RUSH

What is RUSH?

In Grades 9 and 10, students can register in our enrichment program: RUSH (Rich Understanding of STEAM and Humanities). Students in RUSH take 7 of the compulsory Grade 9 and 10 courses at an enriched level with the specific aim of preparing students for post-secondary through a combination of disciplined study, independent and group research, enhanced curriculum and creative projects. In addition to offering excellent academics, the RUSH program also strongly encourages participation in our vast array of extra-curricular activities.

Our students will complete the RUSH program with strong critical thinking, leadership, collaboration, and communication skills that will prepare them for our wide range of courses and senior level programs like Advanced Placement (AP) and SHSM

RUSH Courses

The total required RUSH courses to get their certificate is seven. This is completed over two years of high school (Grade 9 and 10). See the courses required below,

Grade 9 Courses

Course Title: Grade 9 RUSH Principles of Mathematics
Course Code: MTH1WP
Description: This course enables students to develop generalizations of mathematical ideas and methods through the exploration of applications, the effective use of technology, and abstract reasoning. Students will investigate relationships to develop equations of straight lines in analytic and surface area of objects in measurement, and apply extended algebraic skills in problem solving. Students will engage in abstract extensions of core learning that will deepen their mathematical knowledge and enrich their understanding. Prerequisite: None

Course Title: Grade 9 RUSH Science
Course Code: SNC1WP
Description: This course enables students to develop their understanding of basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, physics, and to relate science to their skills in the processes of scientific investigations. Students will acquire an understanding of scientific theories and conduct investigations related to sustainable ecosystems; atomic and molecular structures and its properties and components and the principles of electricity. Prerequisite: None

Course Title: Grade 9 RUSH Geography of Canada
Course Code: CGC1DP
Description: This course explores Canada’s distinct and changing character and the geographic systems and relationships that shape it. Students will investigate the interactions of natural and human systems within Canada, as well as Canada’s economic, cultural, and environmental connections to other countries. Students will use a variety of geotechnologies and inquiry and communication methods to analyse and evaluate geographic issues and present their findings. Prerequisite: None

Course Title: Grade 9 RUSH English
Course Code: ENL1WP
Description: This course allows students to develop their skills in oral communication, reading, writing, and media literacy; skills which are essential to their success both in academics and in their daily lives. Throughout this course, students will be asked to analyze literary texts from both contemporary and historical periods, as well as interpret informational and graphic texts. Students will also have the opportunity to learn multiple strategies for effective communication through the creation of oral, written and media texts. Prerequisite: None

Grade 10 Courses

Course Title: Grade 10 RUSH Principles of Mathematics
Course Code: MPM2D0
Description: This course enable students to broaden their understanding of relations, extend their skills in multi-step problem solving, and continue to develop their abilities in abstract reasoning. Students will pursue investigations of quadratic functions and their applications; solve and apply linear systems; solve multistep problems in analytic geometry to verify properties of geometric figures; investigate the trigonometry of right and acute triangles; and develop supporting algebraic skills. Prerequisite: Principles of Mathematics, Grade 9

Course Title: Grade 10 RUSH Science
Course Code: SNC2D0
Description: This course enables students to enhance their understanding of concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and of the interrelationships between science technology, society, and the environment. Students are also given opportunities to further develop their scientific investigation skills. Students will plan and conduct investigations and develop their understanding of scientific theories related to the connections between cells and systems in animals and plants; chemical reactions, with a particular focus on acid-base reactions; forces that affect climate and climate change; and the interaction of light and matter. Prerequisite: Science, Grade 9

Course Title: Grade 10 RUSH English
Course Code: ENG2D0
Description: This course is designed to extend the range of oral communication, reading, writing, and media literacy skills that you need for success in your secondary school academic programs and in your daily life. You will analyze literary texts from contemporary and historical periods, interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts, and create written and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on the selective use of strategies that contribute to effective communication. Prerequisite: English, Grade 9


Application Process

Students who are in the area:

If York Memorial is your home school (find out here: TDSB Find Your School), no application is needed! Simply complete your course selection sheet in MyBlueprint by Monday, February 26, 2024. Select your four Grade 9 courses at the RUSH level. 

Students who are out of area:

Students must apply through Out-of-Area Admission. If you get in, then you select either  the RUSH program during course selection. See the process below.

Out-of-Area Admission Process:

Online application form open on January 8 and closes on January 26, 2024 at 4 p.m at this link.

February 7, 2024 - Acceptances and waitlist status will be sent centrally, via email to all applicants. Offers expire February 13, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.

February 14, 2024 - Second round of  Acceptances and waitlist status will be sent centrally, via email to all applicants. Offers expire February 20, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.

February 21, 2024 - Any final offers will be sent. All waitlists expire on this date. Offers Expire on February 23, 2024.

February 26, 2024 - TDSB Students must finalize their acceptance by completing and submitting the corresponding course selection for the accepted school in myBlueprint no later than Monday, February 26, 2024. For students who would like to be in the RUSH program, select the four Grade 9 courses at the RUSH level.