WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018
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Independent school profiles – Perspectives from students, parents and teachers
! Building a strong parent-
teacher relationship
! Ten things to look for in a
great independent school
INDEPENDENT
PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
Schools A SPECIAL FEATURE OF THE
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018
Brockton School
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending your school? A: I like attending Brockton because the faculty really care about the
students. They want to help us and will go out of their way to do so. They understand and embrace that every student has individual needs. The teachers here help us set goals and achieve those goals. The IB program helps us focus on life skills not just learning the material that is required to graduate.
Due to the small number of students in each class, we can get a really personalized education. We know everybody in our grade well, and many of the students in other grades. This is what makes Brockton really feel like a safe, secure, and encouraging community.
Kasia N.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children in attending their school? A: We have seen so many benefits of our daughter attending Brockton:
smaller class sizes, teachers who take the time to teach each student in a differentiated way, and an involved and supportive community, to name a few. What consistently stands out to me is how Brockton lives the IB learner profile (principled, caring, communicator, thinker, risk-taker, open-minded, inquirer, knowledgeable, balanced and reflective).
The staff demonstrate these attributes and I see how they come to life in the students. Brockton has given our daughter opportunities to explore her learning in a safe and caring environment. It’s been of such a benefit benefit to have her in a school that believes in developing both academic skills as well as personal growth that will help her be successful in her future.
Debra D.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace? A: There are many rewarding aspects when teaching at Brockton
School, with the first and main part being the students. Being part of a smaller school allows more opportunity for me to get to know each of my students individually - their passions, strengths, and challenges, as well as what makes them unique. It is the students, and their enthusiasm, energy and engagement with learning that makes every day different and rewarding. Brockton has a caring,
supportive, diverse and authentic community, which has made me feel valued and supported in my own professional development. It is rewarding to be part of such a phenomenal and collegial teaching team, all working toward the same goal. Our school has come a long way in the 15 years since it started, and it has been rewarding to see and be part of the growth and development over many of those years.
Claire M.
brocktonschool.com
Be The Future - Be Brockton Where every student matters. Where every family matters. Where learning for life matters. ■
IB World Continuum Program and enriched curriculum (from JKGrade 12)
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Early Learning Years Program: Junior Kindergarten (4 years old by Dec. 31); Kindergarten (5 years old by Dec. 31)
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Specialist teachers and extended learning opportunities
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Small class sizes, personalized attention, focus on whole child development
Graduating students accepted to impressive post-secondary placements & opportunities
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An authentic & diverse community of inspired teachers & students
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Extensive financial aid available: bursaries and entrance scholarships
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Before and after school care and activities on-site
Brockton School is a non-denominational, co-educational, International Baccalaureate (IB) World Continuum School supporting grades from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. Accepting applications for 2018/2019 school year.
604-929-9201 | brocktonschool.com
3467 Duval Road, North Vancouver
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018
Cousteau –
The French International School of Vancouver
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending your school?
A: I love Cousteau because I learn and create with
my amazing teachers. I get to play with my best friends and experiment ideas in class and their clubs. Cousteau teaches me to preserve my planet and to fluently. speak French and English fl uently. For me, Cousteau is my second home.
Alexandre S.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child in attending his school?
A: Our son has benefited phenomenally since his
enrollment at Cousteau, he loves school so much that he doesn’t want to miss any part of it. We are pleased to watch our child grow in a safe, bilingual, supportive, and motivational environment and appreciate its awesome staff that contributes to his happiness.
Katy R.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?
A: Working with bilingual students (some even
multilingual!) is an amazing part of my job here at Cousteau: we work each day in both languages, not only to improve them, but also while studying Math, Science, and Social studies! Through languages we get to travel all around the world everyday!
Sébastien H.
cousteauschool.org
Building a strong parent-teacher relationship Developing a strong relationship with a child’s teacher can help parents ensure their kids are doing their best in the classroom. Once a school year begins, many students spend more time in the classroom with their teachers than they do at home with their parents. Therefore, it’s important for parents to work toward building a strong parent-teacher relationship. Such a relationship fosters communication, which can help a young student do his or her best in and out of the classroom, something that’s a goal for parents and teachers alike. Parents interested in developing a strong relationship with their kids’ teachers can take several steps to make that happen.
provide insight into how a child is performing and behaving in the classroom, offering advice as to how to improve that performance or suggestions as to how to encourage kids to keep up the good work. Keep the channels of communication open. If it’s been awhile since you’ve spoken to your child’s teacher, don’t be afraid to e-mail the teacher to check in or see if you can lend a helping hand. In addition, if your child really enjoys a teacher’s class, don’t be hesitant to share that with the teacher. Teachers appreciate compliments just like other professionals, and parents should express their gratitude to those teachers who are working hard to make learning fun for their youngsters.
