Western Technical-Commercial School

The Kindness Project - Boys Leadership Class

2012-02-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

The Boys Leadership Program at WTCS is designed, in part, to provide guidance and leadership to students in the areas of community interaction and personal growth. In this regard, students in the program are given the opportunity to look outside themselves by helping others and organizing and taking part in charitable community events. It is hoped that some insight of the personal benefits of such activities will follow.

The underlying theme of kindness, therefore, is well steeped within the course. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is now entrenched in student minds. Aristotle himself defined kindness as helpfulness towards some one in need, without expectation of something in return other than personal satisfaction. The idea of “Random acts of Kindness” was discussed in class with the goal of cultivating this activity for the common benefit of the community as well as for the simple personal goal of being able to feel good about oneself...

The Kindness Project originated from a desire to demonstrate this learning within a creative context. The idea that combining individually composed squares into a group wall hanging was seen as representative of the importance of both personal good deeds and their compounded benefit within a group effort. Students took their own photographs which they then printed onto fabric. These fabric prints were sewn onto larger coloured squares, stitched and embroidered by the students. As a group, a planning session determined the layout of background colours and image placement within the quilt.

In class, threading a needle, sewing on a button, hemming a pair of jeans became wondrous skills to learn. Enthusiastic about the tasks at hand the boys jumped at the chance to learn to sew. The sewing machine became admired new technology to be learned and several boys became quite adept at the technique.

The benefits of sewing are many. It is perfect for developing hand-eye coordination, hand dexterity and fine motor skills. To the boys this could be brought into play, literally, when doing sports, for example. In addition, put into practice are the use of math skills as well as the ability to understand and follow a process from concept to completion. Studies have proven that sewing is an activity that reduces stress by lowering overall heart and blood rates and promoting relaxation. This overall contribution to good mental and physical health became amplified with the social benefits gained by sitting together while focussed on hand sewing allowing conversation to flow easily in a non-pressured environment.

Working together in earnest and with compassion the boys have produced a beautiful wall hanging and have developed thoughtful personal statements on the subject of Kindness. They are proud of their accomplishment and hope you will be too.

WTCS Building World Class Robots

2012-01-12T07:37:00.000-08:00

Western Technical-Commercial School students participate in the highest level of robotics competition offered by FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). Our students team up with the world’s best technology companies to build the most impressive robots you’ve ever seen. Built from scratch in only 6 weeks, these 5 foot tall, 140 pound robots compete in high intensity robo-sports. With bragging rights at stake for schools and the companies that support them, robotics takes on a pro-sports experience. Watch the best of the best in robotics come out to play.

“The varsity sport for the mind,” FRC combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules, limited resources, and time limits, teams of 15 students or more are challenged to raise funds, design a team “brand,” hone teamwork skills, and build and program robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. It’s as close to “real-world engineering” as a student can get.

Join the fun by coming to see Mr. Halling in room 274 or by speaking with any WARP7 team member.

A "Par 4" - at the U of T Faculty of Engineering

2012-01-09T06:15:00.000-08:00

On December 3rd 2011, a group of Physics students from Western Tech took part in a Building Competition organized by the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Toronto.

Their challenge was to design and build a mechanism that would allow a physically challenged person to play golf. Ingenuity and collaboration paid off. After a lot of hard work, they placed fourth in a field of over 20 teams from the G.T.A.

Well done Braelyn, Chi Hao, Alex and Ana.

Chat - Online Tutoring

2011-12-22T11:21:00.000-08:00

Polynomials a pain? Chemistry confusing? Homework headache?

Try Ask a Teacher's chat rooms, where you can chat with an online tutor and get live homework help in math, science, or English! Their tutors are experienced Ontario-certified teachers who are ready, willing and able to help.

Ask a Teacher offers tutoring in English and sciences for grades 9-12 and math for grades 11-12. Please visit Homework Help for grade 9-10 math tutoring.

The chat rooms are open Sunday to Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., except during holidays.

Find out when there are tutors who can help with the subjects you want. Check the Chat Schedule.

Use it to help get ready for exams!

