Words From Ward

Love is in the air! In this weeks episode, two of our senior couples will be answering questions on how they deal with certain situations in the relationship.

Have you ever struggled with taking chances and regret not taking it afterwards? Ever missed out a chance to talk to the possible love of your life? Ever wanted to join a club in school but you were just too scared to join? Well In this weeks episode Chantle, Gaby, and Aby talk about their experiences and ways we can encourage ourselves to not be afraid of taking chances.

Words from Ward is back! Starting this season off we have Francine, Erica, and Angelo talking about the beginning of their senior year; how they are feeling about being a senior, and overall reminiscing their past years in Mary Ward.

Humbug or Holiday cheer?  The holiday season is upon us, and who better to analyze its meaning but our very own Lanay and Esther! These two wise and weary students share some clever and humorous accounts of their experiences with Christmas, presents and presence.  So grab that hot cocoa, put on your ear buds and cozy on up to our Christmas episode.  

Merry Christmas, Wolverines, and Happy Holidays!

Ever wonder who's behind all the morning announcements, bbq's and spririt weeks?  A group of elected students known as SAC, Mary Ward's student council! Join us in this episode where SAC members - Pia, Selemun, and Francine - discuss the goals and challenges they face as student body representatives.  You'll hear what they have in store for Christmas, spirit week and other future events.  Thanks to Angelo and Erica for hosting this episode.

We hope you enjoy this week's episode.  

Music performed by Thushan Johnson. 

Growing up is not always what it's cracked up to be, and yet sometimes it can be pretty cool.  In this week's episode we look at the theme of growing pains and the challenges that come with growing up.  Join Mayumi, Mitzi and Selina as they discuss their experiences growing up as students and teenagers, and the transitions between childhood, adolescence, and the feeling of "needing" to grow up.   These three students talk about how they manage responsibilities, both in relation to their life and in their academics.

Join grade 11 OASIS leaders Francine, Mayumi and Soloman as they ask grade 9's about their experiences at Mary Ward so far.  

Music performed by Thushan Johnson.  

Welcome back to a new season of Words from Ward.  

In this first episode of the 2022-2023 school year, grade 11 students Lanay and Esther continue an important conversation about Faculty Diversity.  In this second part of the conversation they're joined in studio with principal Mr. Wetzel to discuss the intricacies connected with this necessary topic.

We hope you enjoy this week's episode.  

Music by Kaleb Mendiola.

In this final episode of the year, Emma and Chantel interview new teachers about their thoughts on self-directed learning model.  You'll hear from Ms. David, Mr. Gozun and a handful of other awesome teachers about their experiences with SDL, what they love about the program and what they would have done differently.  

We hope you enjoy this episode. 

Music performed by Thushan Johnson. 

On this episode grade ten students Lanay, Esther and Francine look at the important topic of faculty diversity and how crucial it is for students of colour to be represented by the teachers who teach them.  This courageous conversation uncovers students' experiences, feelings and frustrations along with an urgent call for change.  

We hope this episode encourages some insights around this very important topic.

Music performed by Thushan Johnson.     

It was a French class discussion on social injustices that brought these three passionate leaders together. Now they run a non-profit organization called Lead the Conversation.  Join grade 11 students Rand, Shanelle, and Pia, as they talk about their organization where they work on a gamut of initiatives. 

From raising awareness on AAPI issues to raising money for the Black Lives Matter movement, these three have a knack on leading the conversation.  So, join them, and listen to the discussion as they focus in on the strengths of working for others.  

We hope you enjoy this week's episode.

Music performed by Kaleb Mendiola.  

The pandemic has been a scary and frustrating time for all of us, but with resilience and a lot of contemplation, Mary Ward students continue to manage as best they can.  Join Angelo and Francine as they speak with students about their experiences with the pandemic and how they've been coping.  In the podcast studio, along with their friend, Erica, they talk about the start of the pandemic, their losses and what they would have been doing differently had the pandemic not struck. 

We hope you enjoy this week's episode. 

Music performed by Thushan Johnson.

We've waited almost two years, and it's finally here!  Mary Ward's self-directed learning model is back!  

