How We Meet The Diverse Needs Of Our Students
At St. Bede, we believe in the uniqueness of every child. We recognize that children have individual talents and their own special needs. We strive to assist the students to, “be the best they can be,” growing in Christian values, self-esteem and respect for themselves and others.
The catechetical program as approved by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, is the foundation for the instructional program in religious education. Among a variety of strategies employed to ensure a Catholic environment, we practice the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. Acts of charity such as participation in food drives, the ShareLife campaign and supporting families in need, both within the local community and the global community, are encouraged as gestures of Gospel values at work. Our students are very sensitive to, and concerned about, the needs of others. These efforts are essential for reinforcing with the students that our Catholic beliefs need to be reflected in all aspects of the daily program.
Fostering a safe and welcoming learning environment which is an example of Christian community is a vital part of the Mission Statement of the Toronto Catholic District School Board. Daily attendance monitoring is one example of this mission action. Through cooperative parent-school communications, parents advise the school if their child will be absent and school staff monitor attendance patterns and alert the family if any problems are noted. We always appreciate parents notifying us of health conditions which may affect their child at school. We also strive to keep parents and guardians informed regarding issues and situations which impact on their child's health and safety. It is our hope and desire that all families feel welcome when entering the school. We are pleased to provide information about our school and community, to make introductions and to maintain collaborative communications.
Clear expectations for student behaviour are important elements of school life. These are clearly outlined in the School Code of Conduct, found in the agenda of every student. Our school operates under the premise of progressive discipline and restorative justice, where opportunities for learning and improvement are at the forefront of our approach. General guidelines for student deportment are presented to the students in a variety of formats including at student assemblies, in newsletters, through announcements, and during classroom discussions. Regular review and reinforcement takes place throughout the year.
A full range of extra and co-curricular activities are available to the students. For those with an artistic bent there are musicals, drama and choirs. The chess, W5H, and Homework clubs provide an excellent opportunity for students talented in these areas to develop and hone their interests. House leagues offer good fun, sportsmanship, friendly competition and plenty of opportunity to participate.
At St. Bede Catholic School all staff and students learn, play and live by a yearly theme that helps to guide our actions as we strive to grow closer to God. In 2008/2009, our theme was “Lead by Example” and in 2009/2010 our theme was “Make a Difference”. This year 2010/2011 our school theme is “Be the Change” and we strive to model ourselves after our ultimate example in Jesus Christ, who lead by example in all He did, making a difference each step of the way as He fostered change in the world that formed the crux of who we are.
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