News – CIC

CIC Celebrates December Grads and Early University Offers

Shawn — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 19:40:02 +0000

On December 12, �Ͼ�Ʒ�� proudly hosted the third graduation ceremony of the year, honoring our Class of December graduates who reached this milestone through determination and perseverance. Since October this year, a large number of CIC’s Class of 2026 graduating students have received offers of admission—many accompanied by generous scholarships—from leading universities around the world.

Canada: University of Toronto, University of British �Ͼ�Ʒ��, University of Alberta, McMaster University, University of Waterloo, Western University, Queen’s University, University of Ottawa, Carleton University, York University, University of Guelph, Toronto Metropolitan University, Ontario Tech University, Wilfrid Laurier University, Brock University, University of Calgary, University of Windsor, Trent University

United States: Stony Brook University, Binghamton University, University at Albany, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Hofstra University, Suffolk University, Adelphi University, Florida Institute of Technology, Ball State University

United Kingdom: King’s College London, University of Bristol, University of Sheffield, Queen Mary University of London, City, University of London, University of Portsmouth

Australia: Australian National University, University of Sydney, Monash University, University of Adelaide, University of Technology Sydney

Hong Kong: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Other Destinations: Massey University (New Zealand), Frankfurt School of Finance & Management (Germany)

Since its founding in 1979, CIC has remained committed to the Total Care Education® philosophy, providing comprehensive support for students’ growth in all aspects—academic, social, emotional, and physical (ASEP)—and accompanying countless teenagers as they develop character and strive for excellence. We were honoured to welcome representatives from our valued university partners, who joined us in supporting our graduates:

Brock University McMaster University Ontario Tech University University of Toronto University of Waterloo Western University York University A special thank-you to our Keynote Speaker, York University’s Maciel Jorge, Associate Dean, Global & Community Engagement, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies. Congratulations to our Valedictorian, Sze Hang Ying, for an inspiring address, and to Pak Qiu Kwok for delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks. We also proudly recognized outstanding students through our Awards and Scholarships presentations. Parents and family members from around the world came together for this special ceremony to witness the full spectrum of CIC student success—from outstanding university admissions and scholarship achievements to meaningful leadership growth and character development. Dear graduates: this is only the beginning. Keep striving, keep dreaming, and keep shining. A huge shoutout to our incredible CIC Total Care Education Team—your commitment is the heart of Total Care, Total Success.

CIC Students Take First Place at McMaster’s Hackonomics Event!

Shawn — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:56:11 +0000

We are thrilled to announce that a group of students from CIC business classes were named the ultimate winners of McMaster University’s inaugural Hackonomics event held on November 7th!

Students from five different high schools tackled real-world case studies developed by McMaster economics professors. Using actual data, they explored how economics impacts daily life and proposed solutions—gaining insight into both what economists do and how they think.

CIC team emerged victorious from the innovative hackathon, which challenged participants to find solutions for major “Cost of Living” issues.

This achievement highlights CIC’s commitment to meaningful, real-world learning that prepares students for practical challenges.

Business Teacher and Team Lead Mark Minniti shared what the students gained: “They learned to use case analysis and economic reasoning to work and collaborate to solve real-world issues. We specifically examined the role of Universal Childcare and the cost of living associated with it.”

The hands-on experience has successfully fostered curiosity, critical thinking, and community engagement among the next generation of business leaders.

Food, Community & Care: A Festive Week at CIC

Shawn — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 15:54:06 +0000

Dear parents.

From December 1st to 5th, �Ͼ�Ʒ�� is bringing joy and community to the dinner table. Our Chartwells Food Service team has prepared a fun and engaging Festive Week Dinner Program, filled with themed evenings: a taco bar, sushi night, trivia games, smoothie stations, a foodie photo contest, and even close-up magic. These activities offer students a cheerful break and a chance to enjoy time with their friends before exams begin.

December 1st to 3rd, 2025:

· Recipe Submission & Storytelling Experience: Students submit family recipes and share the cultural story behind them. Winning recipes will be featured as a Student Special Menu Item.

December 1st to 4th, 2025:

· Foodie Photo Contest: Students snap and submit their best-plated meal. The most creative or aesthetic entry wins a gift card or cooking gear.

December 1st, 2025 at Pine Girls:

· Food & Trivia Night: A friendly competition with themes like memes, movies, music, and global culture – paired with pizza. Bonus food trivia for extra points and prizes.

· Study Fuel Bar with Smoothies: A brain-boosting pop-up bar designed to help students stay energized during exams. Featuring fruit smoothies, a perfect balance of healthy and refreshing drink to support focus, memory, and exam stamina.

December 2nd, 2025 at Pine Boys:

· Food & Trivia Night: A friendly competition with themes like memes, movies, music, and global culture – paired with pizza. Bonus food trivia for extra points and prizes.

December 2nd, 2025

· Build-Your-Own Taco Bar: Students customize their tacos with multiple meat options, sauces, and toppings — perfect for all tastes and spice levels.