In this week's episode grade 10 hosts Angelo and Francine discuss with their friends Sarah (grade 9) and Mayumi (grade 10) their experience with SDL so far.    Having missed self-directed learning in their first year at Ward, Angelo and Francine share what it's like to finally land in the SDL model of learning.  

So come on....be self-directed and give this podcast a listen.  

Music composed and performed by Kaleb Mendiola.   

This week we welcome some new members to our podcast,  grade 10 hosts Lanay and Sherika.  These new Words From Ward hosts begin their hosting debut strong as they discuss the topic of women.  As a way to commemorate International Women's Day and Month, Lanay and Sherika unpack womanism, feminism, the experiences of black women and women of colour, intersectionality and so many more issues surrounding identifying as female in this world.  

Join us and listen to this very important topic.  

Music performed by Thushan Johnson. 

In this week's episode Giuliana hosts friends Hannah & Julia in a discussion about high school friendships, future goals for post secondary and how quickly perspectives change from grade 9.  This grade 12 trio share some humbling revelations about the ever shifting landscape of friend groups and how it's all part of the process.   

Join Giuliana, Hannah and Julia in this honest discussion. 

Music performed by Kaleb Mendiola.

When they met in grade 9, it was love at first sight, and they've been together ever since.  On this special Valentine's week episode long time couple, Jan and Jana, discuss what it's like to be in a relationship.   

Join Andy, Nith and this special couple as they discuss important tips on being together. 

Music performed by Thushan Johnson.   

It's been put on hold for almost two years, but self-directed is coming back!

Our principal, Mr. Wetzel, visits the podcast studio again to speak with Andy and Nith about plans to re-enter into Mary Ward's self-directed learning model.  Mr Wetzel walks us through the school's plans for self directed learning and what it will look like.   It's going to take some training wheels to get this unique educational model going again, but we're getting fitted and we're raring to go. 

Join us for this important episode. 

Music performed by Kaleb Mendiola.    

Old friends Anita and Emen share a call they had shortly after the return to school where they discussed the COVID stigma, finding support systems in challenging times and....books?  These young but old friends exchange some sage advice while having some laughs.

Join us for this week's episode.    

Music performed by Thushan Johnson.

Happy New Year, Mary Ward, and welcome back to our podcast.  

Join us for this week's episode when Andy introduces us to his special student guest, Joseph.   This clever, witty and wise young man shares his secrets about virtual learning, his favourite subjects, his aspirations, and what it was like coming to a new school as a grade 9 student with cerebral palsy.  Joseph uses assistive technology to share his ideas and thoughts with Andy, and he does so with humour and grace.  

If you've never had the privilege of speaking with Joseph, you'll want to listen to this one.   

"A sweet friendship refreshes the soul" (Proverbs 27:19).

Woodrow Wilson once said that, "friendship is the only cement that will hold the world together."  This episode proves this to be true.  

Join Andy and Nith as they gather with friends, Riley, Jan, Shawn and Jaden and share their stories and memories of their experiences at Mary Ward pre-pandemic times and how their chance encounters lead to the friendship they have now. These young men spread a little wisdom about friendship, growing up, and what it means to be a student at Mary Ward.

Music performed by Thushan Johnson.  

Students have auditioned.  The play has been cast.  And rehearsals have begun.  

The Mary Ward Drama Department is gearing up to prepare for the musical, Working, and Mr. Mabrucco tells Nith all about it.  Take a listen to this week's episode and hear about what takes place behind the scenes.  After a year and a half of COVID disruptions Mary Ward is finally getting back on stage, and we're pretty excited.   In the spring of 2022, our students will sing their hearts out and we will be there with bells on to listen.   It'll take loads of late nights, and a lot of work, but it'll be worth it.  

Join Nith and Mr. Mabrucco as they talk musicals, drama and the importance of building confidence through performance.  

We hope you enjoy this week's episode.  

Music performed and improvised by Kaleb Mendiola.

Calling all grade 12 students! And all those curious grade 11’s.

Are you worried about college and/or university applications? Are you stressed out and confused about the process of applying? Do deadlines freak you out? Fear no more! Ms. Burley and Mr. Wong are here!

In this Guidance Part 2 episode, Andy speaks with our trusted guidance counsellors about the intricacies in applying to post-secondary institutions. He asks some important questions about the process and gets some insightful answers.

