1132 Fisher Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 6P7, Canada
1225 Rebecca Street, Oakville, Ontario, L6L 1Z1, CanadaIndirect Support:
1132 Fisher Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 6P7, Canada
1225 Rebecca Street, Oakville, Ontario, L6L 1Z1, Canada
5,528.8 km
5,702.4 km
1992
2013
425
25
JK to 8
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Liberal Arts
10 to 18
10 to 15
Learning
In-class adaptations
$23,550 to $25,950
$8,500
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
39
2
0%
0%
80%
0%
information not available
information not available
information not available
information not available
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
No
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
Turnbull was founded by Mary Ann Turnbull in 1992, guided by a commitment to Caring and Excellence. Its history, in a sense, dates back to the Turnbull Learning Centre, established in 1981. The Centre offered academic services, and Turnbull’s success there led to the creation of the school. The setting is idyllic. Since 1996, it has occupied a 5.5-acre parcel in the Central Experimental Farm area of Ottawa, a National Historic Site that is easily accessible from all parts of the city. The location is within Ottawa, yet retains a rural community feel, which itself is a draw for many families. The school has grown over the years and is a good size today, allowing for a nice breadth of programming while retaining a personal, community feel. As initially intended, the school's values—cooperation, character, and reasoned reflection—inform all its activities, fostering a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment for students and their families. Parental involvement in the school's life is welcomed, as is consistent and informal communication between families and school administration.
View full reportMater Boni Consilii Academy (MBCA) is the only private Catholic school in Halton Region. Founded in 2013, MBCA is a mission-driven community distinguished by the way it integrates intellectual, spiritual, human, and apostolic development with small class sizes. The school holds daily prayer, regular Mass, and sacramental life, which together create an environment where Catholic faith and academics are fully intertwined. Families choose MBCA for its combination of rigorous academics, intentional virtue formation, and personalized attention. The school is especially suited for families looking for a structured, values-based environment where faith is central and for students who flourish under close guidance and discipline.
View full reportinformation not available
"MBCA matched our expectations of being close-knit, Catholic, affordable, and deeply committed to raising boys and girls to become men and women of virtue."
Melissa AtLee - Parent (Sep 03, 2025)
Our children love the care and attention that they receive at MBCA. The small class sizes allow the ... View full review
"Enrolling your child at MBCA is more than simply sending them to school; it’s about embracing the vision and becoming part of a growing community."
David Borges - Parent (Oct 07, 2025)
Every day truly feels like a great day for my son at this school. He looks forward to learning and i... View full review
"Turnbull School is dedicated to academic excellence in a caring environment. Students benefit from highly qualified teachers, small class sizes, daily physical education, organization and study skills, enhanced French, award winning science, computer technology & robotics, dynamic music, visual arts and drama programs, intramural and extra-curricular sports, clubs and special events, in a modern facility. Our leadership and character development programs enhance the school culture of excellence and caring."
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy is the first and only JK to Grade 8 private Catholic school in the Halton Region. We offer a liberal arts curriculum rooted in Catholic tradition. Our education model of Integral Formation® provides context for students' academic achievement, linking their intellectual development to the growth of their spirit and character. Partnering with families, we guide students to become authentic Catholic leaders, developing habits of discipline, perseverance, and purpose to transform society."
"At Turnbull School, we focus on a well-rounded approach where children are not just exposed to a rigorous academic program, but also a strong focus to character development, study skills, arts and music, and athletics. We truly get to know our families and have a strong sense of community and belonging."
"At Mater Boni Consilii Academy, our Integral Formation® model blends rigorous academics with character and spiritual development. Students are taught to think deeply, communicate clearly, and engage the world through a coherent Catholic worldview. We serve families seeking a truly Catholic education—one that prioritizes academic excellence, personal virtue, and spiritual maturity. MBCA is ideal for students who flourish in a structured, values-based environment that supports both moral and intellectual growth. Our core values—to educate, to form, and to serve—are lived out daily through high academic standards, the cultivation of virtuous habits, and a vibrant Catholic culture. Guided by our motto, Semper Altius—Always Higher—we inspire students to pursue excellence in all areas of life, forming Christian leaders ready to transform the world."
