How We Meet the Diverse Needs of Our Students
Monsignor Fraser College responds to the needs of a diverse population:
- Adults returning to complete their secondary school diploma requirements.
- New Canadians seeking high school completion, skills, English and work experience.
- Intellectually challenged adults seeing the dignity of employment or volunteer work or, in some cases, classroom training for fuller adult living.
- Teenagers experiencing halted learning and at risk of dropping out.
- Teenagers new to Canada seeking orientation, assessment and placement in Toronto Catholic secondary schools and intensive credit courses until placement is achieved.
- For all groups, a common need is for confidence, renewed self-esteem, a purpose in life, a fresh start and determination to strive for goals in an atmosphere of non-judgmental acceptance.
Though many are from faiths other than Catholic, the distinctly Catholic environment of the school is respected and welcomed. It is enhanced by an active chaplaincy team, an itinerant chaplain, liturgical celebration, a faith at work cooperative education courses, Gospel values-infused curriculum, and a genuine appreciation of diversity.
The willingness to acknowledge both rights and responsibility is formalized in the mutually agreed on code of behaviour for each group served. Small campuses, an attentive staff as mentors, and generous volunteers help to add a welcoming atmosphere and remove barriers to success. Students respond to a sense of Christian community and are quick to help others in the current crisis of budget cuts. With staff, they have created a breakfast club, food bank, a clearinghouse for information on community resources, and fund-raising projects to subsidize transportation for students experiencing hardship.
Through the action planning committee, impetus is given to encourage staff and student computer literacy. The Catholic School Advisory Committee (including representatives from business, industry, social agencies, higher education, Toronto Catholic District School Board, various government ministries and the school) attempts to smooth transitions through its long term support, linkage to college and university, and employment generation sub-committees. The prior learning assessment courses, offered through guidance in partnership with Seneca College originated from this network.
Regularly curriculum offerings are tested for relevance and for potential to best prepare students for their next step both in skills acquisition and in general education needed to cope. Community-based learning is important and well planned field trips are frequent. Leadership is recognized and developed through campus and school student councils. Assemblies, an annual Multicultural Festival, College Connections Day, and Fraser games are school-wide showcases of the hopes and talents of our students.
Family Of Schools
S.S.S.Support Lead - Vincent Burzotta
Enrollment
160
Principal
Susan Laidlaw
