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<h1>Graduation Day: Congratulations to the Class of 2026</h1>
<p>The St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) Class of 2026 was honoured and celebrated on June 25, 2026, with a formal graduation Mass and exercises.</p><p>The morning began with the traditional Mass at neighbouring Holy Rosary Church, celebrated by Fr. Leung, CSB, Fr. May, CSB, and Deacon David Fischer. Following Mass, students gathered for the annual class photo before sitting down with faculty and staff for lunch.<br /><br />

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/P4AzJA88.jpeg" alt="SMCS Grade 12 Graduation 2026" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200 alignnone" /><br /><br /></p>

<p>In the afternoon, graduates assembled in the gym for the formal graduation exercises. The graduation keynote was delivered by Rudyard Griffiths, who is Chair of Munk Debates, Publisher of The Hub, and Senior Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs.</p><p>“Giving yourself over to something larger than yourself is what strengthens your character and grows relationships that matter—and you won&#8217;t do any of this alone. The friendships, the lessons, the personal growth that come through continuing service will fortify you for a lifetime,” says Griffiths. “You have a lifetime to take risks, to serve, to grow with and through your friends.”<br /><br /><br /></p>


<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/DSC2697.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 12 Graduation 2026" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200 alignnone" /><br /><br />

<p>Following the keynote, graduate diplomas were conferred. The Class was then addressed by one of its own, valedictorian Leos Kapasouris, who was thankful for his time at SMCS. He spoke about the strength of the SMCS brotherhood, and he challenged his classmates to step forward with courage.</p><p>“We all only have one life, one chance, one moment to be something great. So, do what you&#8217;re passionate about—take chances and don&#8217;t be afraid to fail, be different, be unique, and never try to be someone you&#8217;re not,” says Kapasouris. “Don&#8217;t be afraid to think outside the box. Don&#8217;t be afraid to fail big and don&#8217;t be afraid to dream big.</p><p>“God has given every single one of us a talent, a passion, a reason to keep moving forward. So, you should never be afraid to act because it&#8217;s better to take action and fail than simply sit back and wonder what could have happened if you just put in a little more effort. To St. Mike&#8217;s, thank you for teaching me what it means to be a man and for the best four years of my life. May God bless the St. Mike&#8217;s graduating class of 2026.”</p><p>Following the graduation exercises, the Class of 2026 made its way from the gymnasium to the front lawn for a long-standing SMCS tradition: walking through the Bathurst Street Students&#8217; Arch for the very first time. Students don&#8217;t pass through the arch until this moment, so for many graduates, it&#8217;s one of the most meaningful steps of the day.</p>

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/DSC3378.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 12 Graduation 2026" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200 alignnone=" /><br /><br />

<p>On behalf of the entire St. Michael’s College School community, congratulations to our newest alumni, the Class of 2026. We wish them well as they move forward in the next chapter of their academic journey.

</p><p><strong>Congratulations to our major award winners:</strong></p><p><strong>Basilian Sponsored Scholarships</strong></p><p>FR. MATTHEW MULCAHY, CSB SCHOLARSHIP ($5,000) – highest academic average in the graduating year (top six subjects).<br />Ronan Zhong</p><p>ALBERT BUTLER, CSB SCHOLARSHIP ($3,000) – second highest academic average in the graduating year.<br />Jacob DaCambra</p><p>JOSEPH PENNY, CSB SCHOLARSHIP ($2,000) – third highest academic average in the graduating year.<br />Lucas Connop – William Garrett – Frederic Ho</p><p><strong>Proficiency Awards</strong></p><p>BRIAN DUNN MEMORIAL AWARD FOR GENERAL PROFICIENCY ($500) – graduate with the highest academic average in his graduating year.<br />William Garrett – Frederic Ho</p><p>MEDAL OF THE GOVERNOR GENERAL OF CANADA – graduate with the highest standing in the graduating class (average of all Grade 11 and 12 courses)<br />Ronan Zhong</p><p>SPIRITUS TROPHY ($5,000) – the graduate who best embodies the spirit of St. Michael’s College School.<br />Matthew Castellarin</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Check out our photo gallery:<br /><br /></strong></p>

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Graduation Day: Congratulations to the Class of 2026

