Rising Above the Rhetoric

from Business in Calgary - January 2023

Calgary Chamber of Commerce

Why School Choice is the Best Choice

One of the most profound choices a parent can make to set their child up for success is choosing the right school. In Alberta, independent schools strengthen and expand the choices available to parents in the public system. That’s why, since 1958, the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta (AISCA) has championed independent schools as excellent choices available to parents across the province. If a student requires a school that has a particular academic focus, upholds certain religious values or provides extra care for a child with additional needs, AISCA’s member schools are an option.

Simply put, choice is a good thing. In fact, it is everything when one considers making some of the most important decisions in life, including where your child is educated. Yet there are many myths that still exist about independent schools. A notable myth is that they are only for the wealthy few. However, various reports and statistics have refuted that argument. For example, 82 per cent of Alberta families who choose to send their child to an independent school have the same income as families at public schools. Furthermore, many independent school families make considerable financial sacrifices to cover any extra costs in order to access an education option where their children are thriving.

Another myth that still presents itself is that cutting funding to independent schools would “save” the government hundreds of millions of dollars – the facts do not bear this

ALL INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS ARE MONITORED THROUGH SCHOOL SITE VISITS AND THROUGH SURVEYS TO STUDENTS, TEACHERS AND PARENTS TO ENSURE THE NEEDS OF STUDENTS ARE BEING MET. THE RESULTS OF THESE SURVEYS INDICATE THAT INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS ARE SAFE AND CARING, SUCCESSFULLY PREPARE STUDENTS FOR LIFE AFTER SCHOOL, PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THEIR ROLES AS CITIZENS AND SUPPORT PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT.

out. Research has consistently indicated that independent schools have saved the taxpayer hundreds of millions of dollars, with one research paper putting the amount at $750 million dollars over a five-year period.

The math is relatively simple. All Albertan taxpayers contribute tax dollars to the cause of educating children in Alberta. Independent schools receive around $5,000 per child per year of that tax money; public and separate schools received around $13,000 in education grants, capital investments and transportation dollars to educate a child for a year. For independent schools to operate, parents pay tuition, run fundraisers and ask their supporting community for donations. Schools must also find efficiencies and be selective in what they offer and how they operate. In other words, it takes much sacrifice on the part of parents and the independent school community.

Financials aside, the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic have reflected positively on the ability of independent schools to be responsive to parent and student needs. In a poll conducted by Leger, for the Fraser Institute, parents of children in independent schools were less worried about their children falling behind in their studies and their school’s ability to make up for lost time. Eighty-four per cent (84%) of respondents reported that the pandemic had only a minimal or small impact compared to 64 per cent of parents with children in public schools.

School choice is a fine idea in theory, but does it work in practice? Evidence suggests that the benefits of improving educational diversity are clear. Alberta’s choice-based system performs very well when compared to other provinces and countries. Achievement test and diploma exam scores at Alberta’s independent schools are above the provincial average and contribute to the overall system success. In neighbouring British Columbia, research has found that students from families with comparable incomes achieve higher test scores on average at independent schools than at their public counterparts.

Furthermore, independent schools display a high degree of accountability and transparency by teaching the Alberta curriculum, requiring that all teachers must be certified to teach by the Government of Alberta, complying with the Education Act and other legislation, and providing audits, three-year plans, annual educational results reports and OH&S inspections to the Ministry of Education. All independent schools are monitored through school site visits and through surveys to students, teachers and parents to ensure the needs of students are being met. The results of these surveys indicate that independent schools are safe and caring, successfully prepare students for life after school, prepare students for their roles as citizens and support parental involvement.

Myths regarding independent schools will continue to exist – but they simply aren’t supported by facts. According to the Fraser Institute, one in 16 Canadian students attend independent schools, which are often rural and have a religious or specialty emphasis. It’s time to deal with facts and open an honest dialogue on the valuable role that independent schools serve for thousands of parents and students in Alberta.

Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS) is taking a bold step towards the future in establishing a new dynamic partnership with Calgary's innovation hub - Platform Calgary.

