AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Rockway Mennonite Collegiate vs. Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E.

one-to-one comparison:

View Rockway Mennonite Collegiate's full report
VS.
View Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E.'s full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    110 Doon Road, Kitchener, Ontario, N2G 3C8, Canada

    12 Bond Crescent, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4E 3K2, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1945

    1993

    Enrolment

    327

    300

    Grades

    7 to 12

    1 to 8

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day, Homestay

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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."
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

    Standard-enriched
    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.
    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

    Academic culture

    Rigorous
    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”.
    Rigorous
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    15 to 24

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $18,400 to $26,950

    $18,500

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    25%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    7 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $3,000

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    55

    38

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    90%

    75%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    Yes: grades 1 - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    information not available

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    In some ways, Rockway was born out of a pacifist impulse, established by Swiss Mennonites who were concerned about the military tenor that seeped into the public school system leading up to and during WWII. Times of course have changed, though the foundational principles remain, as well as the values that lay behind them: compassion, understanding, and an open mind to the experiences and perspectives of others. If all you knew about the school was its name, a closer look would reveal a lot of surprises. The school has a robust international program, welcoming students from around the world as well as an extensive exchange program. The curriculum is taught through a Mennonite lens, while also partnering with a local Muslim school, and creating regular opportunities for students to interact with local Jewish, Hindu, and Sikh communities. It’s a unique school, to be sure, which is exactly why families, both within and without the Mennonite community, enroll their children here.

    View full report

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    The PACE program was developed with gifted students in mind, based in an understanding of what they share—overall ability—as well as what they don't, such as specific talents, interests, and curiosities. The term of art is differentiated programming, though it's a term that can easily lend itself to misunderstanding. It doesn't mean that different students proceed through the curricula at different rates or are each given separate tasks based on their individual abilities. Rather, within a differentiated program all students proceed at the same pace through the material, while instructors provide multiple entry points that address the needs of individual students within the class. The ideal student is one who has been identified as gifted, and who requires challenge in order to succeed in academic work.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    information not available

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    "he administration and teaching staff truly want all students to succeed to their highest potential."
    Melanie Maresch - Parent   (Mar 09, 2023)
    Both of our kids love the culture and environment at PACE. They have many close friendships that hav... View full review

    "It offers a challenging, yet well-balanced curriculum in every grade."
    Yuliya M - Parent   (Mar 13, 2023)
    Our daughter's experience at the Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E. has been rewarding. She has ... View full review

    "The quality of teaching at PACE has always surpassed our expectations."
    Raminder Juneja - Parent   (Mar 22, 2023)
    Both of our children have had wonderful experiences at PACE. The collaborative, supportive learning ... View full review

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Dear Parents,

    Thank you for considering Rockway Mennonite Collegiate. I believe that we offer one of the best overall middle and secondary school experiences available in our region, with opportunities for personal growth and learning that are unique to our school community. If you visit Rockway, interact with our students, meet our teachers, or talk with our alumni, you will learn how deeply connected people feel to this place. Rockway provides exceptional learning opportunities in a setting where faculty and staff are committed to creating a a sense of belonging and purpose. We seek to educate and develop young people who respect one another and who understand their role as contributing global citizens.

    Rockway is, first and foremost, an outstanding school with a robust academic program. Well over ninety percent of our students go on to universities and colleges in their program of choice. We offer small classes designed to reach students of diverse learning styles,  taught by a remarkable team of dedicated teachers. Our students are deeply involved in the life of our school. As you will see throughout this website, our small size is a huge asset, and it offers us great flexibility in developing and delivering a rich, creative program that addresses the academic, athletic, artistic, social and spiritual needs of our student body in an affirming learning environment.

    Rockway is a Mennonite school, and approximately half our students have personal connections to that faith tradition. Ours is a religious tradition concerned with putting its values into action through service and peacemaking, with an awareness of our obligations to one another in community, and to discerning together what makes for a just and compassionate world. We welcome students from diverse backgrounds and appreciate the richness that this diversity brings to our classrooms and our school.

    As a Mennonite school, Rockway welcomes students and families of all walks of faith and appreciates the richness that this diversity brings to our classrooms and our school community. Approximately half of our families have a personal connection to the Mennonite church.  Ours is a faith committed to putting its values into action through service and peacemaking, with an awareness of our obligations to one another in community and, to discerning together, what makes for a just and compassionate world. 

