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  3. Toronto Schools
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  5. Downtown Alternative
Toronto DSBGrades: JK-6Rank: 351/3052

Downtown AlternativePublic School

85 Lower Jarvis St, Toronto, ON

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School Overview

Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Toronto at 85 Lower Jarvis St, the Downtown Alternative School (DAS) shines as a beacon of educational excellence and community spirit. With an impressive Fraser Institute score of 8/10, this public elementary school has become a coveted choice for families seeking top-notch education in a bustling urban environment. The school’s location provides students with unique opportunities to engage with the city’s culture, art, and history, fostering a rich learning atmosphere that extends beyond the classroom walls. Imagine your child stepping out of school and right into the pulse of one of Canada’s most dynamic neighborhoods—what a fantastic way to grow and learn!
Board
Toronto DSB
Grades
JK-6
Rank
351 / 3052
Score
8 / 10
Phone
416-393-1882
Website
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/downtownalt/

The Inside Scoop on Downtown Alternative

Campus Tour

Imagine stepping into a world designed for learning and discovery! The physical facilities at Downtown Alternative School are impressive and thoughtfully designed. As you enter, you’re greeted by spacious classrooms filled with natural light, equipped with the latest educational technology. The school features a cozy library, a treasure trove of books and resources that invite students to delve into new worlds and expand their knowledge. Outdoor play spaces provide children with safe areas to explore and play, fostering social interactions and physical play. The layout of DAS not only supports academic learning but also encourages collaboration, creativity, and a sense of community among students.

Community Hub

The Downtown Alternative School isn’t just a school; it's a vital part of the local community. The surrounding area is filled with parks, family-friendly amenities, and cultural attractions that enrich the lives of students and their families. Nearby parks offer green spaces for outdoor activities and community gatherings, while excellent transit accessibility ensures that families can easily connect with the rest of the city. The school acts as a central gathering place for local families, creating a network of support and camaraderie among parents and students alike. It’s not unusual to see families enjoying community events or collaborating on school projects, reinforcing the strong sense of belonging that DAS fosters.

Why Parents Love It Here

Parents rave about Downtown Alternative School, and it’s easy to see why! The school’s commitment to academic excellence, combined with its nurturing environment, makes it a beloved institution among families. Parents appreciate the open lines of communication with dedicated staff, ensuring that they are involved in their child’s educational journey. The positive reputation of DAS also impacts local real estate demand, making this neighborhood a sought-after location for families looking to buy a home. Living within the school’s catchment area means access to quality education right at your doorstep—a key factor for many homebuyers in Toronto’s competitive market. In conclusion, Downtown Alternative School is more than just an educational institution; it’s a vibrant community hub that enriches the lives of its students and families. With its high Fraser Institute score, dedicated staff, engaging programs, and supportive environment, DAS is a place where children can truly flourish. If you’re considering a move to the Greater Toronto Area, this school is just one of the many reasons why this neighborhood is an incredible place to call home. For more information, don’t forget to check out their website at [Downtown Alternative School](https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/downtownalt/). Your child’s bright future starts here!

Programs & Highlights

Learning and Growing

At DAS, learning is not just about textbooks and tests; it’s about cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. The dedicated faculty embraces a teaching philosophy grounded in student-centered learning, ensuring that each child feels valued and understood. Classrooms are buzzing with energy, where curiosity is nurtured, and innovative thinking is encouraged. Teachers utilize interactive methods that engage students deeply, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The result? A warm, inviting atmosphere where children feel safe to express themselves and explore their interests, laying a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

Cool Programs & Academics

DAS is not just a school; it's a launching pad for bright futures! The curriculum includes a range of unique programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and talents of students. From engaging in STEM initiatives that spark a love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, to the integration of technology in daily learning, students are well-prepared for the future. The school also offers specialized programs, including French Immersion, which opens up a world of bilingual opportunities, and enrichment programs that challenge gifted students to reach new heights. The emphasis on creativity and inquiry ensures that learning is both fun and meaningful, making every school day an exciting adventure.

