bishop allen academy school prospectus

Bishop Allen AcademySchool Prospectus

The Future Begins Here

1 Words of Welcome

2 The Catholic Vision

3 What to Look Forward to

4 Grade Nine Program

5 Support for Students

Educational Services - Full Inclusion Model

Student Services - Support Leading to Success

Library and Digital Resource Centre

English as a Second Language

7 French Immersion and Extended French Programs

8 Academic Departments

Business

Cooperative Education

English

Mathematics

Religion and Philosophy

Science

Canadian and World Studies

11 Arts & Technology Department

Drama

Music

Visual Arts & Photography

Technological Studies

12 Congregated Pre-Advanced Placement and Advanced Placement Program

leading to the AP Diploma and University credits

14 SAGE Gifted Program

16 Athletic Program

18 Co-Curricular Program

20 Academic Awards

1TCDSB REGIONAL CENTRE FOR THE CONGREGATED ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM

Words of Welcome

Dear Students and Parents Guardians

WE ARE PLEASED AND HONOURED TO WELCOME STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES TO OUR DYNAMIC SCHOOL COMMUNITY.

From the day that we first opened our doors in September 1989, we have endeavoured

to build our school by grounding ourselves in the core principles of service, leadership

and excellence. Since then, we have grown in numbers and developed unique academic

and extra-curricular programs which have been acknowledged as exemplary practices.

Our 1600 students, 100 teachers and talented support staff wholeheartedly embrace

our school’s vision and remain committed to sustaining our growth.

As a Catholic community we integrate faith with culture so that every aspect of the

curriculum is taught in light of the Gospel. The spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional

and social development of every student informs our daily life. The energy and creativity

of our staff and students afford us the privilege to continuously reflect on our practices

and regularly celebrate success.

Bishop Allen Academy is an excellent educational setting for the highly motivated student

who enjoys learning. Our challenging academic curriculum includes a Congregated

Advanced Placement program with pre-advanced placement (enriched) credit courses

beginning in grade nine and Advanced Placement courses offered in subsequent years

leading to the Advanced Placement Diploma in senior years. Our thriving Gifted Program

focuses on academic enrichment, leadership development and community service.

The fact that an impressive number of our graduates are awarded a diverse range of

scholarships is a testament to the rigor of our approach.

We are also proud to be one of only two secondary schools in the TCDSB to offer

an Early Immersion French Program at the secondary level. The Middle Immersion

(Extended) French program is also offered. Upon graduation, our students will be eligible

for either the Immersion French Certificate or the Extended French Certificate awarded by

the Toronto Catholic District School Board.

Our school motto is “GAUDETE IN DOMINO” - Rejoice in the Lord. At Bishop Allen

Academy we strive to be a welcoming community that daily celebrates our call to rejoice

in the Lord.

“B. A. OPENED SO MANY DOORS IN MY LIFE. THANK YOU

FOR GIVING ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO

DISCOVER WHO I AM!”

MICHAEL

2 BISHOP ALLEN ACADEMY SCHOOL PROSPECTUS

THE CATHOLIC VISION AT BISHOP ALLEN ACADEMY IS ROOTED IN THE PHILOSOPHY THAT THE GLORY OF GOD IS HUMANITY FULLY ALIVE. THIS VISION NOT ONLY INFORMS STUDENTS ABOUT THE LIFE, DEATH AND RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST IN OUR RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CLASSES BUT ALSO INFUSES THE VALUES OF HIS GOSPEL INTO ALL ASPECTS OF OUR CURRICULUM. AT BISHOP ALLEN ACADEMY, OUR CALL TO KNOW AND TO FOLLOW JESUS IS NOT JUST AN ACADEMIC ACTIVITY – IT IS INTRINSIC TO OUR CULTURE.

Our students are encouraged to use Christian values to guide them on their life’s journey

and to engage them in a critical quest for truth. As advocated by the Ontario Conference

of Bishops in This Moment of Promise, the message presented daily to our students is

that each of them should take up the challenge of growing into a sense of who they are

as Christians so that they can develop the talents they have been given and bring the

best of themselves to the society in which they will be living. Through the advocacy of

intellectual growth and the nurturing of faith, it is our hope to inspire a sense of service

to society.

The Catholic Vision


BISHOP ALLEN TAKES GREAT PRIDE IN OFFERING A PROGRAM OF EVENTS TO ASSIST YOUR CHILD TO TRANSITION TO HIGH SCHOOL:

� Grade 8 Open House

� Grade 9 Registration Night

� Grade 9 summer credit bearing transition course focusing on literacy/numeracy and

transitioning from elementary to secondary

� Grade 9 Welcome BBQ in August

� Grade 9 Parent Curriculum Night

� Grade 9 Orientation Overnight Camp

� Ongoing Orientation events throughout the grade 9 year

What to Look Forward to…

“DO SOMETHING! FOUR YEARS GO BY

WAY TOO FAST.”

ANTHONY

At the heart of Chaplaincy are the words of St. Theresa of Avila, “Christ has no body but

yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours.” Chaplaincy helps to animate our students

to make real the Beatitudes of Jesus. Students are called to be self-reflective through

our retreat programs. They are invited to worship through meaningful liturgies. They are

challenged to embrace the world through awareness experiences and charitable actions.

The school year is punctuated by a variety of out-reach activities and celebrations that

instil in our community an awareness of and responsibility for the world:

� Christmas Festive Dinner for families new to the country

� Inside Ride

� Various Fund Raising Initiatives

� Christmas Homeroom Basket Drive

� Lenten Outreach Drives

� Spring Wake-athon

� Service Trip to Guatemala

In line with our three-year Pastoral Plan: Together With One Voice – Harmonizing our Faith through Family, Parish, and School, we are putting into place various initiatives

that highlight the important link between these three communities of faith that are the

roots and foundations of Catholic education.


COURSE: AVAILABLE LEVELS OF STUDY:

Religion Open Level

English Pre-Advanced Placement, Academic, Applied

French Academic, Applied

Geography Pre-Advanced Placement, Academic, Applied

Mathematics Pre-Advanced Placement, Academic, Applied

Science Pre-Advanced Placement, Academic, Applied

Optional Courses

Select One:

� Visual Arts

� Music: Vocal, Instrumental, Strings

� Dramatic Arts

and

Select One:

� Physical and Health Education

� Information Technology in Business

� Integrated Technology

ALL students are strongly urged to complete the compulsory Physical Education

credit in Grade 9 or Grade 10.

FRENCH IMMERSION AND EXTENDED FRENCH COURSES

Religion Immersion, Extended

Français Immersion, Extended (Pre-Advanced Placement)

Géographie Immersion, Extended

Grade Nine Program


EDUCATIONAL SERVICES - A FULL INCLUSION MODEL

Support for all students is a hallmark of our philosophy at Bishop Allen. Thus, resource

services are provided to students who are formally identified through an IPRC, as well as

students who received remedial support in Grade 8 and those students who are enrolled

in Grade 9 Learning Strategies classes.

The method of service and degree of accommodation to be provided is based on IPRC

summaries, exchange of information meetings and an IEP created with ongoing parent

communication. Each student is supported by a resource teacher, and the dialogue

between home and school is paramount. Some students will be supported by an

educational assistant in class and support in the resource centre is available before

school, during classes and lunches, and after school. The staff in the Educational

Services Department is committed to providing the necessary support in a caring and

compassionate manner and strives to ensure success for all of their students.

STUDENT SERVICES - SUPPORT LEADING TO SUCCESS

Bishop Allen has a very active Student Services Department. There are dedicated staff

members in the department, including counsellors, youth workers and a secretary.

When needed, the staff also works collaboratively with the school board social worker

and psychologist. The staff looks forward to meeting with students and their families in

order to ensure a positive and productive high school experience. Department members

are available to support students in a number of ways: helping with course selection;

providing information on graduation requirements and planning for post-secondary

study and career options. Counsellors act as a liaison on behalf of students, offering

assistance and support with peers, classes, workload and personal issues.

Students can visit the department to learn more about post-secondary scholarships,

volunteer and part-time work opportunities and community resources available to

them. The staff also reaches out to the school community by hosting Post-secondary

Application Workshops, Course Selection Workshops as well as a College and University

Information Evening.

LIBRARY AND DIGITAL RESOURCE CENTRE:

Research, Reading and Outreach in the Digital Age

The focus of the Bishop Allen Library program is to foster the three areas of expertise

students require to be successful in the 21st century:

Research – Bishop Allen students are taught how to access reliable on-line and print

resources. They are also taught how to be responsible digital citizens, through ethical

academic decision-making and conscientious social networking.

Reading – “Reading is a window to the world,” and at Bishop Allen students are

encouraged to read a broad variety of material available from our collection of over 10,000

fiction and non-fiction books and our ever-growing access to databases and e-books.

Outreach – The Bishop Allen Library has traditionally been a centre for outreach,

encouraging students to connect with their community and seek opportunities for

personal growth. And so, the Bishop Allen Library is the proud host of the annual author

visits, a week long event where acclaimed authors and speakers are invited to share

their stories with students. In keeping with the library’s mandate to foster personal

growth, the Bishop Allen Library also sponsors the HIPE breakfast, where students

are recognized and celebrated for their efforts to make positive change.

“BISHOP ALLEN HAS TRULY BEEN A SECOND HOME TO

ME THESE PAST 4 YEARS. IT HAS MADE ME INTO THE PERSON I

AM TODAY. I WILL NEVER FORGET THE MEMORIES

CREATED WITHIN THESE WALLS.”

JULIANNASupport for Students


ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

The English as a Second Language

program at Bishop Allen Academy is

designed to support the diverse needs of

English Language Learners.

Those students who require

intensive language support take ESL

classes throughout the school year.

Their overall academic progress is

monitored by the ESL instructors in

partnership with Student Services and

Educational Services.

Research indicates that academic

language acquisition typically requires

five to seven years therefore, students

who have completed their ESL courses

may continue to receive support in the

form of optional time accommodations.

For students who are considered

ELL (English Language Learners),

participation in the ESL program is an

appropriate and beneficial decision and

should be encouraged. It in no way

adversely affects students’ chances to

proceed to post-secondary education. In

fact it may contribute positively to their

academic success as it affords them the

time, the flexibility and the support they

may need during the time of transition.