The Inside Ride

2011-12-19T11:12:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, November 22nd, Western Technical-Commercial School hosted its third annual Inside Ride, helping raise thousands of dollars for the Coast to Coast Cancer Foundation. A total of 24 teams, made up of students and teachers and each consisting of four to six people, rode stationary bikes for one hour. Team members danced, encouraged each other and had fun cycling for a great cause. Prizes were awarded for most money raised, best team spirit and best costume. The event was organized by Anisa Khan's grade 12 Leadership Class, which spent the last month organizing various fundraising initiative to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. Congratulations to everyone who participated in and volunteered their time for such a worthy cause. A big thank you goes to Mr. Brohman's Boy's Leadership Class, the W.T.C.S Parent Council and Nicholson's No Frills on Bloor Street fpr their assistance and donations.

The Inside Ride Event ended with the following awards given at the awards assembly:

Top Team Mileage -The Fantastic 6

Best Team Costume - Wii not Fit

Best Team Spirit - The Lady Colts

Top Fundraising Team -The Pinkies

Top Fundraising Male - Andrew C

Top Fundraising Volunteer - Sukriti [Vicky] B

Top Fundraising Female (Celine N)

The Inside Ride was, once again, a success this year and it’s guaranteed to come back to Western Tech. in the future!

Spectacular Desserts at The Drake!

2011-12-15T05:58:00.000-08:00

This month’s showcased co-op student is Tiera R. D. who is not only earning co-op high school credits but is also earning a college credit. Tiera attends George Brown College Monday afternoons where she is enrolled in the Digital Art and Design course. Tuesday through Friday she works as a pastry chef at The Drake Hotel where she is gaining valuable experience in the field of culinary arts.

Lawrence Hill - Guest Lecturer for Writer's Craft Class

2011-12-14T07:40:00.000-08:00

Celebrated author Lawrence Hill (The Book of Negros; Any Known Blood; Some Great Thing; and Black Berry, Sweet Juice) spoke to Grade 12 students in the Writer's Craft class in the library at Western Tech on November 8th.

Lorraine Linton, the principal of Western Tech, introduced him. School Trustee Irene Atkinson was in attendance and said a few words from the Toronto District School Board. Students and staff were delighted to hear him speak about himself, his writing and the history of slavery. It was an excellent presentation which left students inspired to read and write more.

Special thanks to SNAP Bloor West for permitting us to post their original article and photo.

Hoop it Up!

2011-12-12T06:27:00.000-08:00

The senior boys tier I basketball team are off to an exciting 12-3 record to start the season. The team has attended three tournaments thus far and have won two silver and a gold medal.

George Harvey Invitational - Gold

Great Western Round Up - Silver

George Brown College - Silver

The team is led by Shawn D., Kadeem W. and Imaziah M.

In their league play the team started with a close loss to arch rivals Oakwood C.I. but rebounded with three consecutive victories over Parkdale C.I., Monarch Park C.I. and Central Tech.

Western Tech Students Mark World Aids Day

2011-12-02T07:31:00.001-08:00

Students and the school nurse, Ms. MacDougall, help the AIDS campaign to “get to zero” . Information and pens were given out to the students at lunch time to help bring awareness to the student body. Questions were asked and answered. WTCS is helping provide education to prevent the spread of the deadly AIDS.

Dramatic Arts

2011-12-01T09:42:00.001-08:00

Thestudents in Grade 10 Dramatic Arts have been practicing their improvisationskills. Using props they are extending their literacy skills and developingvocabulary. The "Improv" Rules Don’t sabotage your partner and Keepthe drama moving forward help students develop critical learning skills andhigher order thinking.

On November17^th the Dramatic Arts students in Ms. Reynolds class attended a TIFFfilm Billy Bishop Goes to War with Eric Peterson in attendance. Eric Peterson, star of Corner Gas, did a "talk-back" for the students at the Fox Theatre onQueen Street East. He also signed autographs and posed for photos with the students.

Yes - WESTERNis offering an IMPROV Club on Tuesday at lunch starting December 6^th.

A formerstudent who attends York University will be showing students how to improvetheir "improv" skills. See you there!!

Thestudents in Ms. Reynolds and Ms Doig’s Dramatic Arts Grade 10 classes areattending 12^th Night, December 2^nd at the BathurstStreet Theatre. 12th Night is being performed by The Classical Theatre projectin a vaudeville stylized theme.

Guidance News for October/November 2011

2011-11-29T10:25:00.001-08:00

Octoberand November were very busy months for the Guidance Department at Western Tech.