    Rockway students grade ready to pursue their dreams, eager to make a difference, and prepared for life's challenges.  If you have any questions about what Rockway has to offer your child, please contact us. 

    Elaine Ranney, Principal

    My journey at P.A.C.E. began in 1999 and in 2019 I was delighted to assume the role of Director/Principal. The most rewarding part of my job is interacting with the students. They are fun loving, witty and demonstrate an intellectual curiosity that is any educator's dream. The energy level in the building is very high, the questioning by the students is incessant, and there are a lot of laughs. The skills for succeeding at P.A.C.E., whether in the role of teacher or student, are the same: a love of learning, high motivation, an excellent work ethic and a sense of humour. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by excellent teachers and a strong administrative staff: Liana, the Assistant to the Director; our Vice Principals, Caroline Corbit and Joanne Abela; and our Administrative Assistant, Irina. Every September we look forward to yet another passionate and exciting year for all.

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      Information not available

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      Rockway Mennonite Collegiate forms faith and builds character in an academic environment for students who work hard, respect the values of the community, and are open to guidance and instruction that will enable them to become responsible, globally minded, compassionate and reflective citizens of our community and world. Families of Rockway students commit themselves to collaborative relationships between home and school that foster the best possible learning outcomes. Students who thrive at Rockway immerse themselves in our rich and diverse range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, and make positive contributions to the classroom, sports, chapel and the arts.

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      P.A.C.E. is a magnet school for students who have been identified as intellectually gifted by means of a psycho-educational assessment. The curriculum is differentiated through various methodologies and strategies i.e. compacting, identifying learning styles, creative problem solving, acceleration, inquiry-based learning, addressing the critical thinking skills, sophisticated field studies, greater depth and breadth of instruction, etc. in order to meet the special needs and characteristics of gifted kids. Our courses reflect high powered learning experiences for our gifted learners, including pre-AP courses offered in grade 8. To address the needs of the whole child, wonderful Fine Arts, Athletic, and Co-Instructional Programs complement our strong academic program. There is something truly special about being surrounded by people passionate about everything they do.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Rockway offers a full slate of academic and applied course options as set out by the ministry of education for Ontario. At the present time we do not offer the college technology math courses. The students are exposed to a variety of learning opportunities within the courses as well as the opportunity to participate in a variety of contests. A combination of direct instruction and inquiry based learning are used in all of the courses. In the grades 9 and 10 courses we have employed the use of video to provide the content and have the students do the practice in class in the presence of their teacher. This allows the student to move at a pace that is appropriate to their individual needs. Students who successfully complete an academic program of studies in Mathematics at Rockway are well prepared for the expectations of university and college mathematics programs.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        P.A.C.E. is a blend of old and new, allowing for the mastery of basic skills while creating exciting new initiatives in how to learn mathematics. It's not all about numerical operations but the understanding of mathematical concepts and the application of mathematics to real world experiences.


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        A number of different textbooks are used at the high school level. But, most importantly, we create Resources Booklets for our students which allows us to draw from many different sources.


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        To foster the development of mental math students in grades 1-6 do not use calculators. Starting in grade 7 calculators are used for basic computational skills. Graphing calculators are taught and used in grades 8- 12, but only scientific calculators (without graphing capabilities) are used for evaluations.

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Not applicable


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Not applicable

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Children entering in to grade 1 are reading at various levels; from one or two sentences with pictures, to chapter books. Therefore, often there are 2 or 3 reading groups each with different reading assignments. Typically, by January, all of the children have reached a comparable level in their reading fluency but not necessarily in their reading comprehension. By the end of grade one all of the children are reading the same novels.

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        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.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Students at Rockway have the opportunity to study biology, physics, chemistry and environmental science. Rockway science courses are based on the Ontario Science Curriculum. These courses are taught through exploration of scientific theory and application. This is accomplished with a balance of inquiry-based investigations and teacher-led activities to build a solid foundation in scientific theory. Through the study of science at Rockway, students are challenged to relate science to technology, society and the environment, as well as to foster habits required for scientific inquiry in university and beyond. Rockway has collaborated with local universities to expose students to post-secondary opportunities in science. Rockway students in grades 11 and 12 have the opportunity to explore biology and environmental science through our Costa Rica Eco-Adventure where students learn about the unique forest and marine ecosystems in a tropical climate.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        A variety of methodologies work best with our students. It is very important for our students to be exposed to the expert, to work effectively with their peers, and to creatively design their own scientific experiments.


