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Regal Road Public School 1914

Photo by Alan L Brown - Posted May, 2008

Source: City of Toronto, Fonds 1257, f1257_s1057_it0269

Here at 95 Regal Road at Dufferin Street is a 102-year-old (as of 2016) public school with this 2007 Heritage Toronto attached to the wall beside the main doors. Here's what it says:

Coordinates: 43.6738 -79.4402

Designed by architect Franklin E. Belfrey in Beaux-Arts style, this school was constructed for the Dovercourt community shortly after the area was annexed to the City of Toronto. The school stands at the edge of the Lake Iroquois escarpment, on land farmed by the pioneer family of Bartholomew Bull from the 1820's, and not subdivided until 1910. The portico over the main entrance was repaired in 2007 through an initiative of the Regal Heights Residents' Association and the City of Toronto.

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Here are the visitors' comments for this page.

> Posted January 16, 2016
I was a student at Regal Rd. from 1957-1959. Just a short time, but that's where I spent grade 5 with my favourite teacher of ALL TIME: Marilyn Weingarten. On the first day of school she sat in front of the class and sang to us, with a huge smile on her face, "Getting to Know You" (from the King and I musical). That's how she introduced herself to us. It was her first year of teaching. It was also a great class: children from all over the world. We were in one of the portable classrooms, so we had "secret" dance parties with 45s and dancing; a student was posted at the window in case the principal, Mr Knott, was coming! And Mr Knott and I traded stamps, since I had many from my birth country of Finland. I spent a short time with Miss Armstrong in grade 4. I was living in Yellowknife at the time of the anniversary, or I would have come!
Marita Hollo [email protected]

> Posted December 11, 2015
Hi. This is a long shot, but I read so many comments under Regal Road, I thought maybe someone could help. My aunt is looking for a former student at Winona Public School, from the 1980's. There was a young boy there named Kevin Malcolm. He ran track. My uncle's name was Peter Pedreschi and he taught this boy. The boy won a medal in the city championships and gave it to my uncle to thank him for his mentorship and believing in him when others had not. My uncle has since passed away and my aunt thought perhaps the young man would like the memento. Anyone happen to know this boy from the neighbourhood? Unfortunately his surname was later changed and that's why she's been unable to track him down.
Thanks! SCP [email protected]

> Posted November 9, 2014
Hi Regal Roadies. I lived at 83 Bristol Ave. There were 6 kids in our family. We all attended RR. I was there from 52 - 59 then went to grades 7 & 8 at Winona Drive.
I remember the split yards at recess, girls on the east and boys on the west. I remember Mr. Davies (everyone feared him). He carried the bell with his stiff hand inside holding on to the clapper. If you were being bad he would yell, "Get out of my yard". I always thought he owned it. I remember Mr. Douglass in grade 5 who drove a green 1949 Ford, Miss Sills (with the prosthetic hand) in grade 3, Mrs. Heatherington who drove a 1955 red & white Pontiac but she lived on Regal Road about 4 blocks east of the school (I thought she was gorgeous). Every time she wore this one dress she would be cranky that day. I always remember that. I think everyone had Miss Brown. I remember there seemed to be 2 teachers in kindergarten and how huge that room was.
I remember our class going to Dovercourt school for shop and the girls going for home economics. I remember getting the strap for throwing snowballs at my sister Gloria in the school yard.
Mr Knott was the principal. Mr. Douglass was the VP and always whistled as he walked. He came into our class one day (I think it was grade 3 or 4) and watched our teacher teaching us (I guess he was evaluating her), then he did random testing on us. A student sitting beside me was asked another way to spell "check". He couldn't come up with "cheque" and began to cry when Mr Douglass started yelling at him. I can still remember him showing us how to add a row of two digit numbers and how quickly he did it.
I remember our teacher in one class taught us about plants and we all planted a bean then took it out onto the roof of the school, then a few weeks later bringing them back in.
I remember watching one of the janitors (now they're called custodians) mowing the grass on the hill going down to Davenport Rd. He had taken the handle off the mower and attached a rope in place, then the gravity would take the mower down the hill, cutting grass as it went and he would pull it up, up & down until he did the entire hill from east to west, I think it would take him all day for this task. He must have been tired at the end of the day.
I remember the janitors sweeping the halls with a big brush after spreading some red stuff down first, I thought the red stuff was used as a guide so he would know where he had already swept.
The boys would play marbles or cards against the school wall outside at recess. Cards were thrown from a crack or seam in the cement towards the wall. The closest card would win and a "leaner" was a sure fire winner. I can't remember the rules we had when playing marbles.
When I attended the 100th anniversary yesterday I looked out onto the yard and was amazed at how small it was. I always though the yard was huge. When I attended RR the yard was cinders on the low area and cement on the top area.
Good times, good friends, good old days.
Barry Bray [email protected]

> Posted November 6, 2014
I went to Dovercourt and competed against Regal Rd. (unsuccessfully) in baseball and track.
Rick Leonard

