4900 Tomken Road, Mississauga, Ontario, L4W 1J8, Canada
10 Rosehill Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4T 1G5, Canada
1996
1993
300
113
Nursery/Toddler to 8
JK to 12
Coed
Girls
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Montessori
Progressive
Varies
10 to 12
Learning, Developmental
Learning, Developmental
In-class adaptations
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$10,500 to $16,350
$26,050 to $33,350
No
Yes
0%
20%
None
JK to 12
$0
$6,000
23
8
0%
0%
99%
80%
Nursery/Toddler, Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 12, 2022
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 1 - 8
Yes: grades JK - 12
No
No
information not available
information not available
Northstar isn’t your average Montessori school, in part because of its size—with an annual student population of 300, it’s a fair bit larger than the average—as well as its resources. The school was founded in 1996, though has grown its programs considerably in the intervening decades. There are some things that understandably stand out, such as the training pool, which is a recent addition, though they only underscore a more general awareness of the broad range of programming and facilities throughout the school. There are lots of bells and whistles, all of them welcome, though the core program is here too, with a fidelity to the Montessori method as demonstrated through CCMA accreditation. The program is offered from preschool through Grade 8, allowing families a consistency of approach and experience through the primary and elementary years.
View full reportAll schools, to some extent, defy the various stereotypes that the general population might have about private education. Still, the Linden School is a particularly stark example of that. Founded by Diane Goudie and Eleanor Moore in 1993, the school was intended as a needed and necessary alternative to what was happening in public schools, as well as other private institutions. Goudie had butt heads with other educators by demanding that education be based in a sense of equity, especially as girls and women are concerned. The Linden School is the result, and today it does exactly what Goudie and Moore hoped it would: provide an example of a school for girls that will make a difference in the students' lives and, in turn, encourage them to make a positive difference in the lives of others. The goal, as Moore said at an address at York University, is to educate each student to "to speak with courage--[to] be credible, find a community, listen for all voices, change structures, be a leader and above all make a difference." Since they founded the school, Goudie and Moore have lead by example, earning honorary doctorate of law degrees from York University in recognition of their leadership in the field of education. On receiving the doctorate, Goudie addressed the convocation saying "Ask yourselves the tough questions: What do you want to achieve beyond your paycheque? What are you prepared to risk in order to make a difference in your communities or in the global community?" Those are, of course, very tough questions, and the Linden School is structured around them. For the wrong student, it could be overwhelming. For the right student, it can provide a very strong foundation for a lifetime of engagement, leadership, and success.
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An emphasis on community
Caitlin O'Leary - Parent (Jan 23, 2018)
My daughter is very bright, engaged and articulate, but she's also very reserved and shy. She was i...
View full review
"...the girls are encouraged to develop their passions and to voice their own opinions,"
Roseanne Carrara - Parent (Mar 09, 2018)
My daughter came to Linden from an overcrowded Toronto Catholic District School Board classroom wher...
View full review
"Northstar Montessori is committed to providing students an experience where they are limitless in their academic and personal growth. The learning of life virtues and positive characterization is fundamental! We provide programs from Toddler up to Middle School. We encourage interaction between all ages to strengthen the understanding of community. Additional specialty rooms, play area, spacious indoor gym with climbing wall and a salt-water swimming pool, make our school complete! Call us for a tour!"
"Since 1993, Linden’s holistic approach to instilling academic excellence, intersectional thinking, leadership, diversity and inclusion has given students a strong foundation with critical-thinking skills essential for success in today's complex world. Enriched small classes foster student-teacher engagement and love for learning. Students enjoy programs in technology, outdoor ed, multimedia, art, drama, music, athletics and more, taught by highly-regarded specialist faculty. Grads enjoy 100% university acceptance."
"A Montessori school should be able to offer a proper Montessori education, and by being accredited, it reassures parents that their child is receiving just that. The size of the school matters as well and with up to 300 students, you feel a greater sense of community. In addition, families with two or more children, are able to bring all of them to our school as we serve from toddler to junior high. The facility also includes a gym, pool, specialty rooms for art, music, french and computers."
"Founded in 1993, Linden is a values-driven independent K-12 school for girls and non-binary students. We are the only school in Canada specifically created to incorporate research-based, innovative, experiential programs for diverse students. Our small and supportive community uses a social justice and interdisciplinary lens to inspire and engage students. Thanks to our award-winning teachers and transformational teaching practices, we are building Canada's best socially progressive school."
