Mother Teresa Middle School (MTMS) seeks to create, “People for Others”, using Jesuit philosophies, models, and teaching methods to graduate students who are: Loving, Spiritually Alive, Intellectually Competent, Open to Growth, and Committed to Doing Justice. “Mother Teresa Middle School embodies the very fundamental elements of Ignatian education in creative ways. It stands out to me as a real model of what Ignatian education can be,” said Fr. Jeffrey Burwell, S.J., Provincial Superior of the Jesuits of Canada.
Jesuit Endorsement
Before MTMS opened its doors 15 years ago, it began with a shared vision and a deep commitment to providing opportunity through education. This vision was championed by a dedicated group of individuals that included Regina businessmen Paul Hill, Mo Bundon, and their families. They approached the Jesuits with their desire to open a Nativity School.
Nativity schools are modelled after the first school founded by the Jesuits in 1971 at the Mission of the Nativity on Manhattan's Lower East Side. These schools follow a successful model designed to help students overcome obstacles and provide ongoing support throughout high school, post-secondary and into meaningful employment.
In 2011, MTMS made history by becoming the first Nativity-modelled school established in Canada. In 2014, MTMS achieved accreditation from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education, paving the way to become an Associate School of the Regina Catholic School Division. This followed by officially being recognized through an Endorsement Agreement with the Jesuits of Canada in 2015. One year later, a second Canadian Nativity school opened with the launch of MTMS sister school, Gonzaga Middle School, in Winnipeg.
the Jesuits of Canada in 2015.
Campion College Connection
The school’s Jesuit identity is further strengthened through its close relationship with Campion College, the Jesuit College federated with the University of Regina. MTMS often celebrates Mass with Campion faculty and staff, who also visit the school regularly to take part in school activities. Several Jesuit Novices have also spent time at MTMS during their formation, deepening both communities’ understanding of Ignatian spirituality in action. This partnership helps students see that their journey of faith and learning can continue beyond middle school into high school, post-secondary education, and lifelong service to others. Together, MTMS and the Jesuits exemplify a living partnership rooted in shared values, empowering students to grow, achieve, and build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
The Next Chapter
Fifteen years later, the MTMS mission continues to shine brightly. “I think that Mother Teresa Middle School is a wonderful success story and I rejoice in seeing the school move forward in its mission and mandate. The school has become a beacon of hope and opportunity, forming young leaders who will make a difference for generations to come,” said Burwell. As MTMS looks ahead to the next fifteen years, the commitment to transforming lives through education and community remain as strong as ever.
This school year marks the 15th Anniversary of Mother Teresa Middle School. Find more stories here.