Be the first to learn about this unique collaboration between secondary education and industry that will create exceptional learning opportunities for high school students while supporting Calgary's rapidly changing economy.

about an alternative hybrid high school program launching this year

A CAMPAIGN FOR UNCONVENTIOAL GREATNESS

The ripple effect is enormous. Let’s talk about the legacy you could create.

ABOUT THIRD ACADEMY

We are advocates for the exceptional students and families who believe there is more for them out there.

Honouring who we are and who we can become as people. Encouraging exploration. Validating people’s strengths. Awakening feelings of confidence and self-worth. Giving hope to families who have no other place to turn to.

We’re about breathing room. Empathy and understanding. Inclusive values. Safe spaces. Hope.

People passionate about success. Engaging activities. New friendships. Real world connections. Personalized learning. Fun environment to learn in.

Give the gift of success eastschoolcampaign.ca

Building the future of independent school education

West Island College (WIC) is developing future leaders. Going above and beyond academics, real-world experiential learning opportunities empower students to become well-rounded citizens prepared for our global world.

Smaller class sizes, English and Continuing French Immersion and a close-knit community are integral to creating an environment dedicated to student success.

Unleashing student potential

By igniting and inspiring passion through innovative and diversified programming, students engage in potential career paths that boost their post-secondary opportunities.

“The Institute Program allowed me to experience a diverse set of activities and do a deep dive into different areas to find out what I am passionate about,” says alumnus Thomas Graham. Upon graduation, they obtained Business, Fine Arts and Engineering Institute Certificates.

Building the future together

With the recent acquisition of 30,000 square feet of additional space, the Wolves Den challenges students and staff to discover what makes them live well. The Student Success Centre, spin and yoga classes and a new meditation and prayer room, also allow the school community to incorporate small consistent actions to support their well-being.

“Growth is an important focus area for our school,” says Director of Admissions Erlynn Gococo. For example, a newly built 40-foot by 65-foot multipurpose educational greenhouse contributes to unique handson learning experiences for students.

Building safe, healthy and engaging classrooms

WIC is committed to creating a diverse learning environment. In doing so, it enriches the school community’s way of thinking and develops a sense of unity and collaborative spirit. WIC embraces all forms of identity that include race, ethnicity, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation and physical ability.

Ready to learn more?

Apply now for the 2023/24 school year. Intake years at WIC are Gr. 7 and Gr. 10, though the College sometimes has limited space in other grades.

For more information, please visit the school website. Contact Admissions at 403-444-0023 or email admissions@mywic.ca to schedule your personal tour.

WIC seeks students who are ready to embrace the College’s motto: Be Bold. Be Brave. Be Ready.

Apply today! wicyyc.ca

Edison School

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 – 12 Site 11, P.O. Box 2, R.R. 2 Hwy 2A, 1KM North of Okotoks, AB T1S 1A2 Phone: (403) 938-7670 • Fax: (403) 938-7224 office@edisonschool.ca www.edisonschool.ca

Equilibrium School

707 - 14 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2A4 Phone: (403) 283-1111 • Fax: (403) 270-7786 school@equilibrium.ab.ca www.equilibrium.ab.ca

Foothills Academy

Grades 3 - 12 745 - 37 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4T1 Phone: 403.270.9400 Fax: 403.270.9438 Email: admissions@foothillsacademy.org www.foothillsacademy.org

Greek Community School of Calgary

Grades K - 6 1 Tamarac Crescent SW, Calgary, AB T3C 3B7 Phone: (403) 246-4553 • Fax: (403) 246-8191 admin@calgaryhellenic.com; greekschool@calgaryhellenic.com www.calgaryhellenic.com/Our-School

Halpern Akiva Academy

Nursery, Pre-Kindergarten, ECS, Grades 1 – 6, Grades 7 - 9 140 Haddon Road SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2Y3 Phone: (403) 258-1312 • Fax: (403) 258-3812 office@akiva.ca www.halpernakiva.ca

Janus Academy

Grades 1 - 12 2223 Spiller Road SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4G9 Phone: (403) 262-3333 • Fax: (403) 693-2345 contact@janusacademy.org www.janusacademy.org

