Independent Schools by North Shore News Features

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2017

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! Private school proﬁles –

Perspectives from students, parents and teachers

How to keep uniforms looking like new

3 questions to ask when considering private schools

INDEPENDENT

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Schools A SPECIAL FEATURE OF THE

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North Star Montessori Q

What do you like best about attending your school?

I like that we can choose our own work and get to use different materials to learn it. We don’t have to sit at assigned desks and I have time to do research on countries, planets, and animals. I also love doing the sport activities and track and field.

JUSTIN

STUDENT

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your children in attending their school?

North Star engages our children making learning challenging and fun. When we leave them at North Star we know they are in a place that supports their individual growth and nurtures respectful engagements between friends and teachers. They learn to be responsible for their work and themselves in a supportive environment.

! Launder gently. Wash clothes in cold water to prolong the life of the clothing. When possible, line-dry items or tumble dry on low. ! Have a few backups. Purchase a few pairs of pants, skirts and shirts that can be interchanged each day. This will cut down on how frequently uniforms need to be washed. ! Spot-treat stains immediately. Kids seem drawn to stains from ink, grass, grease, and more, and these stains can permanently ruin clothing if they are not addressed promptly. Rely on some of these stain-removal techniques to keep uniforms looking newer longer:

DAVID

PARENT

What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?

I love being able to work with each student for three years (gr 1-3) thanks to the multi-age environment of a Montessori classroom. This extended period gives me a deeper understanding of how to best instruct each child. Watching them grow and mature each year is very rewarding.

northstarmontessori.ca

Soak clothes in cola for 30 minutes prior to laundering to remove greasy marks or food stains.

A paste of white vinegar and baking soda can remove grass stains when worked into the stains and then washed.

Spray pen marks with hair spray then blot to lift off the ink. Repeat as needed before laundering.

! Skip some washes. If the uniform isn’t especially soiled or smelly, it may be possible to wear it again without washing. Clothes can often be “refreshed” by using at-home dry cleaning kits. ! Reinforce buttons. Use a thin coating of clear nail polish to serve as a protective barrier on button finishes. This will help the buttons look newer longer. The polish also can strengthen the thread that holds buttons on. – Metro Creative Connection

3 questions to ask when considering private schools The choice between public or private schools is one parents don’t take lightly. Both public and private schools have produced wonderful students, and the majority of teachers at both public and private schools are committed to their students.

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

TEACHER

School uniforms require an investment, and it is important to take care of the uniforms so they can handle the wear and tear of daily use, as well as all of the potential hazards kids might experience in a typical day. These tips can help families keep school uniforms in the best condition possible.

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BROOKE

How to keep school uniforms looking like new

Parents who are considering private schools for their children may benefit by asking a host of questions that can give them a greater feel for a school and how their youngsters will fit in should they enroll. While tuition costs and location will factor heavily in parents’ decisions, the following are three questions parents can ask to determine if a given school is right for their kids.

class size is something parents should consider strongly before choosing a school for their children. Parents can ask school administrators about class sizes, while also asking parents of current students how well teachers relate to students. Small class size may increase the chances kids perform better in school, but ineffective teachers may negate that benefit.

1 What is the school’s mission? Parochial schools are affiliated with religious institutions that often provide the foundation for the school’s philosophy. Some parochial schools prefer parents be members of the church affiliated with the school. If you are not, ask about the philosophy and how it is applied in the classroom. You can do the same with private schools that are independent of any religious organizations. Schools that claim to specialize in the arts may not focus as heavily on the sciences as public schools or other institutions. Understanding these philosophies and how each school applies them can help parents choose the best school for their children.

1 Do schools cater to special needs students? Parents of special needs students must inquire about how schools cater to kids with special needs. Public schools are required by law to meet the special needs of all of their students. Private schools may offer services for special needs students, but they do not have the same requirements as public schools. Inquire about special needs services before choosing a school, ideally choosing a school that has extensive experience and training catering to students with special needs.