So, if you’d like to quash your confusion, listen to this week’s podcast and remove the stress and worry. You will get some answers to some really important questions.

Music performed by Thushan Johnson.

If you’re juggling the demands of being a high school student and having a part time then you’ll appreciate this episode. 

Julia and her friend Ramon compare their part-time work experiences and share stories of working through the pandemic.  Dealing in costumer service and balancing school with work is not always easy but Julia and Ramon seem to have it down. 

Join us as these two friends discuss the ups and downs of part-time work.

Music performed by Kaleb Mendiola.

At the end of a hectic week, GSA leaders Alex and Janay speak with Words from Ward hosts, Anita and Julia, about all things GSA.  Meet some of the most open and accepting students at Mary Ward as they share the importance of the GSA, feeling safe, and what it means to be LGBTQ+ and living at the intersections of our modern day society.  

Music performed by Thushan Johnson

This week Andy and Julia welcome a very special guest, Dr. Brendan Browne, Director of Education at the Toronto Catholic District School Board.

Just entering his second year as the TCDSB’s Director, Dr. Browne discusses his experiences of leading and parenting throughout a pandemic, while revealing his hopes for students as we move towards as close to a “normal” school experience.

He shares some insights, ideas, and advice for students, and he reminds us of the importance of Catholic education.

Tune in and join us as we meet Dr. Browne in his first ever visit to Mary Ward. 

Music by Kaleb Mendiola.

The pandemic has brought with it many challenges, but these past two years could not have made transitioning to grade 9 any harder.

Meet Hannah, Savannah and Vanessa...three grade nine students who speak with host, Anita, about entering into their high school experience as brand new Mary Ward students.   Our students talk about what it was like to learn online in their final year of elementary school, to entering high school during the pandemic and how they've been coping with the transition.  

Having been sent home in grade 7 to being shuffled into a new high school after a virtual grade 8 year, these most recent grade 9's share their challenges.  So much has changed in the lives of our young people during these pandemic times, but alas...our Wolverines are resilient. Despite all they've been through these students have stars in their eyes and hopes in their hearts.  Tune in to compare notes with Anita and the nines.  

We hope you enjoy this week's episode.  

Music performed by Thushan Johnson.

Trick or Treat!  It's all a treat with this trio.  

In this special Halloween episode, Giuliana and friends, Joseph and Giselle, chat about all things Halloween.  Discussion spirals around costumes, candies and conspiracy theories.  Have you ever been given cough drops as treats?  They have!  Sounds funny, but it's true.  

These friends also attempt to uncover the mystery behind Elisa Lam along with some other unexplainable events.  Join us in solving these unsolved and questionable mysteries.  This episode is not for the faint of heart.  

Happy Halloween, everyone!     

* Content Warning...some may find topics to be frightening.    

Music composed and performed by Kaleb Mendiola

If you loved Shang-Shi and the Legend of the ten Rings, this episode is for you.  

This week Anita speaks with friends, Cole and Warrick, about Marvel's highly anticipated film Shang-Chi and the importance of cultural representation in film, more specifically in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.  Listen to this wise and insightful trio as they share their knowledge of the Marvel Universe.  They dive into reasons why this film is so momentous.  You'll want to swing on your cape and battle the bad guys after listening to this episode. 

We hope you enjoy!

Music performed by Thushan Johnson

Composition by Felix Mendelssohn

Join us this week as Nith speaks with long locked Mr. Candiotto, Mary Ward's Hip Hop aficionado.  Nith keeps it trill as he unlocks Candy's off the hook knowledge of old skool hip hop artists, artistry and history.  There's a whole big world of beats and rhymes you never knew existed.  You'll be blown away by what you hear.  Fo'shizzle!!! So journey with us as we fall back in time with Mr. Candiotto and Nith on this hip hop road trip.  

Introductory Music by Kaleb Mendiola

Join Andy and Giuliana as they welcome newly minted Mary Ward Principal, Mr. Wetzel. 

Formerly a Mary Ward teacher, Mr. Wetzel shares his past experiences in education while also waxing poetic on the many issues facing young people today.  From life as a student then and now, to the dealings young people have with social media, and his vision for Mary Ward, Mr. Wetzel muses over building education around compassion despite our current challenges.  This open and honest conversation will reveal a principal who clearly cares about his students and his community.