BISHOP ALLEN OFFERS THREE DIFFERENT FRENCH PROGRAMS. IN ADDITION TO THE CORE FRENCH PROGRAM OFFERED IN ALL HIGH SCHOOLS, WE HAVE BOTH IMMERSION AND EXTENDED FRENCH.

The Immersion Program is designed for

students who entered an early Immersion

program in either Kindergarten or Grade

1. Bishop Allen is the Early Immersion

Centre for all students west of Yonge

Street in the TCDSB.

The Extended French Program is

designed for students who entered

a late Immersion program in Grade 5.

Both the Extended and Immersion

French Programs require students

to complete 11 credits in the French

language as part of their Ontario

Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

Students who meet these requirements

will receive a French Immersion/

Extended French Certificate from the

Toronto Catholic District School Board.

French Immersion and Extended French Programs

THE BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM ARE:

� Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written French

� Increased opportunity for future study and scholarship

� Enhanced employability at home and abroad due to ability to function fluently in

a French-speaking community or work environment

� Greater understanding and appreciation of francophone culture in Canada and

around the world

� Appreciation of cultural diversity based on personal experience, such as

the annual excursion to St. Donat, Quebec and the biennial Bishop Allen

French Exchange

� Exposure to an international perspective in an increasingly globalized society

� Development of a sense of accomplishment and pride in having been challenged

to master Canada’s other Official Language

� Achievement of the Extended or Immersion Certificate from the Toronto Catholic

District School Board

THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES AS THE PROGRAM PRODUCES:

� Many university scholarship recipients annually

� Active participants in student exchange programs - provincially and internationally

� Annual winners at Regional and Provincial French Young Writers’ Competitions

� Prominent participants and organizers of the “French for the Future”

national conference

� Annual winners at Regional French Public Speaking Contests

“BISHOP ALLEN WAS AN AMAZING PLACE TO SPEND FOUR YEARS. THE PEOPLE I MET AND THE TEACHERS

I HAVE LEARNED FROM HAVE SHAPED WHO I AM TODAY

AND FOR THAT I WILL BE FOREVER

GRATEFUL.” LUCAS


BUSINESS DEPARTMENT

The Bishop Allen Business Department offers a wide range of both business and

computer courses. Students are exposed to the ‘real business world’ through classroom

visits from Chartered Professional Accountants, managers, and CEOs of various

corporations. In some of our courses, students are involved in creating and operating

fictitious businesses. A significant percentage of our graduating students pursue

business studies at the post-secondary level. Past graduates have been accepted to the

Schulich School of Business at York University, Rotman Commerce at the University

of Toronto, the Rogers School of Management Program at Ryerson and the Commerce

Program at Queen’s University.

Bishop Allen takes an innovative and fresh approach to teaching computer science.

Students learn all the foundations of computer science through developing mobile

applications for iOS using the latest language, standards, and tools from Apple such as

Swift and Xcode. Students learn both the foundations of CS and developer skills that are

highly sought after in the workforce.

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION

Cooperative Education at Bishop Allen serves many purposes. Whether a student’s

interest is in the sciences, the arts, the humanities or in a hands-on profession,

cooperative education is a way for students to enlighten themselves about a field they

find interesting. Students who are almost certain of the path they would like to follow

will find that spending three or four hours a day at a placement will help to clarify their

decision making when the time comes to select programs for their post-secondary

education. Students who need to spend time gaining some real life experience will

experience the routine of the work world. Students interested in a trade or another

apprenticeship field will be able to begin their training while still in high school through

the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program.

Academic Departments


ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

Bishop Allen’s English Department offers students an enriching program with

opportunities and activities that bring the classroom texts to life. We challenge students

to become perceptive critical thinkers, while encouraging the development of their

written and oral communication skills. A recent department initiative has been the

establishment of three diverse classroom libraries to promote independent reading,

particularly amongst our junior students. Each course encompasses both fiction and

non-fiction material, ranging from Shakespearean plays to memoir studies to world

literature. Besides attending local theatre productions, English students also have the

chance to meet professionals from the worlds of media and literature. Guest speakers

have included journalists, screenwriters, and novelists; media classes have also

welcomed speakers from the advertising, film and television industries.

In order to help Grade 10 students prepare for the EQAO literacy test, we provide them

with an intensive study of all areas of reading and writing, along with specific test-taking

strategies to maximize their results. This analysis and practice begins in Grade 9 and

continues with an intensive preparation in Grade 10. Traditionally, our English students

at BA have been extremely successful on the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test.

Furthermore, those Advanced Placement English students who opt to write the AP

English Language and Composition and AP English Literature exams in their senior

years have enjoyed high success rates.

MATH DEPARTMENT

In the words of Albert Einstein, “Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical

ideas.” The Math Program at Bishop Allen promotes student mastery of mathematical

concepts and overall engagement through the use of a variety of technologies, from

graphing calculators to IPads. Every year the Advanced Placement and Academic

students from Grades 9 through 12 are encouraged to write the Waterloo Math contests.

Bishop Allen’s student participation in these events is tremendous and the results are

always stellar. Students who continue to pursue math beyond Grade 11 are consistently

challenged and well-prepared for what lies ahead in university. Our rigorous Advanced

Placement Program provides opportunities for motivated math-loving students to learn

University-level math while in high school. This opportunity

not only fosters critical thinking but it provides students with

the necessary skills and persistence for post-secondary education.