"With our focus on providing a strong academic foundation, we do not have the resources to support serious academic and behavioural concerns. As a result, we are unable to accept applications for students with these profiles."
"As a growing school, MBCA makes intentional tradeoffs to remain faithful to its mission—choosing depth over breadth in these foundational years. Rather than offering a wide range of extracurriculars or modern electives, we currently focus on the mastery of core academic subjects, personal discipline, and deep spiritual formation. This approach supports our core values: to educate, to form, and to serve. While we plan to expand co-curricular offerings as the school grows, our present priorities include small class sizes, faculty trained in classical Catholic education, and a rich sacramental life—including daily prayer, regular Mass, and Confession. We invest in high-quality literature, the humanities, and meaningful family involvement to foster a cohesive and holistic educational environment. Though some broader program options are limited at this stage, every element is intentionally designed to nurture intellectual excellence, moral virtue, and a fully Catholic worldview."
"In 1996, Turnbull School moved from office space to its original, newly constructed and permanent home. In 2003, in order to meet growing demand and improve programming, the senior school was constructed which included a full-size, double gymnasium, science lab, and visual arts room. In the fall of 2019, a modern and fully equipped music hall was added to the school, which also included the renovation and updating of designated drama and visual arts rooms. More recently, in 2025, a STEM lab was added to the senior building for our coding and robotics program."
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy was founded in 2013 by a group of Catholic educators and families committed to restoring authentic Catholic education in Ontario. Born during a time of cultural and educational uncertainty, the school emerged as a response to growing concerns about the secularization of curriculum and the weakening of Catholic identity in many educational institutions. This founding moment continues to shape our mission: to offer a rigorous Catholic liberal arts education that integrates faith, reason, and virtue. A major milestone came with the adoption of the Integral Formation® model, which formalized our commitment to forming the whole person—intellectually, spiritually, humanly, and apostolically. Each year, MBCA has expanded in enrolment and grade levels, laying a foundation for future growth and witness to the desire for our mission. These early decisions continue to define our brand as a school committed to forming Christian leaders who live the motto Semper Altius."
"Well-rounded children with an open mind and willingness to learn, with average to above average learning profiles do very well at Turnbull School."
"Students who thrive at Mater Boni Consilii Academy are those who are curious, respectful, and eager to grow in a love for learning. They benefit most from a structured, values-based environment that prioritizes academic excellence, spiritual formation, and personal virtue. The school is an ideal fit for families who desire a deeply Catholic education rooted in tradition, and who see parents as the primary educators of their children. Families who value discipline, meaningful faith practice, and close collaboration with teachers will find MBCA’s approach especially rewarding. Students flourish when they are supported at home in living the faith, striving for high standards, and embracing the school’s mission to form Christian leaders who aim Semper Altius—Always Higher."
"We would advise families who have children with serious learning needs and/or behavioural issues to explore other school options."
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy may not suit families seeking robust extracurriculars, as programs are limited in its foundational years. It does not yet offer high school or the Ontario (OSSD) accreditation, so those prioritizing provincial curriculum alignment may find a mismatch. The school’s deeply Catholic identity—with daily prayer, weekly Mass, and sacramental life—may not appeal to those preferring a secular or multi-faith environment. There is no bus service or guaranteed before/after-care, which can be challenging for families needing extended hours or transportation. As a small, newly founded community, MBCA offers personal attention and parental involvement but lacks the scale and long-established systems of larger institutions. Families wanting large facilities, or long-standing schools may prefer other options."
"Over the years, parents have shared with us that they selected our school based on reputation, reliability, communication with families, and a warm, welcoming environment of caring and excellence."