Khalsa School Calgary Educational Foundation

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9 245228 Conrich Road, Calgary, AB T2M 4L5 Phone: (403) 293-7712 • Fax: (403) 293-2245 cheryl.steadman@khalsaschoolcalgary.ca

Lycée international de Calgary

Calgary’s Private French School - A Passport to the World Preschool to Grade 12 4099 Garrison Blvd. SW, Calgary, AB T2T 6G2 Phone: (403) 243-5420 Ext 123 admissions@lycee.ca www.lycee.ca

LYNX

3311-49 Street SW Calgary T3E 6M6 Grades ECS and Grades 1-9 Ph 4032885335 info@lynx.education www.lynx.education Maria Montessori Education Centre of Calgary (MMEC)

Toddler, Preschool, ECS, Grades 1 - 9 2634 12 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1K6 Toddler, Preschool, ECS 1721 29 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2T 6T7 403-668-8538 info@mmec.ca www.mmec.ca

Montessori School of Calgary

Preschool (3 - 6 yrs), Grades 1 - 6 2201 Cliff Street SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2G4 Phone: (403) 229-1011 • Fax: (403) 229-4474 admissions@msofc.ca www.montessorischoolofcalgary.com

Mountain View Academy

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 – 12 3915 34 Street NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 6Z8 Phone: (403) 217-4346 • Fax: (403) 249-4312 Office@mountainviewacademy.ca www.mountainviewacademy.ca

New Heights School and Learning Services

D.S.E.P.S. | ECS, Preschool (2 ½ - 6 years), Grades 1 – 12 2521 Dieppe Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3E 7J9 Phone: (403) 240-1312 info@newheightscalgary.com www.newheightscalgary.com

North Point School for Boys

Accredited / Eligible for Funding Taping into boys’ natural curiosity and energy as a foundation for lifelong learning as we Teach Boys the way Boys Learn. Grade K-9. Richmond Campus: 23334 - 23 Ave. SW, Calgary, AB, T2T 0W3 Phone: (403) 744-5214 info@northpoint.school www.northpoint.school

North Point School for Girls

Accredited / Eligible for Funding Teaching Girls in an environment that is suited for their specific needs as we build their self-confidence and allow girls to develop their passions. Grade K-9. Currie Campus: Building B6, 2509 Dieppe Ave. SW, Calgary, AB, T3E 7J9 Phone: (587) 393-6699 info@northpoint.school www.northpoint.school

North Point High School

Accredited / Eligible for Funding In our co-educational High School we bring our girls and boys back together to create a more robust social environment as we Launch Leaders who can successfully navigate the adventure that awaits. Grade 10-12. Currie Campus: Building B6, 2509 Dieppe Ave. SW, Calgary, AB, T3E 7J9 Phone: (587) 393-6699 info@northpoint.school www.northpoint.school Phoenix Education Foundation

Kindergarten (k), Home Education (1 - 12) BlendEd (1 - 9) Online (1 - 9) 320 19 Street SE, Calgary, AB T2E 6J6 Phone: (403) 265-7701 • Fax: (403) 275-7715 info@phoenixfoundation.ca Offers Home Education Program

Renert School

School for Girls: Grades 4 - 9 14 Royal Vista Link N.W Calgary, AB T3R 0K4 Phone: (403) 291-5038 Ext 1800 www.renfreweducation.org Renfrew Educational Services - Assessment and Therapy Services For children, adolescents and adults KimLaCourse@renfreweducation.org

Renfrew Educational Services - Assessment and Therapy Services

ECS for children with special needs 8620 – 48th Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2B2 Phone: (403) 291-5038 • Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org Door-to-door bussing available

Renfrew Educational Services - Bowness Centre

Renfrew Educational Services - Child Development Centre

ECS for children with special needs 3820 – 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2X9 Phone: (403) 291-5038 • Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org Door-to-door bussing available

Renfrew Educational Services - Janice McTighe Centre

ECS for children with special needs and grades 1-6 for children with special needs 2050 - 21 Street NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6S5 Phone: (403) 291-5038 • Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org Door-to-door busing available