OurCollege Fair was held on ThursdayOctober 20^th. Representatives from George Brown College, HumberCollege, Seneca College, Sheridan College and Centennial College were here to presentinformation about their many programs. Over 50 students attended this fair andwere able to have many of their questions answered. Students may begin to applyon-line beginning on October 31^st. Guidance will be providingon-line application seminars in December.

OurUniversity Fair was also verysuccessful. On November 3^rd, 200 students attended the UniversityFair. Over 10 Universities were present. Students were able to visit with eachrepresentative and learn about the many programs offered at each school. Students have now begun the process of applying to universities, with the deadline for Ontario applications approaching on Wednesday, January 11, 2012.

Ourannual Grade 8 Open House took placeon Tuesday, November 15^th. Approximately 800 students from ourFeeder Schools spent the afternoon at Western touring the facilities andlearning about our many excellent programs. Students were led by our amazingPeer Leaders and teachers through Western and into the many classrooms wherehands-on activities and/or displays were available for students to participatein.

Duringthe evening, parents were invited to attend our Grade 8 Information Night. Parents along with their son/daughterwere given a tour of the school and provided with information about ourprograms. We were very pleased with the turnout and are gearing up for our Specialized Programs Information Night on Tuesday, January 17^th at 7:00 pm.

As always, there is a plethora of information on the bulletins boards in the hallway outside the Guidance Office, Room 152.

Planning to study one of the STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)?

2011-11-29T07:15:00.001-08:00

ShulichLeadership Scholarship: This new four-yearscholarship valued at $60,000 is for students enrolling in the STEM (Science,Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) areas of study at a participatingCanadian university in fall, 2012. The Schulich Leader ScholarshipsProgram has asked WesternTechnical-Commercial School tohelp find a suitable candidate as a Schulich Leader Nominee. From a pool of nominees from across Canada, 20 pre-selected universities acrossCanada will each choose one outstanding student to betheir Schulich Leader, each of whom will receive a four-yearscholarship valued at $60,000 to support their studies at that university in aSTEM faculty. For the inaugural year of the program, we are searching for acandidate to be our Schulich Leader Nominee by no laterthan Wednesday January 11, 2012.

Interestedcandidates should see Ms. Morrison soon in Guidance. To be "considered"as the WTCS nominee one needs to complete a resume and meet particular criteriaso we can then "pick the right person".

University of Waterloo - Unlimited

2011-11-29T06:33:00.001-08:00

Waterloo Unlimited Grade 11 Program: Design Theme: From engineering and the environment to science fiction and virtual reality, students will spend a week exploring the theme of Design with a community of like-minded peers.

March 12th - 16th, 2012

Application deadline: postmarked by December 16th, 2011

Cost: Program Fee: $450

Details: http://www.unlimited.uwaterloo.ca

Charity Walk

2011-11-22T18:16:00.001-08:00

The grade 12 World Issues class is at it again. On Thursday November 17 the class walked from the school to the Eaton Centre to raise money for Free the Children. It was a cool day with lots of fun, great conversation and some hot chocolate along the way. It was better conditions than in Uganda, but the students got a chance to think about how the Gulu children must have felt after running this far every day to escape the LRA. To top off a great field trip over $500 was raised.

Applying our Learning to Life

2011-11-22T18:13:00.001-08:00

On November 10 the grade nine applied geography classes took their learning outside to the neighbourhood. Under the guidance of student teacher Ms. Ionno, and Ms. Andrews, the students practised looking at and determining land-use while comparing the residential areas east and west of Runnymede. They were quick to note that many of the retail spaces on Bloor St. would be quite difficult to manouvre in a wheelchair. Application and awareness was all part of the experience.

Athletics - Fall Season Sports Update

2011-11-21T09:34:00.001-08:00

VARSITY BOYS FOOTBALL

The WesternTech Football team finished the season with a 0-2-3 record. The team lost in the quarter-finals but islooking forward to next year with optimism.

SENIOR BOYS VOLLEYBALL

Senior boysvolleyball team at Western has a 4-3 record. The team did very well and improved with every game.

SENIOR GIRLS BASKETBALL

The seniorgirls basketball team had a good season. The team is comprised of girls who are committed and demonstrateexcellent leadership on and off the court. They finished with an overall record of 4-3.

JUNIOR BOYS SOCCER

The juniorboys soccer team had a good season. Thisyoung group of men has a lot of talent and are committed to improve. The team is looking forward to a lot offuture success.

