Prayers whispered in the halls. That’s the spirit of The Divine Infant Catholic School. This school is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a community. It’s a place where faith and learning intertwine.
The Divine Infant Catholic School opened in September 1986. But its journey began at Our Lady of Grace Catholic School. The school moved to its current location in January 1987. The official opening was celebrated on June 3, 1987. Mr. Harry Murphy was the school’s founding principal.
The school’s namesake is significant. The Divine Infant refers to Jesus. A statue of The Divine Infant stands in Prague. Devotions to Jesus have been held since 1628. The bishop of Prague crowned the statue in 1655. Devotion to The Divine Infant seeks blessings for schools. It is a prayer for the welfare of children and good family life. Miracles are attributed to The Divine Infant of Prague. This devotion has spread throughout the world.
The Divine Infant Catholic School fosters a strong partnership. This partnership includes home, school and parish. The school’s mission is clear. It provides a safe learning environment guided by reason. Respect and responsibility are core values here. The vision is to nurture lifelong learners. The school wants them to be self-directed and responsible.
The Divine Infant strives to meet the diverse needs of its students. Each student can develop their potential here. This development includes academic, spiritual and emotional growth. The school recognizes each child’s unique talents.
Maintaining a Catholic environment is a prime objective. Religious education uses the series Born of the Spirit. This series is approved by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. Students learn common prayers. They strengthen their prayer life. They use a book of prayers for each grade level.
Students participate in spiritual activities throughout the year. They support charitable causes like Thanksgiving and Christmas food drives. They also support the Daily Bread Food Bank and ShareLife. The school hopes students live Gospel values daily. They help those in need locally and globally.
The Toronto Catholic District School Board wants a safe learning environment. The Divine Infant has a safe arrival program. They monitor attendance in the morning and afternoon. Parents must inform the school if their children are absent or late. The school office contacts home if no notification is received. Staff vigilantly monitor the playground and lunchrooms.
Parents alert the office to serious health conditions. These conditions may affect their children at school. A list of these students is maintained. It is posted to assist staff in emergencies. The staff of The Divine Infant makes everyone feel welcome. They recognize everyone as an important part of the school community.
Expectations regarding proper behavior are outlined. Students respect the rights and safety of others. They also respect school property. School rules are reviewed throughout the year. The TCDSB’s violence prevention policy confirms this commitment.
The Divine Infant modifies instructional programs to meet individual needs. They consult with colleagues and resource personnel. Classes support exceptional students with identified needs.
The Divine Infant offers many extra activities. Students participate in the TCDSB Music Education Festival. They showcase school bands and choirs. Chess and W5H teams help students develop their talents. House league activities develop skills. They promote good sportsmanship and healthy competition. School teams offer educational experience through athletics. Staff voluntarily assume responsibility for these activities.
The Divine Infant Child Care Centre is located here. It serves children from 1.5 to 12 years. The center escorts children to Macklin Public School and The Divine Infant. Staff speak many languages including Cantonese and Mandarin. Vegetarian food options are available.
The Divine Infant Catholic School is a beacon of faith and learning. It is a place where students grow. They grow in knowledge and in spirit. Remember the statue in Prague. Remember the devotion to The Divine Infant. This school embodies that spirit every day.