History
James Robinson P.S. is named after James Robinson, who was a local businessman and politician in the Markham area. Mr. Robinson was born in 1834 and by 1855 had established himself as a local businessman by developing a tannery. He later went on to be the Chief of the Markham Village Fire Department, Reeve of Markham and Warden of York County. Mr. Robinson died in 1902.
Our school spirit chant is:
Who's number 1?
James Robinson!
Who's second to none?
James Robinson!
Who's working hard and having fun?
We are at James Robinson!
Facilities
James Robinson P.S. was officially opened in 1956, with additions placed on the original school in 1958, 1967 and 1968. The Community Class area in the school was renovated in August, 2005.
In 2012, we started our outdoor school yard project. Our goal is to create the first universally accessible school yard in YRDSB. At this time, we have a 6 foot wide paved learning trail that is 180 meters long. It is appropriately painted and textured for students and community members with vision and mobility limitations. We have Braille supported signage and maps. There are a variety of shaded areas comprised of native plant material and sensory gardens. We have community food gardens and an outdoor accessible stage area.
In 2013, we have submitted plans for approval to complete the final stage of this project which includes, an accessible loose parts play zone including universally accessible playground equipment.
A before and after school child-care centre, The High Birch Child Care and Learning Centre, owned and operated by Ms. Neena Ali, is located at James Robinson P.S.