2 What are the class sizes? Private schools have a reputation for having smaller class sizes than public schools, and

Parents face an important decision when choosing between public and private schools for their children. Asking the right questions can help parents make the most informed decisions. – Metro Creative Connection

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2017

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Brockton School

Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School

What do you like best about attending your school?

Brockton is a place full of friendly smiles and encouragement, while providing a rigorous education. Walking the halls, there is always a kind and uplifting energy, nurturing individuality. Brockton offers once-ina-life-time opportunities that promote leadership and community.

At KGMS, my teachers know me as an individual, and the high school has allowed me to focus on my goals. They care about me, and not just in regards to my academics but to my personal and emotional health and well being. I’ve grown in so many ways since being here!

MASON E. STUDENT

LUKA G.

STUDENT

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your children in attending their school?

The biggest benefit is in how Brockton’s highly dedicated and talented faculty create a learning environment in which students are not only academically challenged, but are supported in discovering themselves, their passions and the astounding abilities that lies within each of them. When witnessing such self-discovery, Brockton parents immediately notice the confidence with which their child makes subsequent life choices.

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your child in attending her school?

Individualizing her education and building up strengths while addressing areas needing more support. At KGMS this is really done, not just promised. This has increased her self-confidence and willingness to take risks without fear of being ridiculed. Being empowered has had a waterfall effect in all areas of her learning and self-development.

JOHN F. PARENT

TRACEY M. PARENT

What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?

The most rewarding part of my job is being able to help students explore their passions, challenge their intellectual curiosity, and be independent thinkers. I get to do this in an environment that is different every day. I get excited about coming to work and imagining what topics we will discuss and deconstruct.

Our students learn and demonstrate their learning in unique and sometimes bizarre ways. They have come from unsuccessful school experiences and feel disconnected to their learning communities. The most rewarding part of my job is inspiring those disenfranchised, beaten down, and broken students to love learning once again.

BRENDA B.

TEACHER

ADAM L.

TEACHER

brocktonschool.com

kgms.ca

Be The Future - Be Brockton Where every student matters. Where every family matters. Where learning for life matters. ■

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IB world continuum programme and enriched curriculum

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Outstanding IB and BC certiﬁed faculty

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Specialist teachers (from JK - Gr. 12)

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Small class sizes with personalized attention

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Before and after school care & activities on-site

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Junior Kindergarten (4 years old by Dec. 31) Graduating students accepted to impressive post-secondary placements & opportunities An authentic & diverse community of inspired teachers & students Extensive ﬁnancial aid available: bursaries and entrance scholarships

Brockton School is a non-denominational, co-educational, International Baccalaureate (IB) World Continuum School supporting grades from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. Still accepting applications for select spots at select grade levels.

604-929-9201 brocktonschool.com

3467 Duval Road, North Vancouver

MAPLEWOOD ALTERNATIVE HIGH SCHOOL

KENNETH GORDON MAPLEWOOD 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.

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Elementary Education for grades 1-7

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www.kgms.ca

www.maplewoodhigh.ca

For more information, contact Dr. Jim Christopher, Head of School at jchristopher@kgms.ca or 604.985.5224

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nsnews.com north shore news WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25,2017 SPONSORED CONTENT

Fraser Academy

SPONSORED CONTENT

Cousteau –

The French International School of Vancouver

What do you like best about attending your school?

Everyone is made to feel welcome. The small classes allow everyone to feel involved and get valuable help from the teachers, which makes for an engaging class experience. Fraser Academy has shaped me into the person I am today and given me the confidence I need moving into post-secondary.

It is a very diverse school: the students come from many countries; most of the teachers come from France. We can learn about different cultures, in French and in English. The teachers are very into it, they want you to learn and make progress. I think it’s a really good school!

CHARLES S. STUDENT

JULIAN M. STUDENT

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your children in attending their school?

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your child in attending her school?

