1. Can Grade 12 students use TASS courses for their university applications?

Yes. TASS offers Ontario Secondary School Credits recognized by universities and colleges in Ontario and across Canada. Grade 12 students can include TASS courses in their applications through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) just like any other accredited high school credits.

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2. Do I need to un-enrol from my homeschool or day school to take a TASS course?
No. You can stay enrolled in your current homeschool or day school and take one or more TASS courses for credit. We’ll provide official report cards and transcripts that can be submitted to your main school or used directly for postsecondary applications.

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3. Who are the typical TASS students — do they need a background in Jainism or any specific faith?
No prior background is required. Our students come from diverse traditions and share an interest in ethics, peace, and responsible living. Everyone is welcome.

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4. How many hours is one credit course? Are the courses taught online, in person, or a combination of both?
All 1.0 credit courses in Ontario are mandated to be 110 hours of planned learning activities include interaction between the teacher and the student and assigned individual/group work (other than homework) related to the achievement of the learning expectations in the course. Most TASS courses are offered online with interactive lessons and optional in-person gatherings or field trips. This allows students from across Ontario to join our community.

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5. What does “learning through the lens of nonviolence” mean in practice?
It means that every subject—whether it’s science, civics, or literature—is taught with an awareness of how our actions affect people, animals, and the planet. Students learn to think critically and make choices aligned with kindness and responsibility.

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6. Is TASS an accredited school offering Ontario Secondary School Credits?
Yes. TASS is inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education and authorized to grant Ontario Secondary School Credits toward the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

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7. What makes Towards Ahimsa Secondary School different from other Ontario high schools? 

Towards Ahimsa Secondary School (TASS) blends academic excellence with a values-based approach rooted in nonviolence, compassion, and respect for all living beings. What sets TASS apart is how these principles come alive through experiential and project-based learning. Students earn full Ontario high school credits while engaging in hands-on projects, community partnerships, and real-world problem-solving that connect curriculum to ethical action. Whether through designing sustainability initiatives, organizing peer-led workshops, or exploring social justice through the lens of empathy, students learn by doing—developing both intellectual depth and moral awareness. Our approach encourages reflection, collaboration, and leadership, helping students see themselves not only as learners but as changemakers for people, animals, and the planet.

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8. How many courses can a student take in a school year or summer?
Students may take one TASS course during the school year and one during the summer. This allows each learner to focus deeply on the material, participate fully in discussions and projects, and balance TASS with other academic or personal commitments.

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9. How can I volunteer with TASS?
We welcome volunteers who share our vision of education through nonviolence. Opportunities may include mentoring students, helping with community projects, guest speaking, or supporting outreach events. If you’d like to contribute your time or skills, please reach out through our contact form and tell us a bit about your interests.

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10. Is TASS a religious school?
TASS is not a religious school. Our courses are rooted in the principle of ahimsa—nonviolence toward all living beings and Earth—which is a universal value shared across many cultures and traditions. While we explore ideas from Jain philosophy and other world perspectives, our focus is on ethical awareness, critical thinking, and compassionate action rather than religious instruction.

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11. What is the Summer School Schedule? Please see the link to learn more about the Summer School Schedule. 

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