Academics are the top priority at Rotman Arts & Science School (RASS). This Kindergarten to Grade 12 school provides small class sizes that allow instructors to focus on the development of individual learners. Students are encouraged to be self-motivated and to actively participate in their own education. RASS also fosters lifelong learning and development and nurtures students’ intellectual and emotional growth to help them to make positive contributions to Canadian society. Students practice discipline, self-management, and responsibility, and learn to think critically and creatively. RASS was founded in 2004 to combine academic education with professional arts training, offer unique opportunities for advanced courses and independent study, and enable students to pursue their individual interests.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Founded in 2004, Rotman Arts and Science School, formerly Arts and Science Academy of Canada has grown into a private day school that combines academic education with professional ballet and arts training. Our school varies in curriculum from Grade 1 - Grade 12 towards OSSD. Small class sizes allow us to focus on the development of individual learners. Experienced teachers help students develop responsibility, creativity, resilience and become a well-rounded human being."
Ontario Secondary School Diploma
Academic Excellence
Professional Arts and Ballet Training
Small Class Size
Experienced Teachers
Interdisciplinary Education
Monthly Field trips
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"Rotman Arts and Science School's unparalleled combination of professional ballet training, a comprehensive arts program, and the hosting of international students exemplifies its...(more)
"Rotman Arts and Science School's unparalleled combination of professional ballet training, a comprehensive arts program, and the hosting of international students exemplifies its commitment to providing a multifaceted and globally minded educational experience. Through an interdisciplinary approach, small class sizes, experienced faculty, and a strong focus on character development, RASS empowers students to excel academically and artistically while fostering a global perspective."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
"Our school prioritizes arts and ballet while maintaining a balance with other subjects, ensuring our students are well-rounded. From visual arts to other after-school activities,...(more)
"Our school prioritizes arts and ballet while maintaining a balance with other subjects, ensuring our students are well-rounded. From visual arts to other after-school activities, we nurture creativity and discipline. Yet, we also emphasize traditional academic subjects like math, science, language arts, and social studies. This holistic approach enhances cognitive development, promotes emotional well-being, and fosters social skills. By integrating arts and academics, we prepare students for success in all facets of life, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and personal growth."
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?
"We welcome both local and international students from all around the world, especially the ones who are interested in ballet and arts as hobbies or professional career paths."
"We welcome both local and international students from all around the world, especially the ones who are interested in ballet and arts as hobbies or professional career paths."
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
"As our school would focus on arts and dance programs, beside the main academic programs, we would not suggest parents choose us if they want to guide their kids towards a career...(more)
"As our school would focus on arts and dance programs, beside the main academic programs, we would not suggest parents choose us if they want to guide their kids towards a career in a specific sports, such as soccer, basketball, baseball, etc. We do have physical education for our kids, including soccer, basketball, martial arts, etc., however, not to the professional level."
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"RASS's unique combination of offerings, including professional ballet, a comprehensive arts program, and an international student body, can provide students with opportunities for...(more)
"RASS's unique combination of offerings, including professional ballet, a comprehensive arts program, and an international student body, can provide students with opportunities for personal and art and artistic growth that may no and artistic growth that may not be readily available at other schools. RASS aligns with their child's interests and educational goals. Whether a student has a passion for ballet, the arts, or desires a well-rounded education that includes exposure to different cultures"
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
"A caring and welcoming community which can be consider your child's second family."
"A caring and welcoming community which can be consider your child's second family."
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"The diverse student body and exposure to different cultures provide students with invaluable experiences for developing cultural awareness, cross-cultural communication skills,...(more)
"The diverse student body and exposure to different cultures provide students with invaluable experiences for developing cultural awareness, cross-cultural communication skills, and a broader worldview. This global perspective is not just an added feature but a fundamental aspect of preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world, and families should recognize its profound impact on their child's education and personal growth."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"Families may find that RASS fosters a close-knit and supportive community. The small class sizes and personalized attention not only enhance learning but also create a sense of...(more)
"Families may find that RASS fosters a close-knit and supportive community. The small class sizes and personalized attention not only enhance learning but also create a sense of belonging and camaraderie among students, teachers, and parents. This sense of community can be a pleasant surprise for families seeking an intimate educational environment. They will be surprised by RASS's adaptability and willingness to evolve with changing educational needs and circumstances."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
"Classrooms have been upgraded, common areas revamped, and we even added a few surprises that we hope the students have enjoyed discovering. These changes were all made with the...(more)
"Classrooms have been upgraded, common areas revamped, and we even added a few surprises that we hope the students have enjoyed discovering. These changes were all made with the students' growth and comfort in mind, ensuring an optimal learning experience for the upcoming school year."
