Delta Alternative Senior School

We Feature

Mission Statement:

At Delta we create a safe space for all students to thrive in academically, emotionally, physically and artistically. A strong partnership between parents and teachers helps us to ensure that all our students have a solid foundation in basic academic skills, research skills, time management and good work habits. We emphasize critical thinking, kindness, autononmy and advocacy. There is a strong and equal emphasis on academic, physical and arts based education. Social justice is the foundation of our program.

Delta uses the Contract Model to deliver the Ontario curriculum to its students. The year is divided into five contract periods with an evaluation component after each contract. Students divide their time between classroom work and independent research projects. The school has an emphasis on community service. Class representatives are chosen by the students to aid in the functioning of the school. Weekly school meetings are held for all students and staff. Student representatives are invited to participate in the School Council.

Delta Alternative Senior School's Mission Statement

COMMUNITY BASED EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

Delta emphasizes both high academic learning and experiential learning. Our students go on frequent field trips in the local community as a core part of their learning. We have a unique Contract System that prepares students for secondary school and life beyond.

Delta Senior Alternative School is housed in Montrose Public School. It's located in a multi-cultural area of downtown Toronto. Delta has just celebrated its' 30th anniversary having been established in 1983 by parents and teachers.

In the Community

An important part of the Delta experience is the variety of field trips students participate in. The year starts with our Terry Fox Run at Ward Island and a visit to Soldiers Tower for Remembrance Day. Students visit Fort York, the Garrison Creek Trail, Harbourfront, Kensington and St. Lawrence Markets to learn about the history of Toronto and the unique features of our city. We use museums, and galleries as extensions of our classrooms. Students also see special documentaries at local cinema connected to the Ontario curriculum and take advantage of special dramatic presentations at local theatres (War of 1812 at the Video Cabaret).

More Information About Delta Alternative Senior School

Music and the Arts

At Delta we have a half time teacher who delivers a music and a core French program. We have a strong guitar program. Students experience an art rotation where they specialize each term in dance, music, fine art or drama. We have special workshops for students such as Cuban Drumming, as well as trips to Massey Hall and other local music venues.

Robotics

Students assemble and program lego robots and then compete against other school at a yearly tournament held at Runneymede Collegiate. As part of this club, students must also conduct research on a specific theme.

Admission to Delta

Students submit an application package to the school. A public lottery for those students who have applied is held where the actual process is witnessed by current Delta students and anyone who has applied. Families selected are then invited to a half day orientation session. Students participate in activities in the classroom while parents learn more about our program.

Healthy Students

At Delta we create a safe space for students to thrive emotionally and physically as well as academically. Students begin each day with a physical education class totalling 200 minutes per week of physical activity. We have weekly Guidance circles to deal with current issues. We work with Humber College nurses, a board Guidance Counsellor and a TDSB social worker.

Student Life - Where You Belong

GO TEAM

Students participate in many activities. We have sports teams that compete with other TDSB alternative schools. We go skating frequently at Dufferin Grove rink and Harbourfront. We have just started an ice hockey program and are looking to establish a Skateboarding program that has been featured in other TDSB schools. We also have many clubs and visiting artists at the school. We have had conversations with Aboriginal leaders, community health organizations, and we work closely with Humber College nurses in designing age appropriate and curriculum specific activities and experiences.

WHAT SETS US APART

Delta is a small community. We are different than other alternative schools because of our contract system. This system takes the curriculum and organizes it into 6 to 7 week blocks of time. At the start of each contract students are given an outline of what they will be learning and the assignment due dates. Students must sign an agreement form to complete the work. At the end of the contract cycle, teachers have students complete a Contract Report which contains all of the marks given for that cycle. This report is signed by staff, students and parents.The contract system and individualized assignments encourage time management and self-direction.

PARENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Parent involvement at Delta is an important part of what makes the school unique. Parents help with coaching, driving, and acting as guest speakers. Our parents have a variety of talents and experiences that we encourage them to share. We have many special evenings involving our parents. We begin the year with a special Contract Information night where the contract system is explained to new parents. We have a Transitions Information Night in the fall for grade 8 families. Just before the winter holidays, our parents organize the Winter Feast which features a potluck dinner, turkey, music, great company and a silent auction. In the Spring we have a special fundraising evening at a local restaurant, our Delta Cafe and a Hello Goodbye Potluck dinner.