Inter Mutanda Constantia. Steadfast in the midst of change. That is the motto of Francis Libermann Catholic High School. Founded in 1977 the school bears the name of Venerable Francis Mary Paul Libermann. He was a Jewish convert to Christianity. Later he became a Catholic priest in 1841. Francis Libermann also co-founded the Congregation of the Holy Spirit.
Francis Libermann Catholic High School started as a semi-private school. In 1986 it became a public separate school. The school is part of the Toronto Catholic District School Board. It is located in the Agincourt neighbourhood of Scarborough.
Father John Geary CSSp was the first principal of Francis Libermann. The school quickly became known for academic excellence and faith.
Originally Francis Libermann was planned as a middle school. The plan changed. It became a school for grades 9 to OAC.
The first permanent building opened in 1981. It had classrooms a library a wood shop and a double gymnasium. Overcrowding was a problem. Additions and alterations became necessary. Portables were added for extra students. Later the school expanded the gymnasium. An annex was built. In 2006 a new section added an office an atrium and a cafeteria.
From 1985 the Metropolitan Separate School Board took full control. The Spiritans withdrew from day-to-day operations. In 1986 Francis Libermann had 1100 students and 63 staff members. Overcrowding led to solutions like required study halls. Staircases were separated for up and down traffic. Many students had to eat lunch at their desks. To address the overcrowding two new schools opened in northern Scarborough. Mary Ward and Mother Teresa schools were established in 1985. In the summer of 2018 two more portables were built. This was due to increased enrollment.
Francis Libermann Catholic High School offers a non-semestered system. Students attend classes throughout the year. This helps them achieve higher marks in university prep classes. The school also has a STEAM program.
The school is surrounded by Brimley Woods to the north. The Royal Crown Academic School and a fire hall are to the west. A ravine is to the east. Finch Avenue East is to the south. The nearest bus stop is outside the school. It connects to Finch Station.
Students wear a uniform. This includes grey dress pants a golf shirt and a polo sweater. A kilt with school colors is also part of the uniform. Black shoes are required.
Francis Libermann has a library and computer labs. Some computers were donated by a Bill Gates program. The school’s mission is to foster personal growth academic excellence and community outreach. This is done in a Christ-centric environment.
Many notable alumni have walked the halls of Francis Libermann. Serouj Kradjian is a Juno-winning pianist. Teresa Pavlinek is an actress and writer. Dan-e-o is a hip-hop artist and actor.
The school prayer reflects its values. It asks the Divine Spirit to guide students. It encourages them to be open to change and steadfast in faith.