Bell Times: 8:50 – 3:10
Principal: Timothy Powell /[email protected]
Vice-Principals: Krista Brodersen / [email protected], Sirio Vacca / svacca@hwdsb.on.ca ,
Julie Boulton/ [email protected]
Superintendent: Gerry Smith / [email protected]
Trustee: Maria Felix Miller / [email protected]
School Council Chair: TBD
Our School:
Bernie Custis Secondary School is located in the East end of Hamilton. BCSS is a new school, established in September 2019, was named after Bernie Custis, who was a former football quarterback in both American and Canadian leagues. Mr. Custis was known to be the first Black quarterback in modern era. He was also a football coach in the city of Hamilton and at McMaster University in Hamilton. Mr. Custis was also an educator, having taught in the Hamilton Board of Education, for many years. The values and the spirit of Mr Custis has shaped the school culture. The Bernie Custis Culture Code reads: Students, teachers and staff seek to know and help each other; we are in inclusive school where we work to make positive interactions happen; our behaviours are kind and intentional, so all may feel safe and learn.
At Bernie Custis, we offer a broad range of educational programs, supporting all possible learning pathways. We offer three Graduated support classes to prepare students for independent living after completing their secondary school experience. Bernie Custis has 3 Specialist High Skills Major programs, Arts & Culture, Health & Wellness and Hospitality & Tourism. English Language Learners will find our ESL/ELD programs supportive for their language acquisition and educational needs.
School Direction (2021-2022):
Bernie Custis staff is committed to creating the conditions for equitable outcomes for students. At the core of our school’s direction, is our dedication to prioritizing and centering students and student voice. We recognize that students need to access their learning at multiple points of entry and may require supports that recognize their various learning needs and lived experiences. Our BCSS School Direction includes commonly shared approaches to making instruction and assessment student-centered, supportive, and flexible.
Updated on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.