> Posted October 26, 2014
What a wonderful time I have had reading the stories; especially those from my years at Regal 1955 to 1961 or so. And yes I remember Mrs. Armstrong, Mrs. Sills, Miss Riddell, Mrs. Brown and who can't forget Davies and that yard stick smashing against a desk - it sure scared the heck out of you even if it was done to someone else's desk and you knew you hadn't done anything wrong. I came to the website because I too was cleaning out a dresser drawer and found the sweatshirt (royal blue) I bought when I attended the last school reunion and saw the date 1914 realizing the school was 100. I left Regal early into Grade 6 when we moved away from Bristol Avenue. During the winter I used to ride my sled down Regal hill scoot across the street car tracks on Davenport Road and sail down Bristol on the road of course; eventually stopping (I assume) at my home. One pivoting memory was "trying" out for the school play - Sleeping Beauty only to be rejected because I couldn't carry a tune. This had such a profound effect on me that I practiced singing constantly after that. Years later, in high school (George Harvey) I was cast as the lead in Oklahoma and Mrs. MacFee in Bye Bye Birdie. Some have confessed their crushes; I too had a crush - on Bobby G. I remember sitting in the big circle in Kindergarten and repeatedly moving and sitting beside him every time he moved to get away from me. Wonder if he remembers this? I went to Dufferin Street United Church and bought my candy from Marty's on Dufferin. I live in Waterloo and hope to get down there on November 8th to see the school and see old friends and new ones like Bruna Vitale that I've now met through email. Sue "Susie" Henson [email protected]

> Posted September 27, 2014
Hi there. I also attended Regal Road Public School from 1974 - 1981. I also remember Mrs. Jones in the office. I had Mrs. Safniuk, Mrs. McLeod, Mrs. Fennel, Mrs Simonetti (2 & 3), Mrs. Vizvary and then Mr. Vandervoort for Grade 5 & 6. My maiden name is Di Bartolomeo. Both my brother Tony and sister Mary also attended Regal. We grew up on Davenport. After Regal Road I attended Winona Drive Public School and then Oakwood for high school. Looking forward to the celebrations on November 8th, 2014.
Nicki Jones

> Posted June 13, 2014
Just came across this historical plaque site and read all comments of past students like me of R.R. I attended 1953-58 and then went on to Winona Public School. My name is Barbara (Dipiero) and my younger sister, Nancy both attended. The teachers I recall are Miss Brown, Miss Walenda, Mr Pringle, Miss Riddell. Would love to know when and where you are having reunion in November as I didn't know about any in May as read on this site. I recall Mr Davies, and being very scared of him. We used to get certificates for not being late and I received some of these at the end of more than one year. I was terrified at the thought of being late after hearing stories of kids getting the strap. But have many good memories and stories to remember and discuss and reminisce with fellow classmates. I had Liviana Maganelli in my class, a Delia, 4 other Barbara's one year in my class, a Bruce Ruttlidg, I think (spelling), remember going to Winona for home ec- sewing and became very good at it making few outfits, and developed into being a lifelong crafter as well. When we moved out of that area, I went on to Lawrence Heights Jr High, and then Bathurst Heights Secondary. I attended Humber College afterwards. Thanks for memories. If anyone would like to talk old school days, I can be reached at [email protected]. I have lived in Toronto, and outskirts, presently in Brampton, Ontario for the past few years, now a grandmother. My sister now lives in Alberta.
Barbara Dipiero

> Posted March 18, 2014
Greetings fellow Regal Road Alumni. If memory serves me and it doesn't always these days I attended in the late 50's to early 60's. Attending Grades JK to 6, prior to heading off to Winona and subsequently good old O.C.I. I remember all the greats; Ms. Nelson, Ms. Smith, Mr. Bates, Mr. Lowrie, Mr. Taicher, Ms. Lee, Ms. Hare, Ms. Crawford, Ms. Reid, and the best of all, everyone's favourite, God Bless him; "Mr. J. Robertson", whom I had the privilege of being with in grades four and five. Funny, he's the only one whose class lessons still come to mind; my favourite being his trying to teach us about the solar system... lol! Over the years I've had the pleasure with great fondness of bumping into him once or twice.
Unfortunately those years were also bittersweet; the educational system was not as it is today. Students were abused, neglected, etc. and regrettably "some" teachers were not qualified at any level, socially nor scholastically and should not have been in the profession at all, some even taught my older siblings and nothing changed over the years. These teachers, some of whom may still be with us shall remain nameless due to their inhumanity; sadistic ways and pure ignorance deserve only anonymity. Upon reflection the memories of these few are tarnished and certainly not pleasant. I noted that some of the other posts reflected on their physical and social abuse of students, but hey it was a different time and we somehow made it through. Fortunately the many fantastic teachers we had overshadowed them.
I have many significant and fond memories of all the great teachers I was privileged to have at the front of the class throughout my years at Regal Road. I recall the plays and Christmas pageant evenings, track and field days, playing British Bulldog and Buck Buck at recess; and less we forget marbles and tossing baseball cards. I recall hanging out with a classmate named Tony ???? with whom most days after lunch I would head off and play with three shelties in a yard at the top of the hill near the stairs on Regal Road causing us more often than not to be late for class... and you know what could only happen then! Being big and tough the strap didn't hurt and most of the teachers only went through the motions without the intent to maim lol. I recall the field being the centre of the Universe; not just for recess but summer baseball, winter hockey, etc.
As I type this some of my first "crushes" come to mind; Linda B., Lena R., Sonia, Lisa V. Bridgette and her twin Liz???, and of course Luety, what a Romeo I was. Who among you can forget the monitor duties we took turns on? Ringing the old manual bell on the first floor to mark the start, end and recess periods, not to mention the best workout ever; fire drills. Delivering milk boxes to certain kids in various classes, making "photocopies" by running the old mimeograph stencil machine. Well I rambled enough, time to search out this upcoming reunion and if found I will definitely be there, hopefully with my older sister to do some reminiscing. The best to you all, feel free to touch base if you read this and remember "Steve Applebaum". [email protected]

