When parents are considering a school, they’re right to ask about instructional styles, teaching, programs, assessment. Those are important. Though when we pick up our kids from school each day, we’re not thinking about those things. Instead, we ask: “How was your day?” Maybe we ask it reflexively, but when it comes to how children learn, that’s actually where the rubber really meets the road. Kids learn best in a consistent, supportive, personal, safe, and community-focused environment. Providing that kind of environment is what forms a basis for all of the work at Kingsley. When they say “thrive” they mean it in the broad sense—gaining a strong academic foundation—but also in the sense of having fun, gaining confidence, and finding a voice within a community of peers. The programs are strong, the teaching staff seasoned, and the school has had consistent success for more than three decades. For the families that enroll here, all of that is important. Likewise, the strength and focus of the learning environment is often, quite rightly, a principle draw. After all, a child's ability to thrive in life begins in having a good day, today.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"At Kingsley, our small class sizes and personal approach to teaching the Ontario Curriculum help students reach their unique potential. We ensure that each child is seen, heard, and respected every day. French, music and physical education are taught by specialists in an enriched program which promotes inclusion, conflict resolution, mindfulness, and character development. Students love our many clubs, trips, and recesses in the fresh air. Optional before/after-care and half-day PK/JK. BELONG - DISCOVER - THRIVE!"
Strong Character Curriculum that is taught explicitly and practiced in everyday school life.
Specialty Classes - Music, French and Phys. Ed taught by specialty teachers beginning in SK.
Warm and nurturing environment that supports intellectual, physical and emotional needs.
Outdoor learning and play time: Students are outdoors three times per day.
Communication is ongoing from teachers and administration.
Large enclosed customized play space on the premises.
Flexible Before-and After care programing.
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"At Kingsley, you will not see a classroom where students are all opening a textbook and working on the same page day in and out. The fact is, even in one small class there is a...(more)
"At Kingsley, you will not see a classroom where students are all opening a textbook and working on the same page day in and out. The fact is, even in one small class there is a variety of abilities and learning styles. We approach teaching with a well-rounded approach. We hold mini-lessons on a topic, listen to the student's interests and tap into that, use a hands-on-learning approach and allot time for the teacher to have one-on-one time with each student every day."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
Information not yet available.
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
Information not yet available.
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
Information not yet available.
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
Information not yet available.
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Our families have expressed their appreciation for our open communication, and the swift and thoughtful execution of how we deal with concerns. They tell us that our genuine...(more)
"Our families have expressed their appreciation for our open communication, and the swift and thoughtful execution of how we deal with concerns. They tell us that our genuine nurturing and warm environment is unmatched. They understand the value of truly partnering with us and see what a difference it makes in their children when school and home communicate and work together."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
Information not yet available.
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"Parents at Kingsley have many opportunities to get involved in school projects including but not limited to field trips, serving on our Board of Directors, and Fundraising. Our...(more)
"Parents at Kingsley have many opportunities to get involved in school projects including but not limited to field trips, serving on our Board of Directors, and Fundraising. Our fundraising initiatives not only support specific school initiatives it creates a great sense of collaboration and school community. Our families are crafty, creative, innovative and have all kinds of expertise that we enjoy having come to light for the benefit of the school and all the students."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"Families are pleasantly surprised that we walk the walk and actually deliver what we say we do. Our Family Nights, winter and spring concerts, and other events all give a...(more)
"Families are pleasantly surprised that we walk the walk and actually deliver what we say we do. Our Family Nights, winter and spring concerts, and other events all give a first-hand experience to our families which reinforces that we deliver what we say we can. One parent said, "Wow, we really liked your school when we registered our child, but after experiencing a Family Night and seeing what you do firsthand, I LOVE your school. This is a very special place.""
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
Information not yet available.
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
Our child attended Kingsley from JK to Grade 5. She enjoyed everything during her time at Kingsley, she loved all her teachers and she thrived at the school and she was well prepared when she had to move on. She liked the fact that she could go to any of the teachers if she didn't understand something and they always took the time to help her. The only disappointment she had was that the school did not go beyond grade 5 and she had to leave.
It was a tough decision to move our 4-year old son to a new school, but after a challenging junior kindergarten year at the local public school, we knew we had to find a different environment to help him find the enthusiasm for learning he had lost.
From day one Kingsley delivered on the promise to "belong, discover, thrive". Our son was made to feel important, listened to and respected. And I felt listened to, respected and involved. The boy who didn't say a word in class in JK and who hated going to school was bringing found objects to place in the classroom discovery table by the end of the week.
Daily, I hear about his trips to the park for recess, about the "obstacle course" he helped design. Outdoor time - of which there is plenty - is his favourite thing.
He recently said "Mom, I didn't used to talk but now I do. I talk to Ms. Dominguez" (his teacher).
Quiet time, with a mat and a blanket, is a surprisingly positive part of his day. He tells us how he "relaxed, with my shoes off."
His only disappointment is that he walks to school now instead of riding the school bus :)
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