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"Northstar Montessori has grown from 2 classrooms to 14 classrooms over the last 25 years. It is one of the largest Montessori schools in Mississauga and is accredited by the Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators, also known as CCMA. Our philosophy in education is to provide unlimited experiences so children are more adept in their daily lives and eventually contribute to society. New families enroll at our school mainly because of word of mouth and the ages we are able to accommodate."
"Families chose Linden for the palpable feeling of community, for the innovative approach to providing an enriched, hands-on curriculum, for the small size, and for the high calibre of faculty. “Many schools talk about the ways in which their students find themselves, but in my opinion, Linden delivers this, time and time again. Girls truly do find their voice at Linden.” –Grade 8 Parent"
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"When parents visit our school, they are usually surprised by the educational materials used by students. Parents wonder why it differs from other child care centres. The simple answer is this, the materials used were tried and tested and later developed by Dr. Maria Montessori over 100 years ago based on careful observations she made with children at each stage of their life. These sensory-engaging materials, experiences and the philosophy of following the child are the hallmark of Montessori!"
"We offer a unique athletics program where all students are welcome to participate in a variety of teams—there are no tryouts or “cuts” made since we believe that everyone can be an athlete. Our sports teams are very competitive and make it to the playoff rounds in almost every tournament and league sport, often winning medals and banners!"
"The most surprising feature about our school is our all-season indoor pool. This is part of the physical education program and students ages 3 1/2 to 12yrs are provided swim lessons. Another feature our school has is a climbing wall. Overcoming the fear of heights is challenging but when taught with other same-aged students, the fear is minimized and the student will most likely take part in it. We also have a low staff turnover ratio, providing your child consistency throughout their education."
"Our faculty are highly regarded for their responsive, transformational teaching that inspires the next generation of high-achieving changemakers. We care less about tradition and more about the future. We prioritize what matters most to our students and our inclusive community celebrates equity and diversity."
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We, at Northstar Montessori, take very seriously our responsibility to guide each child through a world of discovery on the path to constructing a secure, balanced personality with an active, competent mind. The happy balance of freedom to explore and work within a prepared, orderly environment, filled with specially designed mind-engaging sensorial materials and activities, is the hallmark of our school. The teacher’s role is to respect the freedom of each child to forge his or her own unique path of learning and personal growth, energized by his or her natural curiosity. We are committed to inspire and encourage each child to take in hand a wealth of activities and experiences to ensure successful development.
At Northstar Montessori we are committed to promoting the individuality of all our students and we aim to be an inclusive school. We endeavor to teach our students to appreciate, respect and value the differences they see in one another. We offer equal opportunities for participation and learning for all our students and will ensure that they feel secure in knowing that their contributions to the school are valued. Northstar Montessori is committed to the teachings of Maria Montessori and the Montessori curriculum. However we do not limit our approach and we encourage all members of the teaching team and administration to pursue professional development opportunities that will enhance their abilities and understanding of the students and their developmental needs. Workshops and conferences are promoted within the school that we believe will benefit our staff in their practice. We ensure an environment that allows for a range of different learning styles and where all children have challenging targets that enable them to succeed.
Founded in 1993, Linden is a values-driven independent K-12 school for girls and non-binary students. We are the only school in Canada specifically created to incorporate research-based, innovative, experiential programs for diverse students. Our small and supportive community uses a social justice and interdisciplinary lens to inspire and engage students. Thanks to our award-winning STEM teachers and transformational teaching practices, we are building Canada’s best socially progressive school.
Linden’s small class sizes allow for more teacher-student engagement and a strong sense of community across all grades. Linden’s exceptional physical education program with a no “try-outs” policy fosters confidence, teamwork and resilience in our students. Above all, we strive to instill a life-long love of outdoor activity in girls, whether through team sports, camping or STEM and art classes by the nearby ravine.
At Linden, we nurture civic engagement, leadership and community-building through a range of experiential learning projects, from environmental stewardship to media arts and citizen journalism. Even the youngest members of our community know that they have the power to create change and make a difference in their communities.
It is a joy to stay connected with our alumnae and hear about their exciting careers in a range of professions — engineering, computer science, performing arts, international development, and law, to name a few.
Learn more by exploring our website and joining us at our upcoming open house events.