"Families choose Mater Boni Consilii Academy for its deeply Catholic, holistic education rooted in the Integral Formation® approach—developing students intellectually, spiritually, humanly, and apostolically. They value daily prayer, sacramental life, and virtue formation woven into academics. Small class sizes allow personalized attention, enabling teachers to know each child well and support their growth. Parents appreciate the emphasis on forming Christian leaders through rigorous academics, moral character development, and service. As the only Catholic independent school in Halton, MBCA offers a unique option for those seeking a private, faith-based alternative. Families often prefer MBCA over other schools because it combines strong academics with intentional faith formation and a close-knit community—something they feel is missing in less mission-driven environments. The distinctive blend of faith, academic quality, and personal care is the school’s primary draw."
"Turnbull School is a highly regarded and a sought-after elementary school. Children are excited to come each day, and they return home happy."
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy is widely perceived as a small, mission-driven, independent Catholic school distinguished by its unwavering commitment to forming both the minds and hearts of its students. MBCA embodies a close-knit, values-centered community in which faith is not a peripheral feature, but the very foundation of daily life. The Academy is associated with strong moral and spiritual formation, highly personalized attention made possible through small class sizes, and a welcoming, family-like environment that fosters belonging. Its Catholic identity is deliberate and unmistakable, evident in the rhythm of daily prayer, regular reception of the sacraments, and an intentional emphasis on cultivating virtuous, service-oriented leaders. While the school’s broader reality encompasses rigorous academics and comprehensive human development, the prevailing public image is that of a nurturing, mission-focused institution."
"Families come to Turnbull School for an excellent education; however, during their time with us, they are exposed to so much more beyond the curriculum. When a Turnbull student leaves us, that child enters the world having gained new experiences and opportunities that will last a lifetime."
"An underappreciated aspect of Mater Boni Consilii Academy is the depth of its Integral Formation® approach, especially as it is applied through each student’s personalized formation plan. While families notice that MBCA educates the “whole child,” they may not fully grasp the transformative effect of a unified framework that integrates intellectual, spiritual, human, and apostolic growth. These personalized plans allow teachers to set clear, individualized goals, nurture each child’s strengths, and address areas for growth in a deliberate, measurable way. This is far more than an academic program with faith elements—it is a comprehensive formation process shaping habits of mind, heart, and character that last a lifetime. Families may appreciate the small classes and faith-filled culture, yet often undervalue how sustained, individualized guidance profoundly develops a student’s confidence, moral clarity, leadership, and lifelong commitment to living out their Catholic faith."
"Families are always impressed with the true sense of community, as well as the amount of care and communication they receive from our faculty."
"Many families are pleasantly surprised by how deeply and intentionally their child’s growth is supported at Mater Boni Consilii Academy. While parents may expect a strong Catholic environment and good academics, they often don’t realize just how closely faith, virtue, and leadership development are woven into every part of the school day. Through the school’s Integral Formation® model and personalized formation plans, teachers get to know each student well, set individual goals, and work hand-in-hand with parents to support growth in mind, heart, and character. Parents often notice how quickly their children gain confidence, become more thoughtful and service-oriented, and feel truly part of a warm, caring community. They soon discover that MBCA isn’t just about teaching Catholic values—it’s about living them every day, creating an environment that transforms their child in ways they hadn’t expected."
"At Turnbull School, we are consistently reviewing and updating our resources and programming. In particular, we are very excited about our new Tech Lab and technology program."
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy has recently implemented key improvements that embody our commitment to rigorous, faith-based education. We have strengthened our team by hiring new staff who share our mission and bring valuable expertise, enhancing personalized student formation. Our curriculum resources have been upgraded with an intentional focus on meeting RC Education accreditation standards and parent/student needs, ensuring a comprehensive and integrated academic program. To support sustainable growth, we are revitalizing our Board of Directors by adding experienced members and investing in their professional development, improving governance and strategic leadership. Additionally, we have formed a property development team dedicated to securing our own permanent campus, which will provide a stable environment for community-building and program expansion."
