Spreading Christmas Cheer: Student Artists Shine Bright Through Christmas Card Artwork Contest

Every year, the Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board (NPSC) proudly launches its Christmas Card Artwork Contest. This year, we had the distinct pleasure of hosting the contest in partnership with The Sisters of St. Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie — a collaboration that added a special spirit to this much-loved tradition.
More than 100 student submissions were received, each one showing remarkable artistic talent and offering a beautiful reflection of Christmas grounded in our Catholic faith.
Because of this year’s partnership, two winning selections were chosen: one by NPSC and one by the Sisters of St. Joseph. Each winning artwork will be featured in the respective organization’s Christmas communications, including physical and digital cards, websites, and social media.
| We are delighted to announce that the NPSC selection was created by Alice, a Grade 3 student at St. Gregory Catholic Elementary School. Her artwork combines watercolour and marker to depict a radiant, multi-coloured sky above Mary and Joseph as they journey toward the manger, guided by the Star of Bethlehem. |
Pictured (L-R): Emmanuel Rick, Principal, St. Gregory School; Paula Mann, Director of Education, NPSC; Alice, Grade 3 student, St. Gregory School; Maggie, Alice's mother; Mrs. Kylie Staples, Teacher, St. Gregory School. |

Pictured (L-R): Dan Seguin, Principal, Holy Cross School; Kristy, Emma's mother; Emma, Grade 7 student, Holy Cross School; Sister Costanza, Sisters of St. Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie; Paula Mann, Director of Education, NPSC; Mr. Tye Lindeman, Teacher, Holy Cross School. |
The Sisters of St. Joseph selected the artwork of Emma, a Grade 7 student at Holy Cross Catholic Elementary School, for their Christmas communications. At the centre of her thoughtful design is baby Jesus in the manger, encircled by a vivid green wreath. Above the wreath, meticulously drawn ornaments hang down from the top of the page, each containing a Catholic symbol. The message on the front of the card — Keep Christ in Christmas — beautifully captures the spiritual heart of the season. |
Both students were congratulated and presented with collections of printed Christmas cards featuring their artwork, with a parent present on each occasion, highlighting the strong connection between school, home, and faith development. Emma received hers from Sister Costanza of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie, while Alice was presented with her set by NPSC Director of Education Paula Mann.
We extend our sincere congratulations not only to Alice and Emma, but to every student who took part in this year’s contest. NPSC is truly uplifted during this process as each submission is received, examined, and appreciated. Choosing winners is never easy, and the care and contemplation it requires speaks to the exceptional quality of student artwork.
As we look ahead to the Christmas season, we offer our prayerful best wishes to all in our Catholic education family. May your holidays be filled with love, peace, hope, and faith!

Artwork by Alice, Grade 3 student at St. Gregory School. |

Artwork by Emma, Grade 7 student at Holy Cross School. |