December 3rd, 2025

· Build-Your-Own Doritos Nacho Bar: A fun twist on classic nachos — toppings, sauces, protein choices, and Doritos as the base.

December 4th, 2025 – Entertainment:

· Strolling Close-Up Magic: Interactive magic performed table-to-table using cards, coins, and borrowed items — bringing spontaneous excitement and surprise.

· Balloon Twisting Giveaways: Fun balloon creations for students – a lighthearted, playful experience and a memorable takeaway.

· Sushi Night: A simple and satisfying sushi feature offering two popular favourites: California rolls and crab rolls. Served with classic sides like soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. A great way for students to enjoy a light, flavourful dinner option during exam week.

December 5th, 2025

· Bubble Tea Pop-Up Station: A fun and refreshing treat where students choose their tea base, flavour, and toppings.

· Hot Chocolate with Marshmallow: A cozy winter treat perfect for exam season. Students can enjoy warm, rich hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows, whipped cream, and optional flavour add-ins like caramel, vanilla, or peppermint. A comforting way to unwind and reset during study breaks.

Supporting Your Child With Comforting Meals and Meaningful Moments

At CIC, good food is part of how we care for your child. As we approach the festive season, we are pleased to share a special initiative taking place in our residences next week. We understand how meaningful a warm, comforting meal can be—especially for students living far from home. Our dining program isn’t only about nutrition; it is an important part of helping students feel supported, relaxed, and connected.

Your encouragement will help make this week meaningful for your child. Please invite your son or daughter to participate and experience these special moments. This is a pilot project, and student feedback will guide us as we build more enjoyable dining experiences in the months ahead.

Thank you for trusting us with your child’s well-being. We remain committed to caring for them in every aspect of their lives—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. A nourishing and positive meal environment is a small but important way we honour that promise.

Celebrating Empathy: CIC Recognizes Students Who Make a Difference

Shawn — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 21:35:03 +0000

CIC hosted its October Character Breakfast to honour students who exemplify empathy — those who consistently demonstrate kindness, understanding, and genuine care for others. Their compassion not only uplifts their peers but also strengthens the spirit of our CIC family.

The event brought together staff and students to recognize the individuals who help strengthen our community through their actions and attitude, reflecting the core values at the heart of CIC’s character education program.

CIC Celebrates Outstanding Students Who Embody Perseverance

Shawn — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 21:56:50 +0000

This September, CIC’s Character-Building Calendar highlights the value of perseverance, recognizing students who show commitment, courage, and strength through challenges.

We are thrilled to celebrate students who have demonstrated it through their everyday actions.

As a School of Character, CIC believes that perseverance is key to growth, learning, and achieving goals.

Whether it’s staying committed to challenges, pushing through setbacks, or giving their best every day, these students have been nominated for their perseverance.

Congratulations!

CIC Marks 43 Years of Perseverance and Hope at the Terry Fox Run

Shawn — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 21:16:39 +0000

Perseverance. Leadership. Community. Since 1982, �Ͼ�Ʒ�� has proudly carried on the tradition of the Terry Fox Run. This year — our 43rd annual run — was more than a race; it was a celebration of courage, compassion, and perseverance.

CIC joined millions of Canadians in supporting Terry Fox’s inspiring mission to end cancer. Students and staff ran and walked a 5-km route through Princes Point and along the beautiful shores of Lake Ontario, showing their support and determination every step of the way.

As a School of Character, September’s focus trait is Perseverance — and our students lived it out fully. From never giving up, to pushing through challenges, to leading with heart , they showed us what it means to turn character into action. With over CAD $235,000 raised to date, the CIC family proves that together, we can create extraordinary impact. Huge gratitude to our Student Leadership Teams — Community Service Prefects, Student Council, and Athletic Council — for rallying their peers with passion and energy. The General Student Council and Students on Campus Service also played a key role in making this tradition so meaningful. And to our amazing Student Media Team, thank you for capturing these unforgettable moments that keep CIC’s tradition alive. We are proud of our students who don’t just succeed in the classroom — they stand out as leaders who care, act, and inspire. Together, we’re running for Terry’s dream and building a legacy of hope, resilience, and positive change.

Respect in Action: CIC Students Recognized for Exemplary Character

Shawn — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:44:15 +0000

Respect takes center stage in August on our Character-Building Calendar! We are thrilled to celebrate students who have demonstrated it through their everyday actions.

Whether it’s listening with empathy, valuing differences, or showing kindness in big and small ways, these students have been nominated for their respect Congratulations!

CIC – A School of Character

Character education has been a key element of CIC’s Total Care Education. It is essential in helping students build an ethical foundation and develop readiness for their future.

Starting this Fall Semester, we are taking solid steps to elevate character education. This includes training staff, emphasizing core character traits, and recognizing exemplary students.

We’re incorporating character into all programming, including academics, residence life, and student leadership development activities, making it visible and intentional within our school community.

