Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic School

We have a beloved tradition at Wayside of “clapping out” our youngest graduates, the Senior Kindergarten class.

At Wayside, helping children to see themselves created in God’s image involves the entire community. This treasured tradition reflects the shared commitment of parents, teachers, clergy, staff, and supporters who work together to nurture not only the minds of our students, but also their hearts and souls. By surrounding children with truth, beauty, and goodness, we help them recognize their God-given dignity, discover their unique gifts, and grow into the men and women God created them to be.

Rock & Roll Nun Brings the House Down at Wayside Gala!

One of the most unforgettable moments of Wayside Academy's 30th Anniversary Gala came when Sister Bernadette took the stage for a surprise performance of Bob Seger's Old Time Rock & Roll. Joined by world-renowned fiddlers Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy, their talented family, and The Weber Brothers, she brought the house down and had the audience on its feet.

What began as a surprise quickly became THE highlight of the evening, bringing guests to their feet and reminding everyone that joy is an essential part of the Christian life.

Recorded live on May 28, 2026 at Wayside Academy's 30th Anniversary Gala in Peterborough, Ontario by Will Callaghan.

Special thanks to:
• Sister Bernadette Caron, SOLI
• Natalie MacMaster
• Donnell Leahy
• Mary Frances, Clare, and Julia Leahy
• The Weber Brothers

Learn more about Wayside Academy:
https://olwayside.ca

Support the mission:
https://olwayside.ca/donate/

What comes after 30 years of faithfulness?

At Wayside Academy's 30th Anniversary Gala, Board Chair Daniel Pei reflects on a remarkable year of growth and achievement—from academic excellence and championship athletics to thriving arts programs and a growing reputation across Ontario.

But the evening's most significant announcement was not about the past.

It was about the future.

In this address, Daniel shares the vision behind the newly announced Wayside Endowment Fund—a bold initiative designed to help secure the future of Catholic classical education for generations to come.

As he explains, the goal is simple:

Not merely to sustain Wayside for the next year or the next decade—but to help ensure that its mission continues far into the future.

Recorded live at the Wayside Academy 30th Anniversary Gala on May 28, 2026 by Will Callaghan.

Learn more about Wayside Academy:
https://olwayside.ca

Support the mission:
https://olwayside.ca/donate/

Why choose a Catholic education?

At Wayside Academy's 30th Anniversary Gala, parent Frank Callaghan offers a powerful reflection on what truly sets Wayside apart.

While many schools can offer academics, athletics, or extracurricular opportunities, Frank argues that the most important question is one that our culture rarely asks:

What is education ultimately for?

Frank shares why his family chose Wayside Academy and why he believes the school's greatest strength is its unwavering focus on forming students not only for success in this life, but for eternity.

As he puts it:

"We send our kids to Wayside because we want them to go to heaven."

Recorded live at the Wayside Academy 30th Anniversary Gala on May 28, 2026 by Will Callaghan.

Learn more about Wayside Academy:
https://olwayside.ca

Support the mission:
https://olwayside.ca/donate/

What is it really like to attend Wayside Academy?

In this heartfelt address at Wayside Academy's 30th Anniversary Gala, graduating student Rachel Pei reflects on her journey from a curious Grade 8 student to a confident young woman prepared for university, leadership, and life.

Rachel shares how Wayside's motto, Semper Altius ("Always Higher"), shaped her through authentic friendships, rigorous academics, and a vibrant spiritual life centered on Christ.

With wisdom beyond her years, Rachel offers a beautiful glimpse into the culture of Wayside Academy and explains why she now considers it "a treasure buried in a field."

Recorded live at the Wayside Academy 30th Anniversary Gala on May 28, 2026 by Will Callaghan.

Learn more about Wayside Academy:
https://olwayside.ca

Support the mission:
https://olwayside.ca/donate/

Last night, Bob Seger probably never imagined Old Time Rock & Roll would be performed by a nun, a fiddle legend, and a Celtic music icon—but WOW was it perfection. 🎻⚡️

When and Wayside staff member Sr. Bernadette joined forces with , , and her sisters, and , the result was pure electricity. The crowd was on its feet, the room was alive, and for a few unforgettable minutes, the Wayside family witnessed gala magic.

More highlights to come from our 30th anniversary gala… the Wayside family really knows how to celebrate.