B.A. Math students come to appreciate and experience R. Collier’s

definition of success – “the SUM of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”

RELIGION DEPARTMENT

The Religion Department at Bishop Allen strives to create a welcoming environment for

all students. Through engaging learning activities in the classroom and an inquiry based

approach to learning, we bring the gospel message to life. Through various Chaplaincy

initiatives that gospel message is put into practice in our community through prayer and

liturgical services, community outreach and ministry to the less fortunate of our city,

food drives and clothing drives, class retreats, religious leadership retreats and much more.

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

The philosophy of teaching Science at Bishop Allen can be best described by Einstein:

“Imagination is more important than knowledge! Knowledge is limited. Imagination

encircles the world.”

Starting in Grade 9, Bishop Allen Science students are taught to think critically and

are encouraged to develop their passion for scientific inquiry. Grades 9 and 10 provide

a well-rounded Science curriculum that covers a variety of topics including Earth and

Space Science, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. Grades 11 and 12 are subject specific

courses that prepare students for both college and university.

The Science Department offers an enriched program at the junior level to prepare

students for senior level Advanced Placement courses and for the Advanced Placement

examination. Bishop Allen Science students have the opportunity to participate in

Biology, Chemistry, and Physics competitions. The Department is proud of the many

students who have won scholarships and continued their studies in Science at the

post-secondary level.

“THE TEACHERS ARE VERY HELPFUL AND WONDERFUL

PEOPLE. I WILL CLEARLY MISS BISHOP ALLEN.”

LAUREN


complex questions. Increasingly, the department is using Google Apps for Education

to allow students access to ‘anywhere and anytime learning’ and to help them develop

21st century learning and inquiry skills. This type of learning allows students to deeply

consider questions about their society, culture and world.

In Grade 9 Geography, students are challenged to look at issues in Canada through the

lenses of interrelationships, spatial significance, patterns and trends, and geographic

perspective. Student learning is enhanced through the use of GIS (Geographic

Information Systems), in-class activities and field trips. Our Civics students question

the kind of society in which they wish to live through a critical study of social issues.

Through the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative, students raise awareness of these

social issues, with the goal of winning a $5000 grant to donate to their chosen

charity. Canadian History students question the consequences, continuities, changes,

perspectives and significance of historical decisions that impact the present. Our

senior Law Program has students grapple with balancing individual rights with the

collective rights of society by examining statutes passed by parliament as well as

Supreme Court precedent-setting cases through a variety of theoretical perspectives.

Students experience a hands-on approach to law, by observing actual criminal trials

and participating in mock trials and moot court competitions. Students also have an

opportunity to attend seminars and conferences on a variety of legal issues organized

by community agencies such as the Ontario Justice Education Network (OJEN) and

the Ontario Bar Association (OBA). In our senior geography courses, students have

the opportunity to explore the inter-related systems and processes occurring in the

earth’s land, water, and air. In grade 12 they examine contemporary world issues

through a geographic lens. The AP Psychology Program offers senior students the

opportunity to explore some key questions that drive individual behaviour and mental

processes through demonstrations, lectures, activities and student-directed learning.

AP World History features an intensive study of the role of conflict and change in global

interrelationships, as students inquire about the historical roots of contemporary global

issues. In all, our young learners are empowered to balance multiple perspectives,

sources, and evidence to develop their own informed opinions.

Subjects are taught by talented teachers who engage their students with dynamic

teaching styles and through a variety of laboratory experiments, demonstrations and

classroom activities.

CANADIAN AND WORLD STUDIES DEPARTMENT

Studying the humanities and social sciences is vital in the information age. The purpose

of the Social Sciences and Canadian/World Studies Department is to foster citizenship,

critical thinking and global-mindedness in our students, through an intensive study of


“MANY TEACHERS WERE INSPIRING AND MADE ME INTO THE PERSON

I AM TODAY ”

“I HAD A GREAT TIME AT B.A. AND MET MANY AMAZING PEOPLE. IT WAS A GREAT

EXPERIENCE.” STEFAN

DRAMA

Through devising, acting and creating, students are encouraged to focus on their journey

towards becoming independent, reflective learners. During the course of a semester,

students will have the opportunity to expand their own ideas of performance and theory.

The Sears Ontario Drama Festival, the Drama Club, and the Christmas Coffeehouse are

a few of the co-curricular activities offered through the Drama Program. Additionally,

students have the opportunity to attend professional productions in the GTA, Niagara-

on-the-Lake, and Stratford.

MUSIC

Bishop Allen Academy offers an exceptionally rich and varied Music curriculum through

Instrumental Music, Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass) and Vocal Music

for Grades 9 through 12. All Music students can expect to create, perform, improvise,

and/or arrange music while working towards developing individual and collaborative

skills through the creative process. Students are expected to develop skills within the

classroom and through co-curricular activities including participation within one of the

following school ensembles: Concert Band (Junior, Intermediate, Senior) Stage Band,

Choir, Serendipity (Jazz Choir) or Orchestral Strings. Music students contribute to the

life of the school through performances at assemblies, school events, the Christmas

and Spring Concerts and by competing and performing at a variety of music festivals.