"While we do not foresee any significant changes to our current structure, we remain committed to providing current and relevant curriculum and experiences for our students. We are also committed to adhering to the values and guiding principles that have shaped our school over the years."
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy is focused on strategic growth over the next five years through targeted initiatives that strengthen our mission and serve families better. We are enhancing awareness by launching targeted social media campaigns, hosting open houses, and forming purposeful partnerships to share our unique educational model. To grow enrollment, we are streamlining admissions, developing scholarship programs, and deepening partnerships with local parishes to connect with prospective families. Fundraising efforts are expanding through annual giving campaigns, engaging community events, grant applications, and corporate sponsorships. These efforts will support securing a permanent campus, expanding academic programs, and enriching student formation, ensuring MBCA continues to provide a holistic, personalized Catholic education that meets the evolving needs of our community."
At Turnbull School, we are committed to fostering excellence in a caring and supportive environment. As an independent coeducational school for students from Kindergarten to Grade 8, we offer a comprehensive academic program, as well as an abundance of extra-curricular activities, that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
We believe that a strong educational foundation built during the elementary years is one of the greatest gifts we can offer a child; one that will benefit them for a lifetime.
To learn more about our school and what makes Turnbull a special place to learn and grow, we invite you to visit our website or contact us directly. We would be happy to answer your questions.
Thank you for your interest in Turnbull School!
Dear Parents of Prospective Students,
At Mater Boni Consilii Academy, our mission is to form the next generation of Christian leaders; young people with hearts and minds rooted in truth, guided by faith, and prepared to flourish in an ever-changing world. As Head of School, my vision is to lead a community where students not only excel academically, but also grow in faith, virtue, curiosity, and a deep sense of purpose.
Our academy is shaped by three guiding principles: to educate, to form, and to serve. We educate by fostering a love of learning and a commitment to academic excellence. We form by nurturing the character, virtues, and faith that help each child become who they are called to be. We serve by instilling a spirit of generosity and responsibility toward others, both within our school and beyond it.
Education is most transformative when it nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our unique approach of Integral Formation© is designed to balance intellectual formation with moral development, fostering young people who are not only capable and confident, but compassionate and resilient.
At Mater Boni Consilii Academy, we are building more than a school; we are building the faithful leaders of tomorrow and thoughtful citizens who will shape the future with wisdom and grace.
I invite you to discover the difference of a learning community where faith illuminates every path, and where each student is inspired to become the person they were created to be.
I invite you to learn more about our school. Please contact us to schedule a tour, we'd love to meet your family and introduce you to Mater Boni Consilii Academy!
God bless,
Michael Aguiar
Head of School
Liberal Arts
Information not available
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.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Not applicable
Since 1992, Turnbull School’s small classes and exceptional teachers have provided a comprehensive and enriching academic program, where emphasis is placed on caring and excellence. Our well rounded curriculum ensures a balance between all subject areas, and students enjoy the application of the content to cross-curricular activities and projects, so what they learn has more relevance and application. We value our parents as collaborative participants in their child’s education. Regular communication is a given and the staff all recognize the importance of keeping parents well informed. Accountability and accessibility are key attributes of every member of the faculty and leadership team. From a young age, Turnbull students are taught the essential learning skills of study strategies, time management and organizational techniques. As a result, our students learn to take responsibility for their academic work and to exercise the perseverance that together lead to future success.
Our goal is to provide the highest quality education while nurturing authentic Christian leaders. We offer a rigorous, faith-centered curriculum that sets high yet achievable academic standards, helping students build strong foundational skills in reading, writing, math, and critical thinking. Our students develop essential habits such as curiosity, perseverance, and a love of learning. They benefit from a positive, faith-filled environment alongside like-minded peers, enriched by a variety of activities that support their growth. Our caring educators provide personalized attention to help each child discover and develop their unique God-given talents. Through leadership and character-building opportunities, we focus on spiritual and personal formation, fostering confidence, kindness, and maturity. Graduates of our school emerge as young boys and girls of integrity and faith, well-prepared academically and grounded in Christian values, ready to thrive in high school and beyond.
