Parent Perspective

As I reflect back on our decision to send our son to Shawnigan Lake School, I’m reminded of the incredible first impression we had of the School and how we wondered if it was truly possible to deliver such an incredible educational experience. Without a doubt, Shawnigan exceeded our expectations in every way. Although we were not necessarily seeking a boarding school, we toured Shawnigan on the recommendation of a friend and never looked back.

While the focus for many traditional schools is strictly academic, what impressed us is that Shawnigan goes beyond merely academics to develop the entire person through athletics, the arts, as well as experiential learning, in equal measure. It was important to us that our child’s education entailed more than sitting in a classroom all day. As most Shawnigan graduates will say, it is not necessarily the classes they remember but the extraordinary experiences such as enthusiastically singing their House hymn in Chapel, spending time off campus together during Ski Week or counting salmon hatchlings. Little did we expect that boarding at Shawnigan Lake School would be a life-changing experience for our son (and us!), but the four years spent at Shawnigan have moulded him into a confident, compassionate person with a strong sense of community.

Our passion for Shawnigan is at the heart of our decision to support the School philanthropically. We recognize that tuition mainly covers the basics and that for Shawnigan to continue offering experiences that are “above and beyond,” support is needed from the community. “Support” takes many shapes; offering time, talent or monetary donations all lend great impact on the School’s ability to deliver. Being able to ensure each and every Shawnigan student has an exemplary experience and the ability to reach beyond the academic component found in conventional education settings are the ultimate goals.

Looking to the future, the direction the School is moving in is an exciting one! With programs such as Beyond the Gates in Grade 9, Shawnigan has yet again shown its uniqueness in developing programming that is catapulting the School into the stratosphere with regard to experiential learning. By incorporating unique outdoor experiences into the curriculum, students are able to learn “outside of the box,” further challenging themselves and growing as individuals. With a more holistic experience, our students will not only have the academic success they’ve worked hard for, but they will be compassionate, well-rounded individuals better prepared for our ever-changing world.

My call to action is for every Shawnigan Lake School family to feel inspired to contribute to the School to ensure these extraordinary experiences continue for years to come. Time, talent, service in the community and financial donations are all equally important. Regardless of how you give, it is a legacy for your family as well as the students who will look back fondly on their life-changing journey at Shawnigan and all that it provided them.

Lisa Heimbecker with her son James '21 (Duxbury) and husband John

Lisa Heimbecker

Board of Governors, Advancement Committee, Past Parent