Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Riverdale, Jackman Avenue Junior Public School stands as a cornerstone of education, community, and innovation. Known for its welcoming environment and rich history, Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School has been nurturing young minds since 1963. As one of the most recognized junior public schools in Riverdale, Jackman offers a unique blend of English and Early French Immersion programs, providing a diverse learning experience that sets it apart from other public schools in Riverdale. With nearly 700 students, a dedicated staff, and a focus on environmental stewardship, Jackman Avenue is not just a school; it’s a community hub where children thrive. Whether you’re a parent seeking the best education for your child or a community member curious about local initiatives, this school continues to play a vital role in shaping young learners in one of Toronto’s most beloved areas. Parents looking for private school options after Jackman Avenue Junior Public School can find valuable insights in our ultimate guide to the top private schools in Toronto.
History of Jackman Avenue Junior Public School
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School opened its doors in 1963 as an English Community School, serving the growing Riverdale neighborhood. From its inception, the school has been dedicated to providing a well-rounded education to the local community.
In 1971, Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School became a pioneer in bilingual education by introducing one of Toronto’s first Early French Immersion programs. This addition attracted families interested in providing their children with a robust French language education. As demand for the program grew, the school underwent a significant renovation, doubling its capacity and adding a third floor to accommodate more students. Today, the school remains a dual-track institution, offering both English and French Immersion streams.
For over 25 years, Jackman Avenue has maintained a close partnership with the Jackman Community Day Care, fostering a supportive environment for young learners and their families.
Location and Contact Information
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School is conveniently located at 79 Jackman Ave, Toronto, ON, M4K 2X5, in the heart of Riverdale. This prime location places it within walking distance of various community landmarks, including Withrow Park, known for its recreational facilities, and the vibrant Danforth Avenue, home to numerous shops and restaurants. The school’s central spot makes it easily accessible to families residing in the area, solidifying its position as one of the most accessible junior public schools in Riverdale.
For inquiries or more information, you can reach the school at (416) 393-9710 or email them at [email protected].
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Academic Programs and Curriculum
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School offers a robust academic program that caters to diverse student needs through its regular English program and Early French Immersion option. The regular English program serves students from Junior Kindergarten (JK) to Grade 6, focusing on developing strong foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking.
The Early French Immersion program at Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School begins in Senior Kindergarten (SK). Designed for students who do not speak French at home, this program immerses students in a French-speaking environment, with all classes conducted in French until the end of Grade 3. From Grade 4, English instruction is gradually reintroduced, starting with one hour per day and increasing to half of the daily class time by Grade 6.
Students who complete the French Immersion program at Jackman are well-prepared to continue their bilingual studies at the secondary level. Those who successfully earn a minimum of 10 credits in French in high school receive a Certificate of Bilingual Studies in French, recognizing their proficiency and dedication to French language learning. As students transition from Jackman Avenue Junior Public School, the top high schools in Toronto can help families choose the ideal next step in their education journey.
Extracurricular Activities and Clubs
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School offers a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs, enriching the student experience beyond the classroom. Key programs include the EcoTeam and the Gardening Club, where students actively engage in environmental projects and maintain the school’s green spaces. These clubs align with the school’s focus on sustainability, allowing students to participate in hands-on learning that benefits both their education and the environment.
In addition to environmental clubs, Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School provides opportunities for students to explore sports, arts, and other activities that contribute to their physical and creative development. Regular sports programs and arts initiatives encourage teamwork, physical fitness, and self-expression, helping students build skills that extend beyond academic achievement.
Special Education Support
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School takes a personalized approach to special education, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to reach their full potential. The school is committed to integrating students with special needs into the community, providing a range of programs and resources designed to cater to individual learning requirements.
Resources available at Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School include specialized staff, such as resource teachers and educational assistants, who work closely with students to provide tailored support. The school collaborates with parents to develop Individual Education Plans (IEPs) that align with each student’s needs, whether they require additional academic assistance or social support within the classroom.
Parents seeking special education support are encouraged to start by contacting their child’s teacher or the school’s principal to discuss their concerns. If more intensive support is needed, an Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meeting can be arranged, involving the school team and parents to determine the most suitable support plan for the student.
For more information on specific programs or additional assistance, parents can reach out to the TDSB’s Special Education Office. Contact numbers for regional offices include:
- South East: (416) 396-7968
- North East: (416) 396-9003
- South West: (416) 394-3763
- North West: (416) 394-7406
School Facilities and Specialized Rooms
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School in Riverdale is equipped with a variety of facilities to support student learning and activities. The school features a well-stocked library that serves as a central hub for reading and research, though it lacks power-operated doors, making it only somewhat accessible. The school also has two gymnasiums—one on the first floor that is accessible but without access to the stage, and another on the second floor, which is inaccessible due to the absence of an elevator.
Accessibility remains a challenge throughout Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School. While the building is spread across multiple floors, there are no elevators, and the entrances are not equipped with power-operated doors. However, the school does have one accessible washroom located within the kindergarten area on the first floor, though it is not intended for public use.
A unique feature of the school is its green roof, designed as part of the TDSB’s EcoSchools initiative. The green roof provides environmental benefits like stormwater filtration and contributes to the urban ecosystem. Unlike most green roofs, Jackman’s features an indoor observation deck, allowing students a closer look at how the space supports biodiversity and energy conservation.
Accessibility Overview
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School faces some accessibility challenges, which it strives to address while ensuring a safe and inclusive environment. One of the key limitations is the lack of elevators, making the basement and upper floors inaccessible to those with mobility needs. Additionally, none of the entrances are equipped with power-operated doors, which can pose difficulties for individuals requiring assistance.
Despite these challenges, Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School has made efforts to accommodate accessibility needs wherever possible. The school has one accessible washroom located in a kindergarten room on the first floor, though it is not intended for public use. The exterior of the school includes one accessible parking space near the main entrance, providing ease of access for visitors with disabilities.
Staff members are attentive to individual needs and work to make the school as inclusive as possible, in line with the values held by junior public schools in Riverdale.
Eco School Initiatives
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School is a proud participant in the TDSB’s EcoSchools program, consistently earning Platinum Certification over the past four years. This recognition highlights the school’s commitment to environmental sustainability and education, making it a leader among junior public schools in Riverdale in fostering eco-friendly practices.
The schoolyard at Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School is designed as a green space for students to explore and learn. It features various gardens, including a vegetable learning garden, native grasses, and mature trees planted as part of the school’s greening efforts. These elements not only provide a healthier environment for students to play in but also serve as outdoor classrooms for ecological education.
The school actively promotes environmental responsibility through initiatives like litterless lunches, composting of organic waste, and a robust recycling program for paper, bottles, and cans. Students play a hands-on role in these efforts by collecting compost and recyclables, enhancing their understanding of sustainable practices.
Energy conservation is another focus, with the school installing solar blinds, UV window films, and ceiling fans to reduce energy consumption. The unique green roof further contributes by providing natural insulation and filtering stormwater. The roof also supports biodiversity, offering a habitat for insects and birds while helping to cool the surrounding area.
Student involvement is central to these initiatives, with the EcoTeam and Gardening Club leading efforts to maintain the schoolyard and raise environmental awareness. These programs give students the opportunity to actively participate in conservation efforts, making Jackman Avenue Junior Public School a standout among public schools in Riverdale committed to sustainability. As Jackman Avenue Junior Public School emphasizes eco-initiatives, parents and students might also be interested in exploring our top sustainable fashion brands in Canada for ethical fashion choices.
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School Field of Dreams Project
The Jackman Avenue Junior Public School Field of Dreams Project aims to transform the schoolyard into a vibrant space for learning and play. This revitalization project focuses on creating a new grass field, enhanced hard surfaces, and various elements that support sports and activities for students of all ages. The vision is to provide a welcoming outdoor environment that enriches both physical education and recreational time for the students of Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School.
Community involvement has been a cornerstone of this project. Parents, staff, and local residents have contributed through volunteer efforts and fundraising initiatives. Initial funds have been raised, but the project’s estimated total cost of $300,000 requires ongoing support from the community. Contributions can be made through direct donations, purchasing engraved pavers, writing grants, or becoming a sponsor.
The project’s timeline began with planning and consultations in early 2018, followed by the revitalization of the grass field during the summer of 2018. Construction drawings were prepared in the fall of 2018, with phased construction starting in 2019. Community members can continue to support this initiative by volunteering, offering ideas, or contributing financially through the school council’s website.
Student Demographics and Enrollment
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School serves approximately 610 students, offering programs from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 6. The school is evenly divided between younger students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3, with about 376 students, and those in Grades 4 to 6, with around 234 students.
The student body has a nearly balanced gender distribution, with 314 female students and 296 male students. Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School is known for its cultural diversity, with 159 students speaking a primary language other than English at home. The school also welcomes newcomers, including about 8 students who have been in Canada for 2 years or less and 20 students who have been in the country for 3 to 5 years. This diverse and inclusive environment makes Jackman Avenue Junior Public School a standout choice among junior public schools in Riverdale.
Administration and School Staff
The administration team at Jackman Avenue Junior Public School is dedicated to providing a supportive and effective learning environment for all students. The school is led by Principal Hilary Farrell, who is supported by Vice-Principal James Crimmins. Together, they work closely with staff, students, and the community to ensure the school’s programs run smoothly.
The office is managed by Office Administrator Sandra Cowen and Secretary Carol Johnson, who handle daily operations and assist families with their needs. The caretaking staff, led by Head Caretaker Steve Blackwood, includes Avery Strok and Jacqueline Gianou, ensuring that the school’s facilities remain clean and safe.
Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School also benefits from active community involvement through its school council. Co-chaired by Samira Viswanathan and Chris Haritun, the council plays a crucial role in shaping school initiatives. Oversight is provided by Superintendent Mike Gallagher and Trustee Sara Ehrhardt, ensuring alignment with broader TDSB objectives.
School Council and Community Engagement
The Jackman Avenue Junior Public School council plays a vital role in fostering strong connections between the school and its community. Its purpose is to support the school in enhancing student achievement and making the education system more accountable to parents.
The council is an advisory body composed of elected parents, school staff, the principal, and community representatives. It serves as a forum where members discuss and provide input on a variety of issues, from curriculum priorities to school safety and budget allocation. The council also plays an active role in shaping extracurricular activities and supporting the planning of events like the Jackman Avenue Junior Public School Field of Dreams Project.
Through fundraising, volunteer efforts, and collaboration with the school administration, the council helps bring valuable resources and improvements to the school. This ongoing support ensures that Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School remains a dynamic place for students to learn and grow. For more details about the school council and how to get involved, visit their website here.
Health and Safety Protocols
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students through rigorous health and safety protocols. As part of the TDSB’s commitment to student safety, the school conducts monthly health and safety inspections to identify and address any potential issues promptly. These inspections are critical in maintaining a secure environment, aligning with the standards expected of junior public schools in Riverdale.
Common issues identified during these inspections include furniture repairs, blocked egress routes, and missing safety signage. For example, a blocked fire exit or missing ceiling tiles in classrooms may be flagged during an inspection. The school’s caretaking staff and principal ensure that such issues are addressed swiftly. Actions often include repairing damaged surfaces, updating fire exit signage, and ensuring that pathways remain clear for safe evacuation.
These efforts underscore Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School’s focus on creating a safe learning environment where students can thrive.
Safe Drinking Water and Environmental Quality
Jackman Avenue Junior Public School is committed to ensuring safe drinking water and maintaining high standards of environmental quality for its students. Regular testing is conducted to monitor the levels of lead and other potential contaminants in the school’s drinking water sources. Recent test results indicate that all water sources have lead levels well below the safety threshold of 10 micrograms per liter, with flushed samples often showing less than 0.5 micrograms per liter, ensuring the safety of students.
To maintain these standards, the school follows a strict protocol of flushing all drinking water fixtures on a weekly basis. This process helps to reduce any potential build-up of lead in the water lines, aligning with the requirements set by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks. This regular flushing is a critical part of the school’s efforts to provide safe drinking water.
Enroll at Jackman Avenue Junior Public School
Enrolling at Jackman Avenue Junior Public School is a straightforward process for families in the Riverdale community. New student registrations can be completed through the school’s main office. Parents should bring proof of the child’s age, address, and immunization records. For families living within the school’s designated catchment area, enrollment at Riverdale’s Jackman Avenue Junior Public School is typically granted, depending on available space.
For those interested in the Early French Immersion program, the application process is done online through the TDSB website. The program is open to students starting in Senior Kindergarten (SK). Applications must be submitted within the specified deadlines to ensure consideration, and spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority is given to students with older siblings already enrolled in the program.
Important deadlines for the French Immersion program are usually set in the late fall or early winter, with placement offers sent to families via email. It’s crucial for parents to accept these offers by the specified deadline to secure their child’s spot in the program.
For more information on the enrollment process or if you have any questions, parents can contact Jackman Avenue Junior Public School directly at (416) 393-9710 or email [email protected].
FAQs
- Is Jackman Avenue Junior Public School accessible for students with disabilities?
The school has some accessibility challenges, such as the absence of elevators and power-operated doors. - Does the school offer support for students with special needs?
Yes, the school provides special education support through Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and resource teachers. - What is the deadline to apply for the French Immersion program?
Deadlines are usually in late fall or early winter, and it’s important to check the TDSB website for specific dates. - Does the school offer any environmental programs?
Yes, the school participates in TDSB’s EcoSchools program and has a green roof, gardens, and an EcoTeam. - What extracurricular activities are available at the school?
The school offers clubs like the EcoTeam, Gardening Club, sports, and arts programs. - Does Jackman Avenue Junior Public School have a playground?
Yes, the schoolyard includes a green space with gardens and play areas, recently revitalized through the Field of Dreams project.