> Posted March 18, 2014
Hi. I went to Regal Road School from 1973 - 1980. Mrs. Green was the Principal and Miss Jones worked in the office. I had Ms. McLeod for Kindergarten, then Mrs. Safiniuk for a couple of weeks then straight to Grade 1. Then there was Mr. Maloney, Miss Whitmore (who taught us Scientology and the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard daily probably unbeknownst to anyone else) and Mr. Warren in Grade 6. I remember a strict teacher who really loved yelling at kids, and how funny Mr. Boyle was clip clopping down the hallway with his clogs in the morning. I remember having gym in the basement and exercising to the sound of Jim Croce singing "Bad Bad Leroy Brown". My fondest memory is having spent four days at the Toronto Island School.

> Posted March 17, 2014
I accidentally fell upon this site and am so thrilled that I did. I attended Regal Road from 1959-1966. I have very clear memories of both good and not so good things that happened there. I was and am especially happy to see that Jim Robertson has responded in these comments. Mr Robertson was by far my most favorite teacher - he taught me grade 4 and he "got me" while my grades 1-3 teachers kept me in line with scare tactics, and with manual force - Mr Robertson knew how to reach me and I was one of his top students (or so he said in my report card). I will look into this 100 year anniversary event and try very hard to attend. I would like to let Jim Robertson know how much of an impact he had on me and my young life.
Diane Harvey

> Posted March 15, 2014
I was a teacher at Regal Road during the 60's and have some very fond memories of my years spent there. Your letters brought back many familiar family names that I knew from Regal Road and then later at Winona Sr. School where I taught the Art Program for 8 years. (1970-1978)I still have some of the student art work from that time. Some of you I met at Oakwood's Anniversary in 2008. Others I hope to meet this year at Regal's 100th (Saskia, Joe, Adelina, Rosemary....to name a few).
Looking forward to the 100th Anniversary.
Jim Robertson
Taught at Regal Road from 1964 to 1970

> Posted March 11, 2014
I remember going to Regal Road School. I remember Mr. McDougal, Miss Nightingale, Miss Wasenda, Miss Jones (She wore a paper dress to school one day. It was a new fashion at that time), and Mr.Hall, the principal. I remember junior and senior kindergarten. I remember the segregation of the boys and girls in the playground and entrance to school. The stairs all the way up to the third floor. The separate bathrooms, gym classes. We had to go to Winona Drive school for swimming, home economics etc. I lived on Westmoreland Ave. My name was Pirl Patten :)

> Posted March 11, 2014
Hi. My name is Irene Petten. I was known as (Irene Patten) when I went to RR. I lived on 391 Westmoreland with my parents, 3 brothers & 1 sister. They also went to RR. My oldest brother John went to RR from 58-Nov.68, Pearl 59-Nov 68, Doug 60-Nov 68, Clifford 64-Nov 68, My self Irene 67-Nov 68. My siblings have class pic's of their time at RR, but we moved from Toronto to Newfoundland Nov 1968 before my parents had a chance to get my class picture. If anyone out there has the class picture for the school year Nov 1968, I would love a copy. It can be sent to me at [email protected].

> Posted March 2, 2014
Hi to all! I too loved teaching at Regal Road Public School. It was my first teaching assignment with my best friend Susan Lee. We loved being assigned there after being students together at Davenport Road in Kindergarten through Grade 6, Perth Sr. School through Grade 8 and then Oakwood Collegiate eventually. Unfortunately Susie passed away in 1997. I still miss her greatly and we were both so sorry we did not attend Regal Road's 75th. However I will definitely be at the 100th. to celebrate with former students, teachers and friends. Saskia and Adelina and Joe...I hope you'll be there too. Remember the crazy plays we put on???? "Black Mud." It was a shock to me when I went to Oakwood's Celebration a few years ago and met many of my former students from Regal Road. I went to see my high school generation and met all of you as well. It was a wonderful experience. Hope to see you soon.
Jim Robertson, Regal Road 1964-1970, Winona Senior School 1970-1978
PS. Peter Syptak. ......I will be bringing some of your art work from Winona.

