The TCS Parents’ Guild is the oldest existing organization of its kind in Canada, founded in 1902 with a mandate “to complete the chapel and other interests of the School.” While the chapel continues to be a priority, the guild has evolved over the years to reflect the contemporary needs of the school community.
All TCS parents are guild members; this means you are most welcome to attend meetings and events, and your involvement through volunteering, donating and taking part in guild fundraising initiatives is greatly appreciated. The guild’s mandate is to support the daily physical, social and general wellbeing of students, and we hope you will be excited to join us in this worthy endeavour!
2024-2025 Events & Initiatives
More initiatives and events will be posted throughout the school year!
- Valentine's Celebration – The TCS Parents' Guild will host its annual Valentine's Celebration on Tuesday, February 11th. You can lend a hand by baking items for the baked goods table or volunteering to assist with preparations or on the day (email guild@tcs.on.ca if you would like to lend a hand). There will also be an opportunity to order "Valentine Hug" gifts for your child or a favourite staff member - check back in January for details and the order form!
- Annual General Meeting & Volunteer Breakfast – Thursday, June 5th, 8:30 a.m., Osler Hall
Past Events:
- General Meeting & Welcome Breakfast – The TCS Parents’ Guild is excited to welcome parents to enjoy breakfast in Osler Hall on Tuesday, September 24th at 8:30 a.m.
- Bear Fair – The guild's day of fun for the whole family! Saturday, October 5th, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
- Social at The Social - Join us on Saturday, October 5th from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. at The Social Bar + Table (26 Ontario Street, Port Hope).
- Hallowe’en Fundraiser – Orders are now closed for Halloween treat orders
- Tokens of Thanks for TCS Staff – Orders are now closed for staff thank you gifts.
- Poinsettia Fundraiser - Orders are now closed for poinsettias.
- Holiday Workshop – Join fellow parents to make a festive "kissing ball" for the holidays, on Friday, December 28th, 11:00 a.m., Baltimore Valley (5599 Cty Rd 45, Baltimore, Ontario)
- Lunch Social & Meeting – Thursday, December 12th, 12:00 p.m., Dalewood Golf Club (7465 Dale Rd, Cobourg, ON)
FAQ
- What does the guild do to support the wellbeing of students?
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Each year, the guild raises funds to support student-centred programs and initiatives at the School. This includes the development of a “wish list” by faculty and staff of potential enhancements to programs and resources.
In recent years, “wish list” funding has included: robotic kits, huddle boards and dry-erase boards, portable staging, playground equipment, squash racquets, canoes, water filling stations, musical instruments, the patio outside Cirne Commons, the greenhouse, outdoor classroom improvements, athletic uniforms, guest speakers and guest musicians… And all of this is in addition to the guild’s annual support for financial assistance, chapel enhancements, house outings and more!
As well, guild volunteers spend countless hours each year operating the Bear Boutique, organizing birthday, Valentines, exam and poinsettia fundraisers, hosting Bear Fair, decorating the Memorial Chapel at Thanksgiving and Christmas, and operating the canteen at school sports events.
- How does the guild raise funds to support student-centred programs?
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Our funding comes from membership dues, donations and profits from such fundraising activities as: our tuck shop, “The Bear Boutique”; our annual family fun day, Bear Fair; birthday/care packages; poinsettia sales; hospitality canteen; exam packages; and a huge Valentine's Day celebration.
- What are some of the benefits of being involved with the guild?
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There are many great reasons for parents to get involved with the guild by attending meetings and events and/or volunteering:
- Meet other parents, make friends and build a network of TCS parent support
- Become more engaged with your child’s TCS experience
- Help enhance the daily lives of all students
- Learn more about the School
- Have fun!
- How can I get involved?
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There are several ways to become involved with the guild:
- Attend a meeting or social event
- Volunteer
- Support Bear Fair by attending, volunteering or donating
- Order a “Hug” package to celebrate your child’s birthday or just to show you care!
- Send your child a Valentine Hug (available to order in January) or Exam Survival Kit (available to order in April), or purchase a poinsettia to decorate the chapel (available to order in November)
- If I live far away, can I still get involved?
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Yes! Even if you are a boarding parent living far from campus, you can still be active in the guild. Donate to Bear Fair. Order a birthday, Valentine or exam time treat to be delivered to your child by the guild. Purchase a poinsettia for the chapel. Our online forms make it easy to take part in these important guild initiatives.
Details on guild fundraisers are featured in the weekly Parents’ Newsletter – so keep your eyes open for your next chance to support these guild programs and put a smile on your child’s face!
Questions?
Contact guild@tcs.on.ca for more information on events or how to become involved with the guild.
