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At Glen Dhu PS 'the key is we'
Apr 24, 2007 By: This Week staffWHITBY -- Sixteen years ago this month, Glen Dhu P.S. was preparing to officially open its doors in Whitby -- a brand new school for the houses and developments springing up in the town's north end.
Today, the Fallingbrook Street school has swelled to 575 students and is well known in the community for its enthusiastic kids, active parents and dedicated staff.
Principal David Black has only been on board for two years, but said the first thing he noticed when he arrived was how happy the students were.
"They were smiling and you could tell they were having fun," he said. "It's really important to make going to school fun for them. That's something we always think about."
Glen Dhu keeps the good times rolling with a range of student activities -- everything from a French club to a ski team.
Mr. Black said the school's sports teams, represented by its green mascot the Glen Dhu Gator, are a source of pride, noting that last year the teams brought home 10 pennants, including two regionals.
Students with artistic flare also have the chance to shine, through regular drama performances, concerts and talent shows.
"You wouldn't believe the talent we have here, people were just so impressed by our last talent show," Mr. Black said. "Teachers were actually weeping because some of the dance performances were so emotional."
An active School Community Council and slate of parent volunteers ensure that trips and special events are also a big part of school life.
This week, students enjoyed a medieval feast day and preparations will soon be underway for the annual spring fun fair. Every year, students participate in the Terry Fox Run and Jump Rope for Heart, and Grade 8 students look forward to a special graduation trip -- this year's class is heading to Montreal.
Glen Dhu also stays on the cutting edge of technology with a school web page, while some teachers are even experimenting with individual classroom websites and online homework and events calendars.
Looking ahead to the next 16 years, the principal said they are anticipating even more growth as new developments continue to appear in Whitby. The school built an addition several years ago, so the next growth wave will probably mean portables.
In the meantime, Mr. Black said enthusiastic involvement from all members of the school community will continue to be Glen Dhu's hallmark.
It's a fitting reputation for a school whose motto is "the key is we."