You'll quickly learn that Mr. Wetzel is a pretty approachable guy.  Don't let his deep voice and enormous stature fool you.  

So grab your tea and your Twizzlers, and join us as we get to know our principal.  You'll be glad you did!  

Music performed by: Thushan Johnson 

Composition: Felix Mendelssohn

If you're in grade 9 and participated in OASIS you'll want to hear this episode.

Yes, that day was about learning chants and playing games, but it was also about meeting new people, making a friend or two, and being inspired.  We hope you felt a little twinkle of excitement on that day, and perhaps this podcast will bring that twinkle back.  

Our podcasters, Anita and Julia, spent some time during the OASIS activities at the end of September to interview grade 9's and OASIS leaders.  We invite you to listen to what some of your peers and friends had to say about the special day. You'll even hear from principal Wetzel! 

Enjoy! And thanks for listening.  

Music - "Japan" written by Chris Cawthray

Music Performed by: Chris Cawthray (drums), Rob Price (guitar), and Jim Sexton (bass)

Chants, shawarmas, guest speakers and warming hearts!  Welcome to OASIS.  

Mary Ward has held a long standing tradition in welcoming grade 9 students through OASIS activities with senior leaders at the helm and we were so excited to finally do it again this year.  So we thought it important to dedicate some podcast time to the amazing teachers behind the scenes and have them explain why this event plays a key role in shaping our junior students.

Join us this week as Nith and Andy discuss how they initially became active members of the Mary Ward community and why it was so important for them to become OASIS leaders. They speak with Ms. Tsang-Lee and Mr. Coleman about this year's OASIS activities, the memories that they walked away with and the importance of getting involved.  Despite the pandemic, these two dedicated teachers managed to safely rally OASIS leaders together to host activities for the long awaited two day event that involved both our grade 9 and 10 students.  

You'll also hear interviews taken by our roving reporter, Julia, who spoke with grade 9's during their OASIS experience. 

Join us in celebrating Mary Ward leadership and community with this special podcast.    

Music - "Japan" written by Chris Cawthray

Music Performed by: Chris Cawthray (drums), Rob Price (guitar), and Jim Sexton (bass)

On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Ms. McAndrew joins Giuliana and Joseph as they unpack the deep truths behind reconciliation, the TRC's 94 Calls to Action and the responsibility of the Catholic Church.  This open and honest conversation looks at the difficult truth behind Canada's dark past and its role in the genocide of First Nation, Metis, and Inuit people.  

This episode uncovers the importance of Orange Shirt Day as a day of honouring the survivors of residential schools along with those children whose lives were taken, but also as a day that leads to many in the ongoing fight for Indigenous rights. 

Thank you for joining us in this rich discussion.  

Music - "Japan" written by Chris Cawthray

Music Performed by: Chris Cawthray (drums), Rob Price (guitar), and Jim Sexton (bass)

Welcome to the 2nd episode of Words from Ward.  

Meet Ms. Burley, Mr. Wong, and Ms. Zabana - our Guidance team! 

In this week's episode, Julia speaks to our Guidance department about the pandemic and how it's affected Mary Ward students and changed the look and feel of our school.  The team outline their roles as counsellors and answer questions about how grade 12 students are to navigate their last year, coping through the pandemic, and how to find balance in tough times. 

We hope you enjoy!    

Music - "Japan" written by Chris Cawthray

Performed by Chris Cawthray (drums), Rob Price (guitar), and Jim Sexton (bass)

Welcome to the first episode of Words from Ward!


In today's pilot episode, hosts Andy and Anita - both in grade twelve - reminisce about their experiences as grade 9 students participating in OASIS 2018. They chat about how OASIS was conducted pre-COVID, speak about their favourite memories, and share funny stories. The release date of this podcast aligns with the dates of OASIS 2021, and serves as an intro to our longstanding tradition of grade nine orientation at Mary Ward.


Look out for weekly episodes from us here at Words From Ward, hosted by a revolving cast of grade twelve students and guest starring students, teachers, administrative staff, and other members of our school community!

Music - "Japan" written by Chris Cawthray

Music Performed by Chris Cawthray (drums), Rob Price (guitar), and Jim Sexton (bass)