75 years of Catholic Education in Peterborough

Sept, 19, 2024

Mary (Russelle) Houston walked through the halls of St. Anne Catholic Elementary School, marvelling at how much had changed in the past 75 years and how much remained the same.

The 81-year-old was among the first cohort of Grade 1 students when the school was built in the north-end of Peterborough in 1949.

“I have great memories of this school,” Houston said, clutching a black-and-white photograph of her graduating class of 1957. “My best memory is from the first day of school. I still stay in touch with my first grade friend from 75 years ago. She lives on the East Coast and I met her on day one at St. Anne’s.”

St. Anne CES alumni Judy Crough, Mary Houston and Gary O’Donnell reflect on their memories during the 75th Anniversary Celebration at St. Anne CES on Thursday, Sept. 19.

St. Anne Catholic CES opened its doors to past and present on Thursday (Sept. 19, 2024), as the community celebrated its 75th anniversary. It was a celebration, not just of brick and mortar, but of the generations of students, staff and families that have come and gone and the endurance of Catholic education in the city.

“Today is an opportunity for us to reflect on all of the people, moments and traditions that have made St. Anne the special place that it is today,” principal Mélanie Bergeron Langlois said.

Peterborough Bishop Daniel Miehm celebrated a morning mass at St. Anne Church. The school held a ceremony that brought together current students, alumni, staff from past and present, and local dignitaries.

Peterborough’s Mayor Jeff Leal, along with representatives from federal and provincial offices, delivered speeches honouring the school’s legacy.

“It goes without saying that Catholic education is and continues to be one of the most important pillars of public education in the Province of Ontario,” Leal said. 

Former principals Christine Brodie and Tim Ball also shared memories of their time at St. Anne CES, underscoring the deep sense of community that has been fostered throughout the years.

The school also hosted an open house, welcoming back alumni, former staff, and community members. The school had put out a call over the summer for historical artifacts, photos, and memories, which were displayed throughout the building in a “walk down memory lane” exhibit. Visitors enjoyed reconnecting with old classmates and teachers while reflecting on the past 75 years of Catholic education at St. Anne CES.