As many of you know, after 20 years of remarkable service to RSGC, Catherine Kirkland has decided to leave RSGC and take a much-deserved pause for her family and for herself, read, continue a lifetime of learning, and take the time to consider new opportunities ahead. We are deeply grateful for all Catherine has done for our school and our students.

 

As the lead educator in the Junior School, Catherine has always passed her love of reading onto countless students over her years of leadership, and ensured that a culture of reading continued as a pillar of the Junior School experience. Our boys start each day with a book and are encouraged to end their nights with one.

 

 

In keeping with the tradition of the College to honour our long-serving faculty, RSGC has created the Catherine Kirkland Love of Reading Fund. Donations to this fund will honour Catherine’s time at the College, and fund both the Junior and Middle School library collection, as well as one of Catherine’s favourite organizations, The Children’s Book Bank.

 

The Children's Book Bank provides free books and literacy support to children and families in high-needs neighbourhoods across the GTA. Since 2008, it has given away over one million free books. The Book Bank is currently in need of children's books for kids aged birth to 12 years old, 50 per cent of funds raised through this appeal will go towards purchasing books for the Book Bank. 

 

RSGC library is undertaking a diversity audit of the whole collection. This will result in purchasing more books, both fiction and non-fiction, that reflect more diverse voices and experiences. Funds will also expand our Visiting Authors program; we know this helps ignite a love of reading for our boys. 

 

Our boys were so fortunate to have Catherine as a leader and gifted educator. She has transformed the Junior School, putting RSGC at the leading edge of elementary and middle school education in the country. She has been an important loving and nurturing adult to a generation of Junior School Georgians. Her mantra to “always be kind” is resonant with thousands of young men who have benefitted from her commitment to them. 

 

We hope you agree that the Catherine Kirkland Love of Reading Fund is a fitting tribute to thank Catherine for fostering a love of reading in our boys. It is truly a gift that will last a lifetime. 

 

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.

MAKE A GIFT!