SEED Alternative School's Mission Statement
Established in 1968, SEED
is the oldest alternative school in North America. We are a warm, dynamic space that promotes student capacity and optimizes learning
potential. Our unique space fosters inclusion while celebrating individuality. Our academic focus is on University and College preparation with extensive
offerings in Mathematics,
Science, and Progressive Humanities. Relational and student-centred, SEED imbeds
transferable skills that support ongoing student learning. Through the student-led nutrition program, SEED provides daily meals and snacks. Weekly activities focus on community building and well being through fun. We are a late start school with classes beginning at 10AM
SEED fosters engagement and responsibility within the community by encouraging student input not only within the class but also through extracurricular and co-curricular events.
We Offer:
- Grade 10-12 semestered curriculum
- A flexible, accepting and non-authoritarian atmosphere
- The chance to think beyond the textbook
Our Learning Environment:
- Small learning spaces
- Student lounge and kitchen
- Gallery with skylights
- Weekly staff/student meetings
- Distinctive late start timetable with classes starting at 10AM
The SEED alternative school difference
SEED is a small school with a flexible timetable where students have many opportunities to create and foster a very strong and supportive community by sharing their interests and mentoring each other, not only at the regular community meetings but also throughout the rest of the week. SEED is where teachers are able to mentor those students who need extra help.
More Information About SEED Alternative School
Mathematics
Through guided practice, real-world applications, and individualized support, students develop their understanding of mathematical concepts while strengthening their analytical thinking.
Our program challenges students academically while remaining approachable by providing students with the support they need as they prepare for post-secondary studies, skilled trades, or everyday life beyond the classroom. Functions (MCR3U) and Advanced Functions (MHF4U) are offered in first semester. Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) and Data Management (MDM4U) are offered in the second semester, as well as Grade 10 Math (MPM2D), Mathematics for Everyday Life (MEL3E), and Foundations for College Mathematics (MBF3C, MAP4C).
English
Perspective, identity, and critical thinking are at the heart of learning in our English program. Across courses, students engage with diverse texts, focusing on contemporary Indigenous voices while developing strong reading, writing, and oral communication skills.
Students will learn how to analyze texts for perspective, bias, purpose, and techniques to become more aware of the media they are exposed to in their daily lives. At SEED, English is more than a course—it’s a space to build confidence and explore different perspectives and worldviews.
Social Sciences, Humanities, and Family Studies
SEED Alternative offers impactful courses in Social Sciences, Humanities, and Food and Nutrition that combine high academic standards with real-world relevance. In Social Sciences, students explore human behaviour and social systems in Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology (HSP3U) and Challenge and Change (HSB4U).
In Equity and Gender Studies, students will put theory into action through their Social Action Project. Philosophy invites students to examine big questions, develop strong reasoning skills, and participate in thoughtful dialogue. Our Food and Nutrition program provides hands-on experience, preparing meals for school, blending practical skills & learning about nutrition, teamwork, and responsibility.
Sciences
SEED Alternative’s Science program offers a supportive and engaging environment where students build strong foundations for post-secondary pathways in the sciences, medical, and engineering fields.
We offer Biology (Grade 11 and 12) in both semesters, with Chemistry in semester one and Physics in semester two, allowing students to plan their learning with flexibility. Through hands-on labs, field trips, and inquiry-based learning, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific investigation skills. Our courses balance academic rigour with personalized support, helping students gain confidence while mastering key concepts.
Additional Features
- Friendly, Small School Community
- Food Programme
- High academic standards
- 2SLTGBQT Identities celebrated here
- Inclusive, close, diverse
- Field Trips and workshops
- Fun Friday, community activities
- Innovative
Student Life - Where You Belong
GO TEAM
We encourage student leadership in social activities. For example, students plan and organize our SEED Feast, which brings together staff and students for a pot luck dinner in our Gallery space. SEEDlings have the opportunity to showcase their talents by sharing music, poetry readings, monologues, dramatic and video presentations.
Enjoy our student lounge where you may read, study, discuss issues or collaborate. Share in the planning, organization and maintenance of our Nutrition programme. Enjoy our informal sports games, such as baseball and basketball, as we compete with other Alternative schools in the city.
Participate in weekly fun friday activities and student council meetings. Activities include birthday celebrations (with cake!), team trivia, who-dunnit-mysteries and craft workshops.
WHAT SETS US APART
We are a small school with a community-focused mindset.
Our Four core values are:
Personal Growth and Expression - We encourage diversity, self-awareness and open expression in a climate of mutual respect and support.
Innovation and Creativity - We foster innovative, creative and critical thinking and regard for a multitude of perspectives.
Community and Democracy - We encourage students in decision-making and taking responsibility for those decisions, not only in class but also in the school community as a whole.
Meaningful Standards of Achievement - We encourage students to build on their strengths through inclusive and interesting curriculum.
PARENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
- Ontario Institute for Studies in Education - Practicum and Volunteer Placement for Teacher Candidates - - - - - - - - - Monthly Meetings of our School Council - - - - - - - - -