SENIOR BOYS SOCCER

The seniorboys soccer team had an excellent season marked by two big wins over Oakwoodand East York. The team had high hopes but lost in second round of theplayoffs.

Digital Photography

2011-11-17T05:39:00.001-08:00

Ryo Taleporos

Karen Thai

Gr. 12 Photography Class outstanding digital photos illustrating the fall season interrpruted through the five senses. Enjoy!

Amanda Theyers

Luis Silva

Laura Bremner

Daniel Sos

Jacob

Spreading Fun Across the TDSB

2011-11-13T08:25:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to the Warp7 Team for putting on a great Robotics Engineering presentation at the 2011 Tech Expo held at Kent Public School. The event spanned over two days. Team members divide themselves into two groups of 5 and made original inspiring robotics presentations to senior elementary students from across the city. In all, over 600 students were awed by their knowledge and ingenuity. It was a magnificent opportunity for public speaking and event organization. Topics included the secrets to past competition success, robot control – where students were invited to drive our competition bots, inputs and outputs, robotic arms and our new pneumatic cannon – a blast of excitement. They did a magnificent job representing Western.

It's no wonder Western Tech's Warp7 Robotics Team has won the Gracious Professionalism award for the last two consecutive seasons at FIRST Robotics.

If you would like us to come and visit your elementary school please contact eric.halling@tdsb.on.ca. We are looking to expand our presentation season and would love to share our technology and know-how.

An evening with FELA!

2011-11-07T08:10:00.000-08:00

Our students with the cast of FELA!

On November 4^th five WTCS students had the opportunity to see the Broadway Production FELA! and visit backstage and meet the entire cast as well as the Ambassador of Nigeria. FELA! Is the story about Fela Kutu and his music that came from Nigeria. He created a new kind of music, Afrobeat with lyrics to openly attack the corrupt and repressive military dictatorships that rule Nigeria and much of Africa. It was an exciting experience for some of our WTCS students and a moment they will not forget!

Our students spending an evening with the Ambassador of Nigeria

Halloween Bookmark Contest a Great Success!

2011-11-07T04:53:00.000-08:00

Every October our school Library holds a Halloween bookmark contest. Allstudents from grades 9 to 12 have the opportunity to design their ownbookmark. Students vote for theirfavourite ones. Every year the top five are chosen as the winners and made intoproper bookmarks that are given out free in the library. This year we had 87entries made by the students and staff. The library provides Gift Certificates for a local bookstore asprizes. The bookmarks are a hugesuccess. They encourage students to showtheir creativity and love of reading.

Congratulations to Ana who won 1^st and 2^nd prize,Genovieve who won 3rd, Quinn who won 4^th and Alexandria who won 5^th.

Prokaryotic or Eukaryotic?

2011-11-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

In October, the Grade 11 College Biology class worked on developing cell models of different types of cells. The chose between prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells. Each student worked very hard and their finished projects turned out amazing! They should be very proud of their work!

The models are displayed on the first floor across from rooms 137 and 138. Come check them out for yourself!

As the rest of the semester flies by, come check out what else Grade 11 Biology is all about! You might just come across a bacteria growth lab or a dissection!

Co-operative Education Shines At Western Tech!

2011-10-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

Once again, we are up and running at Western with our unique experiential learning program, integrating academic study with practical experience in business and industry. This month's showcased co-op student is Theo C.-B.

Theo is gaining valuable work expertise and experience in the film/sound engineering sector working at downtown based Thatchannel.com, a company that has created a vibrant platform for live internet broadcast and professional video production. For more information about other experiential learning opportunities, come by the co-op department across from the cafeteria or give us a call at 416393 0500 extension 3.

So What's Wrong With This Picture?

2011-10-17T05:48:00.000-07:00

“So,what’s wrong with this picture?” asks Hannah Rengele, a facilitator at Queen’sPark. Western Tech students are sitting around her examining the diets and foodprofiles of typical Torontonians and trying to figure out exactly howsustainable and healthy they are.

“It’stoo expensive,” says D’Andre a student in Mr. Pegg’s class, “and the carbonfootprint for the groceries is enormous.”

“Precisely!” says Rengele.