Homes For Sale in Toronto

PropertyFOR SALE
DOM 2d

$660 K

19PII
C

MLS® C14029924

35 Mercer Street 1711, Toronto C01

POWER 7 REALTY

Y5.5
C3.8
G-3.8
F12.6
T12.2
2 Bed2 Bath0 Parking
Size 600-699sqftmaint $493.85
PropertyFOR SALE
DOM 2d

$599 K

19PII
T

MLS® C14029942

54 Crab Apple Way, Toronto C13

HOME LEGEND REALTY INC.

Y5.6
C3.8
G-3.6
F12.7
T12.4
3 Bed2 Bath1 Parking
Size 1000-1199sqftmaint $531.58
PropertyFOR SALE
DOM 2d

$2.49 M

16PII
D

MLS® W14029940

60 Jopling Avenue N, Toronto W08

RE/MAX REAL ESTATE CENTRE INC.

Y4.0
C3.4
G-5.7
F11.1
T11.1
5 Bed5 Bath8 Parking
Size 3000-3500sqftLot: 50×165 ft

Homes For Rent in Toronto

PropertyFOR RENT
DOM 2d

$2,750

S

MLS® C14029954

137 Pineway Boulevard upper, Toronto C15

HOME99 REALTY INC.

3 Bed1 Bath2 Parking
Size 1100-1500sqft
PropertyFOR RENT
DOM 2d

$2,000

C

MLS® C14029952

5 Quarrington Lane 2906, Toronto C13

RETREND REALTY LTD

2+1 Bed1 Bath0 Parking
Size 600-699sqft
PropertyFOR RENT
DOM 2d

$2,449

C

MLS® C14029948

11 Brunel Court 312, Toronto C01

HOMELIFE/RESPONSE REALTY INC.

2+1 Bed1 Bath0 Parking
Size 600-699sqft

Historical Performance (EQAO)

* Data sourced from the Fraser Institute.

Metric20242023202220192018Details
Overall RatingOut of 10
8n/an/a8.48.8
Local Agent
Headshot of Paul Ghafari

Paul Ghafari

REMAX Hallmark Realty LTD

📞416.841.2727
✉️info@noblesolutionsenterprises.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Downtown Alternative a public or catholic school?

Downtown Alternative is a public school under the Toronto DSB school board.

What is the provincial score for Downtown Alternative?

Based on the latest data, Downtown Alternative achieved a score of 8/10.

Where is this school located?

The school is located at 85 Lower Jarvis St in Toronto, Ontario.

How can I contact the administration?

You can reach the school office directly at 416-393-1882.

Are there nearby homes for sale within the attendance boundary?

Yes, there are typically active real estate listings within the Downtown Alternative catchment area. Please refer to the local agent or listings map below for available properties.

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New Listings (last 7 days)

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Arts & Expression

At Downtown Alternative School, the arts are celebrated as vital components of a well-rounded education. Students are encouraged to express themselves through a variety of extracurricular activities, including drama, music, and visual arts. The school's vibrant arts program allows children to explore their creative sides, whether it’s through participating in school plays, showcasing their talents in music concerts, or experimenting with painting and sculpture. This commitment to fostering creativity not only enriches the students’ educational experience but also helps build confidence and self-esteem, allowing them to shine in their unique ways.

Sports & Staying Active

Physical activity is a cornerstone of the DAS experience, with a variety of sports teams and programs that promote health and teamwork. The school boasts well-maintained athletic facilities, offering students the chance to participate in sports such as soccer, basketball, and track and field. Physical education classes are designed to be engaging and fun, helping students develop not only their athletic skills but also a lifelong appreciation for staying active. Whether it’s competing in inter-school tournaments or simply enjoying a game of tag during recess, students at DAS are encouraged to embrace an active lifestyle that supports their physical and mental well-being.