Progressive
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Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
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We, at Northstar Montessori, take very seriously our responsibility to guide each child through a world of discovery on the path to constructing a secure, balanced personality with an active, competent mind. The happy balance of freedom to explore and work within a prepared, orderly environment, filled with specially designed, mind-engaging sensorial materials and activities, is the hallmark of our school. The classroom allows for the freedom of movement and for the development of a positive work cycle by allowing the students to choose their activities and to participate with them without interruption. Teachers prepare lesson plans as a guide to ensure that the students are participating in all areas of the class, however they remain flexible and respectful of the child’s need to make choices and decisions in their daily activities. The function of our school is to augment the development of each child – intellectually, socially, emotionally, spiritually and physically so that the child may emerge as a well-rounded independent adult.
We are the only school in Canada specifically created to incorporate innovative research on girls’ educational needs. Our speciality is applying feminist pedagogy through a social justice and interdisciplinary lens to inspire and engage girls. We balance the Ontario Ministry of Education requirements with best practices in girls’ education. Research supports what we know from experience—that girls thrive academically and socially in single-sex environments. Girls are more engaged in their studies when they are empowered to ask questions, debate with each other and their teachers, collaborate in groups, and analyze their course material with a critical lens. This is why we supplement the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum by enriching our courses with relevant and interdisciplinary topics that girls find more meaningful and engaging.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
The Montessori approach to Math involves providing the students with a physical and concrete experience of mathematical concepts and then moving toward the abstract understanding of concepts and the memorization of Math facts. Students will be initially be introduced to counting and number recognition and then move toward the understanding of the place value of numbers and the formation of 4 digit numbers. Once the students have mastered these concepts they will be introduced to the operations of Math. Areas of study in the Elementary Math curriculum include, the further understanding and memorization of Math facts, Geometry, Fractions and Algebra (program dependent). Our goal is to have students truly understand the process involved in completing their Math work.
Math specialists teach our elementary students as well as high school students. All Linden students select math in high school and a majority of our alumnae select STEM subjects in their post-secondary studies. Our teachers inspire students to exceed their academic expectations; students who come to Linden and have feared math in the past end up excelling in the subject and taking more than the necessary number of math courses in high school. We excel in connecting students' learning with finding solutions to real-world problems facing their local and global communities.
Nelson Mathematics\nMath Makes Sense
Our program draws from diverse resources based on current research and the needs of our students.
Although there are sometimes rich learning opportunities using calculators, students in Grades 1-8 usually perform calculations without calculators. Students with math-based exceptionalities may use calculators. High school students use calculators for most math-based problem solving.
Balanced Literacy
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
The Montessori Language program is phonetically based. Students are introduced to the phonetic sounds of letters through tracing the Sandpaper Letters; where in addition to hearing the sound they are experiencing the letter formation (early writing). Once a student has masters 10 to 12 sounds they will be introduced to a variety of early reading materials including word building, phonetic reading lists and eventually readers. Student will progress at their own pace and with guidance from their teachers. Through repetition and daily reading students will gain total reading, which involves reading with comprehension.
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No
Based on small class sizes that allow deep understanding of individual student needs, we use a variety of assessments.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Students are introduced to penmanship initially with the formation of cursive letters on a chalk board then on a lined paper. Students are encouraged to write words and then sentences. Phonetic word writing is encouraged initially and then a move toward correct spelling and sentence structure is made through various lessons.
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Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
The Science/Culture curriculum includes the study of animals, their habitats, fundamental needs, external and internal construction, classification and characteristics. The students will learn to appreciate the unique traits of living things and their value and purpose on earth in helping to create a harmonized eco-system and life cycle. The students are also introduced to the characteristics and importance of plants through science experiments and plant study. They are also made aware of their role in ensuring that the environment is sustained for generations to come. Elementary students also participate in science experiments and an annual Science Fair.
We know that engaging girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) from an early age directly influences their choice of post-secondary education and career paths. Girls who have confidence in their ability in these fields are more likely to perform well in math and science courses. Improving girls’ belief in their abilities is essential as they move from elementary school into middle and high school. Girls are more engaged when taught math and science concepts in the context of real-world phenomena, using real materials to make connections between mathematic and scientific theory, technology, and their everyday lives. This is why even our youngest students conduct experiments in our science lab, participate in math fairs, and learn computer programming. As a result of our engaging pedagogical approach to STEM subjects, every Linden high school student chooses more than the required number of courses in math and science.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Students are exposed to a variety of literature throughout their time in the Elementary program. They read through classic novels and participate in novel studies where the story lines and characters are examined closely, Current literature and articles are also examined and analysed as students are encouraged to gain an understanding of current events.