Studentsin Ms. De Rosa, and Mr. Pegg’s Food andNutrition classes are here at Queen’s Park to get a free lunch and to samplesome of the better food choices thatthey can make in their own diets. The initiative sponsored by Toronto’s FoodShare is meant to introduce students toa new perspective on what they eat and the importance of food production totheir lives. It was all free - from the beet muffins, to the zuccinni/squashvichychoise. “This was the easiest field trip to organize, ever, “ says Ms DeRosa with a smile, “everyone loves a free lunch!”

Western Goes Down The Mississippi

2011-10-17T05:35:00.001-07:00

Students at Western Tech had theluxury of floating down a theatrical Mississippi River with the Classical Theatre Project’s production ofHuck Finn. Viewing and participating in live theatre production is an elementof the English Curriculum in Ontario andteachers at WTCS make every attempt to expose students to a variety of plays and theatre experiences. PrincipalLinton also subsidizes the cost of tickets to allow as many students toparticipate as fully as possible.

“It’s a fantastic way to introducemy students to the performing arts,” says ESL teacher Ms Genine Natale, “Thisreally tests their oral communication skills, but it’s also tons of fun.”

Some of the future theatricalexcursions are two Shakespeare Classics: “Romeo and Juliet” and “MacBeth”.

Spirit Week

2011-10-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

This year's spirit week was a great success. It took place during the week of October 3rd to 7th. Many Western student's took part and showed their enthusiasm. Thanks to all those students and teachers who participated. Here are a few participants of our spirit week.

Monday Pajama Day

Tuesday Wacky Hair Day

Wednesday Twin Day

Thursday Formal Day

Friday Retro Day

Commencement 2011 - October 14

2011-10-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

Welcome Western graduates and family members

We would like to congratulate our graduates for their efforts and successes and their contributions to our school community. As you are probably aware, our school Commencement Ceremony will take place in the main auditorium beginning at 7pm sharp. If by circumstance you cannot attend in person then may we suggest that you take advantage of our webcast where our students, lead by Connor McBrine-Ellis, will stream the entire ceremony using digital technology. The channel will go live at approximately 6:50pm. Join us at http://www.ustream.tv/channel-popup/westerntech or simply click on the bright green “Commencement 2011” link at the bottom right corner of our school website http://www.wtcs.ca/

Note that the "Commencement 2011" link will become inactive after the event and will be replaced by a new feature "Western TV". Stay tuned!!!

Congratulations to the class of 2011

Student Council welcomes you to Western Technical-Commercial School

2011-10-03T05:48:00.000-07:00

Your Student Council for the 2011-2012 school year would like to welcome you to Western Technical – Commercial School if this is your first year here or welcome you back if you are a returning student!

We are your Student Council Executive for this year and we are busy planning some exciting events. If you would like to contact any of us please see Ms. Khan in room 385 or come to our weekly student council meetings at 11:15 am every Monday in room 385.

Co-Presidents - Priyanka Sivaloganathan and Thushara Vigneswaran
Vice-President - Zach Fava
Treasurer - Anjali Kugathas
Secretary - Deborah Mililo
Girl’s Athletic Rep. – Marieke Pynn Coates Boy’s Athletic Rep. – Chris Sgouraditis

Events Co-coordinators - Madeline Biggs and Sameer Rai

Super Council Representative Wan Qi Luo

Our year has started with a bang! On September 1st the Student Council was busy meeting and greeting grade 9 students at our annual Moving on Up Day . We took grade 9’s on tours; lead scavenger hunts and enjoyed a lunch with them.

You may have also seen us in our leadership t-shirts, bright and early at 8 am the first week of school in the grade nine locker hallway making sure everyone knew where they were going, helping open locks or guiding students to their home form classes.

Our September 13 Club Fair took place in the cafeteria. We had about 30 extra-curricular clubs showcasing what the clubs do and how students can sign up. As a school, we try to encourage our grade nine students to sign up for at least 2 different clubs over the course of the year. With so many options who can resist!! If you missed Club Fair Day no need to fear ……. a list of clubs and contact information will be posted in each class and on the Club Board across from guidance by the beginning of October.

Students in the grade 11 Leadership classes have been busy organizing the annual school wide Terry Fox Run. The run took place on Wednesday September 28th period 2 and our turn out was amazing. Congratulations Western you collaboratively raised 830 dollars for cancer research! A big shout to Ms. Natale’s ESL class who were the top class fundraisers for this event.