> Posted January 27, 2014
We are celebrating our centennial this year. A Facebook account has been set up, if you would like to share any stories or pictures. Just search Regal Road P.S. Centennial Celebrations.
Regal Road Public School Centennial Celebrations
Description
A year of events celebrating the 100th years of Regal Road Public School and how its students have given back to the community, to the city, to the province and to the nation, culminating in a November 2014 Page formal celebration themed: "Then, Now & Tomorrow: Connecting to the Past to Influence the Future".
Brad Cunningham
Chair, RRPS Parent Council

> Posted January 26, 2014
Great site! Brought back a lot of memories! I attended Regal Road from 1960-1967. I remember Miss Safinuk, Miss Dot, Miss Crawford, Miss Lee. I had Miss Crawford in Grade 4, she was a great teacher, actually all the ones I had were. I lived on Salem Ave just off Davenport and climbed those stairs off Davenport twice a day! I remember Track and Field days and playing baseball in the school yard. Lots of memories and friends. Both my brother and sister, Dave and Lee attended Regal Road as well. I remember some names lol Jayne Young, Patsy Fuijimoto, Koji, Dennis, Charlene, Dino, Corinne. I remember the Dairy place where the teacher would take us for an ice cream during the summer. My name is Deb Baillie. If you want to contact me you can reach me at [email protected].

> Posted January 21, 2014
I lived on Springmount Rd. and attended Regal Road during the late 50's and early 60's. It was a long walk for a kindergarden kid..In those days we had long lunch times to walk home and back. In the winter time we would get up really early in the morning... Since I was the furthest from the school I would be the one to start the Giant Snow Ball! There were no snowplows or snow cancellations... so along the way more and more kids heading to school would add to pushing a nearly 10 foot snow ball proudly into the school yard. We would then see who had the biggest snow ball and attack it at our beloved recess time. In the school yard I still bear the memories of the ground cover having industrial burn off of black klinkers. I still have a few little klinker mementos embedded in my knee... we really ran and played in those days. The Teachers: some were very kind Miss Carr grade 1, Miss Wacenda grade 4 was truly beautiful and inspirational (I just found out on this blog she was hit by a car) Mr. Frank Pringle grade 6 (I was the only kid in a class of 40 that had divorced parents!) was so very good. The effort he made as a teacher has always stayed with me. The Bad: I did have a a very cruel grade 5 teacher. He hit a really sweet boy's hand so hard that the wooden yard stick he used broke sharply in half piercing the boy's tender palm, the innocent bloody hand evidence of the teacher's masochistic personality. As a child I witnessed the resulting fear on this abusive adult teacher and the feeling of empathy for the unknown innocent boy has haunted me for many years. Still it is wonderful to read the Regal Road comments. I really think I remember some of you.
Linda Gaborak [email protected]

> Posted January 13, 2014
Regal Road Public School will be holding centennial celebrations in May 2014 and November 2014. Any information regarding the school over the last 100 years including pictures would be greatly appreciated. Anyone is able to attend these celebrations as guests, but if you wish to take part in a greater capacity (sharing stories etc.) please reply. A Facebook page will be set up shortly and I will advise when it is available to the public.
Regards, Regal Road School Council

> Posted October 1, 2013
I have already commented last year. I attended from 1948-1950. I had the wonderful Mrs. Watson in grade 4. I often wonder what happened to her. She left just before the summer vacation. I also lived on Dufferin St. below Davenport and I also attended Dufferin St. United Church. My best friends were Barbara Coombs, Heather Irving and Frances Jerrett. I have some fond memories of the school except the school system was very cruel. You could get strapped for almost no reason. I try not to think too much of the public school years. Teachers had all the say and the parents could do nothing. My name was Bonnie Ferguson if anyone is still alive. My e-mail address is [email protected] if anyone remembers.

> Posted September 21, 2013
I attended Regal Road Public School back in 1939-1945 (Kindergarten to Grade 4) during WW2. I lived down the hill on Dufferin St., below Davenport, where my musician father was the caretaker of Dufferin United Church, (no longer standing) next to St.Mary of All Angels Roman Catholic Church.
Some of my teachers were: Miss Kilner, stern and strict, Miss Baird: a tiny health and fitness nut who could sniff out any hidden chocolate bars, and who would scare the wits out of us when she grabbed hold of misbehaving boys and shook them until their teeth rattled! Miss Bullock: neat, tidy, kind and caring, and red-headed Miss McClure: buxom, loving and jolly.( my favourite!)I have a b&w photo of her grade 4 class of 1945, with all the student's names written on the back.. (Mary Jenkins, who has also contributed a comment on this page, is one of them, and we're in the midst of becoming Facebook friends because of this!)
The boys and girls played in separate schoolyards in those days, and I loved double-dutch skipping and bouncing my Indian rubber ball up against the high brick wall....I was in a group of singers who went around to entertain various classrooms. The song I remember most was "Don't Fence Me In", made famous by Roy Rogers, whose movies we saw at the Saturday matinees on St.Clair.
I hope there will be some sort of "Do" in 2014 at RRPS. to celebrate the 100th year of its being built, and will do my utmost to attend, even though I live way out on a small island in British Columbia..(where I used to own and manage the local cinema)....Would like to hear from more classmates!