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.
Our mathematics program goes well beyond the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum and provides students with an advanced program that covers greater breadth and depth of concepts and reasoning skills than is normally experienced or expected. With specialized teachers and small classes, every Turnbull student can be enriched, yet help is readily available if concepts need additional reinforcing. More frequent and meaningful teacher-student interactions result in immediate individual feedback. The approachable nature of our teachers and that personal connection with every student is a huge factor in student engagement in the learning process. Our “spiral curriculum” approach to mathematics ensures a continual review of previously taught concepts so students are revisiting and retaining the material while moving on to new areas. In this way, they develop strong mathematical competence and see the relevance of one topic to the next.
Information not available
The Nelson My Math Path program, powered by the Singapore Math framework, is the main resource used. Jump Math is used as a supplement, as well as other problem solving and critical thinking resources.
Information not available
Calculators have a place in the upper grades when numeration is not the main objective of a topic being studied. When a child struggles with numeration skills, and a calculator can be used as a tool to help, students will not be left behind when working within another strand.
Information not available
Balanced Literacy
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.
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.
At Turnbull School, we believe that for children to become proficient readers, they need to develop a wide range of knowledge and skills. These include a strong base of oral language, a strong general knowledge background, an understanding of print concepts and knowledge of letters and words. Children also need to learn comprehension strategies and higher order thinking skills, such as the ability to infer meaning from texts. We incorporate activities to develop all of these competencies on a daily basis in our overall literacy program. A balance of direct instruction, guided instruction, independent learning and practise are important elements of our early reading program. We also value frequent assessment and evaluation of reading levels and skills, and use the recently updated Nelson PM Benchmark, to track each child’s progress.
Information not available
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
We use the recently updated Nelson PM Benchmark to track each child's reading progress, along with other important related skills.
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.
Primary students use the Six Traits Writing model, where they learn and practise using the six traits of effective writers. Students learn to write personal and expository texts, poetry and report writing. They also learn basic editing skills. Junior students continue to expand on their understanding and use of the Six Traits of Writing model. Students learn to write personal and expository texts, poetry and report writing. They complete more formal spelling and grammar lessons on a regular basis, develop editing skills and learn to use the writing process as a tool to fine tune their writing skills. Senior students focus on the importance of following the writing process: brainstorming, planning, organizing, revising and editing. We emphasize both creative and expository writing along with the ability to develop and express ideas in clear and effective prose. Students are also given a strong grounding in grammar.
Information not available
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.
Children best acquire scientific knowledge through experimenting, manipulation and exploration with science materials. We promote children’s natural curiosity for the scientific world through interactive, hands-on learning, offering many opportunities for experiments, labs and exploration. We go far beyond what is normally expected in the Ontario curriculum. Turnbull students graduate very motivated and with the advanced competence to pursue sciences.
Information not available
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
Not applicable
Equal Balance
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Our students experience a very enriching literature program of novels, poetry and short stories, but we also emphasize the importance of developing strong basic skills of grammar, decoding, spelling and technical writing. Our students are set up for success beyond their time at Turnbull School, as they learn to communicate well both orally and in writing, and develop strong critical reading, creative writing and research skills.
Information not available
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
Core Knowledge
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).
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 goal of our social studies program is to educate students about their local, national and international communities, and their place within these societies. Combining the disciplines of geography and history, we help students develop into informed citizens in a culturally diverse and interdependent world, while instilling an understanding and appreciation of our unique Canadian identity and experience. Through these studies, students acquire broad-based skills that are vital to future success. These skills include identifying and solving problems, critically evaluating different points of view, making informed decisions on a variety of issues, and engaging in articulate expression and debate. By exploring various points of view and evaluating a variety of evidence, students practise achieving a balanced perspective when making decisions on issues relevant to their world.
Information not available
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.
Grade 7 history covers Canadian history from the earliest inhabitants to the War of 1812. As well as covering the factual material, the students have opportunities to research elements of our past. In geography, the Grade 7's learn about earth sciences and the physical geography of Canada. In the Grade 8 program, students learn about the history of Canada from the War of 1812, through the important events surrounding Confederation, and ending with World War I. Their geography course continues the citizenship strand, exploring the nature of world human geography.
Information not available
Equal Balance
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.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Turnbull School strives to graduate students from Grade 8 with a strong level of conversational and every day, pragmatic French, while also achieving solid skills in French reading, writing and grammar. In addition, the students will have the desire and confidence to pursue further French studies beyond the basic requirements of high school. The achievement of this goal is dependent on the number of years the student is at Turnbull School, as well as the language aptitude and motivation of the student. There is a French only environment in French class, with an exception for students newer to French. Motivation and enjoyment of French always drive and enhance our program objectives.
French is taught Grade 3 to Grade 8.
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
Information not available
Equal Balance
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.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Music, drama and visual arts are all recognized as essential elements of a child’s development for all grades at Turnbull School. Weekly fine arts classes are taught to students in Grades 4 to 8 by teachers who have specialized training in these disciplines. The Turnbull School Concert Band has been in existence since 2005. As an extracurricular ensemble, students from Grades 5 to 8 have the opportunity to further explore their love of music beyond their regular music classes with woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. The members enjoy the chance to gain performance experience through playing for special events at the school and in the community. Students in grades 6 to 8 may also decide to audition for a role in the annual school drama production. This extracurricular activity has included as many as 80 students, and rehearsals typically begin in October with the final performance in May.
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Every student has regular computer technology classes and a curriculum which reinforces a variety of skills through cross-curricular assignments that deepen their learning. These include Robotics, Internet safety, research, web animation, graphic design, video editing, publishing, graphing, coding and keyboarding. Having access to enriching and engaging technologies, such as a new STEM lab with a 3D printer, several portable Chromebook stations, SmartBoards, scan-and-project devices, eInstruction’s Classroom Response System, and a wide range of educational software are only a few ways in which we deepen the learning activities for our students.
Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
All students at Turnbull School take part in daily physical education classes taught by physical education specialists. Our program focuses on participation, skill development, fair play and healthy living. These objectives are met by providing the students with the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sports and activities. Turnbull School offers an Intramural sports program to all students from grades 1 to 8, where children can participate in more competitive game play, keeping fun and sportsmanship the priority. Children from the Junior and Senior divisions have the opportunity to try out for various sports teams, where they will play in games and tournaments with other schools within the Ottawa Independent Schools Athletic Association (OISAA), as well as other schools in Ontario and Quebec.
Physical education is an integral part of our program. We provide our students with exposure to many sports and outdoor education opportunities. Our goal is to foster healthy attitudes and provide our students with life skills. Athletics and outdoor education provide character formation opportunities. Our youngest students focus on developing gross and fine motor skills with the help of a certified PE instructor via our local YMCA center.
Academic
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.
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.
Every child is deserving of a safe, nurturing environment to express and develop his/her unique interests, creativity and abilities. It is in Kindergarten where Turnbull students first learn to respect and care about each other, to feel unique and special, but to see others that way too. The junior and senior kindergarten curriculum reflects the importance of early literacy and numeracy activities, as well as self-initiated inquiry-based pursuits. Our broad program also includes daily physical education, French language classes, as well as science, creative arts and computer time.
Mater Boni Consilii Academy’s Junior and Senior Kindergarten programs introduce children ages 4–5 to a hands-on, structured learning environment that nurtures curiosity and social development. Our curriculum emphasizes collaboration, creative thinking, and foundational literacy and numeracy skills, including reading, printing, addition, and subtraction. Students engage in one-on-one, small group, and whole-class activities that promote social skills such as active listening, following directions, and caring for others. Integrated with early Catholic faith formation, the program helps shepherd young learners into elementary school with confidence, a love for learning, and a strong sense of community.
