The Kenora Catholic District School Board welcomed a new Student Trustee to the boardroom table during Tuesday's first Board Meeting of the new school year. Trustees watched as Grade 12 student, Matthew Favreau, received his Rite of Commissioning as the new Student Trustee for the 2017 - 2018 school year. Matthew talked about his goals as the Student Trustee. "As trustee for this year, one of my goals is to not only build a stronger school community within the walls of the school but also build a stronger relationship between the school and the community. I am encouraging the students to reach out and bring the Catholic values that they learn from our staff and peers towards the community. I believe every student has the power to do this; no action needs to be big as even the smallest efforts will make a difference. I also look to make this year a positive and memorable experience for everyone." Matthew was elected by his peers last June. He's a member of the St. Thomas Aquinas High School symphonic winds and percussion and has been for many years. He's also a member of the Saint's boy's hockey team and is looking forward to participating in the model United Nations and the Youth in Philanthropy group. He is an active participant of the school's Student Council and helps to plan school events and activities to ensure all students have a memorable high school experience. The Rite of Commissioning marks the beginning of Matthew's one-year term as Student Trustee. The Student Trustee serves an important role by representing students in decisions about education at the KCDSB and keeping students informed about important decisions that affect them.