Students will have the opportunity to study a wide variety of musical styles and

experience live professional performances at different venues throughout the city.

Arts & technology department

VISUAL ARTS & PHOTOGRAPHY

The Visual Arts & Photography Program at BA exposes students in all grades to

traditional and contemporary practices of painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture and

new media. Over the course of four years, students are introduced to the full range of

Art History. Bishop Allen Academy Art students have an opportunity to have their work

permanently installed in the school, giving students immediate and long lasting evidence

of the impact of Visual Art on the community. Senior students have the opportunity to

study the fields of Photography and Yearbook Photojournalism.

TECHNOLOGICAL STUDIES

Two technological studies courses are offered in Grades 10 to 12 - Technological Design

and Manufacturing Technology. The goal of these courses is to support high-quality

learning while giving students the opportunity to choose Technological Studies courses

that suit their skills and interests. Practical Design Skills are developed in Grades 10

-12 through Technological Design to develop industry standard (ISO & ANSI) layouts

and production drawings, preparing students for the Engineering & Design fields. In

Manufacturing Technology, students can expect to take on a practical approach while

learning industry standards. Safety is a high priority while students learn to use a

variety of machines, power tools and hand tools. These courses provide students with

opportunities to develop an awareness of secondary and postsecondary pathways

leading to careers in the industry.

WITHIN THE ARTS & TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT, STUDENTS CAN EXPECT TO DEVELOP THEIR TECHNICAL SKILLS, CRITICAL AND CREATIVE THINKING SKILLS, ALL WITH A STRONG CONNECTION TO THE CREATIVE PROCESS. A PRACTICAL HANDS-ON APPROACH, ALONG WITH THE NECESSARY THEORY AND FUNDAMENTALS OF EACH DISCIPLINE WILL BE EXAMINED IN ALL PROGRAMS.


WHAT IS ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)? � Students study an enriched curriculum in order to earn university credits while still in

high school by preparing for and writing Advanced Placement (AP) exams

� AP Exams are marked externally by the Educational Testing Service

� Successful completion of AP exams earns students advanced placement and/or

credits in university

� AP exams are recognized by universities throughout Ontario, Canada, United States

and Europe

Congregated Advanced Placement

CONGREGATED ADVANCED PLACEMENT (ENRICHED) PROGRAM � Bishop Allen Academy has been

designated as a TCDSB Regional

Centre for the Congregated Advanced

Placement program

� 70 classes from grades 9 - 12 are

dedicated to pre-AP and AP courses.

Pre-AP and AP courses are offered

in the areas of Mathematics, Science,

English and Social Studies to qualified,

interested students

� Courses are introduced in the Grade

9 year with a focus on development

necessary for success in later years

� All Pre-AP and AP courses follow the

Ontario curriculum but are richer in

depth and breadth and allow more

time for enrichment activities: contest,

field trips, in-depth discussions, guest

lecturers, varied activities

� Students select the number of Pre-AP

or AP courses they would like to take


� AP Exams are written in May at Bishop Allen in the final year of study, and

marked externally

� Students may write several exams to receive AP Scholar, AP National Scholar or AP

International Diploma designation

BISHOP ALLEN ACADEMY RANKS AMONG THE BEST AP SCHOOLS IN ONTARIO

� One of the largest Advanced Placement schools in the province, with over 300 AP

exams written at the school each year

� AP Exam success rate at 95% - 15% above the provincial norm, and 35% above the

global norm

� One of the highest numbers of AP National Scholars in the province each year

� Supports other AP schools in the province with AP program implementation and

curriculum development

� Recognized by TCDSB with an Exemplary Practice Award for the implementation of

the AP program

“Being enrolled in the Advanced Placement program at Bishop Allen has had countless, invaluable benefits for me.

For one, the fast-paced, challenging, enriched curriculum really honed my work ethic and motivation. In high school, I had to push myself to take better notes, prioritize my schoolwork, and study efficiently, all skills that will be essential for me to succeed in university. I’ve found that the amount of work assigned in a first-year course is very similar to that of an AP classroom, and thus, the university learning curve has been easier for me to overcome.

On top of that, taking AP courses has given me a head start on university level content. For me, the foundation for excelling at first-year math and science courses were set in the Gr.12 AP curriculum. Again, this head start provides me with more free time to pursue extracurricular endeavors.

Finally, the opportunity to write the challenging AP exams in Gr.11 and Gr.12 also gave me insight into the level of difficulty of university tests and exams. AP exams allowed me to gain transfer credits for university that I can submit toward my undergraduate degree. Since AP

exam scores are confidential and have no impact towards high school grades, there’s truly nothing to lose.

Overall, although I was a bit nervous applying to the AP program 5 years ago, I am thankful to my grade eight self for taking that step outside of my comfort zone. Yes, the Advanced Placement program has been a lot of work, but my experience has been more than worth it in the end.”