<div class="page-inner">
<h1>Senior Music Students Showcase Final ISP Projects</h1>
<p>From learning a new instrument to producing and recording an original song, Grade 12 St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) music students showcased their incredible talent through their final music projects, capping off their SMCS journey.</p>
<p>“The Grade 12 ISP (individual study project) assignment is a way to allow our graduating music students to embark on a journey of discovery in an area of interest, such as enhanced performance on an instrument they already play, composition/arranging, research, or new musical skills such as learning a new instrument,” says Jamie Oatt, Department Head of Music. “This year we once again had some incredible projects representing months of preparation and dedication.”</p>
<p>Check out some of the projects that were featured at this year’s Spring Concert Series in May 2026.</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-music-isp-story-3.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 12 Music ISP projects - Marco Boci" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><br /><br />
<h2>Marco Boci</h2><p>Instruments: Trombone, Piano, Euphonium, Tenors<br />Fall 2026: McMaster University – Life Sciences</p>
<p>Marco Boci performed the first movement of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 for his music ISP project.</p>
<p>“This concerto is considered one of Mozart&#8217;s most celebrated works and requires a high level of technical precision, musicality, and stylistic understanding to perform effectively,” he says. “This project was especially meaningful to me because piano has been a major part of my life for many years. I am currently studying at the Royal Conservatory of Music, Level 10, and hope to eventually earn my ARCT diploma, the second-highest certification awarded by the RCM. Performing this concerto represented an important milestone in my musical journey and gave me the opportunity to apply years of training to a challenging and rewarding experience.”</p>
<iframe loading="lazy" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E4MiU32TIig?si=IuSiga0ih1vldWfI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<p>Boci began learning the piece in November 2025, totalling six months of preparation to learn the notes, refine technique, develop musical expression, and build consistency throughout the piece.</p>
<p>“I hope listeners noticed the smaller musical details that are easy to overlook, such as the ornaments, trills, and subtle phrasing throughout the performance. While these moments may seem minor, they are incredibly important in Mozart&#8217;s music and require a great deal of precision and control to execute properly.”</p>
<p>He adds, “This project reinforced the importance of consistent, long-term practice. I learned that difficult music cannot simply be mastered in large bursts of work; many passages require days or even weeks of focused repetition before they can be performed confidently and musically. The experience also taught me the value of pursuing excellence rather than settling for ‘good enough.’ In many academic subjects, a score of 90 per cent is considered outstanding. In music, however, missing even a small percentage of notes or musical details can significantly affect the overall performance. As a result, music demands a unique level of precision, discipline, and attention to detail. Through this project, I became a more patient, focused, and dedicated musician.”</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-music-isp-story-2.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 12 Music ISP projects - Jacob DaCambra" width="1200" height="799" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><br /><br />
<h2>Jacob DaCambra</h2><p>Instruments: Tenor Sax, French Horn<br />Fall 2026: University of British Columbia – Engineering</p>
<p>Jacob DaCambra opted to learn a completely new instrument for his ISP project. At the Spring Concert, he sang Dos Oruguitas by Lin-Manuel Miranda, along with his own guitar accompaniment.</p>
<p>“I learned this song specifically because it was a song I really enjoyed, and it allowed me to connect to my language more,” says DaCambra, who practiced a little bit every day from October until the performance in May. “My mom is from Spain, and I have been learning Spanish recently. This song was sung in Spanish, and it was really fun learning the meaning of the words behind it.”</p>
<iframe loading="lazy" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qfDJdke-bPY?si=2WGD5xTpCEf1IAu5" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<p>Watching videos of guitar covers, looking up chords, and using other online resources were incredibly useful to DaCambra as he learned how to perform the song.</p>
<p>“I feel that being able to sing while seamlessly playing the chords as an accompaniment was the hardest part of the learning process, and I hope that people notice the quality of the accompaniment for the singing,” he says.</p>