Meet your child’s teacher at the beginning of the year. Introduce yourself at the onset of the school year, and let the teacher know you’re available for discussion any time during the school year and that you look forward to the coming school year and working with the teacher as the year progresses.
METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION
Attend “Back to School Night” or other such events. School events like an open house or a “Back to School Night” are a great way to help kids grow acclimated to their school. But such events also make great opportunities for parents to learn more about their kids’ teachers than they might have learned during their introductory meeting. Prioritize parent-teacher conferences. Parent-teacher conferences are a great opportunity for parents to speak to their children’s teacher one-on-one. Teachers may
Uniquely bilingual. Uniquely environmental. Uniquely global. Uniquely...Cousteau
Give your child a top-rated bilingual education. Non-francophone students are welcome in full-time preschool (starting at 3 years old) & kindergarten. Register for an upcoming Open House. Open House 2018: Tuesday, November 6, 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 4, 10 a.m. Phone: 604-924-2457 | Website: www.cousteauschool.org 3657 Fromme Road, North Vancouver, BC V7K 2E6
DOES YOUR CHILD STRUGGLE WITH LEARNING? WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOUR FAMILY We’re leaders in education. We help students who struggle with reading/writing or executive function to build their confidence in learning. After3 Tutoring at Fraser Academy: call 604 736 5575 after3tutoring.ca | 2294 West 10th Ave, Vancouver
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Island Pacific School
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018
Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School
STUDENT
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: I like the amazing supportive teachers and staff. I
A: What I like the most is the way the teachers teach.
your school?
your school?
like how we connect as a community with all grades, teachers and parents. We connect through field field trips, ultimate, school events and more. Finally, I like that we can have our own opinions and use our own creativity and ideas in our assignments.
The way they teach makes it way easier to learn. They have so many different strategies, and I like the classroom set up. I like how you can use a quiet place when you need it. It is a great environment.
Beck M.
PARENT
Mario F.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
A: I chose IPS as I believe that middle school is an
A: KGMS has made such a positive difference difference in our child’s
in attending his school?
in attending his school?
informative time in a child’s educational experience. Learning takes place at IPS in so many places in and beyond the classroom. I can see the impact on my child in how engaged he is in his educational experience.
life. There is nothing better than a happy child to start off the morning. The teaching team provides a positive school environment catered specifically to nurturing each student’s needs so they can experience success and continue to develop and grow.
Quentin B.
TEACHER
TJ F.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part
A: IPS is a middle school grades 6 to 9 so I get to teach
A: Watching students develop confi confidence dence in abilities they
of your job/workplace?
of your job/workplace?
each student for 4 years. It is remarkable to watch them grow and change through those years. The small class sizes, unique programs and close knit community atmosphere allows children to grow into young adults full of confidence, personality, and individuality.
didn’t think they’d ever have and hearing parents tell us how happy they are to see their children looking forward to coming to school. It’s such a blessing knowing that we create an environment that lets our kids flourish and grow.
Pam M.
islandpacific.org
Dasha G.
kgms.ca
KENNETH GORDON MAPLEWOOD SCHOOL
ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL
MAPLEWOOD ALTERNATIVE HIGH SCHOOL
Is your daughter or son struggling to achieve their potential? We believe every young person can succeed if given the right tools and learning environment. For over 40 years, we have been offering an intimate, supportive private school for students with needs not typically addressed by a traditional school setting. Visit us and discover how we can help overcome obstacles and create a path to success.
.. .. Early Admissions Timeline By Decemeber 7, 2018
Outcome-oriented Tailored programs Friendly, informal atmosphere Highly educated & experienced staff
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Fully accredited Financing available School bus service available Accepting applications, spaces limited
APPLY NOW
For 2019/20 Academic Year
Small by design and distinctly different, Island Pacific School on Bowen Island is a grade 6-9 middle school with one class for each grade, and 18 students in each class. Spaces fill quickly; families are encouraged to apply for the grade 6 entry year well in advance. Bowen
edited Independent Schools
Get to Know Us! 604 947 9311
Girls
Boys
53%% 57.5
47%
44%
57.5 56%%
38 Students
34 Students
32 Students
40 Students
islandpacific.org
Elementary Education for grades 1-7
Alternative High School for grades 8-12
www.kgms.ca
www.maplewoodhigh.ca
For more information, contact Dr. Jim Christopher, Head of School at jchristopher@kgms.ca or 604.985.5224
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018
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Ten things to look for in a great independent school
A private or independent school will provide your child with an academically rigorous environment in which education infiltrates all aspects of his or her life. However, for many parents, choosing the right private school is challenging. The most important things to look for in a private school depends primarily on the student’s needs. As such, the majority of the following items (without a particular order) represent subjective things for you to consider when selecting a private school. 1. Reputation What do current and former students think about their education? Do alumni believe that their private school prepared them for the next stages of their lives? Do parents believe that they received appropriate value for their tuition?