LAKINDU SOMAWEERA, BISHOP ALLEN ACADEMY � University of Toronto – National Arbor Scholar (2018)

� University of Toronto – President’s Scholarship of Excellence (2018)

� Governor General’s Academic Medal (2018)

� National AP Scholar Award (2018)

� TCDSB Top Scholar (2018)

� University of Toronto – National Book Award (2018)

“THE AP PROGRAM AT BISHOP ALLEN ALLOWED ME TO GROW AS

A STUDENT BY WORKING WITH OTHER STUDENTS

WHO WERE EQUALLY COMMITTED TO THE

INTENSIVE STUDY OF A SUBJECT.”

LYDIA

BENEFITS OF THE AP PROGRAM:

� Students get a head start on the work they will encounter

in university

� Studies show that AP students are more likely to maintain a higher

grade point average than their university classmates of similar ability

� At university, Bishop Allen grads are using AP exams for credits,

and reporting confidence and high grades in areas of AP study


The SAGE Program meets the unique needs of students who have been designated

“gifted” through the IPRC process. Each identified gifted student is monitored by a Gifted

Facilitator at the school, in order to create an individual learning plan that draws on the

different aspects of the SAGE program. Many identified gifted students take advantage

of the Advanced Placement Program for enrichment in curriculum areas of interest.

Curriculum pathways are monitored by the Gifted Facilitator, in consultation with the

Guidance Counsellor. Beyond the classroom, the SAGE program extends enrichment

opportunities that advance the critical and creative thinking, leadership and self

awareness of the gifted learner.

SOME EXAMPLES OF ENRICHMENT PROGRAMMING OPPORTUNITIES AT BA

TO PROMOTE SELF-AWARENESS:

� University visits: Guelph “Interaction” conference, McMaster University, University of

Western Ontario

� Exposure and help with applications to specialized programs: University of Toronto

(Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program) DEEP, Encounters with Canada in Ottawa,

SHAD Valley at university campuses across Canada, Arcticnet Science Program, travel

abroad programs, university mentorship opportunities

SAGE: The Gifted Program at Bishop Allen Academy


TO PROMOTE CRITICAL & CREATIVE THINKING:

� Debating

� Model United Nations

� DECA

� Arts-focused interactive workshops: TIFF Lightbox, AGO, ROM, Canstage

� Queen’s University mini-enrichment program

� Global Partnership in Development & Peace Program at the UN in New York City

TO PROMOTE ADVANCED LEADERSHIP SKILLS:

� Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Program

� Judges for the elementary gifted students’ debates

� Student-designed and student-led activities every month such as:

- Brefeuf Social Justice Symposium

- Debate Club

- HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America)

- Habitat for Humanity building group

- Public Speaking Contest,

- Blood Donor Clinic,

- CN Tower Climb,

- Bishop Allen Model United Nations (BAMUN)

“THE BA SAGE PROGRAM OFFERS SO MANY OPPORTUNITIES

TO GROW AS A STUDENT AND AS A PERSON.”

AMIR

“One of my most vivid memories of first year is a scene from the very first Calculus lecture. The professor started by defining the concept of zero: something that I’ve known and intuitively understood for as long as I could remember. And yet, I was completely lost. However, when I went home that night and reviewed my notes, I found that there was no new math involved, that I had seen all of this before; it was only the way in which it was presented which had overwhelmed me. This was true of most of my classes in first year – the way in which content was presented was different than I had ever encountered in my AP classes in high school, but the basic concepts were the same. Since I had learnt many of these concepts prior, I was able to focus on setting myself up for success by taking good notes in lecture, understanding the basics of mathematical proofs, and adapting to a schedule which included a seemingly never-ending stream of midterms. Moreover, because the transition to the academics in University was easier, I was able to focus on other aspects of my life as well, such as making friends, joining clubs, and taking care of myself. Both the knowledge I gained and the skills I developed in AP helped me transition successfully, and for that, I am forever grateful.”

JACQUELINE FLEISIG, BISHOP ALLEN ACADEMY 2nd Year U of T Engineering Science Student, Lead for U of T Engineers

Without Borders Global Engineering Portfolio, GEARS Academic Mentor

AWARDS:

� STEAM Horizon Award (2017)

� U of T President’s Scholar of Excellence (2017)

� Bronze Governor General’s Award (2017)

� ESROP - Global Singapore Exchange Research Student (2018)

� U of T Engineering Dean’s Merit Award (2018)


Athletics Program

GUIDED BY THE BELIEF THAT A SUCCESSFUL INDIVIDUAL IS ONE WHO IS HEALTHY IN BOTH MIND AND BODY, BISHOP ALLEN ACADEMY OFFERS AN ATHLETIC PROGRAM THAT IS SECOND TO NONE. THE FOUNDATION OF THE PROGRAM IS THE EXCITING AND RIGOROUS CURRICULUM OFFERED TO THE MANY STUDENTS WHO ENROLL IN HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Bishop Allen offers a very strong and diverse Healthy Active Living Program. The main goal within the

Health & Physical Education Department is to help foster a deep appreciation and passion for lifelong

involvement in physical activity and help foster an environment in which all students can reach their

maximum potential. Students enrolled in Health and Physical Education courses will be exposed to

various opportunities to engage in sporting activities and a wide variety of fitness techniques and

disciplines. The Physical and Health Education Department also offers a strong Kinesiology course

for upper year students, preparing them for university or college programs in the area of Kinesiology

and Health Sciences.

