Help Us Name Our New Catholic School in Pickering

Construction is underway for our brand-new Catholic elementary school at Hibiscus Drive and Burkholder Avenue in Pickering, scheduled to open in September 2027. This modern, state-of-the-art school will serve 622 students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 and will include a child care centre and an EarlyON Community Hub, creating a vibrant, faith-filled learning environment for the growing Seaton community.

We are now launching Phase 1 of the school naming process, and we invite families, staff, parish members, and community partners to share their ideas.

Why Your Input Matters
Naming a school is an important step in building its identity. The name will carry deep meaning for students, families, staff, and parish members for generations to come. That’s why we’re inviting our Durham Catholic learning community to share your inspiration.

Submit your suggested school name and tell us why you believe it’s the right choice. Your input will help shape the shortlist that goes forward for final community consultation.

How the Naming Process Works

1.    Submit your suggested school name and tell us why you believe it’s the right choice – be sure to review the naming criteria before submitting

2.    The DCDSB Naming Committee will review all submissions and create a shortlist of names that reflect our Catholic faith, values, and community spirit

3.    The shortlist will be shared with the Durham Catholic learning community for consultation

4.    The final shortlist (three names in priority order, with rationale) will be presented to the Archbishop of Toronto and then submitted to the Board of Trustees who will select a name to be shared with the Ministry of Education.

Naming Criteria
In keeping with our Naming of Catholic Schools and Buildings Policy (PO203) and Administrative Procedure (AP203-1) – Naming of Catholic Schools and Buildings, suggested names must meet the following criteria:

  • The designation of a school or school board building should honour the person(s) identified and convey symbolic significance to the new school community.
  • The committee will consider names that reflect:
    • a) The Catholic character of education
    • b) Names or places associated with the Catholic faith
    • c) The commitment of a person(s) (deceased) to Catholic education and/or the general good of the school community and/or the wellbeing of society at large
  • The person(s) designated as the patron of the building will serve as a model to all students, staff, and parents/guardians.
  • The approved school name must include the word “Catholic” in its designation.
    Examples: St. Wilfrid Catholic School, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School.

School Overview

·      Opening: September 2027

·      Location: 2460 Hibiscus Drive, Pickering

·      Capacity: 622 students from Kindergarten to Grade 8

·      Features: Five-room child care centre (88 licensed spaces) and an EarlyON Community Hub

Your voice matters! Help us give this new Catholic school a name that will inspire faith, learning, and community for years to come!