<p>“This assignment helped me realize the full value of discipline as a musician. Practicing for three hours in one day is good, but not as good as practicing 15 minutes a day for 12 days. Consistency is the key to success.”</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-music-isp-story-1.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 12 Music ISP projects - Leo Favero" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><br /><br />
<h2>Leo Favero</h2><p>Instruments: Trombone, Tuba, Tenors<br />Fall 2026: Western University – Medical Sciences</p>
<p>For Leo Favero’s ISP, he wrote ‘Half For You’, created the digital accompaniment for the piece, and performed it as a duet at the Spring Concert. The piece has a showstopper feel with two verses and four choruses. It features solo violins, violin, and cello sections, mallet percussion, pitched percussion, guitar, and trumpet that combine to create a symphonic atmosphere while still bringing pop-style energy.</p>
<p>“The creation and performance of ‘Half For You’ is a meaningful piece to me, as it marks a point in many lives where one will feel as if they finally belong and have that one special person,” says Favero. “For me, this was many times in my high school career, where many special but false words were said to each other in plenty of different forms, inspiring me enough to write my feelings down in the form that I know best, a song.”</p>
<iframe loading="lazy" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DBrJ5QC275E?si=NkY9StGbjz2liSDx" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<p>Favero began writing the song in February 2025, working on the foundation, including the primary piano, string melodies, lyrics, and chords. Then in the fall, he completed the bulk of what remained, including the percussion, harmonies, and violin trio.</p>
<p>“This song was certainly a turning point in my life. The idea for such particularly sprouted from my desire to develop my music theory knowledge, to express myself in a deeper, truer way, and to become more familiar with music. I have always been stuck between my passion for the sciences and arts, having to work diligently to catch up with both to keep my options open. Because of this, ‘Half For You’ had taken a while due to the development of my abilities, my knowledge of each instrument, what felt comfortable and real, and what my capabilities were as a person at the time.”</p>
<p>He adds, “As someone who has always enjoyed playing and writing music but has spent years developing my understanding of music theory, composition, and instrumentation, this piece represents how far I have come as a musician and as a person. If there is one thing I want others to take away from my ISP, it is the idea that improvement comes through patience, effort, and believing in yourself even when progress feels slow.”</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-music-isp-story-4.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 12 Music ISP projects - Paul Karras" width="1200" height="799" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><br /><br />
<h2>Paul Karras</h2><p>Instrument: Trumpet<br />Fall 2026: McGill University – Music Composition</p>
<p>Paul Karras created an EP consisting of two songs that he orchestrated and professionally recorded, then uploaded to Spotify and other streaming services. He performed one of the songs during our Spring Concert Series.</p>
<p>“This project means a lot to me as one of the songs, ‘City of your Dreams’, is one of my earliest songs I ever wrote”, he says. “To see it come together in such a polished way really helped me see this ISP through to the end.”</p>
<iframe loading="lazy" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sES7bcmbtX0?si=qFmLf-futDg8HWDQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<p>From start to finish, his ISP took around five months to complete, which included countless hours of preparation, writing, polishing, and recording.</p>
<p>“It was my first time in a recording setting, and I learned a lot from it, from preparation for next time as well as how things in general work in the studio. I am also more comfortable in my songwriting abilities, as the positive and critical feedback from my peers and teachers helped me grow and learn from this experience.”</p>
<p>For Karras, starting the project was the hardest part because writing requires inspiration—from his surroundings, situations, and feelings—and it can’t be forced. Once he starts, he’s not satisfied until it’s complete, followed by rewriting and polishing until he has the final product that he’s proud of.</p>
<p>“I hope that people can clearly see how much of my soul I poured into these songs. Both of them come from a really special place in my heart, and being able to share that most vulnerable spot with the world is something I can&#8217;t describe. It&#8217;s what makes me so interested in music.”</p>
<p><em><strong>Related links</strong></em></p><p><a href="https://stmichaelscollegeschool.com/programmes/arts/">SMCS Arts</a></p><p><a href="https://stmichaelscollegeschool.com/news-events/special-events/">Special Events</a></p>

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Senior Music Students Showcase Final ISP Projects

<div class="page-inner">
<h1>Celebrating Our 2026 Grade 8 Graduates</h1>
<p>For the 101 young men crossing the stage on June 18, 2026, the Grade 8 Graduation ceremony was less about saying goodbye and more about turning the page to a new chapter.</p>
<p>Celebrating with a Mass and diploma presentation, the SMCS community honoured the Grade 8 class for their dedication to goodness, discipline, and knowledge. Amidst the ceremony, St. Michael’s Medals, subject awards, and academic achievement awards recognizing overall excellence were presented to students.</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-6.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 8 Graduation Mass" width="1199" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><br><br>
<p><strong>Academic Achievement Award</strong></p>
<p>Christian O’Connor &#8211; $5,000 <br />
Luca Bellissimo &#8211; $3,000<br />
Harrison Zaboroski &#8211; $2,000<br />
Benjamin Bolourian &#8211; $1,000<br />
Kieren Matheson &#8211; $1,000<br />
</p>
<p><strong>The St. Michael’s Medal</strong></p>
<p>Religious Education &#8211; Luca Bellissimo<br />
Art &#8211; Ryan Petrungaro<br />
English &#8211; Reid Campbell<br />
French &#8211; Jayden-Elson Ngabirano<br />
Geography &#8211; Christian O’Connor<br />
History &#8211; Benjamin Bolourian<br />
Mathematics &#8211; Kieren Matheson<br />
Physical &amp; Health Education &#8211; Harrison Zaboroski<br />
Music &#8211; Lukas Kissoon<br />
Science &#8211; Andrew Saverino</p>
<p>“It has been a time of learning, achieving, and a gathering of knowledge for our students—especially the Grade 8 students, most of whom have been here for two years, though some only one,” says Fr. Andrew Leung, CSB, president. “Throughout the one or two years, Grade 8s, you have strived to be students of St. Michael&#8217;s and followed in the footsteps of many other students to experience, relate, and understand the school&#8217;s motto better: Teach me goodness, discipline, and knowledge. Some days there were great successes, while others it has been a challenge. Yet all of you who are here have worn the motto of the crest with great pride.”</p>
<p>Maksym Hetmanczuk, who received the SMCS Parents’ Association Fellowship Award for best embodying the school motto, delivered a heartfelt valedictorian address to his classmates and guests.</p>
<p>&#8220;Two years ago, most of us walked into these yellow brick halls for the very first time. We came from different schools and different neighbourhoods,” says Hetmanczuk. “Some of us were nervous; some of us pretended we weren&#8217;t. We didn&#8217;t start our elementary academic journeys together, but we&#8217;re finishing this part of it together. And somewhere in the last two years, we stopped being a bunch of kids in the same building. We became brothers there for one another, and that will never change.&#8221;</p>
<p>Congratulations to the graduating Grade 8 Class and best wishes on the next stage of your SMCS journey.</p>
<p><strong><em>Check out our photo gallery of the event:</em></strong></p>


