Noteworthy

William Wayne McKelvey 1946—2024: Our Founder, Our Principal, Our Friend


It is with heavy hearts that we must share the extremely sad news of the passing of William Wayne McKelvey, beloved principal and founder of Metropolitan Preparatory Academy.  Wayne had been fighting a private battle with cancer and despite his courage and the help from his medical team, family and friends, he passed away on Wednesday March 20th, 2024.

As we deal with this heartbreaking loss, the McKelvey family and Metro Prep staff have been extremely touched by the outpouring of kind words and condolences.  We invite everyone to share thoughts and meaningful stories about the man for whom we all cared so deeply.

Since beginning the school in 1982, Wayne has been a cherished father figure who helped nurture and shape the lives of thousands of middle school and high school students (and staff).  His infectious smile and caring nature created a warm and welcome environment that has inspired young minds and established Metro Prep Academy as an exceptional institution for over 40 years.  There was always something to learn from him, and we suspect that this difficult time will teach us all something new about being part of this wonderful school and community.

Across all grade levels, students experiencing grief during this time are encouraged to seek help from their teachers and the Guidance Office.  For our extended Metro Prep family of alumni, parents and friends, helpful support is available at https://bit.ly/43wwQho.

For the remainder of this academic year, Vice Principals Debra McKelvey and Ryan Seeley will continue running the school and stepping in as Acting Principals, as they have been doing during Wayne's recent illness.  In September, we will commence the 2024-2025 academic year with a new principal who shares the vision and values of Metro Prep Academy.

We will share funeral details with the school community shortly, and kindly ask for patience and privacy on behalf of Wayne’s family at this time.

 

Above: Painted Portrait by Sujin Ahn, Class of 2015

 

 

William Wayne McKelvey
1946–2024

May He Rest In Peace

 

🏮 Happy Chinese New Year 2024

Happy New Year – 恭禧發財 – Gong Hei Fat Choy

However you write it, or spell it, or say it, this weekend ushers in a whole new year for China and the Far East. Tomorrow it's 'so long' to the rabbit and 'hello' Year of the Dragon. 🐉

Lunar New Year is a time for celebration with family and friends, filled with dancing, fireworks, parading dragons, twinkling Chinese lanterns and feasts. We wish all of our international friends a Happy Chinese New Year! 🎊

Festive Spirit Week 2023

 

From December 18 Through December 22

 

🔴🟢 Very Merry MONDAY

HOLIDAY COLOURS: Start off the week sporting your favourite holiday colours - red, green, gold, silver, blue, white, etc.

 

♨️👚 Stay Toasty TUESDAY

PAJAMAS, FLANNELS & SWEATS: Stay warm all day long in your favourite pajamas, comfy clothes or favourite flannel!

 

🧑‍🎄🧦 Work It WEDNESDAY

HOLIDAY ACCESSORIES: Spice up your look with a festive accessory (or two!) - hats, headbands, socks, etc.

 

🦌📺 Throwback THURSDAY

HOLIDAY CHARACTERS: Mix it up by dressing up as your favourite holiday movie character - Elf, Rudolph, The Grinch, etc.

 

🎄👕 Festive Flair FRIDAY

(UGLY) HOLIDAY SWEATERS: Head into the holidays in style! Wear a holiday themed shirt or sweater to kick off the winter break!