2. Academic offerings Learn as much as you can about the school’s educational program. What curriculum is used? How does it go beyond the BC curriculum? Are you seeking a specific discipline (i.e. biology, engineering, math, visual arts, physical education)? Does the school specialize in a certain discipline? Does the school offer Advanced Placement classes? Is it an International Baccalaureate institution? Does your child require English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction or are you looking for a bilingual education? 3. The school’s philosophy What is the school’s general stance on education? Numerous private schools have educational outlooks that diverge from the mainstream. So, you should identify how a given school educates children and whether you agree with that approach. What are the policies on evaluation and assessment? Homework? Standardized testing, why or why not? 4. Size of school Consider where your son or daughter would work best. Are you more comfortable in a big sea or a little sea? What is the school’s average class size? 5. Feeder schools Plenty of elementary schools have affiliate high schools. Such an arrangement could help ease the transition between these two levels of education. The lower level school could significantly reduce the stress of going to high school, while the upper level
institution will have an excellent grasp on what your child’s former teachers taught him or her. Also ask about which schools students move onto after graduation. 6. Cultural background of the students Sending your child to a school with students from various cultural backgrounds could expose him or her to new lifestyles, languages and cultural traditions that can help expand their knowledge of the world and foster acceptance. 7. Tour impression When on tour, ask to sit in on a couple of classes. What is the relationship between patrons and teachers? Teachers and students? Were you impressed with the school when you visited it? How did it make you feel? Did your child seem comfortable there? Your gut instincts will tell you a lot about the fit of a school for your family.
8. Extracurricular activities These programs are an important part of a well-rounded education. Does the school have a wide variety of extracurricular activities? Do you think that your child would be interested in any of them? 9. Cost Is it affordable? Are there any extra costs beyond tuition? Could you work out flexible payment plans with the school? 10. Your child’s opinion Does your child like the school? You should allow him or her to have a say in the decision. Our Kids is Canada’s trusted source for information on private and alternative school options, has a great introductory guide to help you get started on your search, and hosts the annual Vancouver Private School Expo. Get the information and feedback you need at ourkids.net.
TRUSTED BY PARENTS SINCE 1998 PROFILES & REVIEWS OF 690+ PRIVATE SCHOOLS, CAMPS AND PROGRAMS
OurKids.net is your source for information, stats and reviews of the best day and boarding schools, kids programs and summer camps.
You’re invited VANCOUVER
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READ SCHOOL REVIEWS not found on any other website
SUNDAY, OCT 28 Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre 12 - 4pm
QUICKLY & EASILY REQUEST INFO schedule a tour or save your favorites
Our Kids - The Trusted Source
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An exclusive event for parents & students applying to private school. Consult with admissions experts, speak with local school headmasters and meet with top-ranked boarding schools from Vancouver Island.
Please RSVP at ourkids.net/expo
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North Star Montessori
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STUDENT
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018
Vancouver Waldorf School
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: I really like my teachers a lot. I like that we get to write
A: There is a really nice atmosphere in the school.
your school?
as much as we want. Reading is my second favourite, but officially I like to write. I’m just learning racks and tubes right now (long division), and I think that will be my new favourite work after another lesson on it.
your school?
Having less students in each class means the teachers have more of a personal relationship with each individual student, which also means there is more understanding of what’s going on in each lesson.
Cooper D.
PARENT
Jack G.R.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
A: The classroom is prepared for the greatest development
A: The Vancouver Waldorf School’s unique educational
in attending his school?
of independence through a path of experiential discovery. Students achieve high academic results on standardized tests and are able to problem solve and apply their learning across subject areas. Lessons in social grace & courtesies lead to caring and trustworthy children.
in attending his school?
approach supports my children in becoming creative, empowered, free thinkers. Not only are they receiving an excellent education, they are also surrounded by amazing teachers who care about their social development, physical health, and character.
Lee O.