Research shows that learning improves when girls construct their own understanding of concepts by asking questions, and through discussion and experience rather than by memorizing rules or definitions. We offer a safe environment where our students are encouraged to influence class discussions, to take risks, and to ask questions without fear of failure. We encourage even our youngest students to pose challenging questions and to share their answers courageously. As a result, our students learn to love inquiry. Whether examining media or traditional curriculum materials, our girls ask, “Where is the girl or woman in this story? Who speaks? Who is spoken about? Who benefits? Who loses?” By encouraging students towards intellectual risk-taking and questioning the status quo, we go beyond traditional all-girls schools to incorporate the values of equity, diversity, and social responsibility within our curriculum.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Thematic
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
Our Social Studies/Culture curriculum includes History, Geography and world events study. We also include lessons designed for students to gain an understanding of themselves, their families and their communities. Cultural universals are also explored and may include topics such as Government and Schooling.
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Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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Communicative
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Creative
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
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We encourage creative experimentation and ensure that student artwork is exhibited and celebrated throughout the school on an ongoing basis. Students also become art appreciators and critics by being introduced to the major periods in art history. Linden’s music program teaches students not only to play music, but to analyze and appreciate it as well. Our small classes allow teachers to help each student with playing and singing. Once a girl becomes comfortable on stage, she becomes even more confident using her voice in all areas of her life. This is especially true for our drama program where developing confidence in one’s voice is a critical component. Girls perform and write a wide variety of pieces, including monologues, movement pieces and short plays, culminating in highly successful public performances.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
Students have computers as part of their academic year and begin in grade 1. By introducing them to various programs, it allows them to get familiar with the computer and eventually become comfortable as they move into their middle years. PC\'s are mainly used as it reflects the majority of users in the working world. Programs include Microsoft Office, web-based programs, MovieMaker and graphic programs. Aside from understanding the computer and using the programs, they are also shown basic design principles (font selection, margin allowance, white space, balance, flow). Middle school students begin to learn about photography and lighting and learn computer programming using Lego Robotics and 3D printing.
Bridging the Gender Gap in Computer-Related Fields: Girls and women continue to be under-represented in technology-related fields. Our program gives girls the encouragement, motivation, and skills needed to pursue opportunities in these areas. From the earliest grades, Linden girls are taught to use technology in safe, ethical, and creative ways, and are encouraged to view themselves as producers of technology, not just consumers or end users. Therefore, girls learn programming skills in each grade. We begin with basic logic that explains how computers “think,” and progress toward creating programs using user-friendly interfaces that allow girls to build code, and finally work toward text-based code (such as the Python language) in the middle years. Media literacy is also an important part of the computer studies program and students learn to use a variety of digital tools including word processing software, design and layout tools, spreadsheets, slide-shows, audio-editing software, and movie-making programs.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
The Montessori philosophy is still applied in the physical education program. Since students in each classroom have a 3yr mixed age range it is expected to see various degrees in their physical and social skills. By allowing the older students the opportunity to demonstrate for the younger ones, it increases their desire to participate even if their abilities are still developing. The younger ones are enthused with the effort and will apply the same effort. In addition, those that are not understanding clearly or have communication barriers, will use their observation skills to determine what needs to be done. Emphasis is on participation and working together.
Athletics at Linden is a well-rounded curriculum of physical education, health class, and daily physical activity. Our athletics program is recognized for innovative instruction and student engagement. Smiles, sweat, and self-confidence are the products of team training and phys-ed classes at Linden! Linden students have the opportunity to participate in sports such as soccer, ball hockey, basketball and track and field. Joining a sports team does not require tryouts. No one is cut from an after school sports team or judged on their beginning skill level. This unique environment allows students to improve their technique. Breeding self-esteem and a strong sense of self is our way of using sports to empower our students.
Play-based
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
Northstar Montessori delivers an authentic Montessori Curriculum, while meeting all requirements of the Ministry of Education. Included in the program are Music, Gym, French, Computer, Swimming and Skating classes (program dependent). As the students progress through the program, new experiences are added including camping and community involvement. Students also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities, including Chess Club, Yoga, Private Swimming Lessons and Tennis.
