Jump Start Day
To ease the transition from elementary school to secondary school, St.Mary's hosts a Jump Start Day. This day, which takes place in late August, brings together our incoming grade nine students, our current student leaders, and staff. The day orients students with the facility, the expectations, and the opportunities that await them.

Healthy Improvement Promotes Excellence (HIPE)
To celebrate the excellent efforts of our students, St.Mary's hosts several celebrations throughout the year. These "by-invitation" celebrations recognize the efforts of students who show improvements. Students are able to listen to motivational speakers who discuss the importance of goal setting, persistence, and hard work.

Homework Hub
In order to meet the needs of students with their academic responsibilities, the Homework Hub is available from Monday to Thursday, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. The Homework Hub is located in our school library. Students should use the Hub as a quiet place to complete homework, conduct research, use the computer lab, and get assistance with their assignments. Teachers who supervise the Hub are able to provide students with help. In addition, senior mentors provide assistance.

Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)
Beginning in September 2008, St. Mary's will be offering the Specialist High Skills Major in transportation technology. The SHSM is a ministry approved specialized program that allows students to focus on knowledge and skills, specializing their secondary school education in transportation technology, earn recognized industry certifications, and develop Essential Skills and work habits connected to their career destinations. The SHSM allows students to focus on a career path that matches their skills and interests, and to track for four distinct destinations: apprenticeship, college, university and the workplace. Students earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the SHSM designation. A red seal on the diploma identifies the SHSM achievement. As well, the student receives a "SHSM Record" outlining the achievement of the five required components:







For more details regarding this exciting program, visit http://www.edu.gov.on.ca. As well, students and parents may speak with the guidance department.

 

·	A bundle of ten grades 11 and 12 credits
·	Industry-recognized certifications
·	Experiential learning in the transportation field
·	"Reach Ahead" experiences connected with students' postsecondary pathway
·	Development of Essential Skills and work habits (documented in the Ontario Skills Passport)