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    <div class="carousel-item align-center pc-img"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-5.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 8 Graduation Mass" width="1199" height="800" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-18398" srcset="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-5.jpg 1199w, https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-5-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1199px) 100vw, 1199px" /></div>
    <div class="carousel-item align-center pc-img"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-2.jpg" alt="SMCS Grade 8 Graduation Mass" width="1199" height="800" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-18395" srcset="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-2.jpg 1199w, https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-gr-8-graduation-2026-2-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1199px) 100vw, 1199px" /></div>
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</div>
<br><br>
<p><em><strong>Related links:</strong></em></p>
<p><a href="https://stmichaelscollegeschool.com/programmes/academics/">SMCS Academics</a></p>
<p><a href="https://stmichaelscollegeschool.com/news-events/special-events/">Special Events</a></p>

</div>

Celebrating Our 2026 Grade 8 Graduates

<div class="page-inner">
<h1>Beyond Winning the Debate: The Politics Club, Munk Debates, and Open Mike&#8217;s</h1>
<p>Since 2022, the Politics Club has grown into one of the most vibrant communities at St. Michael&#8217;s College School (SMCS), drawing more than 100 students who gather each week to wrestle with the questions that shape our world.</p>
<p>The club&#8217;s mission is deliberately inclusive: to create a space where students with every viewpoint can explore ideas, examine the day&#8217;s news, and learn that disagreement, done well, is a sign of a healthy intellectual community.</p>
<figure id="attachment_18371" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18371" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-politics-club-4.jpg" alt="SMCS Politics Club - Student debating at the podium" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-18371" class="wp-caption-text">Students have the opportunity to stand up in front of their peers to debate on a range of topics at Open Mike&#8217;s.</figcaption></figure>
<p>“Students from all grade levels can be part of these conversations,” says Andrew Kos, moderator of the Politics Club. “Members participate in conversations which mature into a three-part education in citizenship—one that moves from low-stakes discussion among peers to encounters with the world&#8217;s foremost thinkers at the Munk Debates to students defending their own convictions before a live audience at Open Mike’s.”</p>
<p>That foundation is built week to week through after-school debates, guest speakers, and the club&#8217;s trademark ‘pizza and politics’ sessions, led by Kos and David Lee ’94, vice principal.</p>
<p>“Conversation flows as freely as the food,” notes Kos. “These gatherings give students a welcoming place to test ideas and listen generously to one another—and they have made the Politics Club a model for civic engagement at SMCS.”</p>
<h2>Debating at the Highest Level</h2>
<p>From there, the club&#8217;s partnership with the Munk Debates lifts students onto a far larger stage. Founded in 2008, Canada&#8217;s premier public debating forum convenes some of the world&#8217;s sharpest thinkers before audiences of more than 3,000 at Roy Thomson Hall and, more recently, Meridian Hall—where the crowd votes before and after each contest to decide which side has truly changed minds.</p>
<figure id="attachment_18368" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18368" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-politics-club-1.jpg" alt="SMCS students and staff at a Munk Debate." width="1200" height="900" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-18368" class="wp-caption-text">SMCS students and staff at a Munk Debate.</figcaption></figure>
<p>SMCS students have now attended seven consecutive debates, encountering figures such as Malcolm Gladwell, Douglas Murray, Mehdi Hasan, and Stephen Walt on subjects ranging from the trustworthiness of mainstream media to artificial intelligence, liberalism, and the ethics of foreign wars.</p>
<p>“Attending both Munk Debates this year was definitely a privilege,” says Pablo Arellano-Rubach, Grade 11. “Watching these seemingly stoic politicians lose their composure because of how much they cared about the issues was an eye-opening experience. Their passion encouraged me to participate in Open Mike’s, where I had the opportunity to express ideas that I am equally passionate about. The Politics Club’s willingness to engage with challenging topics is something truly special.”</p>
<p>These experiences are made possible by the remarkable generosity of Rudyard Griffiths, co-founder and chair of the Munk Debates and a parent in the SMCS community, who provides students with tickets and the chance to interact with him and the other debaters afterward. Between 10-15 students attend each debate alongside staff and returning alumni, building a network in which graduates mentor those who follow.</p>
<figure id="attachment_18369" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18369" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-politics-club-2.jpg" alt="SMCS Politics Club - Student asks a question to a debater from the audience." width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-18369" class="wp-caption-text">Students in the audience have the opportunity to ask questions to speakers at an Open Mike&#8217;s debate.</figcaption></figure>
<p>“Perhaps the truest measure of these evenings is the ride home: on the TTC after a Munk Debate, students often cannot stop talking, trading perspectives, pulling up counterarguments on their phones, and debating one another long after the formal contest has ended,” adds Kos. “Many credit these opportunities with inspiring them to study political science at university.”</p>
<h2>Students Find Their Voice</h2>
<p>Finally, students take the podium themselves at Open Mike&#8217;s, a debate series founded and led by Emile John ’87, vice principal, alongside Kos, and student organizers. Built on three pillars—Respectful Discourse, Diversity of Thought, and Intellectual Courage—Open Mike&#8217;s asks presenters to prepare and defend their own positions before peers and teachers, fielding questions from the floor.</p>
<p>The aim of Open Mike’s is not to win in the conventional sense, but to understand: to challenge ideas rather than people, to value disagreement rather than merely tolerate it, and to listen as generously as one speaks. Its first three debates carried real intellectual weight—whether there should be limits to free speech, whether public honours should be stripped from historical figures judged by today&#8217;s values, and, in a lighter turn, who deserves to be called the Greatest Athlete of All Time.</p>
<figure id="attachment_18370" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18370" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-politics-club-3.jpg" alt="SMCS Politics Club - Student debating at the podium" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-18370" class="wp-caption-text">Students across all grades are welcome to participate in an Open Mike&#8217;s debate.</figcaption></figure>
<p>“As a member of the Politics Club, I have been generously given many opportunities to grow in a world where ideas become more controversial and complacency more abundant,” says Marco Boci, Grade 12. “Challenging ideas through debating at Open Mike&#8217;s was a major highlight of my Grade 12 journey, as I was given the opportunity to help inspire others to find their voices in subjects they might otherwise shy away from. In watching the Munk Debates, we saw heated ideas tested and debated by both famous and infamous individuals on many relevant topics. The Politics Club is an incredible group that allows you to mature respectfully and inquisitively, and I am forever grateful for the opportunities.”</p>
<p><em><strong>Related links:</strong></em></p>
<p>SMCS Academics</p>
<p>Clubs and Activities</p>

