Industry. Life. Commerce. Does this motto resonate with you as we stand before George Harvey Collegiate Institute? George Harvey CI, also known as Harvey, holds a special place in Toronto’s educational history.
George Harvey Collegiate Institute first opened its doors on September 2, 1952. It began as George Harvey Vocational School. The school was the first of its kind in the former City of York. It aimed to provide students with skills in trades.
The original building was designed by architect John B. Parkin. It featured 12 classrooms. It also had specialized rooms. These included three commercial rooms, three typing rooms, and two science labs. A double gymnasium and a 500-seat auditorium provided space for physical activity and performances. The school also included a library. Several shops supported vocational training. There was an auto shop, an electrical shop, a machine shop, and a wood shop. A large trades room completed the facilities. Its design was modern with yellow brick. It also featured horizontal lines. Large glass blocks were used.
Over time, George Harvey evolved. It became a composite secondary school. The school focused on technology. It offered a STEPS to University program. George Harvey also had a Game Design program. It was the first TDSB school to give netbooks to students. Technology was integral to its teaching methods. The school had over 700 computers. It featured 25 interactive whiteboards. Wireless internet was available throughout the building. This supported the motto “Learn anytime and anywhere”.
In May 2019, George Harvey Collegiate Institute played an important role. It hosted 900 students from York Memorial Collegiate Institute. A fire had damaged their school. George Harvey accommodated both its 535 students and the displaced students.
Sadly, George Harvey CI’s journey as an individual school concluded on June 30, 2022. It consolidated with York Memorial Collegiate Institute. The merged school operates in this building. It will be here until 2026.
George Harvey has produced notable alumni. Tyrone Williams is one. He is a former NFL and CFL player.
Although George Harvey Collegiate Institute no longer exists as a separate entity, its legacy lives on. It was a place of innovation. It fostered a community. It prepared students for their futures. Remember its motto as you leave. Industry. Life. Commerce. These values shaped the school’s identity.