Nestled in the heart of Mount Pleasant West, John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton is more than just an educational institution—it’s a cornerstone of the community with a legacy that spans over a century. Recognized as one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton, this vibrant public school combines academic excellence with a nurturing environment that celebrates both English and French cultures. From its origins as the first junior public school in Yonge and Eglinton to its current status as a dual-track school, John Fisher continues to provide students with a well-rounded education grounded in diversity, character development, and innovation. Whether it’s the award-winning choir, the thriving French Immersion program, or its eco-conscious initiatives, John Fisher Junior Public School offers an unparalleled learning experience that stands out among public schools in Toronto. Read on to discover what makes this school truly exceptional.
Historical Background
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton boasts a rich history that reflects its deep-rooted connection to the community and its evolving role in education. Established in 1887, the school is the oldest building in the Toronto District School Board, initially serving as a local educational hub for the agricultural village of Eglinton, which later developed into the thriving Mount Pleasant West neighborhood.
Originally built as a two-story, four-room schoolhouse, the school underwent significant changes over the decades. It became a prominent French Immersion Centre in 1977, providing an immersive French-language learning environment for students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3. In September 2022, the school transitioned to a dual-track program, introducing an English stream starting at the Junior Kindergarten level, expanding its reach to more families in the area.
Today, John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton continues to honor its heritage while embracing modern educational needs, making it one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton.
Location and Accessibility
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton is located at 40 Erskine Avenue, Toronto, in the vibrant Mount Pleasant West neighborhood. Positioned just steps away from the bustling Yonge and Eglinton intersection, the school benefits from proximity to a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, parks, and office buildings. This central location makes the school an integral part of one of the most dynamic and family-friendly areas in Midtown Toronto.
The school is well-connected through multiple transportation options. It is accessible via public transit, with nearby TTC bus stops and the Eglinton subway station. For families driving to the school, limited parking facilities are available, including an accessible parking space near entrance #4. However, pathways and entrances may present challenges for those with mobility needs, as none are equipped with power-operated doors, and the building lacks an operational elevator for its three floors.
While John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton offers a safe and welcoming environment, its accessibility features remain limited, requiring coordination with the school office to arrange accommodations as needed. Despite these challenges, its central location and community-oriented environment contribute to its reputation as one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton.
Programs and Curriculum
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton offers a well-rounded curriculum designed to support bilingual education and cultural exposure for students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6. As one of the top-performing junior public schools in Yonge and Eglinton, it provides a learning environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth.
The French Immersion program is a cornerstone of the school’s offerings. It begins in Junior Kindergarten, where all instruction is conducted in French until the end of Grade 3. This immersive approach helps students build a strong foundation in the language while enhancing their confidence and communication skills. Starting in Grade 4, English instruction is introduced, creating a balanced bilingual curriculum that prepares students for future academic success.
In September 2022, the school expanded its curriculum by introducing an English stream for Junior Kindergarten students. This initiative marked the transition from a French Immersion Centre to a dual-track school, offering families more educational options within the community.
The school prioritizes student success through a range of support programs. Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and small-group instruction led by resource teachers provide targeted assistance to students requiring additional support in literacy, numeracy, and organizational skills. These interventions are complemented by collaboration with the In-School Support Team (IST) and School Support Team (SST), which include professionals in psychology, social work, and speech and language services.
With its focus on bilingual education, cultural enrichment, and student-centered learning, John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton continues to be one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton and a leader among public schools in Toronto.
Facilities
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton offers a range of facilities designed to support its students’ academic and extracurricular needs. As one of the most recognized junior public schools in Yonge and Eglinton, the school combines historic charm with functional spaces that cater to modern learning.
The school infrastructure includes specialized rooms such as a library, a general-purpose room, and a gymnasium. These spaces are equipped to facilitate various educational and recreational activities, promoting a well-rounded learning experience. The school also houses two accessible washrooms on the first floor, although other areas of the building, such as entrances and higher floors, may present accessibility challenges due to the absence of power-operated doors and elevators.
A notable feature of the school is its partnership with French Connection Child Care, which provides an integrated daycare service. This collaboration complements the school’s bilingual education focus, offering extended support for families in the area.
Recreational areas and learning spaces at the school are thoughtfully designed to encourage physical activity and collaborative learning. While some areas require improvements for accessibility, the school continues to optimize its facilities to provide a safe and engaging environment for all students.
The balance of historic architecture and functional amenities makes John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton a distinctive choice among public schools in Toronto.
Unique Features
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton stands out among junior public schools in Yonge and Eglinton for its rich history, innovative programs, and vibrant community involvement. As the oldest building in the Toronto District School Board, this historic institution combines its legacy with forward-thinking initiatives to offer students a unique and dynamic educational experience.
The school is a proud recipient of multiple EcoSchool certifications, including Gold and Silver levels, reflecting its strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Students actively participate in eco-conscious projects, instilling a sense of global citizenship and responsibility for the planet’s ecological health.
Character development is another defining feature, emphasized through the Participation Positive des Pingouins (PPP) initiative. This program promotes respect, cooperation, and kindness, contributing to a caring and inclusive learning environment.
French cultural activities are seamlessly integrated into the school’s identity. Students participate in events such as Carnaval, which celebrates French-Canadian heritage, and the Concours d’art oratoire, an annual public speaking competition. These experiences enrich students’ understanding of French culture while enhancing their language skills.
With its combination of historical significance, environmental leadership, and cultural enrichment, John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton is widely regarded as one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton and a standout among public schools in Toronto.
Health and Safety
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton prioritizes the health and safety of its students and staff through comprehensive policies and regular assessments. As one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton, the school is committed to maintaining a secure and supportive environment.
Monthly workplace inspections are conducted to identify and address any potential hazards within the school premises. In the 2021-2022 school year, key findings included minor issues such as damaged surfaces, missing emergency lighting, and outdated health and safety bulletin boards, all of which were promptly addressed by the principal or caretakers to ensure compliance with safety standards.
The school also participates in the Toronto District School Board’s annual drinking water testing program, in alignment with provincial regulations. During the most recent tests, all drinking water sources met the safety requirements, with lead levels well below the provincial threshold of 10 micrograms per liter. Additionally, the school flushes all water fixtures weekly as a precautionary measure.
With a proactive approach to safety and ongoing maintenance, John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton remains dedicated to providing a secure learning environment, setting it apart among public schools in Toronto.
Community Engagement
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton thrives on the strong connection between the school and its community. Recognized as one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton, the school fosters collaboration through active participation of parents, caregivers, and local groups in various initiatives.
The School Council plays a significant role in shaping the school’s environment. It meets monthly and operates through several sub-committees focused on key areas such as safety, fundraising, arts and cultural enrichment, athletics, and environmental initiatives. These sub-committees ensure that the school’s priorities align with community needs and enhance the overall student experience.
Parent involvement is central to the school’s success. More than 200 volunteers contribute their time and resources to a wide range of activities, including classroom assistance, library support, event organization, and sports coaching. Fundraising efforts by parents have facilitated numerous enrichment programs such as performances, workshops, and environmental projects.
The school participates in various outreach programs, including Me to We and disaster relief initiatives. These programs teach students the value of compassion, equity, and social responsibility while actively involving them in helping local and global communities.
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton also celebrates its French heritage through collaboration with French-speaking communities and cultural groups. Events like Carnaval, storytelling workshops, and visits by French authors and artists help reinforce bilingual learning and cultural appreciation.
By fostering a spirit of inclusion and cooperation, John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton continues to set a benchmark for community involvement among public schools in Toronto.
Performance and Recognition
John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton is celebrated for its academic achievements, athletic accomplishments, and participation in prestigious programs, distinguishing itself as one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton.
The school consistently demonstrates strong performance in EQAO (Education Quality and Accountability Office) assessments. These scores highlight the effectiveness of its bilingual education model and the commitment of its educators to fostering academic excellence in both French and English streams.
Beyond academics and sports, the school actively participates in enriching programs such as Roots of Empathy, which teaches emotional intelligence and compassion, and Dictée PGL, a French language spelling and grammar competition that reinforces the school’s commitment to French cultural excellence.
These accomplishments affirm John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton as a leader among junior public schools in Yonge and Eglinton and a benchmark for quality education in public schools in Toronto.
Contact Information
For families seeking more details about John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton, the following contact information is available:
- Address: 40 Erskine Avenue, Toronto, ON M4P 1Y2, Canada
- Contact: (416) 393-9325
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: John Fisher Junior Public School Website
To learn more about the school, schedule a visit, or request additional information, families can contact the school office directly via phone or email. The school also offers opportunities to attend open houses or parent information sessions throughout the year, where prospective families can meet staff, tour the facilities, and ask questions.
For updates and community engagement, check the school’s website or inquire about any associated social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) pages. John Fisher Junior Public School in Yonge and Eglinton is committed to maintaining transparent communication with parents and caregivers, further solidifying its reputation as one of the best schools in Yonge and Eglinton.
FAQs
- What grades does John Fisher Junior Public School offer?
The school offers programs from Junior Kindergarten (JK) to Grade 6. - Does the school have an English stream?
Yes, an English stream was introduced in September 2022, starting with Junior Kindergarten. - What is the focus of the school’s curriculum?
The curriculum emphasizes bilingual education, character development, and academic excellence. - Does the school have a daycare?
Yes, the school partners with French Connection Child Care to offer daycare services. - How does the school support students with learning challenges?
The school provides Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and works with support teams, including psychologists, social workers, and resource teachers. - What transportation options are available for students?
The school is accessible by public transit, including nearby TTC buses and Eglinton subway station.