Testimonials

Trp. Graham Trude LDSH (RC), Canadian Armed Forces, Pretty River Academy Alumni:

I am in Edmonton right now posted with the Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) and everything is going well out here. My time at Pretty River Academy was so much fun, I was never the strongest student but the teachers at Pretty River Academy always pushed me to be my best, and because they did I have now achieved my college education in Police Foundations as well as succeeded in almost two years of the Canadian Armed Forces. If I had the chance to live my high school education over again I would change absolutely nothing. I will always remember the good times I had at PRA.

Danielle O'Neil, Pretty River Academy Alumni:

The year that I attended Pretty River Academy marked a turning point in my academic career. I was given the chance to be myself, and to be accepted for who I am. Additionally, I was encouraged and nurtured by an academic institution that believed in me. In turn, I built more confidence that I applied to my academics, and also to my life outside of the classroom. I am so appreciative that I was not only given a chance to excel, but that I was driven to by teachers that cared about me and my learning experience. Pretty River Academy means pride, community, and academic excellence to me. I am proud to say I am a Pretty River Academy graduate. I am proud that I was driven to excel. I am proud when I see our uniformed students out in the community. I am proud of the dedicated staff that taught me to dream big and overcome obstacles. I am proud of my fellow classmates who have achieved their goals, and especially those who continue to raise the bar. Ultimately, I am proud to have been a part of a school where the mission is to "Strive for Excellence".

Dylan Kristofic Grade 12 Student, Pretty River Academy on Principal, Roberta Murray-Hirst:

Pretty River Academy principal, Roberta Murray-Hirst has demonstrated an incredible commitment to her school and students. Her vision, leadership and tenacity cannot be questioned. In just ten short years, she has brought Pretty River Academy from its humble beginnings to a thriving learning environment. I credit her with my transformation into someone who looks forward to coming to school every morning.

It was my experience in the mainstream school system that drove me towards Pretty River Academy. Up until grade eight, school was a challenge. Not because the work was too difficult, but because I was not being pushed to achieve my best. Coming to Pretty River, it was evident that this would no longer be the case. By raising the standards for both myself and those around me, I have been encouraged to become a better person, academically, physically, and socially.

Of Mrs. Murray-Hirst's incredibly diverse skill set, her ability to inspire all those around her to do better is the one I value the most. Inspiring and encouraging excellence from just a single student is difficult, but to do so for not only students, but also their families, is a truly remarkable achievement.

Debbie O'Reilly & Julie Kerr, Pretty River Academy Parent's Association on Pretty River Academy Principal, Roberta Murray-Hirst:

Roberta Murray-Hirst's single minded commitment and dedication to bringing, to Collingwood, a school of the quality of Pretty River Academy, has been unwavering. She built this amazing school from the ground up. Now that it is running, her passion has not changed. She not only sets high standards, but helps the students reach them. Every morning, she greets the entire student body outside the front doors of the school, rain or shine, and then goes from classroom to classroom hearing about the student's progress. Just ask her about any one of her students!

Sarah Cheeseman, Pretty River Academy Alumni:

I was lucky enough to spend 8 years of my life at Pretty River Academy and I wouldn't trade those years for anything in the world. The tightly-knit community, remarkable teachers, fantastic students, and strong philosophy are what make Pretty River Academy the best place to be. I received not only an exemplary academic education, but also valuable social skills for the future. My close relationship with the entire school community created a sense of belonging in which no words can describe. Graduating was very bittersweet, but I left feeling confident and ready for the future and I can't wait to come back and visit!

Larisa Yurkiw, Pretty River Academy Alumni:

The Canadian Alpine Ski Team's Larisa Yurkiw reminisces about her days at Pretty River Academy:

Grade 11 and 12 were two of the best years of my life. My only regret is that I didn't come to Pretty River Academy sooner. I made some incredible friendships with both students and teachers and I learned so much more than just the material of the courses... life skills that I continue to apply every day.

Another thing I absolutely loved about the school was being under the same roof as the kindergartens. Having K to 12 rubbing shoulders in the hall is so rare. Any interaction with kids so much younger than you at that age is almost unheard of. There's something really special about seeing those big tough guys in your class piggybacking the 6-year-old girls around at recess.

And yes, that was also special... grade 12 students learning more than anticipated, and still given time for recess!

PHOTO GALLERY

EVENTS

NEWS

Dinner of the Month - July UPDATE

Summer Courses

Grade 11 and/or 12 Physics (SPH3U and/or SPH4U)
Data Management

Turf Installation - Another PRA Milestone!

Last week, the students were thrilled to take ownership of their two new soccer pitches.

Pretty River Academy achieves Eco-Schools Gold Certification!

For the second year in a row Pretty River Academy has become a certified Eco-School!

Pretty River Academy

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