Our History
“Through independent work and play, the RDS environment fosters a personal sense of purpose."
Our founder and former Head of School, Mrs. Sharon Stewart, believed in the philosophy that Quisque infans singularis est - “each child is unique.” She always encouraged self-respect and pride in one's efforts and created a small integrated environment with emphasis placed on individualized learning that continues today.
After working at several schools in Toronto, Mrs. Stewart founded her own private school in 1995 with four staff members and 23 students spanning JK - Grade 2.
Since then, RDS has grown into a thriving academic institution with more than 170 students and 30 dedicated, inspired teachers and staff. Mrs. Stewart retired from RDS in 2010, but her legacy of excellence in teaching in the elementary grade levels remains.
As a community, we honour Mrs. Stewart's legacy by upholding the RDS values of integrity, diligence, respect, and involvement in all that we do, and every November, we recognize her legacy at our Annual Founders Day.
Adapt Confidently, Engage Responsibly
How Children See Themselves Matters
At RDS, children know from an early age that they belong, that they matter, and that they can make a difference.
Through guided inquiry and productive, design-led project based learning, teachers help young students solve problems using active involvement, self-regulation, and productive failure.
Whether its structured literacy or critically thinking about broad, complex topics, great care is taken to construct an environment that allows for easy and engaged exploration. This fosters an attitude of empowerment, a proclivity for lifelong problem solving, and a deep sense of belonging.
Future-Ready, by Design
Our balanced, cross-curricular approach considers the future-ready skills that our students will need to thrive in a world that has yet to be designed.
Academic rigour, open inquiry, and courageous participation are at the forefront our of curriculum. Every RDS teacher and staff member is a passionate and inspired individual who feels called to empower the unique learning journeys of our students.
The future looks bright for those who are capable, brave, and compassionate -- and RDS is deeply committed to bringing this out in each unique child who attends our school.
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