ATHLETICS PROGRAM

The staff at Bishop Allen Academy is committed to providing an abundance of opportunities for

student-athletes to maximize their athletic potential. Bishop Allen continues to offer one of the

most successful Athletics Programs in the TCDSB, with numerous teams and individuals going on

to represent the school and the TCDSB at provisional championships each year. All students are

encouraged to come out and enjoy what Allen Athletics has to offer, guided by exceptional and

dedicated teaching/coaching staff. Our outstanding tradition of pride, sportsmanship, athletic success

and leadership is widely recognized throughout the GTA.

WE ARE PROUD TO BE CARDINALS!


SPORT BOYS GIRLS SEASON

BadmintonBantam, Junior & Senior

Bantam, Junior & Senior

Spring

Baseball Open Fall/Spring

Basketball Junior & Senior Junior & Senior Fall/Winter

Cross CountryBantam, Junior & Senior


Fall

Cheerleading Open Open Fall/Winter/Spring

Curling Open Open Winter

Field Hockey Open Fall

Figure Skating Open Winter

Flag Football Midget Fall

Football Junior & Senior Fall

Golf Open Open Fall

Hockey Non-Contact Junior & Senior Open Winter

Skiing/Snowboarding Open Open Winter

Soccer Junior & Senior Open Fall/Spring

Slo-pitch Open Spring

Swimming Junior & Senior Junior & Senior Winter

Table Tennis Open Open Spring

Tennis Junior & Senior Junior & Senior Fall

Track & FieldBantam, Junior & Senior


Spring

Volleyball Junior & Senior Junior & Senior Fall/Winter/Spring

Volleyball (Co-ed) Senior Senior Spring

“ATHLETICS ENHANCE THE EXPERIENCE OF HIGH SCHOOL . YOU BECOME A

FAMILY ON A SPORTS TEAM. YOU GET TO KNOW TEACHERS

AND SCHOOL MATES IN AN ENTIRELY DIFFERENT

WAY.” MIA

� Fitness Club/CrossFit

� Fitness Wednesdays

� Inside Ride

OTHER EVENTS / ACTIVITIES

� Intramurals

� Athletic Council

� Athletic Banquet

� Red Bird Run

� Terry Fox Run


THE SECRET OF A SUCCESSFUL HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION LIES IN A STUDENT’S ABILITY TO COMBINE THE ACADEMIC CURRICULUM WITH CO-CURRICULAR INTERESTS.

The staff at Bishop Allen offers a wide selection of after-school activities. Students

are encouraged to take advantage of these clubs, teams and other opportunities.

This involvement not only produces lasting memories of high school and is a critical

component of many scholarship portfolios, but is central to the development of the

whole person and, indeed, to the vitality of our community.

CREATIVE ACTIVITIES

ARTS - DRAMA

� Drama Club

LITERARY

� Library Volunteers � Newspaper - “Freshly Pressed”

� Yearbook

MUSIC

� Choir � Concert Band

� Orchestra � Stage Band

CLUBS

� Anime Club � Best Buddies � Black Heritage Collective � Computer Club � Debating Club

� ECO Club � Fashion Show � Fitness Club � GSA � Guatemala Outreach

� Model United Nations � Reach for the Top � Table Tennis

OTHER ACTIVITIES

� Dances � Mock trial teams � Spirit weeks

� Weight Room � Prom Committee � Carnival

� Public Speaking Contests � Math and Science Contests

Co- Curricular Program


SPIRITUAL LIFE AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

� Advent Ceremonies

� Social Action Events

� Salesian Leadership

Retreat

� Lenten Projects

� Liturgies

� Prayer

� Reconciliation

� Retreats

� Youth Ministry

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Bishop Allen has a long standing tradition of providing leadership opportunities

for students. The empowering nature of student leadership and the accompanying

organizational, interpersonal, and motivational skills are lifelong.

� BAMUN - Bishop Allen Model United Nations

� Blood Donor Clinic/StemCell Registry Initiative

� Camp Olympia

� Catholic Student Leadership Impact Team

� Christmas Baskets

� CN Tower Climb

� DECA

� Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Program

� Grade 9 Orientation Camp (SLAM)

� Inside Ride

� MADD Canada Initiative

� Ontario Catholic Student Council Federation (OCSCF)

� Student Government (STUGO)

“I WILL NEVER FORGET MUSKOKA WOODS AND THE TEACHERS THERE.

AWESOME!” MONIKA


Academic awardsDUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD ACHIEVERS

BRONZE AWARD Caravaggio, Julia Fernandes, HycilGargaro, David John Staibano, StephanieYoo, Jin

SILVER AWARDGroen in ‘t Woud, Aleksa Hrotovytskyy, BohdanLamont, Kate Pavlesen, Luka

GOLD AWARDListon, Jack

DEPARTMENT CONTEST AWARDS

FRENCH

Concours Oratoire - Winners (Board) / (Provincial) Grade 10 Giovinazzo, Esabella 2nd Place for the Francophone category TCDSB LevelHrotovitskyy, Bohdan 3rd Place for French Immersion category TCDSB level

Grade 11 Lamont, Conor 3rd Place for Extended French category TCDSB level

Grade 12 McMahon, Adam 1st Place at TCDSB - CORE FRENCH 1st Palce at Provincials 4th Place at the Nationals Girard, Charlotte 2nd Place for Francophone category - TCDSB level