> Posted September 18, 2013
I was searching for a photo of the school to send to a friend. I attended Regal Road from 1940 to 1948 (skipped grade VII). Miss Wettloffer (probably incorrect spelling of her name) was my kindergarten teacher and one of my favourites was Miss Robinson for grades I and II. Miss McClure for grade IV and a super teacher Miss Thompson for grade V, Miss Sloane for grade VI and Mr. Thompson for grade VIII. We all went to St. Clair Public School for Home Ec and Shop. One of my classmates, Charles Bull, became a surgeon (I was referred to him by my doctor many years later) and another Kenneth Smith, became my brother-in-law and professor of civil engineering at Waterloo University. I have lots of great memories from those years. I don't think very often of the bad ones because there weren't many. I was always surprised, though, that we were never introduced to the school library. As a bookworm one of my teachers told me where it was. I didn't use it very often as Earlscourt Library was like a second home.
Mary Jenkins, Winnipeg. I have 2 children and 2 grandchildren and I'm on Facebook.

> Posted June 3, 2013
I went to Regal Road Public School from Kindergarten 1954-Grade 6 1960. I can't remember all my teachers but Kindergarten was Miss Brown, Gr. 1, Mrs. Smith, can't remember Gr. 2, Gr. 3 was that female teacher with the artificial hand, can't remember her name, Gr. 4 was the beautiful Miss Wascenda. If I recall correctly she was hit by a bus and we had to get a substitute teacher to finish off the year. I wasn't at RR for grade 5, we moved, but I did come back for Gr. 6 and had Mr. Pringle. I lived on Westmoreland Avenue, above the tracks. I remember Carl Joudry, he had a sister Eleanor I use to chum with. My name then was Marie Oliver, my brother is Gary. I use to hang around with the Longo's, and John Coyle, Frank D'Amico. I actually married John Coyle. I remember Mr. Davies all too well. He use to call all the boys "Birds". My mother painted a picture and donated it to Regal Road School. I always wondered if it is still hanging in the front hall of the school. If anyone knows I would love to know. Her name was Shirley Oliver. I still have my Grade 1 picture with Mrs./Miss Smith. I will have to search for it and post it at a later date.
My e-mail address is [email protected].
Thanks for the memories.

> Posted May 6, 2013
This is so beautiful to read. Thank you for bringing back so many memories and reminding me of the names of the teachers which I had forgotten. However Mr. Davies I would never forget. He had always scared me when I walked down the halls and yet when he was my teacher in grade 6 he was one of the nicest teachers I had. Memories of his class have stayed with me over the years. Went to Regal Road in the late 50's & early 60's from JK to grade 6. I was a cheerleader for the basketball team on my last year there. I lived on Lansdowne near St. Clair and walked to and from school every day and went home for lunch every day. My older sister Livi also attended from SK to grade 6. We both went to Winona Dr. for grades 7 & 8. Thanks for the memories.
Donna Magnanelli

> Posted January 7, 2013
I attended my very first 2 years of school at Regal Road in 1949 - 1950. I was born and raised in Toronto and still live here 70 years later. I have a soft spot in my heart for this school and someday I hope to visit the interior and relive the memories of that very little girl. I'm so glad it's still standing proud and looking as beautiful as I remember it.
Barbara in Toronto

> Posted October 30, 2012
Hello thanks for the opportunity to express my feelings and fond memories of Regal Road. My name is Ivo GAZZA and I'm sure there are few of you out there who remember the surname. Presently I am retired Police Officer having worked for the Toronto Police Service for over 30 years. My parents arrived in Toronto from the devastation and poverty of Europe in 1952. All my brothers and sisters attended Regal Road from the period of 1956 to 1968. In total 5 of us from Jr. Kindergarten to Gr. 8. We have fond memories of the teachers who showed great devotion, and compassion in seeing to it that we received an education. I was particularly fond of one teacher in Gr. 2 who was "Marlene Dunbar" a very caring,loving, and devoted individual who died at the young age of 22. To this day I often think of her and the great loss the school sustained. Me and my twin sister fondly remember the track and field days, the rough and tumble sports that were played during recess and the respect shown to country and flag. In looking back now the efforts put forth by an array of superb teachers laid down the foundation for being proud and thankful Canadians. I wish to take this opportunity on behalf of all the Gazza,s to the thank the following teachers Miss Dunbar, Ms. Vile, Ms. Nelson, Ms. Safinuk, Ms. Kiwinsky, Mr.Hall, Mr. Cull, Mr. Robertson, Mr. Bates, Mr. Davies, Mr. Lawry, Ms. Bennet,Mr. Pringle,Ms. Smith, Mr.McDougall,Ms. Crawford, Ms. Lee,if there are a few I've missed I apologize, remember there were 5 of us. ...........
Ivo GAZZA

> Posted September 25, 2012
Great to read all the stories about people at Regal Road. The reason Regal Road came to mind for me was: I'm cleaning out closets, came across my yellow pull-over sweater with royal blue writing across the front "Regal Road School". My mum kept it all those years. I attended 1955-1961. All the same teachers mentioned by other students. Mr Davies sure stands out. Mr Knott was principal, Mr Douglas vice principal, he had a nickname known by us as "Diggy" don't know where that came from. Always did low whistle when he walked around. Good times, I lived on Lightbourn Ave. I drive pass that school everyday on the way to work. A lot of memories.
Bobby Garrett

