September 19, 2025, BARRIE, ON - At the September 17th Board meeting, the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) officially commissioned Melissa Fransa as the new student trustee.

Melissa, a Grade 11 student at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School in Tottenham, was elected by the Student Senate in March after competing against 19 other qualified candidates. She officially began her term as student trustee-elect in August.

Melissa brings strong leadership skills developed throughout her time at St. Thomas Aquinas. She is also a dedicated volunteer both at school and in her community.

“I am passionate about the voices of students. I enjoy public speaking and want to make an impact. While I may not hold a direct leadership position, I strive to lead every day through my actions, which I believe is more meaningful than any title. I am also committed to listening and understanding different points of view,” Melissa said.

Melissa will now begin her two-year term, working alongside fellow student trustee Harlyn Grenier from St. Theresa’s Catholic High School in Midland. Melissa and Harlyn represent the 25,000 students across the Board’s 53 Catholic schools. They will collaborate with student representatives from the Board’s nine secondary schools to bring the student voice to the Board of Trustees.

“We are delighted to welcome Melissa Fransa as our new student trustee,” said Board Chair Maria Hardie. “Her leadership and commitment to service make her an excellent representative for the students of the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board. We look forward to her contributions over the next two years as she works alongside her peers and Trustees to ensure the student perspective is central to our decisions.”

To learn more about the Student Trustee program at SMCDSB, please visit smcdsb.on.ca/trustees/student_trustee.