Upcoming Events Monday October 3 – Friday October 7th is Spirit Week. If you dress up for each theme day come to the cafeteria at lunch to pick up a spirit treat and enter our raffle to win a pizza pizza gift certificate. Monday - Pyjama Day

Tuesday is Wacky Hair Day

Wednesday is Twin Day

Thursday is Formal Day
Friday is Retro Day (Meet us for a fashion show in the cafeteria at lunch.)

October 28th is our Halloween Carnival Period 4 Buy Out!!

Citizens of the Global Village

2011-09-25T05:38:00.000-07:00

We are all citizens of the global village and as such, are responsible for our neighbours in difficult times. That is exactly what the World Issues Class (CGW4U1) experienced recently. Upon discussion of the drought in East Africa it was decided that fund-raising would be necessary. The grade 12 geography class held a “bucket drive” where they took buckets to all the classrooms in the school and appealed to the students and teachers for donations for the victims of the drought. Happiness ensued! The people of Western were generous to the total of $800. With the government matching that amount that we gave to “Free the Children” aid will be sent to East Africa in the amount of $1600!

Thank you so much to everyone who donated. The Canadian and World Studies students will continue to learn and experience life in the Global Village.

Spring into Action – News from the Gifted/Enriched Program

2011-06-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

It was a mad dash to the finish line for students in the Gifted/Enriched program. As the school year drew to a close, they took part in a range of initiatives that allowed them to further develop and demonstrate their leadership skills:

* Battle of the Bands, which was filmed by Rogers for High School Rush, featured numerous Gifted students. Top honours went to Dear Reader, showcasing the superb musicianship of George Chenery and Liam Stevenson. Placing first was a fitting farewell to George who is off to study jazz next year with a scholarship to George Brown.

* The May issue of Western’s student newspaper, The Hidden Agenda, was the largest since the paper was created by Grade 11 Gifted students Geoff Bercarich and Alda Escareno in 1999. This year’s editors Cindy Bui and Chelsea Viray are both graduating but will pass the helm to Gifted student Kaelan Myerscough.

* On Saturday May 22, several Grade 9 Gifted/Enriched students volunteered at the Junction’s annual Creative Children’s Dance Show, working behind the scenes with kids aged 5-11. The Grade 9s did such a great job that organizer Laurie Raymond extended an invitation for them to return next year.

* On May 19, Grade 10-Gifted/Enriched students joined senior Leadership students to participate in a project run by TREC Renewable Energy Co-operative at the Evergreen Brick Works Urban Environmental Park. Western students hosted and facilitated over 25 workshops for 600 Grade 5 students from across the GTA.

* On June 14, Gifted/Enriched students met with other WTCS students to plan Moving On Up, Western’s welcome to new Grade 9 students that is scheduled for September 1. The event offers orientation, information and celebration, and is a great way for current Gifted/Enriched students to model community leadership for younger students.

W.T.C.S. Student wins T.G.H./University Health Network Award

2011-06-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Once again, Western Tech wins the Bette J. Johnston Director's Award! This
year Kritika G. received the award for excellence and achievement in
a co-operative education placement at University Health Network.

Kritika did her co-op placement in the Cancer Pain Research Program at Toronto General Hospital/University Health Network. During her time at the placement, Kritika helped with managing data, research and updating the program website. Throughout the placement, Kritika demonstrated a quick
mind and meticulous work. We congratulate Kritika on her award.

Grads Return Assembly

2011-06-28T04:45:00.001-07:00

The PLC Transitions held a Grads Return Assembly on May 17th for grade 11
Western students. Grads shared the ups and downs of making the move from
high school to apprenticeships, college, university, or directly into the
world of work. .

Given the positive student feedback for this very successful event, we plan to host another Grads Return Assembly next year

New Scholarship For WTCS Students

2011-06-28T04:30:00.000-07:00

Western Tech has always had an ample scholarship fund. Notably, the school is one of most well-endowed in the TDSB for awards and bursaries in the Technical Studies area. Students in academic studies are also well-rewarded for their outstanding efforts and that pot of money has just increased with a new bursary to be funded in part by the Toronto media company “Back Alley Productions”. The scholarship will be called The Barry Duncan Media Literacy Scholarship/Bursary and is in honor of Barry Duncan a longtime teacher and proponent of Media Studies at the Toronto Board of Education, and within the province.