Renfrew Educational Services - Thomas W. Buchanan Centre

ECS for typical children and children with disabilities and grades 1-6 for children with disabilities 75 Sunpark Drive SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3V4 Phone: (403) 291-5038 ext 1601• Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org Door-to-door busing available

River Valley School

Pre-Junior Kindergarten (3 years) - Grade 6 3127 Bowwood Drive NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2E7 Phone: (403) 246-2275 • Fax: (403) 686-7631 admissions@rivervalleyschool.ca www.rivervalleyschool.ca

Rundle Academy

Our premier program meets the needs of students who have a diagnosed learning disability with or without ADHD. Our students are in the average to above-average range of intellectual functioning and thrive in a caring learning community while developing confidence, self-esteem, and motivation. Grades: 4–12 4330 16 Street SW, Calgary, Alberta T2T 4H9 Phone: (403) 291-3866 www.rundle.ab.ca/academy • admissions@rundle.ab.ca

Rundle College

Following Rundle’s Pathways to Learning philosophy, students’ high academic achievement is elevated by a multitude of co-curricular, character, and leadership-building programs. Our College program consistently ranks top in the province. Grades: K–12 7375 17 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta T3H 3W5 Phone: (403) 291-3866 www.rundle.ab.ca/college • admissions@rundle.ab.ca

Rundle Studio

We provide a dynamic, interactive online learning environment for students with diagnosed learning disabilities with or without ADHD. A first of its kind in Alberta, this virtual school is designed to meet our students’ personal learning styles, regardless of geographic location. Grades: 7–10 Administrative Office | 7379 17 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta T3H 3W5 Phone: (403) 291-3866 www.rundle.ab.ca/studio • admissions@rundle.ab.ca

Rundle College Society

Rundle is a private, post-secondary preparatory, co-ed, day school. Small class sizes, enriched curricula, and diverse co-curricular opportunities are pillars of our distinct academic programs: the Academy (4–12), College (K–12), and virtual Studio (7–10). 7379 17 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3H 3W5 Phone: (403) 291-3866 www.rundle.ab.ca • rundle.ab.ca

Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS)

STS is a diverse community where students pursue lives of purpose, flourishing emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Situated on a 220-acre campus near Calgary, STS offers academic excellence and a strong sense of community from Kindergarten to Grade 12 as Alberta’s only independent International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum school. STS offers a rich learning environment where students can expect more, including small class sizes, integrated learning, over 90 cocurricular activities, a focus on health and wellness, city-wide bussing, and scholarships, all in unique, natural surroundings. RR 2, Okotoks, AB T1S 1A2 Phone: (403) 938-8326 • admissions@sts.ab.ca www.strathconatweesdsmuir.com

Tanbridge Academy

K - Grade 9 178003 – 112 St. W, Foothills, AB T2S 0V8 (Corner of Hwy 22x and 53rd Street) Phone: (403) 259-3443 info@tanbridge.com www.tanbridge.com Bussing available The Chinese Academy

Saturday classes from Kindergarten to Grade 12 Grade 11 and 12 International Baccalaureate Chinese Classes Campuses: Sir John A Macdonald School, John G. Diefenbaker High School 191, 1518 Centre St. NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2R9 Phone: (403) 777-7663 • Fax: (403) 777-6228 thechineseacademy@gmail.com “The largest heritage language school in Alberta.”

Third Academy West

3311-49 Street SW Calgary T3E 6M6 Grades 1-9 Ph 4032885335 info@thirdschools.ca www.thirdacademy.ca

Third Academy East

400 Prince of Peace Way Calgary T1X 1G2 Grades 1-12 Ph 4032885335 info@thirdschools.ca www.thirdacademy.ca

Tyndale Christian School

ECS, Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 – 12 28 Hart Estates Blvd. NE, Calgary, AB T1X 0L3 Phone: (403) 590-5881 • Fax: (403) 590-6998 tcs@tyndalecalgary.ca

ursa

400 Prince of Peace Way Calgary T1X 1G2 Grades 1-12 Ph 4032885335 info@ursa.education www.goursa.education

Webber Academy

JK and Kindergarten, Grades 1 – 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 – 12 1515 - 93 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3H 4A8 Phone: (403) 277-4700 • Fax: (403) 277-2770 psutherland@webberacademy.ca www.webberacademy.ca

