Our Students
Berrigan has an enrollment of just under 900 students representing over 35 countries and more than 20 languages. Our students have a variety of cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds and are proud to be Canadian.Our students will go to Longfields Davidson Heights Secondary School following the completion of Grade Six.
Our Staff
Berrigan employs a full-time equivalent of 51 teachers, 2.5 educational assistants, 2.5 office administrators, 4 custodians, a library technician, a full time Vice-Principal and a full time Principal. Our staff works together as a team to create the most positive learning environment possible for our students. At Berrigan we are dedicated to the promotion of academic excellence. Literacy imbued with arts education, numeracy and character education continue to be the main areas of focus for our school.
The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board also provides support in terms of a psychologist, social worker and a speech-language pathologist. Through regular visitations and consultations, these professionals assist teachers and serve the needs of our students. Community Care Access professionals such as physio and occupational therapists also serve our students. A part time MLO, Multicultural Liaison Officer, works with staff and families to help ensure the successful integration of immigrant students and their families in our school. A School Resource Officer (SRO) from Ottawa Police Services also supports our school.
Our Community
Berrigan parents represent a rich diversity of people, languages and countries. Our parents are very active education partners and work in our school assisting children in all areas of their development: academic, social, emotional and physical. Parents arrange for Pizza and Subway Days, milk is available daily, as well as the hot lunch program, Mommy’s Yummies. Parents also assist with Early Literacy and Numeracy programs and volunteer many hours in a great variety of ways within and beyond the classroom. Our active School Council meets monthly, usually on the first Thursday of the month, and strives to enhance communication between parents, teachers, students and administrators. In addition, our Council addresses current educational issues, trends and curricula.
Mission Statement
Educating for Success- Inspiring Learning and Building Citizenship
Facilities and Resources
Kindergarten classes are found in the lower west wing of the school, while other grades are spread throughout the school and two portables. The school yard includes two play structures, two basketball courts, many mini soccer fields, a large soccer field and a fenced-in Kindergarten area. Inside our building there is a large double gymnasium with a stage; a spacious library with a wide variety of books and resources; an English Book Room, a French Book Room; an open stage located in our main lobby; Each classroom is well equipped with internet access, whole-school WIFI access, digital technology peripherals and digital projectors; a fully operational community kitchen where Breakfast Club is offered daily to all students who enrol in the program. The school is surrounded by terrific neighbours who keep a close eye on our building and schoolyard.