Fresh Faces, Big Impact: Meet CIC’s New Student Leaders

Shawn — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:25:10 +0000

�Ͼ�Ʒ��’s Student Leadership Development (SLD) Office is excited to announce the selection of this semester’s leadership teams! Student Council: From prom to winter ball, this team organizes some of the biggest events of the year — handling logistics, budgeting, and promotion, while also managing funds to support activities across campus. Service Prefects: They organize meaningful volunteer activities that make a difference for peers, the school, the community, and even the world.Athletic Council: They create engaging athletic programs while demonstrating leadership, responsibility, and respect. It’s the perfect way to combine a love of athletics with personal growth.

Over 150 Students Interview for Leadership Roles

More than 150 students interviewed for this semester’s Leadership Team positions. From icebreakers to brainstorming ideas to enhance student life, candidates showcased creativity, teamwork, and a genuine passion for serving the CIC community. After fun icebreakers and team-building games, candidates worked in groups to create student events—complete with themes, staffing, budgets, logistics and safety plans. While creativity and presentation mattered, the process highlighted effective communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and collaboration, as well as character traits like confidence and optimism. The dedication and talent on display were truly inspiring. If you made the team, congratulations! If not, no worries—there are many other opportunities waiting for you: Duke of Ed, Model UN, DECA, HOSA, clubs, and much more!

Why Joining the Leadership Team is a Game-Changer

CIC prepares students not only for university, but for life beyond the classroom. Academic success is important, but we also believe that character, leadership, and experiential learning are essential for thriving in today’s global, competitive world.

To support this, CIC established the Student Leadership Development (SLD) Office, which designs and delivers exciting programs that give students hands-on training and real experience to succeed in life.

Every SLD program emphasizes character development and diversity, showing how activities and events help students grow to new levels of:

Inclusiveness
Honesty & Integrity
Respect
Responsibility
Peaceful & Positive Conflict Resolution
Fairness
Caring
Optimism
Self-Confidence, and Self-Advocacy
Perseverance

Any questions or want to learn more about leadership opportunities? Visit the SLD office at S244.

Games Day: A Fun-Filled Start to A New Chapter

Shawn — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:00:36 +0000

�Ͼ�Ʒ�� welcomed the new semester with its annual Welcome Games Day.The event featured a delicious BBQ lunch, organized by the Chartwells dining team, along with a variety of activities including a bouncy castle, water balloon battles, and outdoor games.Laughter and camaraderie filled the campus as students connected with old friends and made new ones. It truly brought together students, staff, and faculty for an afternoon filled with energy, excitement, and community spirit.

CIC also extends appreciation to student photographers Charles, Calix, Hayley, Hilda, Marcus, Sammie, Sean, and Yvaine, who documented the day’s most memorable moments.

CIC Kicks Off the Fall Semester in Style with Exciting Activities

Shawn — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 17:18:08 +0000

The The Fall Semester at �Ͼ�Ʒ�� began with excitement, energy, and plenty of opportunities for connection! From Orientation Week assemblies to guided tours, Niagara Falls trips, and campus scavenger hunts, new students and their families were warmly welcomed into the CIC community. During Orientation Week, Principal Joe Knap and key members of the Total Care team welcomed new students and their families at the assembly. Students learned essential health and safety tips, explored leadership opportunities, discovered student life experiences, and found out how to access help and support when needed.New students also took a guided walk through the charming Westdale neighborhood and McMaster University, both within walking distance of campus. They enjoyed a trip to Niagara Falls, experiencing the world-famous natural wonder up close on an amazing cruise tour.

BBQ, Bunnies & New Beginnings

Nothing beats a welcome BBQ on the residence lawn—great food, fresh air, and new friends to share the semester ahead Cute animals from the pet farm visited too — bunnies, llamas, goats, and more! Families from around the world attended this BBQ and enjoyed a day of family fun with their children. Thanks to our amazing Residence Team and Chartwells Food Services for creating such a fun-packed event.

New Students Connect with Teachers Through Scavenger Hunt

Our new students kicked off their CIC journey with an exciting scavenger hunt around campus before the semester began! They explored classrooms, met their teachers, and got to know their classmates. The activity was a fun and interactive way to familiarize themselves with their new environment.It helped build friendships, boost confidence, and start the school year on a high note!

Teachers Start Semester with Team-Building Fun

Before the new semester began, CIC teachers took part in a lively scavenger hunt across campus. From solving clues to working in teams, the activity was filled with energy and friendly competition. It was a great opportunity to strengthen teamwork, build camaraderie, and reconnect with colleagues. Most importantly, it reinforced our shared commitment to building a School of Character—where every lesson, interaction, and experience helps students grow and thrive.

We Wish Everyone Fresh Beginnings & a Truly Remarkable Year Ahead!

With friendships formed, confidence boosted, and both students and teachers energized through fun activities and team-building, we look forward to a semester full of growth, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. If you need any help or support, please reach out to any of our Total Care staff—we’re always ready to assist!