How We Meet the Diverse Needs of Our Students

A Catholic environment permeates the daily life of the school. Formal religious instruction occurs daily. Beyond this, dignity and respect for each other is fostered in ongoing interactions.

The school responds to the varying needs of students (i.e. intellectual, spiritual, physical, emotional, social, in the following ways:

• incorporation of gospel values into the daily life of the students;
• a focus on maintaining a safe, welcoming school environment through a positive behaviour code;
• peer mediation, conflict resolution and guidance programs, and a safe arrival program;
• Instrumental music program, strings and ukulele;
• an outstanding vocal music program;
• an extensive co-curricular and extra curricular program such as choir, swim team, hockey team, soccer, volleyball, basketball, flag football, chess club, W5H, house leagues, etc.;
• participation in Toronto Catholic District School Board inter-school sports events;
• an effective homework policy that supports academic growth;
• an active group of parent volunteers whose work supports students and teachers;
• host school placement for students at the Faculty of Education, University of Toronto;
• effective communication through school and classroom newsletters, student agendas, curriculum evening, school performances;
• modified programs; use of computers to facilitate writing; open ended activities to meet varying learning styles cross-peer tutoring;
• alternate programs (gifted program, resource room)
• strong technology supports:  netbooks in intermediate classes, computer lab, computers and smart boards in all classrooms
•  the curriculum is enriched for all students through a variety of educational excursions including: overnight stays for the intermediate division, artist-in the-school programs, theatrical experiences etc.

At St. Denis Catholic School we continue to develop and promote initiatives to ensure a high level of success for students in literacy and numeracy which include:

• direct instruction in phonics, grammar, spelling and reading strategies as well as reading and writing buddies and daily reading;
• a primary grade book bag program which promotes shared reading;
• the use of the arts and computer technology to enhance reading and writing skills;
• increased direct instruction time in math.

Enrollment

297

Principal

Robert D’Addario