The 嫩芽视频 (HCDSB) is proud to celebrate three exceptional graduates of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme at , each achieving an impressive overall score of 43 out of 45 for the 2024鈥�2025 school year.
Silvana Garcia-Otero
Silvana achieved a perfect score of 7 out of 7 in Business Management HL, Biology HL, Economics SL, Math SL, and French B SL.
This fall, Silvana will begin her post-secondary studies at the University of Toronto, where she will pursue a Bachelor of Commerce in the Rotman Commerce program.
鈥淏eing a part of St. Thomas Aquinas鈥檚 IB Diploma Programme has not only allowed me to enrich my mind academically but also become a more well-rounded student. By offering me a broad range of courses from Biology to French, Mathematics to Language & Literature, I thank the Programme for exposing me to so many fascinating areas of learning. This has ultimately unlocked a sense of curiosity I will continue to carry with me beyond secondary school.
鈥� Silvana Garcia-Otero, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School
Luis Noriega Menendez
Luis also earned a perfect score of 7 out of 7 in Business Management HL, Chemistry HL, Physics SL, Math SL, and French B SL.
In the fall, Luis will be pursuing a double degree in Mathematics and Business Administration at the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University.
鈥淭he IB Programme taught me to push myself, think critically, manage my time, succeed under sometimes extreme pressure, and so much more. The outstanding teachers and staff responsible of coordinating the IB Programme at St. Thomas Aquinas had a large role in helping me achieve my goals and grow as a person. The prestigious academics are what initially drew me to the IB Programme, but the people there are what convinced me to stay.”
鈥� Luis Noriega Menendez, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School
Ethan Sebastiampillai
Ethan achieved 7 out of 7 in Business Management HL, Biology HL, Chemistry SL, Math SL, and French B SL.
This September, Ethan will be attending the Royal Veterinary College at the University of London (England), where he will pursue a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine.
鈥淭he IB program at STA is one that has definitely made me a much more knowledgeable student and shaped me into the individual I am today. I have learned how to effectively manage my time, become independent, and believe in myself. I am thankful for my exceptional teachers and the administration team who have supported me throughout this journey, as well as the life-long relationships I have fostered with my like-minded classmates.鈥�
鈥� Ethan Sebastiampillai, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School
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鈥淲e are incredibly proud to recognize Silvana, Luis, and Ethan for their remarkable achievement in the IB Diploma Programme. Their academic excellence and personal growth reflect the high standards of the IB Programme and the strength of our school community at St. Thomas Aquinas.鈥�
鈥� John Klein, Director of Education
Quick Facts
- The International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme is a globally recognized educational program that challenges students to excel both academically and personally.
- IB students study topics in greater depth and are encouraged to develop strong research, communication, and time-management skills.
- The IB curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and community involvement.
- St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School in Oakville is home to the HCDSB鈥檚 IB Diploma Programme.
- Learn more about IB programmes at .
