Parkinson Centennial Public School is a K-8 school centrally located several blocks from Orangeville’s downtown district, surrounded by a residential area. Our school is situated on 10.98 acres of land and faces Lawrence Avenue. The student population of our school fluctuates significantly year to year. Our graduates attend Westside Secondary School.

Parkinson Centennial Public School opened in 1968. The school was named after Boris T. Parkinson, Chair of the Board at that time. As well, the project was begun during 1967, the centennial year. Additions were built in 1969 and 1985. From 2001-2002, our school experienced a significant renovation and addition project; seven new classrooms and a computer lab were added to the existing building. As a result, the school now has a Ministry rated capacity of 500 students. The original building and school site was fully upgraded. A portable complex of six classrooms was removed from the site.

At Parkinson Centennial Public School, we believe progressive programming, direct instruction, and multiple instructional strategies are essential to student success. Special Education staff and a Child & Youth Worker, assist students with learning or behavioural challenges, helping them to build skills and strategies necessary for school success.

A multitude of opportunities and activities support the academic program, and promote pride, commitment, partnership and success at Parkinson Centennial. Students are invited to participate in Student Council, intramural and extra-mural sports and a variety of clubs. Our computer lab supports large or small group instruction. Special events and dates, as well as thematic presentations, are projected on our TV monitor in the front foyer.

“Literacy Kits” reinforce skills taught in Kindergarten and grade one. Kits are signed out for home use and provide many activities, games and books for parents to use with their child. The new A Blueprint for Literacy@ Document provides a foundation for the teaching of literacy skills across all subjects, K-8. Our Directions Team provides ongoing professional development sessions which engage all teaching staff; and professional inquiry and research of effective practices enhances student learning.