Dunrae Turns 90

Dunrae Gardens Elementary School in TMR held a beautiful 90th anniversary evening on December 5, welcoming back students and staff from past years. Principal Despina Michakis, her predecessor Elena Zervas, Regional Director Pela Nickelotopoulos, TMR Mayor Philippe Roy and others addressed the gathering. The Dunrae Gardens Glee Club performed.

William Weaver, a student at Carlyle Elementary School at the time, named the school through a contest where students and parents were asked to submit suggestions. He remembers receiving an expensive water colour set as a prize for his submission when the commissioners at the time selected the name “Dunrae Gardens.” Initially established as an English school, Dunrae Gardens expanded in 1951, and began providing a French immersion program in 1975. It gained popularity quickly and students were transported by bus from TMR, Park Extension, the Plateau and Outremont. In 2006 a $925, 000$ extension to the building was completed.