The Search Continues: Finding Community in the Construction of Modular Schools at St. Helen’s School

The original structure that was St. Helen's School was in need of major repairs, and our community found itself having to make immense sacrifices in order to accommodate the current enrollment of students. From the administrative planning of budgets to the new challenges faced by our staff to work in different environments, the transitional years were ones that helped to shape our improved school culture founded on resiliency.  

Telethons, galas, golf tournaments, school BBQ events, and many other communal fundraisers were held to raise funds for the construction of a new school; a new home for our staff and students. The modular school of the North Wing is exceptional. Each classroom has full air conditioning and heat control, by power of heat pumps, in order to create a comfortable class environment for our students. The construction of these classrooms are made from eco-friendly materials with minimal waste.  

After tireless hours from our school principal, Waldemar Sambor, and our building committee, we were able to raise the funds to build our North Wing Modular school. Our North Wing is a true representation of the St. Helen’s community coming together on the common grounds of bringing Christ into our childrens’ lives.  

Sisters from the Queen of Peace Monastery graciously created crosses for our North Wing classrooms, staffroom, and the exterior of our school, using wood from the beams of our old school. This thoughtful gesture serves as a profound symbol of our faith, which has guided St. Helen’s for over a century. These repurposed beams and silent witnesses to our journey will now bridge our past and present, reminding us that faith remains at the heart of everything we do.  

Though the physical structure of the modular school was complete, along with filling it with the proper decor, and of course, the staff and students, there was one finishing touch; the blessing from Archbishop Michael Miller. The divine blessing of our North Wing completed our tumultuous journey as a school in creating a safe space for our students to connect with our Christ centered curriculum.  

Though one could argue the monetary value, and funds from our community as being the most important component of constructing a new school, it is the driving force of Christ’s word that truly brings our community together. A building is meaningless without the people inside who carry out the vision of our CISVA system. As stated in the gospel of Matthew 18:22, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”  Our North Wing serves as living proof of Matthew’s gospel. The presence of Christ allows our school community to gather on his foundation, and build upon a future of evangelization, academic excellence, and strength upon his word.  

Anthony Belmonte  

St. Helen’s School  

Grade 7 Confirmation:  

- Grade 7 Confirmation, students confirmed by Father Alessandro Lovato, May 22nd, 2025.  

-mass in the St. Helen’s  

- Inspiration was provided for the students to continue to share their faith and continue to build relationships with jesus.  

- Homily: Fruits of the Holy Spirit in relation to students’ lives. Specifically the fruits of ‘Wisdom’ and ‘Fear of the Lord’ in relation to decision making and staying on a path that’s paved by Christ.  

- They were reminded that they are now stronger with the guidance of the Holy Spirit in their lives  

- Even after graduation, their home remains in our parish community in the St. Helen’s community.