TEACHER
Paige & Story W.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part
A: I love the mixed age groupings and the opportunities
A: It’s in the little things: In the shimmer of expectancy
of your job/workplace?
this provides for the students. The leadership skills the older students develop in this dynamic setting is second to none. My favourite part- the joy in the collaborative process for both the older and younger students.
of your job/workplace?
in their eyes when they enter the classroom in the morning and the gleam of still-simmering-excitement when they go home, in the proud smiles when they conquer a challenge and the compliment between friends, instinctively handed out. They make my day.
Lalena D.
northstarmontessori.ca
Marlies D.
vws.ca
Accepting applications for 2019-20
Providing an education as unique as your child. Now accepting applications for our Infant & Toddler, Preschool and Elementary Programs. Infancy toto Grade today: Preschool Grade6 7| Call | Call today:604 604980 9801205 1205 1325 East East Keith Keith Road, Road, North North Vancouver Vancouver BC BC (Southern 1325 (Southern annex annex of the North Shore Winter Club)
northstarmontessori.ca
Info session: 8:45-10:15 am Dec 4
We teach students to be creative, critical thinkers who have a strong moral compass, are open and resilient, and can turn challenges into possibilities...
2725 St Christophers Rd, North Vancouver | 604-985-7435 | info@vws.ca
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018
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Fraser Academy
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending your school? A: The best part about Fraser Academy has been the fun opportunities
academic classes in sciences and English, and value the individual instruction and small class sizes. Each student is provided the time they need to work on whichever concepts they find find harder to grasp. The Post-Secondary Planning and Executive Function programs are also great. It’s awesome to know that as I focus on both my academics and my interest in developing leadership and community building skills, I will be prepared for university next year.
to learn and challenge myself. I’ve been a member of Student Council for three years, survived the intensive outdoor education program called “Odyssey,” attended the CAIS (Canadian Accredited Independent Schools) Leadership Camp, and been a leader at the school’s annual team building camp. I started at Fraser Academy in Grade 3 and am now in my Grade 12 year. I’m currently taking all
Matthew J.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children in attending their school? A: The biggest benefit starts from the moment, our son, Jack rises in the
business), which starts pretty early for a 14-year-old boy, 8 a.m. sharp! Also, with the extended school day, small class sizes, and one-to-one Orton Gillingham tutoring, my husband and I feel that Jack is applied and challenged to be his personal best during the day at school. Because our son is now confident and comfortable at school, he is back to being a happy soul who enjoys life and has lots of fun.
morning. He wakes up each day looking forward to school. Fraser Academy is a place he feels comfortable and confident – that in and of itself is supreme in my mind. He heads out of the house with purpose and tries very hard to not miss any moment of flex block (this is a time in the morning before regular classes start to catch up on homework and unfinished
Shelagh C.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace? A: The most rewarding part of working at Fraser Academy is seeing
students’ self-esteem grow as their skills in reading and writing improve. As a parent myself, I had no idea how my super intelligent dyslexic daughter’s self-esteem was plummeting until she asked with tearful eyes, “How can I be smart, when reading and spelling are so hard?” Those words made me realize I needed to bring her to Fraser Academy immediately. She spent 4 years at Fraser Academy gaining
the academic and self-advocacy skills needed to succeed in her academics. She is now in her first year at Dalhousie University. This story is repeated over and over at Fraser Academy, as students come to us to gain the skills and confidence they need to be successful in the path of their choice. As a Learning Specialist, it is my joy to help facilitate many students’ journeys to personal success.
Karla E.
fraseracademy.ca EXCELLENT EDUCATION IN A SCHOOL THAT CARES
THE WESTSIDE SCHOOL FOUNDATION YEARS CENTRE (K-4) 788 Beatty Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M1
MIDDLE YEARS CENTRE (5-9) 101 Smithe Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1C2
MINIVERSITY® (10-12) 211 Nelson Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 0P2
Learning today Leading tomorrow APPLY NOW! For September 2019 - Grades 8 to 11 For September 2020 - Kindergarten
www.thewestsideschools.ca info@thewestsideschools.ca ~ (604) 687-8021
Parenting Today Kathy Lynn is a professional speaker, broadcaster, columnist and author of Who’s In Charge Anyway? How Parents Can Teach Children to do the Right Thing. You can read her parenting column in the North Shore News every other Wednesday.
YOU’RE INVITED TO OUR OPEN HOUSE THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH - 9:45 TO 11:30 AM We’re leaders in the empowerment and education of students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. An impressive 90% of our graduates go on to college and university. To RSVP: 604 736 5575 | fraseracademy.ca
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Fraser Academy, 2294 West 10th Ave, Vancouver