We are proud to recognize the extraordinary efforts of Trustee Angela Saggese, Vice Chair Maria Iafrate, and the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) for working together to secure significant funding from the Italian government for our International Languages and Cultures Program.
This was a formidable undertaking—navigating international bureaucracies, coordinating across 21 schools and nearly 5,500 students, and articulating the educational and cultural value of this initiative. The success of this effort—achieving a $270,000 one-time grant—demonstrates unwavering perseverance and deep commitment to cultural education.
Trustee Saggese and Vice Chair Iafrate’s vision, perseverance, and deep commitment to cultural education were the driving force behind this success. They led a coordinated effort that involved months of advocacy, detailed reporting on our programs across 21 schools, and strategic collaboration with both local and international stakeholders. The path was not easy—but their determination never wavered. Their accomplishment was supported by a dedicated coalition of advocates:
- Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association (CIBPA) – Toronto chapter: Provided an initial $35,000 contribution through its Education Foundation, and championed our cause before the Italian Ministry of External Affairs corriere.ca.
- Consul General Luca Zelioli, supported by Consul Laura Innocenti, endorsed the initiative and facilitated approval at the Consulate level—an essential step in securing Italian Government backing corriere.ca.
- Luca Buiani, Former Coordinator of International Languages with YCDSB, brought instructional expertise showcasing the program’s strengths and logistical needs
- Fausto Mammoliti, alongside Buiani, provided vital pedagogical strategy and curriculum insights to align the program with provincial and international standards corriere.ca.
- Former YCDSB Trustee & Chair Domenic Mazzotta also participated in securing this agreement, helping establish an autonomous recipient governance structure that met both YCDSB and Italian Ministry expectations.
- Hon. Joe Volpe, former MP and Chair of the Canada‑Italy Parliamentary Association, lent vital advocacy and diplomatic insight that helped strengthen connections with Italian officials corriere.ca.
Together, this dynamic team overcame stringent requirements—convincing foreign authorities of our autonomy, coordinating local contributions (e.g., CIBPA, Luciano Schipano’s $5,000 donation), and ensuring adherence to ministry guidelines corriere.ca. As part of the requirement to request funds to the Ministry of external affairs in Italy, they created an Association known as YCDSB-Italialinguacultura.
The result is more than funding; it’s a testament to the value of international education. The secured grant empowers our students to deepen their language skills, connect with cultural heritage, and become globally-minded citizens.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Trustee Saggese, Vice Chair Iafrate, Mr. Buiani, Mr. Mammoliti, former Chair Mazzotta, Mr. Volpe, Mr. Bob Sacco, Ms. Sabrina Marrelli, Mr. Anthony Cocuzzo of CIBPA, Consul General Zelioli.
We also want to thank the Continuing Education department led by Principal Anthony Pasquini, International Language lead Silvia Cipolletta and Superintendent of Curriculum and Assessment Mr. Anthony Arcadi and all YCDSB staff whose efforts were instrumental in this complex endeavor.
Thank you for your continued support and for championing this vital initiative.
You can watch the funding announcement at the June Board Meeting with the video below.