West Island College

Grades 7 - 12 7410 Blackfoot Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2H 1M5 Main: (403) 255-5300 • Fax: (403) 252-1434 Admissions: (403) 444-0023 admissions@mywic.ca www.wicyyc.ca

Yufeng Chinese School

Grades 1 - 6, Grades 7 - 9, Grades 10 – 12 708 44 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T2K 0J4 Phone: (403) 289-7876 • Fax: (403) 210-0261

Alternative

Banff Hockey Academy

Grades 7 – 12 • College bound hockey athletes Box 2242 Banff, Alberta T1L 1B9 Phone: 1-888-423-6369 • Fax: (403) 760-0868 registrar@banffhockey.ab.ca • www.banffhockey.ab.ca

Calgary Christian School

Preschool - Grade 12 Elementary Campus (Preschool - Grade 6): 2839 - 49th Street SW, Calgary, AB T3E 3X9 Secondary Campus (Grades 7-12): 5029 - 26 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3E 0R5 Phone: (403) 242-2896 • admissions@calgarychristianschool.com www.calgarychristianschool.com

Calgary Girls School

Grades 4 - 9 6304 Larkspur Way SW, Calgary, AB T3E 5P7 Phone: (403) 220-0745 Judi.hadden@calgarygirlsschool.com • www.calgarygirlsschool.com

Edge School

Grades 4 - 12 33055 Township Road 250, Calgary, AB T3Z 1L4 Phone: (403) 246-6432 • Fax: (403) 217-8463 info@edgeschool.com • Website:www.edgeschool.com

Glenmore Christian Academy

JK to Grade 5, Grade 6 - 9 16520 – 24 Street, SW, Calgary, AB T2Y 4W2 Phone: (403) 254-9050 admissions@gcaschool.com • www.gcaschool.com

Heritage Christian Academy

ECS, Grades 1 - 12 2003 McKnight Boulevard, NE , Calgary, AB T2E 6L2 Phone: (403) 219-3201 • Fax: (403) 219-3210 www.hcacalgary.com

Master’s Academy

ECS, Grades 1 - 6 4414 Crowchild Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2T 5J4 Phone: (403) 242-7034 • Fax: (403) 242-3515 www.masters.ab.ca

Master’s College

Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 7 - 12 4414 Crowchild Trail SW Calgary, AB T2T 5J4 Phone: (403) 242-7034 • Fax: (403) 242-4629 www.masters.ab.ca

Menno Simons Christian School

ECS, Grades 1 - 9 7000 Elkton Drive, SW, Calgary, AB T3H 4Y7 Phone: (403) 531-0745 • Fax: (403) 531-0747 linda.best@pallisersd.ab.ca www.mennosimonschristianschool.ca

Trinity Christian School

ECS, Grades 1 - 9 #100, 295 Midpark Way SE, Calgary, AB T2X 2A8 Phone: (403) 254-6682 • Fax: (403) 254-9843 www.tcskids.com

Rising Above the Rhetoric

Next Article

Calgary Chamber of Commerce

Why School Choice is the Best Choice

Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS) is taking a bold step towards the future in establishing a new dynamic partnership with Calgary's innovation hub - Platform Calgary.

about an alternative hybrid high school program launching this year

A CAMPAIGN FOR UNCONVENTIOAL GREATNESS

The ripple effect is enormous. Let’s talk about the legacy you could create.

Give the gift of success eastschoolcampaign.ca

DIRECTORY

Building the future of independent school education

Unleashing student potential

Building the future together

Building safe, healthy and engaging classrooms

Ready to learn more?

Apply today! wicyyc.ca

Alternative

More articles from this publication:

Calgary Chamber of Commerce

Canada Needs To Seize The Moment

Ski Season is Looking Great for Banff and Lake Louise

Parker’s Pen

To The Moon And Back

Rebrand Calgary? Why?

This article is from:

Business in Calgary - January 2023