Principal: Dawn Merlino
Located in Hamilton, this secondary school is renowned for its diverse and specialized programs tailored to nurture student passions and prepare them for vibrant futures. Whether students aim to pursue post-secondary education or enter the workforce directly, the school emphasizes practical skills, academic excellence, and personal growth within a supportive environment.
🎓 Academic Excellence & Specialized Programs
Offering an array of specialized courses, students can explore fields such as Hospitality & Tourism, Robotics, Cosmetology & Fashion, alongside remarkable athletic academies including Basketball and Football. These programs are designed to provide students with focused knowledge and hands-on experience, enabling seamless transitions into college, university, or career paths.
Notably, the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Hospitality and Tourism equips students with industry-leading certifications such as SmartServe, First Aid, Customer Service, Food Safety, and WHMIS. These credentials enhance employability and add significant value to students’ resumes while still in high school.
📚 English Department & Curriculum Highlights
The English curriculum reinforces core competencies in listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing, and representing, fostering well-rounded communication skills essential for success beyond secondary education. Students in Grades 9 and 10 choose from academic, applied, and open English courses according to their learning styles, interests, and future goals.
Academic courses challenge students with theoretical and abstract concepts, while applied courses prioritize practical application of knowledge through relatable examples and hands-on learning. Locally developed compulsory credit courses ensure students on different academic tracks are equipped for success, especially as they prepare for workplace-focused Grade 11 English classes.
🤖 Innovation & Robotics Excellence
Robotics is a standout feature, with a highly accomplished FIRST Robotics Competition team (Team 2056) celebrated globally for its remarkable achievements. Guided by dedicated educators and expert mentors, the team embodies excellence by winning multiple district events, securing prestigious awards, and performing outstandingly at international championships including the Detroit World Championship.
Through robotics, students engage in hands-on STEM learning that builds critical thinking, teamwork, perseverance, and technical skills. These experiences not only enrich academic knowledge but also cultivate problem-solving abilities vital for future careers in engineering, programming, and technology-driven industries.
⚽ Athletics & Clubs
The school provides an extensive selection of extracurricular activities, supporting both athletic and social interests. Students can join teams in basketball, football, hockey, rugby, cross-country, water polo, tennis, track and field, and fastball, fostering physical fitness, teamwork, and school spirit.
A variety of clubs offer opportunities for student leadership and community engagement, including Student Council, Best Buddies, Justice and Equality Throughout Society (J.E.T.S.), and Students and Staff Helping Orchard Park Students and Society (S.S.H.O.P.S.S). The Tech Crew and FRC Robotics Team 2056 encourage students to explore technology and innovation alongside their peers.
🌟 Alumni & Community Impact
Graduates of this school have gone on to make significant contributions in professional sports and leadership roles. Esteemed alumni include Corey Grant, a CFL player and coach; Nick Pelletier, Assistant Director of Football Operations for the Edmonton Eskimos; and Bob Krouse, a former player for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Their ongoing success reflects the strong foundation this school provides.
🔗 Connect & Stay Updated
Follow the school’s latest news, events, and achievements on Twitter: @OP_HWDSB.
🌈 Conclusion
This vibrant Hamilton secondary school stands out by blending rigorous academics, specialized vocational training, competitive athletics, and innovative programs like robotics to provide a comprehensive and engaging education. Students leave equipped not only with knowledge and certifications but with valuable life skills—including confidence, leadership, and community involvement—to help them succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
