About Us
Holy Cross Catholic School is part of the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB), rooted in Catholic beliefs and traditions. Students learn in a faith-based environment where Gospel values and Catholic teachings are woven into daily life. Staff encourage students to work hard, be self-disciplined, fair, and joyful. Our community reflects courage, commitment, and Catholicity at home, at school, and in our parish. We maintain a close relationship with our Parish Priest.
Religious Instruction
We strive to create a caring and enthusiastic learning environment that nurtures the mind, body, and soul. Our teaching is guided by the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations, which have shaped Catholic education for over 170 years.
Faith development is supported through family life programs and values education. Students participate in liturgical celebrations, sacramental preparation, food drives, and ShareLife campaigns. Monthly Masses and school-wide celebrations are central to our spiritual life, helping to spark our students’ Catholic imagination.
Literacy and Numeracy
As part of the TCDSB’s system-wide focus, Holy Cross promotes literacy and numeracy through:
Math manipulatives and team teaching strategies
Balanced Literacy and Literature Circles
Middle Grades assessments
Learning opportunity grants and the Fifth Block program
Staff, parents, and community volunteers work together to support these initiatives across all grade levels.
Computer Literacy
Our Library includes a small computer lab, and each classroom is equipped with computers. Students use technology to revise and edit written work and conduct research in subjects like social studies and science.
Science and Technology
Teachers use TCDSB science binders and curriculum resources to deliver hands-on learning. Thanks to support from our Catholic School Parent Council (CSPC), all classes participate in the “Scientist in the Classroom” program, enhancing engagement with real-world science.
Safe Arrival Program
To ensure student safety, parents/guardians are contacted if a student is absent without prior notice. Students must provide a signed note to leave during school hours. All visitors must report to the office upon arrival.
Code of Conduct
Our expectations for student behaviour are outlined in the Parent/Student Handbook, distributed at the start of each school year. This ensures families are informed and aligned with our school’s values.
School History
Holy Cross Catholic School began in 1928 in a one-room portable on Mortimer Avenue in East York. In April 1944, the first four classrooms of the current school opened at 299A Donlands Avenue, next to Holy Cross Church.
From its founding until 1978, the school was closely connected with the Sisters of Notre Dame, who served as many of its teachers and principals. Our archives contain detailed accounts of school life during those formative years.
Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future
Holy Cross continues to honour its history and traditions while preparing students to thrive in tomorrow’s world. In September 2004, the school was renovated, and in 2024, it celebrated its 80th anniversary.
As our school song reminds us:
“There is a school in our hearts;
No matter where we roam;
That we will always treasure;
Holy Cross is home.”