Private school enriches learning by engaging students in community

At Kendellhurst Academy in Mississauga, they believe learning and contributing is as important outside the classroom as it is inside.

That's why the private school puts a strong emphasis on its students taking on community projects and causes they can form a sense of ownership in, while learning the processes along the way. For example, the students at Kendellhurst participate in natural restoration projects such as planting trees along the Credit River to improve habitat, while also taking part in a unique classroom hatchery program to release more salmon into Lake Ontario.

Aside from that, the students also get behind community charity causes and make a big difference. They collectively raised almost $5,000 taking part in The Hop for Muscular Dystrophy, which benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Not only did the participants learn more about the disease and become more accepting of all abilities, but they also hopped to their hearts’ content throughout the event while having fun and getting exercise.

Kendellhurst students also raised close to $5,700 for the Terry Fox Foundation to fund cancer research, while also following in the footsteps of the Canadian icon by running for the cause.

Meanwhile, the student teams have pushed themselves to collect more than 1,000 pounds of food for local food drives that benefit local charities, learning the value of helping those less fortunate and making everyone's lives a little richer.

At Kendellhurst, students are taught all the core subjects of the Ontario curriculum and beyond, but the school takes it a step further by fostering a sense of social and global welfare that can lead to making a real difference in the community — and the world.

To find out more about programs offered at Kendellhurst's campuses in Mississauga and Oakville (offering preschool or grade school education), as well as its educational summer camps, call 905-813-8000 or send an email. You can also get updates by liking the academy's Facebook page.