OECTA Young Authors Award/Prix des Jeunes Écrivains Grade 10 De Franco, Luke Poem Giovinazzo, Esabella Nonfiction

Grade 12 Kee, Matthew Nonfiction

ENGLISH Grade 10 Broderick, Alexia Short story

MATHEMATICS Grade 9 Pascal Waterloo Math Contest Chung, Hyeonseo Pascal Medalist and Certificate of Distinction

Pascal Certficate of Distinction Oh, Junwoo Choo, Christiano Jewell, Emma Zygaitis, Paula

Grade 10 Cayley Waterloo Mathematics Contest Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan Cayley Medalist and Certificate of Distinction

Cayley Certificate of Distinction CGao, Yang Vo, Justin Pyavka, Sofiya Gittens, Jade

Grade 11 Fermat Waterloo Mathematics Contest Sun, Sophie Fermat Medalist and Certificate of Distinction So, Luke Certificate of Distinction Cho, David Certificate of Distinction

Grade 10 Galois Waterloo Mathematics Contest Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan Galois Medalist and Certificate of Distinction Gao, Yang Certificate of Distinction Staibano, Stephanie Certificate of Distinction

Grade 11 Hypatia Waterloo Mathematics Contest Cho, David Hypatia Medalist and Certificate of Distinction Sun, Sophie Certificate of Distinction

Grade 12 Euclid Waterloo Math Contest Zone Champions 2019 Li, Hrotovytskyy, Yang Li, Haohua Euclid Medalist and Certificate of Distinction

Euclid Cerificate of DistinctionHrotovytskyy, Bohdan Yang, Ximing Xu, MingjunWang, Chenglin Li, Yuying


“I AM GLAD I CHOSE TO COME TO B.A. IN GRADE 9 SINCE

I HAVE MADE MANY FRIENDS I KNOW

I WILL KEEP FOREVER.”

MELANIE

Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest Xu, Mingjun Canadian Intermediate Math Contest Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan Canadian Open Mathematics Challenge Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Junior Athletes of the Year Lucki, Sophia Blaise, Yanick

SCIENCEMetro Toronto City Wide Science Fair Staibanom, Stephanie Silver Medal

Grade 11 Waterloo Chemistry Contest Yang, Ximing 93rd percentile and First Place at Bishop Allen Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan 90th percentile Chen, Hongrui(Ricardo) 81st percentile Bodley, Katherine 73rd percentile

Grade 12 Waterloo Chemistry Contest McMahon, Adam Top 1% Internationallay and First at Bishop Allen Reeve, Christine Top 8% Chan, Anze Top 12%

McMaster Physics Competition Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan Third Place

OAPT Physics Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan Top 6%Chen, Hongrui (Ricardo) Top 8%Pajkic, Bsko Top 14%Vo, John Top 20%Adatia, Shayne Top 20%

Sir Isaac Newton Physics Contest

Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan 97 percentile

AP AWARDS*** Denotes that the award has been earned in Grade 11

**Denotes that the award has been earned in Grade 10

*Denotes that the award has been earned in Grade 9

AP INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMAGranted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on five or more AP Exams in three or more subject areas. Complete requirements are available at 222.collegeboard.com/apid Mcmahon, Adam Reeve, Christine

NATIONAL AP SCHOLAR (CANADA)Granted to students in Canada who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on five or more of these examsChan, Anze Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan** Mcmahon, AdamReeve, Christine Yang, Ximing

AP SCHOLAR WITH DISTINCTIONGranted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.Chan, Anze Dema, Daniel Hrotovytskyy, Bohdan**Mcmahon, Adam Reeve, Christine Yang, Ximing

AP SCHOLAR WITH HONOURGranted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 ore higher on four or more of these exams.Androsyuk, Alexander*** Bis, Alexandra Choo, Christina***Gallant, Kaitlin Obonsawin, Olivia Ramamurthy, MadhumithaSun, Sophie*** Zhu, Maggie

AP SCHOLARGranted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams. Angeles Pasco F, Maria-Fernan Chin, Kathryn Ciupak, MatthewGiovinazzo, Sophya Girard, Charlotte Kanne, MartaLamont, Kate*** Moore, Brian Ostrovica, GlenZakala, Christina

1. Joseph Martino 416-512-3401

2. Markus de Domenico 416-512-3402

3. Ida Li Preti 416-512-3403

4. Teresa Lubinski 416-512-3404

5. Maria Rizzo, Chair 416-512-3405

6. Frank D’Amico 416-512-3406

7. Mike Del Grande, Vice-Chair 416-512-3407

8. Garry Tanuan 416-512-3408

9. Norm Di Pasquale 416-512-3409

10. Daniel Di Giorgio 416-512-3410

11. Angela Kennedy 416-512-3411

12. Nancy Crawford 416-512-3412

Taylor Dallin, 416-512-3413

Student Trustee

Kathy Nguyen, 416-512-3417

Student Trustee

TrusteesTORONTO CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

TRUSTEES 2019-2020

Bishop Allen Academy

721 Royal York Road, Etobicoke,Ontario

416 393-5549 BishopAllen.ca

bishop allen academy school prospectus

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