J. Addison School is marking a milestone anniversary this year, with a plan for growth that includes new partnerships, an expanded athletics program, and a larger campus. This November, the private boarding and day school in Markham will hold celebrations for its 15th anniversary. Since it was first established in 2002, the school has earned a reputation for academic excellence, anchored by a caring and dedicated staff.
“What sets us apart from other private schools is that we have a unique teaching staff with great strategies to help students become successful,” says Lee Venditti, principal at J. Addison School. “When we look at our record over the years, almost 100 per cent of our students go to university, and they are successful in their university studies.”
J. Addison School’s campus sits about 30 minutes north of Toronto, with spacious dormitories, state-of-the-art facilities and welcoming classrooms. The school is home to international students from a variety of countries: China, the Middle East, Latin America, Nigeria, Brazil, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Russia. The multicultural nature of the school, notes the school’s principal, provides an opportunity for local students to meet young people from around the world. The inclusive environment encourages compassion, integrity, innovation, and leadership.
The coeducational school is recognized both in Canada and abroad for providing an exceptional learning experience from pre-school to grade 12. Administrators have adopted the Montessori method for its youngest learners from ages 3 to 6. Certified Montessori teachers understand the remarkable potential of young minds and emphasize learning through experience, and interaction with the environment. They build a solid academic foundation in classes that encourage creativity, and intellectual development.
Students in elementary and secondary classes follow the Ontario Ministry of Education Curriculum with an enriched program of study. The school’s teachers and counsellors are committed to helping each student reach their potential, with personalized learning plans and a range of academic supports. There is also extensive English-language (ESL) instruction, and regular tutoring sessions to help students overcome challenges, and stay on track. Custom programs designed by the school, such as the Focus for Success® program initiative, help students achieve and often surpass their academic goals.
“A lot of private schools only take the best students,” Venditti says, noting his school’s admission process is not exclusively based on academic standing. “We don’t just take students who have high marks. As long as we get a student who is willing to work hard and try, it is amazing how well they can do. We want to make sure everyone gets a chance.”
While the school is recognized for its strong academic performance, students are encouraged to develop a well-rounded education outside of the classroom. A number of extracurricular activities are available on campus, including travel opportunities, arts, leadership camps, and community fundraisers such as the Terry Fox Run.
The school has also augmented its sports program this year, with a number of new athletic teams and a second gymnasium in the works. There is a lot of buzz around the launch of J. Addison School elite girls’ basketball team. Administrators have brought in a new Director of Athletics, veteran coach Chris Francis, to guide the team. He has recruited a number of exceptional athletes, all of whom have been offered scholarships. The girls’ team is already blazing a trail in its division and is generating a lot of excitement.
Also this year, J. Addison School entered into a partnership with York University, one of Canada’s top post-secondary institutions. York University will now offer recruitment sessions at J. Addison Campus, which will include English-language testing. The university has also offered three $5,000 scholarships exclusively for graduating J. Addison School students, in addition to other university entrance scholarships.
J. Addison School has grown to become a top name in education, where students are encouraged to discover their passions and pursue post-secondary studies. Graduating students describe J. Addison as “a truly amazing school,” and one that provides a “life-changing” experience. The 15th anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the school and its students, while looking ahead to new growth and opportunities.
To learn more about J. Addison School visit jaddisonschool.com
Originally posted here: http://nationalpost.com/life/focus-on-the-students
This story was created by Content Works, Postmedia’s commercial content division, on behalf of J. Addison School