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Zoology

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Equal Balance


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        The English curriculum is dedicated to developing strong, core competencies in listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing and representing. It integrates studies in literature (all genres from various periods) with communication (written structures and oral expression of learning) as well as functional language studies. Much of our English curriculum is literature based, meaning that our teaching and exploration of the skills of the English discipline are centred around and spring from the study of carefully selected classic and modern complete works of literature, including Canadian, Canadian Indigenous, American, British and international authors. In addition to the intensive study of literature, we include independent study of novels selected by students, with guidance and the study of poetry. Rockway’s library has an extensive, vital and up to date collection of literature and we promote a reading culture by initiating programs to help students select good works to read independently.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Literature comes alive through multiple interpretations and rich performance tasks that include choral speaking, debates, trials, videos, music and drama.


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Not applicable


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Not applicable

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Through our broad-based issues and themes, students learn in a very holistic manner as opposed to learning content and facts in isolation. The exploration of the dynamic activities enhance the critical thinking skills and students learn how to apply, analyze and evaluate information. It is through these theme based assignments that our younger students learn to hone their research skills - both through written report and oral presentation.

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Equal Balance


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        All students must take Grade 9 Geography (Canadian) and Grade 10 History (20th Century Canadian). In the senior years, there is a wide variety of courses from which they may choose. They include: World Religions (Gr. 11), Ancient History (Gr. 11), Media Studies (Gr. 11), Introduction to Social Science (Gr. 11), Society, Challenge and Change (Gr. 12), World Issues (Gr. 12), Philosophy 12 (Gr. 12), World History: 1500-Present (Gr. 12). Through this wide offering of courses, students learn a lot about their world and their place in it. They will learn to consider a variety of worldviews, to set aside their own ideas for a brief period of time, and consider the world and its history from multiple perspectives. This helps prepare them to engage our contemporary world. Through these courses, students also refine their reading, writing and critical-thinking skills in preparation for life and the next level of education.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Through our life skills course, civics, history, law, philosophy and classical civilization students develop their critical thinking skills through discussion, debate and analytical essay writing. Students enjoy discussing BIG IDEAS while respecting the opinions of their peers in a safe and open learning environment. Application to real life experiences remains an important aspect of any social science or humanities course.

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Equal Balance


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Students at Rockway have opportunity to study two principal second-languages: French in grades 7-12 and German in grades 10-12. These programs provide for a balanced development of skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing within the framework of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction. Second-language learning at Rockway is a unique discipline in that it naturally integrates the development of academic skills, attitudes of openness and respect, and marketable career skills. Through the study of French, students gain an understanding of and appreciation for a pan-Canadian scope - a mutual understanding among both language groups in our officially bilingual country. Exchange: Students in grades 11 and 12 have the exceptional opportunity to participate in the language-based Rockway/Weierhof Exchange program. This 17 day exchange greatly enhances the students’ cultural understanding, fluency and comprehension in the target languages.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        The acquisition of French as a second language includes the concrete sequential mode of learning as well as interactive group work. Our French Language program addresses the four components: Listening Comprehension, Reading Comprehension, Written and Oral Expression. Students study French cultural and language heritage as well as the constructs of formal grammar.


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Medium integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        While technology is integrated into all of our course work, Rockway\'s Computer Studies courses provide a distinct opportunity for students to explore modern digital technology and its application with an in-depth focus. To meet the needs of a diverse student body, our courses are balanced between business applications, communication technology and computer programming. Students from grades 7 - 12 are challenged to work across multiple platforms and languages, with a range of current computer applications. Courses aim to balance hands-on hardware exploration with more conceptual problem solving skill building. As a school that values community, we regularly examine ethical considerations around technology and are intentional about prioritizing face-to-face relationships despite offering a high-tech learning environment.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        All students use personally owned devices to enhance learning experiences and opportunities in various disciplines throughout the regular school day. Robotics plays a very large role in our technology program and the instruction of coding begins in grade four.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