> Posted July 21, 2012
I too attended Regal Road from February 1958 to June 1962. my teacher in grade 3 was Mrs Langlois; in grade 4 I had Mrs Armstrong; in grade 5 I had Mr. Ross and in grade 6, the ever famous Mr. Davies - the best teacher I ever had. I wish my children had teachers like him!
Silvano Spera

> Posted May 10, 2012
I was a student at the school 1948-49 and 1949-50. I also had Miss KIlner in graded 3 she was a very grouchy woman. The best teacher was my grade 4 teacher Mrs. Watson she was wonderful, our class was over that white balcony in the front. I left and went to Rawlinson Public School where they had more horrible teachers, those school years were the most cruel and barbaric I have have ever seen. Bonnie Ferguson (Lacroix)

> Posted April 26, 2012
I am 56 yrs old I have many fond memories of attending Regal Road Public school from GRD 2 through Grd 6 I'm wondering is it open to the public and if its still a school and what kind, as a child back then with so many others the school functioned on full capacity we were many, the school was huge in our eyes but with organization from the teachers we never felt lost. I would like to visit my fondest memories were the Xmas concerts that the school would put together every year. Cynthia Manchisi Thanks you for a happy period in my life's memories.

> Posted January 4, 2012
Wonderful to read about the school times from the fifties and onward, I have many good memories from Regal Road, and the teacher who one person was asking about was Miss Bower - she was very petite, and wore her hair in a bun. Everyone new Mr. Davies, Mr. Pringle, Mr. Thompson, Miss Smith [my personal favorite], Mr. Jackson, I believe he taught grade 6 and 7 Does anyone remember Miss Riddle, she made me stand in front of the class for 1/2 hour with gum on the end of my nose for chewing during class. Or Miss Kilner????? She was my grade 3 teacher and everyone was afraid of her - I always joke that after having me in her class she retired. Wishing all a Happy and Healthy 2012.
Sandra Dabbs [nee McAvoy]

> Posted October 25, 2011
I went to Regal Road from Jr. Kindergarden (1969), Mrs Helfand, to Grade 6 (1976), Mrs. Engles. I remember the Syptaks. Susan I can still remember you and your brothers and how fit your family was. My memories are only great of this school. Just drove by with my 5 year old daughter this weekend to show her daddy's old school. I guess that's why I Googled the school and found this website. After R.R. I went to Winona S.P.S. the Western Tech where I was enrolled in the art program. After graduating when to OCAD. Too many memories to put down. Much love!!!
Lou Ceccato

> Posted September 29, 2011
Having just read OMG, I recall my teacher taking me aside one day shortly after arriving at Regal Road and asking me whether I was jewish. When I said no, she responded: "I am so glad because I don't like Jews." This happened in 1942 while we were fighting the Nazis who were systematically slaughtering the Jews. As one who had arrived in Canada as a refugee from the German takeover of Czechoslovakia I couldn't understand the inconsistency.
Hanns

> Posted September 19, 2011
OMG. I saw this cite and read the comments and felt just as I did back in the 50's. sick. I remember Michael *** being hit in the face by an "occasional" teacher-Mrs. ***; and Mrs. *** taking out the black strap and strapping each student. I remember Miss ***, with her army shoes and green army outfit standing in the hall with her stern demeanour; students were not allowed to speak on any school bus trip-if a word was uttered (and she did hear every sound) the punishment was writing out a page of the school dictionary. During school choir concerts at Massey Hall she had the entire class practice,then remove two or three who had been part of the group because only a certain number of singers were allowed. She and Mr. *** would fail students or pass students based on birth dates. I remember one coloured boy (maybe Negro then; maybe African American/Canadian-you name it now), was politely commented on when discussing history- "it doesn't mean you"--. Jewish students were likewise treated: "so and so is taking too many holidays---". Such warmth. Such sensitivity.The abuse which the students of Regal Road Public School suffered at the hands and mouths of the teachers were never documented. Maybe now, fifty years later the story can be told.

