In some ways, Rockway was born out of a pacifist impulse, established by Swiss Mennonites who were concerned about the military tenor that seeped into the public school system leading up to and during WWII. Times of course have changed, though the foundational principles remain, as well as the values that lay behind them: compassion, understanding, and an open mind to the experiences and perspectives of others. If all you knew about the school was its name, a closer look would reveal a lot of surprises. The school has a robust international program, welcoming students from around the world as well as an extensive exchange program. The curriculum is taught through a Mennonite lens, while also partnering with a local Muslim school, and creating regular opportunities for students to interact with local Jewish, Hindu, and Sikh communities. It’s a unique school, to be sure, which is exactly why families, both within and without the Mennonite community, enroll their children here.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"A Small School for a Big World! Located in Kitchener, Ontario, just one hour west of Toronto, Rockway Mennonite Collegiate focuses on academic excellence, service, and peace-making through a diverse learning community of students in grades 7-12 including a dynamic international student exchange program. Rockway is an inclusive and supportive community that embraces academics, the arts, and athletics to help students to become well-rounded, responsible, global citizens."
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
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3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
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4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
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5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
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6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
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7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
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8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
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9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
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10. What might families find surprising about your school?
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11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
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12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?