Opened in September 1983, Blessed Margherita of Citta Castello Catholic School welcomes us. It began as the fifth school in Saint Jane Frances Parish. Over 300 students attended. The former Spenvalley Public School building was leased. This school building was acquired from the Board of Education for the City of North York.
The official opening and blessing occurred in June 1984. Bishop Ambrozic, Rev. Claudio Moser, and Rev. Frank Jannetta led the mass. In the summer of 2004, the Toronto Catholic District School Board purchased Blessed Margherita of Citta Castello.
The school’s namesake is Margherita of Castello. She was an Italian noblewoman born in 1287. Margherita was born physically deformed and blind. Her family rejected and abandoned her. She became a model of Christian living. Her story inspires those serving young people today.
Margherita was intelligent and spiritual. She joined a lay religious order linked to the Dominicans. She served the poorest in Castello’s prisons. The Church beatified her in 1609. On April 24, 2021, she was declared a saint. Her feast day is April 13.
Blessed Margherita of Citta Castello Catholic School emphasizes key values. These include commitment, generosity, and perseverance. The school encourages students to embrace these qualities. They mirror the virtues Saint Margherita embodied.
The school fosters a strong partnership. This bond links home, school, and parish. It supports students’ growth. The school caters to diverse student needs. These needs include varied interests and learning styles. The students develop interpersonal skills.
Many students have European mainly Italian heritage. Some have South American mostly Spanish roots. Though English is spoken, students often understand their heritage languages. Blessed Margherita aims to create a supportive environment. Staff and peers support the students.
Today Blessed Margherita of Citta Castello Catholic School continues its mission. It opened with over 300 students and had 305 students in 2021-2022. It provides education from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8. The school commits to nurturing young minds. It upholds the values exemplified by its patron saint.
The values of Blessed Margherita serve as a guide. They shape the school’s educational philosophy. They promote a nurturing and inclusive community. Students learn not only academics. They also learn compassion, resilience, and service. They strive to follow Saint Margherita’s example.