The unprecedented teacher to student attention level – small class sizes, 1:1 learning support – with such a strong focus on each child’s individual academic needs. My children now have a far greater confidence in their own abilities to learn. For us as parents, it’s reassuring knowing they are set up for success.

Our daughter loves Cousteau! We enjoy the small class sizes, amazing teachers and academic excellence. The school has a clear understanding of the values and skills our kids will require to succeed in the future, we couldn’t be happier to be a part of this ever growing community!

TRAVIS T. TEACHER

BELINDA C. PARENT

STÉPHANIE C. PARENT

What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?

Seeing students learn and succeed in areas they struggle with, and finding opportunities to exercise their strengths. Sometimes this is seeing students enjoy school again because they have found their place, or witnessing the “Aha!” moments when students suddenly get it. Enabling that success, and opening those opportunities is incredibly rewarding.

Working with bilingual students (at least!) is an amazing part of my job here at Cousteau: we are using our skills in both languages to be better in each of them but also in maths, sciences and social studies! Through it we are also travelling all around the world every day!

SÉBASTIEN H. TEACHER

fraseracademy.ca

cousteauschool.org

ETABLISSEMEN T PARTENAIRE

1997-2017 1997 2017 : 20 years of discoveries

Bilingual Education French & BC Curriculum

We are leaders in education.

We prepare students with language-based learning differences such as dyslexia, for college, university, and success beyond graduation.

CALL US FOR A SCHOOL TOUR: 604 736 5575 2294 West 10th Ave, Vancouver | fraseracademy.ca

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2017

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Vancouver Waldorf School What do you like best about attending your school?

What do you like best about attending your school?

I love drawing colourful pictures to learn about the letters of the alphabet. My favourite lessons are story time, eurhythmy, and French. I like sitting beside my friends in the classroom, playing outside and listening to my teachers singing.

People may think that our oceanfront campus or unique tripartite program is what makes Brentwood special, but what stands out to me is the shared mentality of the students. Everyone is genuinely happy to be here, and I think that makes all the difference in the relationships you form at Brentwood.

STUDENT

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your children in attending their school?

When our daughter started kindergarten, we were moved by how deeply she was respected by her teachers. We were welcomed to discuss any concern or question and encouraged to participate in our daughter’s learning journey. Both our children now attend VWS and we feel fortunate to have joined such a robust community that celebrates the wonder of childhood.

TEACHER

Brentwood College School

Q SYDNEY G.

ANDREA M.

SPONSORED CONTENT

MARY H. PARENT

JULIA S.

STUDENT

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your child in attending his school?

I sat listening to the teachers speak about my son, with tears in my eyes. I am so proud of the man he is becoming and how much Brentwood has positively impacted him. I never feel like he is growing up without his family in a boarding school. I feel like his family has grown.

JENNIFER M. PARENT

What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?

The most rewarding part of teaching is when I see a student’s eyes light up because they grasp a concept or their understanding reaches a deeper level. It is gratifying when sparks of enthusiasm are flying off the ends of fingertips of wildly waving hands hoping to share an answer to a question. I love it.

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the students on Graduation Day. Seeing a student who struggled to find their feet initially graduate as a confident, young person equipped and excited for the next phase of their lives.

vws.ca

DAVID M.

TEACHER

brentwood.bc.ca

Now accepting applications for Kindergarten 2018-19 Info session: 8:45-10:15 am Dec 5

Warm & Welcoming Classrooms Atmosphere of Gratitude, Reverence & Wonder Creative & Artistic Experiences Nature & Play Based Learning Fostering the Senses Protecting and Nourishing Childhood for the Future Vancouver Waldorf School

Early Childhood | Grade School | High School vws.ca | 604-985-7435 | admissions@vws.ca

Where Students Choose To Be

Because students truly choose to be here, and are surrounded by a family of like-minded students and supporters, they can choose to be... anything #choosetobe

www.brentwood.bc.ca Co-ed | Boarding | Grades 9-12 | University Prep | Vancouver Island, BC

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25,2017 SPONSORED CONTENT

SPONSORED CONTENT

New Mexico Military Institute

Island Paciﬁc School Q

What do you like best about attending your school?

