My first term as Head of York House School has been an incredible experience, getting to know the members of our community and discovering what is so wonderful about York House School. There are many special moments that I have experienced such as the excitement on the first day of school, Welcome Barbecue, first coffee morning, Founder’s Day, New Parent’s Dinner, Bid Night, Holiday Market, Candlelight Service, Winter Casual Performance in the Little School, visiting classrooms and having lunch monthly with the Student Executive.
Respecting our history, traditions and founding values, I was delighted when the new alumnae gallery was unveiled, as well as restoring and hanging the portrait of the founding Head of School, Mrs. Lena Cotsworth Clarke in the main entrance of the school. She reminds us of our enduring principles, values and purpose. “Not for Ourselves Alone” is the essence of York House School. Seeing the faces of the Golden alumnae who saw their grad class photos and the portrait of Mrs. Clarke hanging in the Senior School was priceless. These are special things that we do in a school to honour and recognize our alumnae and ensure that they remain connected to the school. It is also a reminder to our current students, that they are part of a long lasting legacy.
Culminating this term with the Celebration of Community held at the Chan Centre was exceptional. This is a unique opportunity for us to come together as a full school community to appreciate the musical performances of our incredibly talented girls. It is a special occasion for us to rejoice, reflect and be thankful. This event confirmed for me how fortunate we are to be living in such a beautiful city and what it truly means to be a member of such a remarkable and vibrant close-knit school community. We are truly fortunate to be part of a school where everyone benefits from a true sense of belonging while remaining true to our history, values and traditions.
What makes York House special are the people who make up the community – students, alumnae, staff, faculty, parents, grandparents and friends. This is a compassionate community that comes together to celebrate and honour the achievements of our girls. Our shared values and principles are demonstrated each and every day by our willingness to care and treat one another with kindness, respect and dignity. This is a generous community that offers a helping hand to others when they are in need. Thank you for entrusting your children to us and for your generous support and commitment to the York House School.
I would like to acknowledge and thank our faculty and staff for their professionalism, dedication and compassion; they truly care about our students and community. They are committed to meeting the needs of individual students and developing their intellectual, creative, spiritual and athletic potential. As we get closer to the holidays, the halls of York House have been filled with much laughter, excitement, music, friendship, love and hope. I encourage all members of the school community to rest, relax, rejuvenate and enjoy a break with loved ones. I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season filled with faith, love, peace and hope.
Chantal Gionet
Head of School