Spotlight on Schools

“Winning the Grey Cup means everything to me,” said AJ Allen, describing the moment as the realization of a dream shaped by years of dedication, sacrifice and perseverance. A graduate of M.M. Robinson High School, AJ Allen’s success at the professional level builds on a foundation of excellence established during his time as a student athlete. Recognized as both an HDSB Student of Excellence and Athlete of the Year, AJ distinguished himself early through his commitment and drive. 

Educators and community organizations from across Halton gathered prior to the winter break for the Illuminate: Shining a Light on Mental Health Community Partnerships Symposium, a one-day event focused on shared learning in support of student well-being.

Emmy Nah, Amrutha Kosuri and Veera Kalsi created Bye-Catch, a fishing net designed with recycled materials that uses electromagnets and blue LEDs to deter sharks without affecting fish. What began as a Grade 9 innovation assignment has evolved into a fully developed entrepreneurial project that has attracted investor funding, pitch opportunities and strong interest from business and community leaders across Ontario.

Two White Oaks SS alumni, Raashid Azeem Ahamed and Aarush Behal recently took to the global stage as members of Team Canada for the 21st International Geography Olympiad (iGEO 2025) in Bangkok, Thailand. Competing against 179 students from 47 countries, the team delivered an outstanding performance, with Raashid securing a bronze medal.

On December 6, the HDSB joins communities across Canada in recognizing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

For Abbey Park High School alum Ryan Sharpe, learning isn't just a pastime—it’s a driving force, an "insatiable desire to just keep knowing more and more and more." That passion recently carried him to the world's most famous quiz stage: Jeopardy!.

Families at John T. Tuck Public School have launched the Connected Community Collective, a parent-led initiative that brings schools and families together to help children find balance with screens and social media.

As high school program applications open, many families are exploring options that challenge and inspire their child academically. Among the most recognized pathways are the Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IBDP) programs, both of which offer enriched learning opportunities, global recognition and strong preparation for post-secondary success.

Evan Budz, a Grade 10 student from Dr. Frank J. Hayden SS is earning top national and international honours for his innovative science project. Evan won first prize at both the Canada-Wide Science Fair in Fredericton, New Brunswick and the European Union Contest for Young Scientists in Riga, Latvia. His project has garnered significant media attention, with features on CP24 and CBC.

On November 6, students from Aldershot School participated in the No Stone Left Alone ceremony at Woodland Cemetery. This event brings students and community leaders together to honour Canada's fallen soldiers. By placing poppies at each grave, students create a tangible connection to our nation's veterans and show their respect for those who served and continue to serve our communities.