At IPS, we are a family - one that looks after each other, is a support group, and an educational powerhouse. I am thankful that I am a student here at IPS. You get a beautiful and rich education while experiencing the best of yourself and others - after all, middle school matters.

MIRELLA N. STUDENT

What do you like best about attending your school?

I like that it has given me a chance to develop good character and strong leadership skills. NMMI provides great guidance to becoming a more responsible person.

MICHAEL W. STUDENT

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your children in attending their school?

Island Pacific School offers our kids a challenging yet supportive learning environment that has allowed them to thrive with confidence and put them on the path of building their sense of self.

I have watched my sons blossom in so many ways that it’s hard to choose the biggest benefit. NMMI has helped them develop leadership, time management, intellectual, and social skills. I have no worries about them being successful in the “real world” thanks to NMMI.

DAVID J.

PARENT

DEANA C. PARENT

What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?

The most rewarding part of my job is the connections I get to make with the kids. To see them overcome challenges, and the confidence that develops in turn, is what makes me love my job.

The most rewarding experience for me in teaching is the cadets I meet from all over the world. When I hear from a graduated cadet and they tell me how they applied classroom academics to their career; that is what gives me self-fulfillment and a life-long relationship with the cadets.

ADRIAN VLDJ.

STEPHAN K.

TEACHER

nmmi.edu

islandpaciﬁc.org

Admissions Timeline

For 2018 Early Acceptance: By Dec 8, 2017 For Regular Acceptance: By Mar 9, 2018 Financial Aid: By Jan 31, 2018

Off-Island

Girls

Boys

56%

44%

48%

52%

37 Students

29 Students

32 Students

34 Students

APPLY NOW

For 2018/19 Academic Year

Small by design and distinctly different, IPS is a grade 6-9 middle school with one class for each grade, and 16-18 students in each class. Spaces fill quickly; families are encouraged to apply for the grade 6 entry year well in advance.

islandpacific.org/admission-process

Get to Know Us!

edited Independent Schools

W M XIC E

S T I U TE T

Bowen

M I L I TA R Y

Book a personal tour with our new Head of School Scott Herrington by calling 604 947 9311

islandpacific.org

D U T Y. H O N O R . A C H I E V E M E N T. The New Mexico Military Institute is a globally regonized secondary and post-secondary learning institution for young men and women that instills excellence in leadership, academics, and physical development within a structured environment empowering students to thrive in a dynamic world.

1-800-421-5376 ! www.nmmi.edu

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2017

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Alcuin College Q

What do you like best about attending your school?

What I like best about my school are the teachers. They are really involved in helping me understand my work. The teachers personalize the learning to best suit how my friends and I learn. When I better understand the work, I become more interested in what I am studying.

GEORGIA C. STUDENT

What is the biggest beneﬁt to your child in attending his school?

Our two sons have attended Alcuin College for over five years. Alcuin has instilled in them a confidence and interest in deeper learning. Alcuin encourages collaboration, creativity and innovation, providing a unique learning experience for all of its students. We feel very fortunate to be part of this amazing school community.

JEFF M.

GR 3-4 TEACHER

KINDERGARTEN TO GRADE 12

WHAT DID YOUR CHILD DO IN SCHOOL TODAY?

Open House November 2nd 7-8 pm

CHRIS R. PARENT

What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?

My students are future decision makers, individuals who will be required to make choices that affect us all. At Alcuin, I am rewarded with the knowledge that we are preparing our students to make those decisions and find solutions that are ethical, sustainable, and responsible.

Contact the school for a tour. 200-1046 St Georges Avenue, North Vancouver (604) 360-8656 • www.alcuin.ca

alcuin.ca

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