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.
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.
Grades 4 to 8 French classes are streamed into two levels per grade. The students working within the advanced level of French are working beyond grade level and using Francophone resources. Highly motivated students who graduate from this level may enter French Immersion in high school.
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”.
Turnbull students learn to take responsibility for their academic work and to exercise the perseverance that together lead to future success. The children make a personal commitment to do their very best to further their own growth. This includes taking responsibility for their work, being prepared, and caring about the growth of others through participation and respect.
Information not available
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
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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.
Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
Turnbull School emphasizes a competence based approach where each student can apply skills, acquire knowledge, develop creative problem solving skills, become an effective communicator, and acquire strong social and leadership skills. Time management and organizational skills are viewed as an integral part of their curriculum and essential to their future success. Turnbull School students also show care for others within and beyond the school. We aim to graduate students who are very well prepared for high school, academically, emotionally and socially.
Our mission is to provide the highest quality education and foster integrally formed Christian leaders. We focus on four dimensions: intellectual, human, spiritual, and apostolic. We strive to teach, in an environment of academic excellence; to form the heart, helping each student to love authentic values and to develop a sense of what is good, right, noble, beautiful; and to form the character, which serves as the foundation of all virtue and integrity. Our graduates become strong Christian leaders, convinced of the truth, prepared and committed to establish and foster a society where Christian values are put into practice.
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 | |
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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.
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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.
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Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
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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.
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Dysgraphia
This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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Down syndrome
his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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| Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Suicidal thoughts
This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
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Drug and alcohol abuse
This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Muscular dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
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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.
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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.
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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."
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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).
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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.
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Multiple physical
Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
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Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
At Turnbull School, we occasionally have students who require some form of accommodation (i.e. ESL). These accommodations may arise from recommendations listed in a psycho-educational assessment. All forms of accommodation are discussed with parents ahead of implementation.
Our desire is to meet all students' educational needs while at school. Please note, as a private school we do not have the resources, nor the support to provide the necessary programming and education for children with special learning needs, learning disabilities or Individual Program Plans (IPP’s).
If a student were to exhibit learning difficulties while at Turnbull School, we would proactively work with the parents to develop the best possible outcome for their child.
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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
0%
0%
$0
$0
80%
0%
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
No
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Turnbull School students show care for each other and the community at large. They are motivated to do their personal best in their academics and extra curricular activities.
Mater Boni Consilii Academy looks for students who are eager learners with a genuine curiosity and openness to growing intellectually, spiritually, and personally. Ideal students demonstrate respect, kindness, and a willingness to engage actively in a faith-filled community. They show readiness to embrace both academic challenges and moral formation, with a positive attitude toward learning and collaboration. Because the school emphasizes Integral Formation®, successful students are those who are receptive to developing habits of discipline, perseverance, and leadership rooted in Christian values. Families who share the school’s commitment to Catholic faith and character development also play a crucial role in supporting their child’s success. Overall, MBCA seeks students ready to thrive in a nurturing environment that balances rigorous academics with spiritual growth and community engagement.
Turnbull School has a multi-step admissions process. For children applying to Grades 1 to 8, we begin by gathering information from report cards, confidential letters of reference and formal assessments (if any). This is followed by a visit day in a classroom of the child's current grade. Occasionally, if more information is needed, an individual standardized assessment may be administered by an educational consultant.
Inquiry & Tour
Prospective families begin by submitting an inquiry form. The Admissions Office will then reach out to schedule a personalized tour of the school.
Application & Evaluation
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis year-round, with mid-year enrollment available. Academic readiness is assessed during an Evaluation Day tailored for students entering Grades 1 through 8. An academic assessment is then provided for the family and a copy remains in the students file for reference.
Parent Interview
Families participate in a one-on-one interview with school administration to discuss their aspirations and determine mutual fit.
Notification of Acceptance
Admission decisions generally occur within two to three weeks after all documents are received. Once accepted, families receive an enrollment contract to formalize registration.
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