REVIEW OF The New School BY parent, Lisa-Marie Scaglione

(5) Student Experience

My son’s experience at The New School has been nothing short of amazing. From the very first day, it was clear that this school was different. The emphasis on outdoor learning has been a game-changer for him. He gets to spend time outside every day, whether it’s learning about nature, exploring the outdoors, or participating in physical activities. It’s been incredible to see how much more engaged and energized he is, and it’s fostered a deep love for the environment. What stands out most, however, is the variety of opportunities The New School offers. My son has had the chance to learn piano, which has sparked a new passion in him and given him a sense of accomplishment. He’s also been learning French, which has broadened his horizons and instilled a love for languages. Beyond the academics, activities like fishing and tennis have helped him develop important life skills, such as patience, teamwork, and focus. It’s clear that The New School is about more than just textbooks—it’s about creating well-rounded individuals.

(5) School Leadership

From the very beginning, it’s clear that the administration is deeply committed to creating a positive and supportive learning environment. They are always approachable and responsive to any concerns, addressing issues in a thoughtful and timely manner. Whether it’s a minor concern or a larger issue, they handle problems with professionalism and care, ensuring that both students and parents feel heard and valued. When it comes to discipline, The New School’s commitment to fairness and consistency ensures that students are held accountable, but in a way that encourages positive behavioral changes and growth. I always feel informed and confident in how things are handled at the school.

(5) Teaching

I couldn’t be more pleased with my son’s educational experience. His teacher is not only highly knowledgeable but is also incredibly passionate about all subjects. Her enthusiasm for what she teaches is contagious, and it’s evident that she genuinely cares about the success and growth of each student. Whether it’s in the classroom, during outdoor learning, or while engaging in specialized activities like skating or fishing, my son is always excited to learn and explore new ideas. What I truly appreciate is how she communicates with my child. She takes the time to explain concepts in a way that is both clear and engaging, ensuring that each lesson resonates with the students. She is also excellent at providing constructive feedback, guiding my son through challenges and encouraging him to reflect on his work and progress. This thoughtful approach has helped him become more independent and confident in his learning. The teacher understands my son's strengths and areas where he needs growth, and she tailors her instructions to meet his individual needs. She provides ample support when necessary, while also pushing him to stretch beyond his comfort zone, ensuring that he is always growing and learning

(5) Academics

The academic program at The New School is truly exceptional. One of its greatest strengths is its holistic and well-rounded approach to education, which blends core academic subjects with a variety of hands-on, experiential learning opportunities. The academic culture at The New School is one where students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and approach problems from multiple angles. This kind of environment cultivates not just academic achievement but also a sense of personal ownership over learning. Teachers are not just instructors but guides who work alongside students, helping them develop a lifelong passion for learning and problem-solving. As for the academic strengths, I would say the school excels in fostering creativity and critical thinking. It provides a strong foundation in essential subjects like math, science, and language arts, while also prioritizing arts and physical education. The outdoor learning component is another standout, giving students the chance to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, which helps them develop both practical and intellectual skills. The school’s academic atmosphere is positive and supportive, and students are given the space to work at their own pace. While the focus is on personal growth, there is also a healthy level of challenge. My son is consistently encouraged to stretch his abilities, yet he never feels overwhelmed. The teachers are skilled at providing individualized attention and support, ensuring that each student is adequately prepared for the next step in their educational journey. As for weaknesses, there may be times when the school's progressive approach, with its emphasis on experiential and outdoor learning, might leave some traditional academic skills—like standardized test preparation—slightly underemphasized. However, this is a small tradeoff for the rich, hands-on learning experiences my child is receiving. It’s clear that The New School prioritizes critical thinking and emotional intelligence over rote memorization, and that’s something I truly appreciate. Overall, I am confident that The New School is preparing my son for the next steps in his life, both academically and personally. The school's focus on intellectual curiosity, personal development, and emotional well-being has laid a strong foundation for his future. I have no doubt that the skills and values he’s developing here will serve him well in whatever path he chooses.

(5) Extracurriculars

The extracurricular opportunities at The New School are truly impressive and play a key role in making this school such a well-rounded educational environment. From sports like tennis to creative pursuits like music and outdoor activities such as fishing, the school offers a diverse range of activities that cater to a variety of interests. There are opportunities to take part in sports and other activities that promote teamwork and skill-building, while for those who simply want to have fun and explore new interests, the school offers less formal, more relaxed activities. Whether it’s through team events or personal projects, my son has been able to explore new hobbies, develop existing passions, and form lasting friendships, all in an environment that celebrates individual growth and creativity. What stands out the most is that these extracurricular opportunities are not just about filling time, but about helping students develop in a balanced way. The school’s academic program is enhanced by these offerings, and they provide an important space for students to explore leadership, collaboration, and resilience outside the classroom. This well-rounded approach supports the development of a child who is both intellectually capable and emotionally mature.

(5) Students

With smaller class sizes, the school fosters a close community where students know each other by name. The dynamic between students is incredibly positive and supportive. My son has made close friendships and is part of a group where everyone feels valued and accepted. The atmosphere is one of mutual respect and support, which helps create a safe space where students can express themselves without fear of judgment. The students are encouraged to be themselves and pursue their passions, but they also cheer each other on and celebrate one another’s successes. It’s a friendly, welcoming environment where collaboration is prioritized over competition. The smaller school size also means that teachers can easily get to know each student, fostering positive relationships that support both academic and personal growth. This tight-knit nature creates an environment where everyone is invested in each other’s success, making it feel like more of a family than just a school.

(5) School Life

Based on my experience, The New School provides a nurturing and engaging environment that prioritizes hands-on learning, outdoor experiences, and well-rounded development. The small class sizes and diverse extracurricular opportunities create a close-knit community where students feel supported and excited to learn. Yes! My son absolutely loves attending The New School, which is a strong indicator of a positive learning environment. I think some of the reasons why he enjoys school is because he has the opportunity to learn outside which helps fosters curiosity, engagement, and a connection to nature. With unique offerings like fishing, yoga, skating, piano, and cursive writing, students get to explore a wide range of interests. The small school setting ensures that each child receives individual attention and feels valued. The mix of structured learning and fun activities keeps school enjoyable and prevents burnout. Parents considering The New School should know that it offers a unique and enriching educational experience. If you’re looking for a school that prioritizes hands-on learning, creativity, and a love for the outdoors while maintaining strong academics, this could be a great fit.

(5) Community

The New School fosters a warm, tight-knit community where students, teachers, and families all play an important role. Given its small size and focus on experiential learning, the relationships between families and staff are more personal than in larger schools. Parents are encouraged to be involved in school activities and events through communication, volunteer opportunities, and/or field trips— it is a very engaged school community, which I am very grateful for. There is an overall sense of community at The New School. The fact that parents are always welcome to be part of the school’s activities speaks to the strong, family-oriented culture. This openness makes it an excellent choice for families looking for an educational environment that values collaboration, connection, and shared experiences.

(5) School Location

The area is amazing!! The kids have access to so many things. I was not very familiar with the area before I signed my son up for The NEW School, but I am so grateful I did. These kids are incredibly lucky to have access to the Humber River, a local skating arena, public transit and a library just to name a few.

(5) Admissions

Choosing a school for your child is a big decision, approach it thoughtfully. My advice would be to start early. Research schools, visit campuses (virtually or in-person), and understand the values, strengths, and community culture of each one. Talk to families that are currently attending said school. They can provide real-world insight into the school’s strengths and challenges. Their perspective is often more candid than official marketing. Be honest in the application process. Make sure the school is not only a great fit for you, but also for your child.Ask questions and talk to the staff.