James Cardinal McGuigan
Catholic High School (Secondary)

1440 Finch Avenue West, North York, Ontario M3J 3G3

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History & Tradition

James Cardinal McGuigan Catholic Secondary School was established in 1982 under the direction of the Franciscan Fathers, in order to meet the needs of students in the Keele/Finch area. It is founded on the ideology of St. Francis and we abide by their motto “Ambulate in Dilectione”--walk in fraternal charity. This was the vision of hope that guided Cardinal McGuigan's ministry and personal life. This is the legacy that the students of Cardinal McGuigan have inherited. The school's motto is “Deus Meus et Omnia”--My God and My All.

From an initial project of 14 portables to our present complex of building (1984) and portable structure, James Cardinal McGuigan has grown in physical size and population, to reflect the ebb and flow of local demographics. The school is at present maximizing the classroom space available, reorganizing and remodeling rooms as exigencies occur. Additional science labs, computer labs and communication labs give evidence to an increasing emphasis on scientific and technological studies.

The centre for our school and the focal point of our education is the chapel. The Franciscan Fathers' commitment to Catholic education is exemplified by the prominence and use of this more important area of our facility.

Strong ties have been maintained with St. Wilfrid's parish and with the various elementary schools in our catchment area. McGuigan is the school of the Keele/Finch community. We respond to the needs of our ever-changing cosmopolitan community. A vibrant student council, an active Catholic School Advisory Council and a dedicated staff and student body ensure this.

How We Meet the Diverse Needs of Our Students

James Cardinal McGuigan, a school founded by the order of the Franciscan Fathers, is committed to Catholic education. Education is the process though which our students develop an awareness of themselves, of their responsibilities to others, and of their role in the community. Catholic education is an extension of this, whereby students learn a way of living which embodies the life of Christ.

Thus, Catholic education is the focus for our chaplaincy team, our religious studies department and our guidance department. Programs and activities which enable students to develop a sense of self-worth and of their responsibility to society are implemented throughout the school year. Our peer ministry and peer tutoring programs develop students' skills in conflict resolution, social interaction and independent and creative thought.

Career education is also an integral part of the learning experience. Students are assisted in making important career and post-secondary education decisions through:

• Career counseling
• Career exhibits/presentations
• Job shadowing
• Interest inventories
• Cooperative education

Each grade level receives an individualized career education program in order that students may acquire lifelong career decision-making skills.

In addition to our academic program, the individual needs of our students are met in a variety of ways:

• Access to gifted programs
• Access to special education programs
• Access to ESL programs
• Access to computer education
• Access to peer tutors

The spirit of community within the school is enhanced by co-curricular activities ranging from discipline-related clubs such as business and art to athletic and non-athletic programs such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, mock-trial, drama and chess.

Our goal as a community is to provide our students with an environment that is conducive to spiritual and intellectual growth. This internal strength and discipline, coupled with the knowledge and skills acquired, will enable our students to meet the challenges of a complex society in a confident and responsible manner.

School News

Grade 8 Open House
November 2, 2010
7:00 p.m.

PA Days 2010-2011

• September 2, 2010 (Provincial Education Priorities)
• June 28, 29, 30 (System priorities and local goals articulated in school Learning Improvement Plans)

Exam Dates 2010-2011

• January 25, 26, 27, 28
• June 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27

Athlete of the Week
The Toronto Star named Andre Ford-Azonwanna athlete of the week for June 8, 2010 for his success at the OFSAA high school track and field finals. He won three gold medals at the competition. He is unbeaten this year in the Midget boys' 100, 200 and 400 metre races, and set a provincial record in the 400 metres.

School Learning Improvement Plan -- 2009-2010

Safe School Plan -- 2009-2010

EQAO Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics:

Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT):

The OSSLT shows the extent to which Ontario students are meeting the minimum literacy standard expected by the end of Grade 9. The test assesses the reading and writing skills as they apply to all subjects as out-lined in the Ontario Curriculum. Students must pass the OSSLT as one of the 32 requirements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma.