March 28, 2022

It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of Mr. André Bidal, Conseil scolaire catholique Nouvelon (CSC Nouvelon) School Board Trustee for District 5 (Greater Sudbury wards 7–12), on March 28, 2022. In recognition of his important contributions to French-language Catholic education, the flags at the CSC Nouvelon head office and all of its schools will be at half mast during the following days. Details of funeral arrangements are not known at this time.

For almost 45 years, Mr. Bidal has tirelessly defended the interests of Franco-Ontarian parents. Well-known for his commitment to French-language Catholic education, Mr. Bidal served with distinction as a School Board Trustee at the CSC Nouvelon since 2000. Elected as Vice-President for five terms, from 2004 to 2006 and 2010-2013, he later served as President for nine mandates in 2007, 2008 and from 2013 to 2021.

For 15 years, Mr. Bidal also served as Chair of the Catholic School Council of Collège Notre-Dame (Sudbury) and as member of the Catholic Parent-Teacher Association. At the provincial level, Mr. Bidal was the CSC Nouvelon’s representative on Parents partenaires en education (PPE) and a member of the Board of Directors of the Association franco-ontarienne des conseils scolaires catholiques (AFOCSC). In recognition of his contributions to Catholic education, the AFOCSC recently honoured Mr. Bidal with the 2022 Catholic Education Award of Excellence (Prix d’excellence en éducation catholique).

“Our French-language Catholic community is saddened by the loss of a true pillar who was appreciated for his tireless work in defending our parents as well as our students,” stated CSC Nouvelon President Ms. Suzanne Salituri. “Open and committed, André was very passionate in his efforts to ensure that all families throughout our territory have access to quality education. »

“André will be truly missed. Proud of his Francophone and Catholic identity, he was able to promote his values ​​and his vision within our school communities for more than 20 years, thus contributing to the reputation of our schools. The CSC Nouvelon was very fortunate to have been able to count on his unifying leadership skills and boundless energy,” added Mr. Paul Henry, Director of Education and Secretary Treasurer at the CSC Nouvelon.

The Conseil scolaire catholique Nouvelon offers a French-language Catholic Educational Program that is widely recognized for its excellence. The CSC Nouvelon provides a quality learning environment and academic program that runs from early childhood to adult education, with some 6,100 students enrolled in 27 elementary, 1 virtual school and 10 secondary schools.

Source:   
Paul de la Riva
Director of Communications and External Relations
Conseil scolaire catholique Nouvelon
705-673-5626, ext. 294  / 705-677-8195 (cell)