> Posted July 25, 2011
My name is Robert Didier but back then in the 50's I was Bob Sielinski (legally changed my name in 1966). I attended Regal Road from 1952 to 1955 (grades 4 to 7). I started in grade 4 and my teacher's name whom I had forgotten came back to me after reading the comments. She was Miss Cratchley. She was tall and thin by my standards then (my mother was 5'2"). She was blonde and fair with a rosy complexion. She was an adorable teacher and I had a crush on her. As well, the comments reminded me that the name of my grade 5 teacher was Mr. McDougall. I have the grade 5 class picture which was taken in October 1953 if anyone would like to see it. I can't remember my grade 6 teacher's name, but I can remember her physical features. She was older than most female teachers at Regal. She was a slight women with a mix of dark and grey hair tied back in a bun. She wore glasses. I think her classroom was next to Mr. Davies. Does anyone know her name? Who can forget Mr. Davies! If you didn't know him you would shudder when he passed you in the school halls. I believe his right side was paralyzed and as a result he walked with a limp and couldn't use his right hand effectively but if only to grab an unsuspecting mischievous student by the neck. All feared him! But in grade 6 getting to know him was a privilege. While attending Central Technical School and in grade 12, I was taking the Harbord streetcar which travelled along Bloor, up Dovercourt and then west along Davenport. I met Mr. Davies on this streetcar while it was on Bloor. He remembered my name and how could I forget his. He asked what I was doing and what my plans were for the future but I was to taken back to ask if he was still teaching at Regal. I think he still was. Names I remember well from that time were Jim MacArthur, Jim Crouch, Jennette Lwytwn, Joan Wilson, Jo-Ann Smale, Jack Orsi and Bob Sefton. I attended some school dances on Friday nights which were held in the kindergarten. A song that I remember being played on the phonograph was Love and Marriage by Frank Sinatra. My sister also attended Regal Road but she started grade 7 while I was in 4. Her name was Alice Sielinski. I remember when Hurricane Hazel hit Toronto. I was delivering the Toronto Telegram and my route was north of St. Clair on Northcliffe Blvd. I had 106 papers on one street. All my newspapers were soaking wet. I have only fond memories of those days. Thank you all for sharing yours.

> Posted July 3, 2011
Amazing John Lawson and I were friends with the same kids back then and had the same teachers!! I can't believe it after all these years...In 1978 I had a dream about Sharlene Sniderman...and I was in the last days of my pregnancy...I actually named my daughter after her 'Charlena' lol (John do you know where any of our friends are now?) So excited meeting you here...Thank you for your post!!! Heather Hopkins Surrey BC Canada (formerly of Toronto ON)

> Posted June 25, 2011
I have many fine memories of my one and only year at Regal Road School. I think of my teacher Mr. Frank Pringle that commuted from Markham to the school every day. I livd with my Grandparents on Primrose Avenue and I remember the huge fire at the Dairy on Davenport Rd. I still can remember Mr. Davis that used to supervise when we were out at recess. He always had one hand inside the bell he carried. He appears to me to be a very stern teacher but, I was very young at the time. I am now in my seventy-third year but the images of that place are still very much in my mind.
W. Jones, Bolsover, On.

> Posted June 17, 2011
So great to read about students that I went to school at Regal Road with. I attended in the 50's, Miss Cratchley, Miss Warnock, Miss Hetherington, Mr Davies(always walked with a limp). Good friends with Allan Holman, Ralph Laskosky, Carl Joudry, Sharlene Sniderman. My name is John Slawson & I lived on Highview Crescent. Was there when Hurricane Hazel hit Toronto. My email address is [email protected] Anyone reading this can email me anytime. Hope to hear from any fellow students. If anyone knows how to get in touch with the students I mentioned don't hesitate to let me know.Hope to hear from you, regards, John Slawson

> Posted March 4, 2011
I went to Regal Road from 1957to 1966. My grade 6 teacher was Mr. McDougall. I use to live on Primrose Avenue. I went to JR. Kindergarten there to grade 6. Then from there I went to Winona Drive then finally on to high school at Western Tech. Commercial School where I graduated from there in 1973. After having to repeat 2 years in my years of school. Then worked for the government for 30 years and retired from there at age 50. Those were the great years of school and I love the old building. It is hard for people who live outside of the city to see such an old school as Regal Road as a school when they are use to the modern ones.
Charlene Coombs

> Posted February 9, 2011
I attended Regal Road Public School from 1955 to 1961. I didn't live too far from the school, we lived on Bristol Avenue. When I graduated from grade 6 I went on to Winona Drive Senior School. At Regal Road, I remember my kindergarten teacher was Miss Smith (she was so nice to all the students),I don't remember my teachers from grades 1, 2 and 3, but for grade 4 it was Miss Wacinda, grade 5 teacher was John Bates, and my grade 6 teacher was Mr. Davies who was very strict but we certainly learned a lot from him. I think the principal at the time was Mr. Douglas. And I seem to remember Mr. Henry as the janitor for the school who very was mean. If you wish to contact me my e-mail address is below.
Bruna Vitale [email protected]

> Posted February 2, 2011
I just read all your comments! I too was a student at Regal Road in late 50s I remember Ms Cratchley and Mr Pringle was my home room teacher...Miss Armstrong was our music teacher as I recall. We used to have a dance every Friday evening and my fellow students and myself socialized there...until my mother came with our American spaniel and escorted me home :-) There was a Girl Guide meeting I think of Wednesday evening...I remember some of my friends...but have not been in touch. Gr 6, 7 and 8: Sharlene Sniderman, John Jarrett, Alan Holman, Mary Zacharuk, Ralph Laskoski...that's it! Long time ago. R.R. was one of many schools I attended in Toronto...One day we counted over 30 different schools before finally enrolling in Thornhill High School. I am thankful that I attended Regal Road for as long as I did. I currently live in British Columbia...feel free to add me to Facebook or email me at [email protected].
Heather Hopkins, Surrey BC Canada

> Posted December 23, 2010
I attended Regal Road School kindergarten in 1938-39. I had just had my 4th birthday but my parents lied about my age, saying that I was age 5. My older sister, Lois, also attended R.R. school.
Grace Bellamy

> Posted October 13, 2010
i believe that this website was very informative, thanks for your help

> Posted September 14, 2010
my name is susan and I went by the last name of syptak. my brother's peter, paul michael and LITTLE IVO and I all attended regal road from primary to gr. 6. mr hall was the acting principal in 1969-1973 and ms, jones was the administrator. growing up in the neighbourhood just three blocks away on the corner of glenholme ave. and regal rd. this school was also our playground. fabulous times and kindness of teachers,make for the fondest of memories I could ever remember not to mention friendships made that are still with me today.