Media studies are an integral part of the English Curriculum at WTCS and are a vibrant and inspirational way to challenge and tap into students' creative and academic abilities. Working with film, video, sound production, script-writing and graphical texts is a core and essential component of the English curriculum and it is one that draws in a wide range of students and abilities.

Adrienne Mitchell a producer and director for Back Alley wanted to recognize the importance of media studies to the high school curriculum and to developing the future of Canadian film, TV, and radio production. “Media studies is very important to Canadian society,” says Mitchell, “ and we’re seeing how influential the media can be all across the Middle East in promoting and democracy and holding governments accountable. That’s partly why I believe Media Studies is so important to support at the high school level.”

This graduating scholarship will be used to support Mitchell’s aims. The bursary will be awarded to grade 12 students who show strong commitment and skill in the use of media in regular English classes. “It’s an exciting development,” says Ian Esquivel, the media studies teacher at WTCS. “Western’s a school that can proudly support and develop students and develop with these gifts. The scholarship gives us another reason to keep on encouraging students to explore media and to consider it in their future plans after graduation. We’re delighted with the support that the film industry is giving us.”

The first winner of the scholarship is grade 12 student Chelsea Viray, who has made a range of videos, collages, installations, and soundscapes at Western Tech, her latest shown at Western’s most recent Prom.

If you are interested in donating to the Barry Duncan Media Literacy Bursary Scholarship, please contact Tina Morrison in Guidance or Ian Esquivel in Media Studies. We’d be delighted to have your support.

Pennies For Peace

2011-06-20T06:26:00.000-07:00

Once again the LEAP students did their spring blitz penny collection in an effort to raise money for Pennies For Peace, an organization that provides educational supplies to remote schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan. This year the class collected $144 entirely in pennies! That's more than double what they raised last year. The champion fundraiser, Celine Ndongo, brought in over thirty-four dollars most of which she collected on her own street, noting: "Once people knew we were only asking for pennies, they were happy to contribute." So a big thank you goes out not only to our students but also to our great neighbours!

Engineering/Robotics – S.H.S.M.

2011-06-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

Our Engineering/Robotics Specialist High Skills Major program provides students with a potent foundation for a wide variety of post secondary avenues. The program builds on a strong design component and problem-solving approach and is delivered in an atmosphere where ingenuity, collaboration and creativity are encouraged and recognized as valuable components of learning. Registered students are offered valuable experiential learning opportunities that help prepare them for real world challenges and advancement.

In our first year offering this unique program to incoming grade 9 students, we have accepted 60 applicants and look forward to an exciting upcoming year. Who said it wasn’t cool to be smart?

TBBT Sheldon: A neutron walks into a bar and asks how much for a drink. The bartender replies "for you, no charge". Have a great summer!

Gracious Professionalism Award – for the second consecutive year!

2011-06-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the Western Robotics team – Warp7. This year’s team competed in two regional competitions, the Greater Toronto Regional (the world’s largest with over 60 teams competing for top prize) and the Waterloo Regional (widely regarded as one of the toughest in the circuit).

The Waterloo competition was held on campus at the University of Waterloo. There were numerous sites to see and many students took advantage of time between matches to explore the campus and campus life. Of particular interest were the many fascinating thesis displays from the nano engineering and software engineering students that were being showcased in their building across campus. Our students rubbed elbows and exchanged ideas with some of the world’s brightest minds.

Not only was it a very inspirational trip for these future engineers and programmers because of the intellectual energy that abounds at UofW, but once again, Western Tech Robotics was honoured with one of the most coveted prizes – the Gracious Professionalism Award. To quote from the FIRST Robotics website:
Dr. Woodie Flowers, FIRST National Advisor and Pappalardo Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, coined the term "Gracious ProfessionalismTM."

Gracious Professionalism is part of the ethos of FIRST. It's a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community. With Gracious Professionalism, fierce competition and mutual gain are not separate notions. Gracious professionals learn and compete like crazy, but treat one another with respect and kindness in the process. They avoid treating anyone like losers. No chest thumping tough talk, but no sticky-sweet platitudes either. Knowledge, competition, and empathy are comfortably blended.

In the long run, Gracious Professionalism is part of pursuing a meaningful life. One can add to society and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing one has acted with integrity and sensitivity.