</div>

SMCS Politics Club - student at the podium

Beyond Winning the Debate: The Politics Club, Munk Debates, and Open Mike’s

<div class="page-inner">
<h1>Kerry Blues Receiver Commits to Dalhousie University</h1>
<p>A four-year St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) Kerry Blues football veteran and a consistent name on the SMCS Honour Roll, Grade 12 student-athlete Rayan Wahid has committed to Dalhousie University to continue his student-athlete career.</p>
<p>Wahid will head to Halifax this fall to join the Tigers football programme alongside his Kerry Blues teammates Gregory Qiao and Andrew McGinnis, while pursuing a bachelor of commerce degree.</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-rayan-wahid-football-2.jpg" alt="Rayan Wahid, SMCS student-athlete playing football for Kerry Blues" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><br><br>
<p>“I chose Dalhousie University for several reasons,” says Wahid. “The co-op programme stood out to me immediately, as it offers real work experience that complements my academic studies. Beyond that, Dalhousie has an incredible student life, and it’s in a location that I really love. When Dalhousie started to recruit me, it really felt like the right fit all around—a place where I could genuinely thrive both on and off the field.”</p>
<p>That desire for balance is what drew Wahid to Dalhousie, combining his passion for competitive football and the flexibility to excel academically.</p>
<p>“What I really admire about the Dalhousie football programme is the winning culture they have built,” says Wahid. “It is a programme that takes the game seriously while still allowing student-athletes to fully pursue their degrees. I also appreciate the freedom the programme offers and the emphasis on real work experience through co-op. Being able to compete at a high level while still setting myself up professionally is exactly what I was looking for.”</p>
<p>Football has been part of Wahid’s life for as long as he can remember, dating back to age seven when he began playing touch and flag football in elementary school during recess.</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-rayan-wahid-football-3.jpg" alt="Rayan Wahid, SMCS student-athlete signs with Dalhousie" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><br><br>
<p>“I officially started playing tackle football in Grade 8, but the game has always been a big part of my life growing up,” notes Wahid, who has excelled at the receiver position since joining the Kerry Blues. “I grew up playing organized flag football in the TFFL (Toronto Flag Football League). This shaped my love for the game, and from the schoolyard to organized leagues, football has always been at the centre of my athletic life.”</p>
<p>He adds, “My school football experience at St. Michael&#8217;s is honestly one of the best parts of my time here. The brotherhood we built, the wins and losses we shared, the early morning practices, and the friendships I made along the way were all incredibly special. It is something I will carry with me for a long time.”</p>
<p>“Rayan represents what Kerry Blues football is all about,” says Dr. Daniel Lumsden ’96, senior football coach and the school’s community engagement and learning lead. “He brings toughness and commitment to everything he does. On the field, he never takes a play off. Off the field, he carries himself with great character and maturity. He is the kind of player who makes his teammates better and makes our programme proud. Dalhousie is getting a great young man.”</p>
<p>For Wahid, excelling in the student-athlete journey means not only athletic success but also academic excellence. His academic success includes four years on the honour roll in addition to carrying a top six average above 90 per cent.</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-rayan-wahid-football-1.jpg" alt="Rayan Wahid, SMCS student-athlete playing football for Kerry Blues" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><br><br>
<p>“Academics have always been important to me, and maintaining that standard while playing football has been a real priority. St. Michael&#8217;s prepared me extremely well, especially in balancing academics and athletics. The school holds you to a high standard in the classroom, and that discipline carries over onto the field. As well, athletic development is prioritized, and the coaching I received helped me better understand the game and sharpen my skills in a way that I believe will translate well to the next level.”</p>
<p><em><strong>Related links:</strong></em></p>
<p><a href="https://stmichaelscollegeschool.com/programmes/athletics/">SMCS Athletics</a></p>
<p><a href="https://stmichaelscollegeschool.com/news-events/">News and Events</a></p>

</div>

Rayan Wahid, SMCS student-athlete playing football for Kerry Blues

Kerry Blues Receiver Commits to Dalhousie University

<div class="page-inner">
<h1>Recapping the 27th Annual Grade 7 &amp; 8 Speaking Competition</h1>
<p>On Friday, May 22, in front of their peers and teachers, 12 Grade 7 and 8 students participated in the 27th annual St. Michael&#8217;s College School (SMCS) Public Speaking Competition.</p>
<p>“It was a celebration of courage, creativity, conviction, and the power of student voice,” says Matt Pagano ’92, Core Intermediate Department Head. “The Grade 7 and 8 student body gathered to witness something increasingly rare in today’s world: young people willing to stand in front of an audience, organize their thoughts, and speak with purpose and confidence. The competition was a testament to the great work done by the classes in their oral communication units.”</p>
<figure id="attachment_18352" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18352" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-intermediate-speaking-competition-1.jpg" alt="Jayden-Elson, SMCS student in the 2026 Intermediate Speaking Competition" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-18352" class="wp-caption-text">Jayden-Elson Ngabirano, Grade 8</figcaption></figure>
<p>The well-rehearsed speeches delved into topics ranging from doomscrolling and phone use to mental health and how to handle failure.</p>
<p>“Honestly, before performing, I was a bit nervous, more than before even a championship basketball game,” says Jayden-Elson Ngabirano, Grade 8, who spoke eloquently about how waking up is the greatest blessing you will ever receive. “But I took a deep breath and slowed my breathing down, and when I got to the stage, my thoughts and words calmed me down, and it was smooth sailing from there.”</p>
<p>Of the 12 competitors, the top three speakers were awarded first-, second-, and third-place plaques. The top student will also have their name etched onto the champions’ plaque that features the names of all the winners dating back to the first competition in 1998-99.</p>
<figure id="attachment_18353" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18353" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-intermediate-speaking-competition-2.jpg" alt="John (Declan) Connon, SMCS student in the 2026 Intermediate Speaking Competition" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-18353" class="wp-caption-text">John (Declan) Connon, Grade 7</figcaption></figure>
<p>“Although I was incredibly anxious beforehand, all of my nerves vanished the moment I stepped onto the stage,” says John (Declan) Connon, Grade 7, who detailed the ups and downs of smartphone use in his speech. “This entire process ultimately taught me the true value of confidence and preparation. As a new student at St. Mike&#8217;s, I honestly did not expect to achieve first place, making this victory an incredible honour and an unforgettable surprise.”</p>
<p>The competition serves as the culmination of the Grade 7 and 8 English unit on oral communication. It initially showcases students’ public speaking skills through in-class presentations, with finalists then selected to speak on stage. </p>
<figure id="attachment_18354" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18354" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/smcs-intermediate-speaking-competition-3.jpg" alt="Luan Murray, SMCS student in the 2026 Intermediate Speaking Competition" width="1200" height="800" class="st-michael-img-1200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-18354" class="wp-caption-text">Luan Murray, Grade 7</figcaption></figure>
<p>“Before I stepped on stage, I told myself: ‘I’m not scared, I’m excited.’ Your brain can’t tell the difference and that mindset changed everything,” says Luan Murray, Grade 7, whose energetic speech illustrated the power of a word. “I honestly wasn’t even expecting to be chosen to do the speeches, let alone win third place, especially in my first year at St. Michael’s College School. Public speaking went from something intimidating to one of the most fun and rewarding experiences I’ve ever had.”</p>
<p>Congratulations to Connon, first place, Ngabirano, second, and Murray, third, on three incredible speeches.</p>
<p><strong><em>Related links:</em></strong></p>
<p><a href="https://stmichaelscollegeschool.com/programmes/academics/">SMCS Academics</a></p>
<p><a href="https://stmichaelscollegeschool.com/news-events/">News and Events</a></p>