The Linden School offers a girl-centred, full-day Kindergarten program for children 5 years of age and up. Our program helps establish a strong foundation for learning in the early years within a safe and caring play and inquiry-based environment that promotes the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of all children. Our program consists of a balance of exploration and investigation, play, guided instruction, and explicit instruction. Inquiry-based learning allows children to actively participate in their own learning by asking questions and sharing ideas. To learn more, click here.
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Students are not limited by age as to the materials they are exposed too. The student\'s skills and abilities are assessed to determine if they are ready to move forward in the curriculum area.
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Rigorous
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
Northstar provides a supportive environment where students are involved in their leaning and assessments. Teachers consider the learning styles of their students as they deliver instruction. Students’ individual learning strengths and areas of concerns are discussed with students and we then set learning goals together. We communicate expectations and best practices with the students to ensure they are feeling supported and understand their assignments and how to achieve success. Remaining in the same classroom for 3 years, typically with the same teacher, encourages a bond of trust between teacher and student. In addition, Northstar celebrates students’ successes beyond the classroom, making students aware of their talents and abilities which will build a strong sense of self.
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"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Northstar’s goals are always to have each of their students reach their full potential. While we pride ourselves on the academic achievements of our students, we are fully aware that strong personal development must go hand-in-hand with in-class success. Building strong characters that are aware of their environments and the influences they have is key to supporting the development of solid citizens who will think beyond themselves and their needs. Strong character coupled with academic success ensures a well-rounded individual who is prepared to participate in their community and world.
The Globe and Mail recently featured an opinion piece by Associate Principal and STEM Curriculum Leader Beth Alexander, in which she discusses educating with and without screens, students' mental health post-pandemic, AI, and her STEM classroom which she describes as a "joyful mess"! You can read it here.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. |
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Accommodations
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Northstar Montessori will make every reasonable effort to ensure that its policies, practices and procedures are consistent with the principles of dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity by: • ensuring that all customers receive the same value and quality; • allowing customers with disabilities to do things in their own ways, at their own pace when accessing goods and services as long as this does not present a safety risk; • using alternative methods when possible to ensure that customers with disabilities have access to the same services, in the same place and in a similar manner; • taking into account individual needs when providing goods and services; and • communicating in a manner that takes into account the customer's disability.
The Linden School views accommodations for students as a partnership with families. We expect families to provide medical, social-emotional, and academic support outside of school as needed.
The function of our school is to augment the development of each child – intellectually, socially, emotionally, spiritually and physically so that the child may eventually emerge as a well-rounded independent adult. Students requiring supports outside of Northstar’s expertise will be supported through all avenues possible, including welcoming community partners and other professionals into the environment to help build a better understanding of the students’ learning needs. We will support both child and the family by meeting with all necessary persons to understand the child’s needs and to learn about and implement any individualized plans and accommodations that have been put forth.
We provide a variety of supports for students with many different learning needs according to their IEPs (Individual Education Plans). We are not currently able to modify the expectations of the Ontario curriculum. Although our teachers are trained in accommodating different needs, we do not offer withdrawal support to a specialized special education classroom. Our smaller class sizes allow teachers to help students overcome challenges through encouragement and greater attention in specific areas of need. Girls are encouraged to ask questions and are mentored to develop their own learning and coping strategies.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
JK - 12
0%
20%
$0
$6,000
99%
80%
Nursery/Toddler, Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 12, 2022
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 1 - 8
Yes: grades JK - 12
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
A child coming from another Montessori school would be able to transition in our school easier as they are familiar with how the class is set up, the materials and how to work with it.
We welcome girls and other gender minorities from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate intellectual curiosity as well as academic and personal potential. Students who are excited to learn, to share their ideas, and be active participants in our community thrive at Linden.
Generally when we assess a child, we mainly focus on their language and math skills.
Admissions Application Guide
Our admissions team will be happy to answer all your questions and show you everything Linden has to offer.
1. Explore Linden's Program by Booking a School Visit and Tour
Meet Linden students and faculty, and explore our program and philosophy with a personalized tour of the school. An admission application is not necessary for booking a school visit.
2. Apply
Admission for the 2022-2023 School Year: Mid-year admission is available in many grades! Please follow the requirements outlined below.
Admission for the 2023-2024 School Year: The deadline for admission applications is Monday, December 12, 2022. Applications received after this deadline will be considered on a rolling basis as space permits.
To Apply:
3. Interview & Assessment
4. Admission Offer
6. Experience Linden
Contact Us!
If you have a question about applying to Linden please get in touch: