Emery Collegiate Institute

In 1961, Emery Collegiate Institute opened its doors. It was built to serve the burgeoning suburban community of Emery in Toronto. The school’s name is a nod to the surrounding neighbourhood, a place once known as Claremont and later, Grouse Hill. Emery Collegiate Institute stands as a testament to the area’s transformation from a quiet farming hamlet to a vibrant suburban hub. The original school bell, a relic from Emery’s rural past, is proudly displayed on the school grounds. It serves as a poignant reminder of the community’s humble beginnings. Emery Collegiate Institute’s motto, “Enisus Caelum Inveniat,” translates to “One who strives may reach the sky.” This motto embodies the school’s commitment to fostering lifelong learning and a pursuit of excellence. The school’s colours, red, black, and white, are worn with pride by students and alumni alike. The hallways of Emery Collegiate Institute have witnessed both triumphs and challenges. In 2009, students from Emery achieved an impressive third-place finish in a NASA-organized science competition. Just a few years later, in 2014, Emery students took first place in the Art of Physics Competition organized by the Canadian Association of Physicists. However, the school has also faced difficulties, including a shooting in the parking lot in 2000 and an investigation into possible gang activity in 2007. Even temporary closures due to flooding in 2013 haven’t dampened the spirit of Emery Collegiate Institute. Today, Emery Collegiate Institute continues to serve a diverse student body, with over half of the population speaking a primary language other than English. The school boasts a wide array of student-organized clubs, catering to diverse interests. From the Business Club to the Environmental Club, and from the Chess Club to Africana, there’s something for everyone at Emery. The school also fields competitive teams in basketball, soccer, wrestling, water polo, running, and robotics. Emery Collegiate Institute has also nurtured notable alumni who have gone on to achieve success in various fields. Among them are Jerry Tonello, a Canadian wheelchair basketball coach; Lou Pomanti, a musician; Alfie Zappacosta, a Juno Award-winning instrumentalist; and Jason Allison, a former NHL player. Emery Collegiate Institute remains a vital part of the Toronto community. It is a place where students strive to reach the sky, embracing the challenges and celebrating the successes that come with the pursuit of knowledge.