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We've put together a collection of the questions we most often answer when prospective parents visit our school. Feel free to contact us directly for any questions you may have!

Are our teachers certified?

Do we follow the Ontario curriculum?
What subjects do you offer?
Do you offer French immersion?
What sports/extracurricular activities are available to the children?
How do your tuition costs compare with other schools?
In what ways do you encourage a Christian environment?
Is the school supported by a particular denomination?
Do you feel that the children are too protected by being in a small Christian environment?
Where are you located?
Is bussing available?
How large is the school?


Are our teachers certified?

Yes, all of our homeroom teachers are certified, as well as our French teacher.

Do we follow the Ontario curriculum?

Yes, strand by strand!  Most of our texts are geared to meet the Ontario curriculum guidelines, while others like math and language surpass the individual grade requirements.  As well, our small class sizes allow teachers time to teach beyond the Ontario requirements. Our goal is not to speed through the recommended provincial curriculum, but rather to enhance the learning experience.  For example, in language we teach a comprehensive grammar program through grade eight to strengthen students' writing skills.  In science, time is taken to for hands on experiments and curriculum related field trips.

How do your tuition costs compare with other schools?

CCA has always been committed to affordable tuition rates.  It is our goal to try and keep CCA as affordable as possible; we are not aware of another private school with rates as low as ours.  When comparing, it is wise to also understand student-teacher ratios, programming, facilities, and how many grades are simultaneously being taught by one teacher. Briefly, CCA typically offers an 18:1 ratio or better in our upper grades (1-8), and a 9:1 ratio in kindergarten. Our programming includes daily French (with an Ontario certified teacher) from JK to grade 8, art and music/drama with specialized teachers, phys-ed, computers and monthly field trips/enrichment experiences. Our facility is new, cheery and clean! We are uniquely situated on 50 acres of wilderness with fields, trails through the woods, and a pond that brings science lessons alive and keeps skates well worn in the winter. We sometimes have split grades for grades 5/6 or 7/8. However, we do not have more than two grades together and we still separate these splits for core subjects like science and math. As a result, the student teacher ratio in these important subjects is typically 9:1. To clarify, a split grade of 5/6s would be together (i.e. all 18 students form both grades) for subjects like phys-ed, spelling, Bible, art, music.

In what ways do you encourage a Christian environment?

CCA is a Christian based school.  Christianity is integrated throughout the programming and the curriculum.  Our teachers are encouraged to share their Bible based morals, values and faith with their students. Academic lessons are often presented with an appreciation for God (i.e. science) and His creation.  Students will study and learn about the Bible during specified class times; sing songs of praise and worship both in class and during assembly and chapel times (bi-weekly), and be exposed to Christian beliefs and lessons through their texts (i.e. readers). As well, our policy for discipline is Biblically-based. Time is taken to discipline students when needed - apologies, forgiveness, understanding how one's behaviors affect others, etc.

Most importantly, I think that CCA encourages a Christian environment through love and caring role models.  Our staff truly cares about each of our students and each other. The environment is warm, friendly and encouraging. Our teachers love their jobs and love their students. Our parents are supportive and helpful; many volunteer during school hours, many behind the scenes, and yet understandably, some are just not able to contribute at this stage in their lives. CCA exemplifies 'the body' working together.

Is the school supported by a particular denomination?

No.  We are a multi-denominational school and we love it! Students learn that not all of God's churches are exactly the same and that's okay. Parents adhere to our statement of faith.

Do you feel that the children are too protected by being in a small Christian environment?

Protected or equipped? That's the question that really should be asked.

We strongly believe that CCA students are given many opportunities and experiences that will equip and prepare them for the 'real world'. They are nurtured within a loving environment at CCA, that is true. However, they are still exposed to very typical  child behaviors ...kids are kids, regardless. For instance, little primary aged girls need to learn to share friends and not tattle. Junior boys must learn to not be too physically aggressive on the soccer field. Everyone needs to be reminded to not be impulsive, to use their words, and all the typical things you see in kids everywhere.

We aim to protect our children from some of the cruelties of childhood. We will not tolerate disrespectful behaviors or speech, unwholesome talk or physical aggression. So, for example, children are not allowed to call each other names, push or shove.  They are expected to be polite and well-mannered. Yet with this said (and I encourage you to ask to see our discipline policy to better understand), we know that our students are children and are learning. It is expected that CCA students will misbehave typically, from time to time. The distinction with our environment is that when a child does misbehave, the situation is dealt with immediately in a positive and structured manner. Depending upon the particulars, (i.e.. type of offense and severity) parents and homeroom teachers are notified. Students are equipped with alternative solutions to their situation. Time is also given to them to equip them to be better prepared for this situation.

A caring Christian environment allows our students the freedom to express their thoughts, worries and ideas.  Our students are encouraged to solve their own problems, and to grow through circumstances. Leadership classes, classroom meetings and strong teacher-student relationships all contribute to our 'equipping' philosophy at CCA. Our students graduate with a strong sense of self. They are confident with who God made them to be and they have solid discernment for right and wrong. They leave CCA equipped, rather than overly protected.