Message from the Office Team

Downtown Alternative School is a small and welcoming TDSB community of students, staff and parents who work together to create a stimulating and peaceful learning environment for children from JK to Gr. 6. We value the diversity and strengths that each child brings to DAS and model inclusionary and equitable practices within a safe and peaceful learning environment. We follow the TDSB's policies relating to Equity and Behaviour.

We are pleased you are interested in our school and we'd be happy to help you in any way we can.

As a small alternative school, DAS is administratively twinned with Market Lane P.S. located further east along The Esplanade. The Principal and the Vice-Principals work together to manage the running of both schools.

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What is an Alternative School?

Elementary Alternative Schools

We know that students learn in a variety of ways and thrive in different learning environments, which is why we have a number of elementary alternative schools that offer students and their parents something different from mainstream schooling.

Each alternative school is unique, with a distinct identity and approach to curriculum delivery. They typically feature small student populations, a commitment to innovative programs, and significant community involvement. While the schools offer Ministry approved courses, they are delivered in learning environments that are flexible and meet the needs of individual students.

https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Elementary-School/School-Choices/Elementary-Alternatives

What Sets Us Apart

Downtown Alternative School believes that it is important for children to develop a positive attitude toward learning and an eagerness to learn from and interact with their environment. A strong emphasis is placed on the child-centred approach, where each child's emotional,social, intellectual, and physical development serves as a starting point. Learning activities are then designed to meet all children's needs. We believe that consistency throughout home, school, and day care settings helps to develop each child's learning potential. The school has worked hard to build an atmosphere of trust between parents, staff, and administration. We are a democratic school and practice democratic decision-making at all levels. The school focuses on creating a safe school environment and the peacemaking program. The school provides a challenging curriculum which includes diverse topics such as social justice and current events. Agendas are used to foster communication between the school and families.