        Students at Rockway have significant activity time built into the school day. Grades 7&8 have 210 minutes per week of physical education, while grade 9’s have 215 minutes per week. Grade 10\'s have the opportunity to take physical education all year on an alternating daily basis (175 min/week). These courses include livefit, powerfit, and regular classes. Gr 11 is a semestered lifestyle activity course while gr 12 is a science based kinesiology course with a significant fitness component. Courses are structured to support interschool athletics with active movement units preparing students to tryout for school teams. This supports physical literacy and skill development while increasing confidence to participate in extracurricular activities. Health is taught from a lifelong, inter-relational, balanced, and overall perspective. We begin with mental wellness as a core and examine how it relates to fitness, nutrition, safety, sexuality, growth and development, substance use and abuse, sleep and community.

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        The development of a healthy mind and body is critical to success.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      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”.

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      Secondary

      Secondary

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

      At Rockway, we help shape students through a rigorous academic environment and strong community atmosphere that creates responsible, globally minded, compassionate and reflective citizens for our community and the world. We immerse students in our rich and diverse range of academic and extracurricular activities which facilitates them making positive contributions in the classroom, sports, chapel and the arts.

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Addressing the needs of gifted children through a well balanced education that attends to the cognitive as well as social emotional needs of the children allows for us to groom good people who will be productive citizens in society.

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    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.
    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.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Extra support

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    Information not available

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    In Rockway’s Learning Resource Centre, students learn to develop the strategies they need for academic progress through high school and beyond. Learning Resource Centre staff work collaboratively with teachers, parents and professionals to help students build literacy, math, problem-solving and organizational skills. We actively pursue professional development opportunities, combining classroom experience with current education research and knowledge, for effective student support.

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    P.A.C.E. is able to provide limited accommodations for students with learning disabilities i.e. extra time on tests and exams.

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    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

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    • 2022 OFSAA Boys Volleyball Silver Medalists
    • 2022 FIRST Robotics Competition Winner - St. Mary CSS Event
    • 1995 OFSAA Boys Volleyball Champions
    • 2000 OFSAA Boys Volleyball Champions
    • 2005 OFSAA Boys Basketball Champions
    • 2008 OFSAA Girls Basketball Champions
    • 2020 FIRST Robotics Competition Winner - Durham College Event

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    • Our students participate in many extracurricular competitions, most notably in drama and improv, robotics, reach for the top, model UN, chess and athletics.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    25%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $3,000

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    90%

    75%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    Yes: grades 1 - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    i. Rockway Mennonite Collegiate is for grade 7-12 students of all faith and cultural backgrounds who want to belong to an academic community that thrives within a Mennonite tradition of peaceful conflict resolution. Rockway Mennonite Collegiate forms faith and builds character in an academic environment for students who will work hard, respect the values of the community, and be open to the guidance and instruction that will enable them to become responsible, globally minded, compassionate and reflective citizens of our community and world. Families of Rockway students commit themselves to collaborative relationships between home and school that foster the best possible learning outcomes. Students who thrive at Rockway immerse themselves in our rich and diverse range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, and make positive contributions to the classroom, sports, chapel, and the arts.

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    The first critierion for P.A.C.E. is that the student is identified as intellectual gifted. We are looking for bright individuals who are passionate about learning and are productive citizens within the school.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE

    To apply for admission to Rockway:

    • Fill out the Connect with Rockway Inquiry Form to create your admissions account with Rockway.
    • Fill out application found on the Admissions Checklist and pay the $200 application fee.
    • Collect the following information:
      • student’s report cards from the past two years
      • student's IEP and psychoeducational assessment (if applicable)
      • email contact information for two teacher references

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    All students are required to have a psycho-educational assessment (WISC V).  If the student scores in the 95th percentile or higher in verbal reasoning and visual perception, on paper, that child would qualify for P.A.C.E.  The next step would be to have a meeting with the family and for the student to visit for the day. Feedback regarding the child's visit is provided. 

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Carl Zehr (1964)
    Former Mayor of City of Kitchener
    Brad Schlegel (1986)
    Professional Hockey Player and Business Leader
    Kristen Booth (1993)
    Professional Actress
    information not available

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ROCKWAY MENNONITE COLLEGIATE:
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