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Volunteer Profile: Marnee Da Ponte
from The Pillars
Marnee Da Ponte has been getting more and more involved with Pickering College every year since her sons started at the school.
Tyler, who is attending Laurier University now, started at PC when he was in Grade 7 and Zack, who is a current Grade 12 student, started at the school in Grade 6. Da Ponte said they chose Pickering College for its high educational standards, engaging teachers, and the fact that it is a co-ed school. One of her first involvements as a parent was joining the weekly PCA Walks, where she was able to connect with other parents. Shortly after that, Da Ponte joined the Spring Luncheon Committee.
Spring Luncheon is annual event that brings the PC community together over delicious food, live entertainment featuring the school’s musical ensembles, and comradery with other parents and staff. Da Ponte has served on the Spring Luncheon Committee for three years, and her contributions extend well beyond that.
“Each year I have become more involved with school events, especially with a focus on fundraising,” she said. “I’ve been a core member of the art event last February, the Staff Appreciation Committee, the Polo event in September and the 2025 Gala, which is going to be amazing. I’m also a Grade Rep/New Family Mentor and I help coach the Junior School’s Track and Field team.”
What stands out in all of those experiences is the chance to meet other families and give back to the school. Da Ponte’s own history in education motivates her even more.
“I was a teacher for 23 years and I recognize the amount of work that PC teachers put into their classes every day. I love helping out so teachers can focus on their classes and still benefit from the resources,” she said. “PC has prepared my kids well and they have become amazing men partly due to the support and role models of the PC staff.”
For any parents who are eager to get involved, Da Ponte’s advice is simple: come on out!
“Come out to a PCA walk or join a coffee social. Parents are very friendly and we are always looking for new people to help out. I’ve met some awesome people that I wouldn’t have met if I didn’t join,” she said.
