Overview
Harry Bowes P.S. is located in the north east section of the beautiful town of Stouffville, Ontario. The school opened to the community on September 2, 2008. The school is situated in a rustic setting with farm fields and a reservoir located to the north and west of the school. Our school serves a growing population of increasingly diverse learners. Our staff is excited to meet the challenges and the needs of our students as we "unite in our purpose to inspire and prepare learners for life in our changing world community."
History
The school is named after long time resident Mr. Harry Bowes, who at one time owned a local pharmacy in town. After his retirement in 1971, Mr. Bowes was convinced to run for school trustee, a position he held for 23 years, serving 6 years as the chairperson of the board. A few years later, he ran for council and was a member for six years. An active member of the community, he has been active in local service clubs, non-profit organizations and sports associations. Mr. Harry Bowes was elected Citizen of the Year in 1999. In the newspaper article entitled One Fine Citizen, Mr. Bowes explains that he "feels volunteer work is a way of life in Stouffville and that he's simply been doing his part." Mr. Bowes passed away on August 2, 2010 in his 87th year. We celebrated his legacy on Remembrance Day.
Population
Our school currently has approximately 740 students from junior kindergarten to grade eight. Located in a developing community as well as being a holding school for a large housing area south of Main Street, our student population is expected to continue to grow over the coming years. We serve students in mainstream classes, as well as those requiring additional support in both academic and second language areas.
Facilities
As a newer school, Harry Bowes has state of the art facilities. Our large gym, with high ceilings and our well stocked learning resource centre provide all students with fantastic learning opportunities. Specialized art and science rooms, large and spacious classrooms, a number of meeting rooms/kitchens and a three room in-school daycare round out the school’s interior facilities. Outside, a large paved play area as well as a huge field backing onto fenced green space makes our setting unique and picturesque.
Mission
"We strive for academic excellence by providing integrated, balanced, and differentiated instruction for all students. We are committed to creating a culture of respect that promotes inclusion, equity, collaboration, and celebrates diversity of all members in our learning community. Our school promotes the development of each student through equitable participation in the arts, healthy living and physical activities. Go Badgers Go! GRRRRRR"
Moto
"Learning is Our Journey.........Leave a Trail of Kindness"
School Song
We are the Harry Bowes Badgers
Courageous, strong and fierce!
We persevere for excellence, taking initiative.
Responsible, respectful, for others and the earth,
Here at brave H.B.P.S.
H.B.P.S. Grrrrrrr!
Our school colours are blue, green and white.
Mascot
Our school mascot the Badger, is a great digger and go-getter!! The Badger, when challenged, is fiercely competitive and has the ability to rise to any occasion that may appear insurmountable, often taking on opponents much larger and stronger but only when threatened.