History of the John Paul II Polish School
The Polish Community School of Hamilton was formed 30 years ago in 1980 as a union of four smaller schools: The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #315 – 65 students, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church – 20, Polish Combatants Association – 9, and Holy Trinity Church – 10. The idea to unite the Polish schools is credited to Andrzej and Wanda Bujalski.
In 1979, in the presence of all representatives of the Canadian Polish Congress organizations, the decision was made to join the schools under the common name, “Polish Community School of Hamilton”. This new school belonged to the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) under the Ontario Multicultural Policy and the “Heritage Languages” program. Thanks to this policy, the “ Polish Community School” received a permanent Saturday residence at Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School. Fulfilling the wishes of the Polish community and Polish organizations, the school board agreed to extend the school day from two and a half to four hours.
From 1980 to 2009 the principal of the Polish Community School was Mrs. Wanda Bujalska, a well known teacher and educator. Her husband Mr. Andrzej Bujalski was the coordinator of the Polish Language program in Hamilton. Both individuals put their hearts into maintaining a high level of Polish education.
In 2009, Mrs. Wanda Bujalska retired, and the role of principal was passed on to Mrs. Marzanna Biernat.
Every year, between 150 to 450 students are enrolled in the school, placed under the care of qualified teachers and many assistants and volunteers (former students of the school). Among the adult volunteers was Mr. Stanisław Smoliński, who filled the role of librarian at the school for many years. Upon the arrival of countless Polish “Solidarity” immigrants, the Polish Community School became one of the largest Polish language schools in Canada. There have been years where the school would be occupied by 450 students and 23 teachers weekly.
In the span of 30 years the Polish Community School has generated 900 graduates.
On October 16 2010 the Polish Community School celebrated its thirtieth anniversary and was also named John Paul II- the Greatest Pope, a “son from far away land”- Poland. That name was chosen by the students through a contest. At the same time the school banner was founded which is presented at all schools and heritage holidays.
The John Paul II Polish School is not only a place to be educated in language, Polish and Canadian heritage, but also serves all of the Polish Hamilton populous by organizing an annual Christmas Pageant, Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day, “Young Talent” shows. The school is proud of participation in national and ethnic celebrations. The students actively participate in these events, as well as in special organized masses at St. Stanislaus Church.
Most recently, the school has spread its involvement through the organization of several contests, distributing its own school newsletter and hosting yearly heritage activities.
The John Paul II Polish School has put much work into raising a wonderful generation that has preserved the Polish language and culture, and has raised many political candidates who in the future will work for the common good of the Polonia, Poland and Canada.