> Posted June 1, 2010
I attended Regal Road School until I was eight in 1937 and we moved to England where schools and life in general were so very different. As a result I'm a Canadian at root even now - a granny, with four grandchildren. I retired from a lifetime in local journalism when I was 60. I remember one evening at Regal Road, as school was closing for the day, they sprayed (with a hose) the playground which faced Davenport Road. It was to make a temporary ice skating rink complete with fairy lights on the wire netting boundary. I often wondered how they melted that ice before school opened the following Monday morning. On reflection it seemed a very Canadian thing to do. We lived at the top of the hill in St Clemens Ave and my name then was Daisy Worth. I have been interested in all the favourable comments about life at the school these days. Then school was school - we went and came home!

> Posted May 7, 2010
Hi i'm Dakota I am a student at regal road public school I am only in 1st grade and it is 2010. this is my 3rd year at regal and it is the best and I like my teacher and I have lots of friends.

> Posted March 24, 2010
I was a student at Regal Rd from 1947-1956, my Mother Bessie Rudderham was a student beginning 1918 and my Aunt Ann Rudderham from 1912,and her daughter Helen Smith. I can name all my teachers and have most of my report cards and school pictures. I ran for the school at Christie Pits for a number of years. I went on to High School at T.L Kennedy in Cooksville. I am now a nurse, not yet retired. I wonder if you will have a reunion at 100 years? I thought it would be in 2012 as the school was built in 1912. I now live in Caledon, Ontario. My school years are very happy ones and I like others spent many happy hours playing baseball in the school yard.

> Posted February 1, 2010
hi my name is laura I am an grade 6 student there at regal road so far we have the bast teachers the most kind parent council and the best principal and vice . To me this has been a great experience so if u are looking to attend this school be ready for a fantastic experience and plus I have been here for at least 7years now it is the best go regal road runners

> Posted January 17, 2010
Hello. I attended Regal Road School when I was just a youngster. I attended grades 3 to 8 during the 1950 's. I graduated in 1956 and went on to Central Technical in Toronto. I lived below Davenport Road on Bartlett Avenue. I virtually grew up in the school yard at Regal Road playing baseball in the summer and ball hockey in the upper yard almost every evening during the winter. An absolutely great school with so many memories of my classmates and not to mention my teachers who kept me on the straight and narrow. No monkey business allowed. Nose to the grindstone and paying attention whatever the grade or whoever the teacher. My teachers if I can remember correctly were Miss Cratchley, Mr.A.C. Slater (a great ball coach also) Mr.Springle (Yikes .. I was so afraid of him) Mr.Thompson (a task manager) and others too. I remember just as though it was yesterday. Good thoughts and no regrets.

> Posted January 8, 2010
i am a student at regal road right now I am in grade 4 and 9 years old,regal road is the best ever,there are the coolest recess of my life in that school it is just like the school is part of my family and it is really special to me like if it gets torn down it will be like a funeral for the school and to me and the students of regal road public school!:) :(

> Posted November 26, 2009
My father, mother, and grandfather all attended Regal Road PS for Grades 1 through 8. I attended for Senior Kindergarten and Grade 1 in 1957-1958, before we moved to the suburbs. The school is special to me. I am a graduate of the University of Waterloo, a Professional Engineer, and about to retire. I still live in Toronto.
Chris Thompson

> Posted May 22, 2009
Regal Road is like my second family. It has the best in it.

> Posted March 18, 2009
regal road was the greatest school ever and will always hold my most precious and fun memories that i've ever had in school, god bless regal road public school *Emmanuel* much love to all the founders and teachers of that school.

> Posted October 14, 2008
I spent four very difficult months at RR School in 1942. I had come to Canada with my parents from Czechoslovakia in 1939. We were settled on an abandoned homestead in northern Saskatchewan and three years later moved to Toronto. I was put in grade six. My teacher was Miss Sloan who was very kind and sympathetic to my educational plight. I recall when I was introduced to my teacher she asked me whether I would rather change my name inasmuch as it was wartime and I had a German name, Hanns. I declined and never had a problem with my fellow classmates. The classroom did not have desks but tables occupied by four students and there was much competition between the tables. I graduated from grade six and left when my parents moved to Batawa where my father had found employment with the Bata Shoe company. I remained in contact for a time with a boy by the name of Billy Pleasance. I am a graduate of Queen's University and a retired minister of the United Church of Canada and live with my wife in Ottawa.
Hanns F. Skoutajan

> Posted September 4, 2008
That's my school.

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