</div>

SMCS 2026 Intermediate Speaking Competition

Recapping the 27th Annual Grade 7 & 8 Speaking Competition

News And Events

<div class="page-inner">
<h1>Media</h1>
        <p class="large">For media inquiries, please contact:</p>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/DePellegrin_Michael-web2025-150x150.jpg" alt="Michael De Pellegrin, SMCS Staff" width="150" height="150" class="float-left " /><p>Michael De Pellegrin, Director of Communications<br />
Office: 416 653 3180 x292 | Cell: 647 242 2226<br />
<a href="mailto:md@smcsmail.com">md@smcsmail.com</a><br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/">St. Michael&#8217;s College School</a></p><br />

</div>

<section id="releases" class="grey-bg">
<h2>MEDIA RELEASES</h2>

MARCH 4, 2026<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/smcs-media-release-new-principal-2026.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Media Release: St. Michael’s College School appoints new Principal</a>
<hr />
JANUARY 7, 2026<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/TEDxSMCS-Youth-Media-Release-Jan-7-2026.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Media Release: St. Michael’s College School Prepares For First Ever TEDxYouth Event</a>
<hr />
MAY 26, 2025<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SMCS-Media-Release-OSM-2025-Inductees.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Media Release: St. Michael’s College School Announces 2025 Inductees into the Order of St. Michael</a>
<hr />
JANUARY 27, 2025<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SMCS-Media-Release-Cameron-Branch-Jan-2025-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Media Release: Cameron Branch, Strength &amp; Conditioning Coach</a>
<hr />
JANUARY 22, 2025<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SMCS-Media-Release-Ivan-Zanatta-Jan-2025.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Media Release: Ivan Zanatta, SMCS U18 Prep Hockey Head Coach</a>
<hr />
NOVEMBER 12, 2024<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/media-release-2-for-book-launch-at-HHOF.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Media Update: Hockey Hall of Fame Book Launch</a>
<hr />
OCTOBER 7, 2024<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Hockey-Priest-Book-Launch.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Book Launch at the Hockey Hall of Fame Celebrates "Hockey Priest: Father David Bauer and the Spirit of the Canadian Game"</a>
<hr />
FEBRUARY 1, 2024<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/smcs-media-release-feb1-2024.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">St. Michael's College School Unveils New Brand Campaign in Conjunction with NHL All-Star Game</a>
</section>

<section id="coverage">
<h2>MEDIA COVERAGE</h2>
JUNE 6, 2026<br />
<a href="https://www.catholicregister.org/item/3969-career-ends-on-a-high-note-at-st-michaels" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Career ends on a high note at St. Michael's</a>
<br />The Catholic Register<hr />
FEBRUARY 11, 2026<br />
<a href="https://www.catholicregister.org/item/3450-fr-bauer-and-catholic-olympians-of-faith" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fr. Bauer and Catholic Olympians of faith</a>
<br />The Catholic Register<hr />
FEBRUARY 10, 2026<br />
<a href="https://www.torontotoday.ca/local/education/toronto-private-schools-increased-demand-amid-tdsb-troubles-11848754" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Toronto private schools see increased demand amid TDSB troubles</a>
<br />Toronto Today<hr />
FEBRUARY 6, 2026<br />
<a href="https://www.catholicregister.org/item/3421-st-mike-s-student-takes-to-ice-for-canada-at-olympics" target="_blank" rel="noopener">St. Mike’s student takes to ice for Canada at Olympics</a>
<br />The Catholic Register<hr />
JANUARY 12, 2026<br />
<a href="https://www.catholicregister.org/item/3296-st-mike-s-te-dx-talk-redefines-perspectives" target="_blank" rel="noopener">St. Mike’s TEDx Talk redefines perspectives</a>
<br />The Catholic Register<hr />
NOVEMBER 3, 2025<br />
<a href="https://toronto.citynews.ca/2025/11/03/high-school-hooper-turning-heads-as-he-sets-his-sights-on-post-secondary-basketball/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">High school hooper turning heads as he sets his sights on post-secondary basketball</a>
<br />CityNews<hr />
SEPTEMBER 20, 2025<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Toronto-Star-SMCS-Sponsored-Article-2025.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Building leaders through service — how St. Michael’s College School inspires boys to give back</a>
<br />Toronto Star<hr />
SEPTEMBER 18, 2025<br />
<a href="https://youtu.be/_NXcWaoQml8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Order of St. Michael</a>
<br />CHINTV<hr />
SEPTEMBER 17, 2025<br />
<a href="https://d97pdw6wu0.wpdns.site/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Panoram-Article-SMCS.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oh What A Day! September 8, 1964</a>
<br />Panoram Italia<hr />
SEPTEMBER 4, 2025<br />
<a href="https://www.newspapers-online.com/auroran/aurora-teacher-to-be-honoured-by-toronto-independent-school/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aurora teacher to be honoured by Toronto independent school</a>
<br />The Auroran<hr />
AUGUST 14, 2025<br />
<a href="https://www.catholicregister.org/item/2629-order-of-st-michaels-honours-four-school-alumni" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Order of St. Michael's honours four school alumni</a>
<br />The Catholic Register<hr />
APRIL 22, 2025<br />
<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6732357" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pope Francis became influential voice in climate fight</a>
<br />CBC<hr />
MARCH 30, 2025<br />
<a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/outdoors/nhl-and-ducks-unlimited-canada-team-up-to-tell-stories-of-hockey-greats-getting-started-outdoors" target="_blank" rel="noopener">‘Playing outdoors was everything’ to Duff growing up</a>
<br />NHL.com<hr />
MARCH 3, 2025<br />
<a href="https://www.ronfanfair.com/home/2025/3/3/onyx-initiative-is-a-gamechanger-for-young-people-aspiring-to-work-in-corporate-world" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Onyx Initiative is a gamechanger for young people aspiring to work in corporate world</a>
<br />Ron Fanfair<hr />
FEBRUARY 12, 2025<br />
<a href="https://www.coachesontario.ca/articles/from-athlete-to-mentor-coach-kurt-downes-journey-of-resilience-and-empowering-the-next-generation/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">From Athlete to Mentor: Coach Kurt Downes’ Journey of Resilience and Empowering the Next Generation</a>
<br />Coaches Association of Ontario<hr />
OCTOBER 3, 2024<br />
<a href="https://www.catholicregister.org/item/37204-students-find-healing-in-listening-circle/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Students find healing in Listening Circle</a>
<br />The Catholic Register<hr />
SEPTEMBER 23, 2024<br />
<a href="https://danilodjuricic.wixsite.com/danilodjuricic/post/goodness-discipline-and-knowledge-st-michael-s-college-school-my-foundation-to-success/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">"Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge": St. Michael's College School, my foundation to success.</a>
<br />Online Blog<hr />
SEPTEMBER 13, 2024<br />
<a href="https://www.wkhm.com/2024/09/13/lumen-christi-to-take-on-toronto-st-michael/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lumen Christi to take on St. Michael’s College School of Toronto</a>
<br />WKHM<hr />
MAY 3, 2024<br />
<a href="https://www.catholicregister.org/features/arts/item/36735-for-fr-bauer-the-person-came-before-the-hockey-player" target="_blank" rel="noopener">For Fr. Bauer, the person came before the hockey player</a>
<br />The Catholic Register<hr />
APRIL 10, 2024<br />
<a href="https://theathletic.com/5370308/2024/04/10/sam-dickinson-nhl-draft-2024/?source=user_shared_article" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How Sam Dickinson became one of the top prospects in the 2024 NHL Draft</a>
<br />The Athletic<hr />
MARCH 15, 2024<br />
<a href="https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/leaf-time-machine-st-michaels-college-keeps-irish-ties-strong" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LEAFS TIME MACHINE: St. Michael's College School keeps Irish tie strong</a>
<br />Toronto Sun

</section>
<section>
<p><em><strong>Related links:</strong></em></p>
<p><a href="https://st-michaels-college-school-one.vercel.app/news-events" aria-label="News And Events">News And Events</a></p>
</section>