Abbotsford Traditional Secondary School

The ATSS is part of the Abbotsford Traditional Schools system, a network of primary, middle, and secondary schools which provide academically-advanced learning environments, open to all Abbotsford public school students without charge. The Traditional Schools system was based on the Grammar School system present in the United Kingdom, which offers an inclusive and public alternative to expensive private schools. However, Abbotsford Traditional Schools do not only focus on academic success and college-prep, they also aim to develop young people in strong leaders and citizens through volunteering and civil service initiatives which help the community and promote personal growth. Athletics are another important part of the Abbotsford Traditional Schools system, and all students are enrolled in Physical Education (P.E.) classes with the option to participate on school-wide sports teams for every major sport. Traditional School students are also encouraged to join a wide array of clubs and societies (e.g., Jazz Band, Chess Club, Horseback Riding). If a club for a particular activity or interest hasn't been formed yet, students are encouraged to work with their teachers to start one. The Abbotsford Traditional Schools model promotes independent learning and discovery, as well as mathematical and digital skills for all students. Parents are encouraged to be partners in supporting educational goals and learning objectives.

Abbotsford Traditional Schools are funded by and are under the jurisdiction of the government School District 34 Abbotsford. All Abbotsford Traditional Schools are strictly secular and do not provide any religious centred education. Students at Abbotsford Traditional Schools wear smart-casual uniforms while at school.

The Abbotsford Traditional Senior School was established in 2004 as a high-quality, academically-focused option for students and families in the Fraser Valley region. The school's first building was purchased by Public School District 34 from a local church and was converted, following a multimillion-dollar renovation, into a state-of-the-art learning facility. Students were initially given laptop computers to develop digital skills. The present premises of the ATSS were converted from the Career Technical Centre, and it shares the site with the Abbotsford Traditional Middle School.[1] It is home to the Dr. Marg McDonough Memorial Library[2] The school's field is also used as a football field for the local team and a field for the soccer program at Abbotsford Traditional, the best in the district.

ATSS was chosen, in 2004, to trial a scheme to rent out laptops to all students, dubbed 'One-to-One'.[3][4]

• Official site