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
"We will focus on expanding interdisciplinary education, blending arts, sciences, and humanities to foster creativity and critical thinking. Invest in cutting-edge technology and...(more)
"We will focus on expanding interdisciplinary education, blending arts, sciences, and humanities to foster creativity and critical thinking. Invest in cutting-edge technology and digital tools to enhance learning experiences and personalize education. Arts programs will be further integrated, promoting creative expression alongside intellectual growth. Personalized learning and student well-being will remain a priority, ensuring individualized support. Strengthening partnerships with universities and industries will create more opportunities for internships and mentorships. Increased diversity and inclusion efforts will bring a global perspective to the student body. Community engagement will be deepened, with families playing a key role in collaborative learning. The school’s mission will continue to shape future-ready individuals prepared for both personal and professional success."
Gr. 1 (current) — My kid has studied at Rotman Arts and Science School for 2 years since he was in grade 1. He has really enjoyed studying there. He is excited to go to school every day. I see that teachers are very supportive and dedicated. Teachers really understand and care for my child. Whenever I pick him up from school, I see that he is happy each day at school with teachers and friends. Teachers' skills and expertise are really great. My kid has achieved great academic results in math and literacy. He is happy whenever I ask him to open his books or go to school. I am happy with my decision to send my kid to Rothman Arts and Science School. I wish that I could send my kid to Roman earlier. However, I also wish that my kid could be given a little more homework to practice at home.
Gr. 9 (current) — My child has been attending Rotman Arts and Science School for the past two years, and I wanted to take a moment to share our thoughts and experiences with the school.
Firstly, I must say that my child's experience at Rotman has been overwhelmingly positive. The unique combination of arts and science in the curriculum is something that initially drew us to the school, and it has exceeded our expectations. The interdisciplinary approach to learning has not only broadened my child's horizons but has also allowed them to explore their diverse interests. This holistic approach is, in my opinion, one of the school's strongest assets.
What my child appreciates the most about Rotman is the sense of community and inclusivity. The school fosters an environment where every student's talents are celebrated and individuality is encouraged. The teachers and staff are genuinely dedicated to the well-being and success of their students, which has created a nurturing atmosphere that my child thrives in.
Gr. 9 (current) — My girl was encouraged to join a lot of activities, and field trips like apple picking, strawberry picking, camping at the parks, etc. The student experience at Rotman Arts and Science is nothing short of exceptional. From the moment my child walks through the school doors, there's a palpable sense of warmth, inclusivity, and a genuine commitment to nurturing every student's growth and potential. The teachers, staff, and administrators all play a crucial role in creating an environment where students not only learn but also thrive as individuals. Especially, the school manager, Ms. Harkiran is a very thoughtful person, always asking the kids how they are doing every day or if they need any help, supportive and informative. I feel really happy that I chose this school for my kid.
Gr. 6 (current),Gr. 1 (current) — Our child's experience at Rotman Arts and Science School has been nothing short of fantastic. They have genuinely thrived in this nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment. What our child likes the best and appreciates the most about their experience at the school is the genuine passion for learning that permeates every aspect of their education. They appreciate the opportunity to not only excel academically but also express their creativity through various artistic endeavors. The dedicated teachers, supportive peers, and a strong sense of community have all contributed to their positive experience. Incredibly, there is nothing our child finds disappointing about their time at Rotman Arts and Science School. They are consistently excited to go to school, eager to learn, and always come home with stories of new discoveries and achievements. As parents, witnessing our child's enthusiasm and growth in such a nurturing educational environment is truly rewarding.
Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 — My child's experience at Rotman Arts and Science School has been overwhelmingly positive. They appreciate the interdisciplinary approach, the supportive faculty, the vibrant student life, and the opportunities for personal and academic growth. While there may be occasional academic challenges, my child views them as opportunities for learning and improvement. Our family is delighted with the educational journey that Rotman Arts and Science School has provided for our child. This interdisciplinary approach to learning has not only broadened their horizons but has also sparked their creativity.
On the flip side, there is not much that my child finds disappointing about their experience at Rotman Arts and Science School. However, if there were one aspect to mention, it might be the workload at times. From the moment they enrolled, it was evident that this school was the right fit for them.