Western's 8th Annual Battle of the Bands

2011-05-25T14:28:00.000-07:00

Hey all you rockers and singers out there, Western's 8th Annual Battle of the Bands is next Wednesday June 1, 7-11, at Lula Lounge. Come on out for a night of homegrown music and good times. And bring friends and family!

CyberARTS

2011-05-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

It’s been almost 5 years now that our CyberARTS program has been offering an amazing combination of fine and digital arts.

Students have been busy sculpting green-screen claymation animations and jumping into the story as actors, designing posters and wine bottle labels, shooting videos, and painting up a storm.

And for the first time we have TWO incoming grade 9 classes for the fall 2011 CyberARTS season.

Drop by 274B anytime to catch a glimpse of the action. Western’s CyberARTS program is growing into a monster!! And it’s a very welcoming monster.

Co-op Celebrates Experiential Learning

2011-05-24T07:55:00.000-07:00

The Co-op teachers and students invite parents and employers to attend our THANK-YOU OPEN HOUSE to showcase Co-op and to acknowledge community contribution to our program. Check out where our students get valuable real world experience. This past year our students were placed at over 200 locations including Hospitals, apprenticeships, accounting firms, marketing think tanks, hotels, restaurants and many, many more dynamic locations. Drop in between 8am and 2pm and find out how Western students excel.

When:
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
between 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Refreshments will be served

Where:
Co-op Office and Classroom
Room 278
Western Technical–Commercial School
125 Evelyn Crescent
Toronto, Ontario M6P 3E3
Street parking on:
Evelyn Avenue (behind the tennis courts) and Fairview Avenue

FIRST Robotics - CNN TV Special

2011-05-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings Friends of FIRST!

Western Technical-Commercial School has an Engineering Robotics program. Within that program there are a large percentage of students enrolled in what is officially called our Manufacturing Specialist High Skills Major. The course work for that S.H.S.M., as we call it, involves participation in FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology)Robotics.

The value of FIRST Robotics and how it could tie into the future of education in North America is the focus of a TV special scheduled for this coming weekend on CNN entitled “Education in America: Don’t Fail Me” which prominently features three FIRST Robotics Competition teams as they navigate the 2011 FIRST Season. What you are likely to see is not exactly what we do at Western, but it should give you an idea of what FIRST Robotics is all about.

At Western we integrate FIRST Robotics and use it as a means to encourage and inspire future innovators, scientists, engineers, problem solvers and leaders.

If you have the time and the interest, mark your calendar and tune into CNN, Sunday May 15 at 8pm ET. If you missed it, you can find the special on youtube with the links provided below:

Part 1 of the CNN special "Education in America: Don't Fail Me
Part 2 of the CNN special "Education in America: Don't Fail Me
Part 3 of the CNN special "Education in America: Don't Fail Me
Part 4 of the CNN special "Education in America: Don't Fail Me
Part 5 of the CNN special "Education in America: Don't Fail Me
Part 6 of the CNN special "Education in America: Don't Fail Me

Western Networking Students Best in Ontario, 23rd Best in the World

2011-05-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to David A. and Henry T. for their excellent standing at the World Championships of Computer Networking. By being ranked #1 in Ontario, David and Henry qualified for the World Class event, broadcast live over the Internet and hosted by CISCO, where they were up against hundreds of elite networking students from all over the world. Our team’s final ranking was 3rd in Canada and 23rd in the world. Congratulations David and Henry.
Honourable mention also goes to Yao Wen Yu and Morgane Davis for finishing 5th in the Ontario regional competition and Brandon Wood and Simon Zhong for finishing 9th in the Ontario regional competition. Well done Western Tech Computer Networking students.

Welcome

2011-05-05T10:17:00.001-07:00

Here we are, the beginning of May, just weeks away from the end of another great school year. This Blog is a “work in progress” and may in fact be revised a few times before your next virtual visit. The entire website is a student creation run by two volunteer students and Mr. Halling. Your comments/questions are most welcome – use the Q&A Blogspot button to message us directly. We'll post a response as soon as we can.

Our intention is to use this Blog as a gateway between school and parents. Our focus is to provide current information which we believe will be of interest and give parents insight into the day-to-day life of our school and their son/daughter's place within it. This portal in conjunction with the new Western Events calendar link off the main web page wtcs.ca is just another way we are working at improving communications with our greater school community.