INDEPENDENT SCHOOLSIndependent schools and your kidsALL STORIES CONTRIBUTEDBY BOBBI-SUE MENARD

Independent schools are thriving in the Okanagan. Parents from all walks of life are choosing a specific educational path for their children for varied and valid reasons. The diverse approaches of independent schools allow parents to match pedagogical style with a student’s personality. The extended extracurricular programs and care options on offer give confidence to busy working parents that children are engaging in appropriate and challenging pursuits. Smaller class sizes are the expectation at independent schools; students are lavished with personal attention. Within the carefully considered and nurtured culture at each independent school is a warm welcome of parental input.

The positive choice for independent schools begins with acceptance of the idea that different approaches in school culture and teaching philosophy can educate students with excellent results in an active and authentic relationship. The strength of diversity in independent education is the ability to closely match the needs, perspectives and beliefs of students and their parents.

A brief glimpse of independent school philosophies in the Okanagan include traditional Montessori teaching, balanced education of the heart, hands and head within the Waldorf approach. Faith approach schools create opportunities for community service with a purpose. Preparatory school educates now with the mission of higher education later, schools teach to understanding and applying knowledge and developing critical thought and reason.

Regardless of philosophy, every independent school delivers the curriculum mandated by the British Columbia Ministry

of Education. Core course content is taught in each grade. As a group, independent schools in the Central Okanagan have small class sizes. Curriculum delivery is bolstered by teachers that have the time to ensure successful knowledge retention.

The education philosophy at many independent schools views curriculum mastery as a piece of an exemplary education. Knowledge is important, the ability to actively use knowledge is vital. Critical thought and reasoning are skills teachers and administrators actively seek to build within students. Students can demonstrate to parents and teachers deep and dynamic understanding of subject material.

The result is a group of schools with outstanding academic records of achievement. Independent schools in the Central Okanagan routinely rate as leaders in independent studies.

Music education is a vital part of most independent schools. Schools approach music from varied perspectives. Band,

formal violin, child-created music each has their place and parents can find a program that will nurture the artistic sensibilities of their child.

Co-curricular activities have an expansive definition at independent schools. Freed from the constraints of a ‘just the basics’ approach, independent schools can offer exciting opportunities to elementary and high school students. Horseback riding, Vita Parcour, orienteering, tennis, martial arts, rugby and many more sports are available at different elementary schools.

Central Okanagan independent high schools have storied traditions of excellence

in team sports. Non-athletic pursuits include service opportunities around the world and close to home.

Diversity at independent schools is more than skin deep. All of the schools are inclusive. Children with disabilities are welcomed. Scholarships and financial assistance are more generous than expected, administrators

and admissions staff work to ensure that families of

every background can provide an independent

education to their children.Parents are welcomed

at independent schools. Small class sizes allow teachers to not only know the student,

but also the parent. The independent school

parent body has a unique connection to their school, each parent has thoughtfully

chosen and invested in the education program of

the school.The relationship

is respectful, parental involvement is welcomed but

not demanded.Independent schools welcome inquiries

from parents. If you or your child is ready for an education experience that offers a rich, diverse and rewarding academic life which reflects your priorities, now is the time to demonstrate intellectual curiosity, investigate Central Okanagan independent schools.

Heritage Christian School“Parents often describe HCS as a big family, on our campus everybody knows everybody. Discipleship is key to everything we do. Our parents know that HCS is an extension of the Christian home. What is happening at home is being reinforced at school, so everyone is on the same page. As a Christian School we are very committed to academics and we are also very committed to God. It is our goal to see our students grow in both these areas of their lives.”

~ PAGE 2

Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School“The school’s mission is to best prepare its students for success at university and beyond. Aberdeen Hall’s faculty includes an experienced administration, and talented, caring teach-ers. The school provides an inspring physical campus and resource rich classrooms.”

~ PAGE 3

Glenfir School“Interconnected learning between subjects allows students to appreciate the meaning and scope of what they are learning. The teaching approach encourages students to understand the subject matter and build the skills to effectively process and apply their knowledge.”

~ PAGE 4

Kelowna Waldorf School“Waldorf Schools offer a unique approach to childhood education: a balance of the head, the heart and the hands, students are encouraged to use all three in all of their endeavors. The results are children who are independent thinkers who brim with self-confidence when they enter the public school system.”

~ PAGE 5

Okanagan Montessori“The Montessori approach is non-compet-itive and develops the intrinsic motivation that is present in children from birth. At Montessori children work for the joy of working. The Montessori philosophy builds on the idea that hard work develops inner peace and that peace can spread from person to person. It also makes work its own reward, children enjoy coming to class and are ready to work.”

~ PAGE 6

First Lutheran Christian School“First Lutheran offers seamless education and care with a concentration on chil-dren ages three to 12. It is a truly unique program, daycare, preschool and before and after school care are each aligned with the elementary school.”

~ PAGE 7

Kelowna Christian School“The mix of small classes and our absolute commitment to the fundamentals of reading, writing, comprehension and math help our students in elementary school succeed.”

~ PAGE 8

IN THIS ISSUE:

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Heritage Christian SchoolHeritage Christian School is committed to teaching BC curriculum from a Christian perspective. It is also building a digital education experience for the 21st century on a foundation of Christ-centered discipleship. The pre-school and Kindergarten to Grade 12 school has 300 students and a school culture of openness, support, and academic excellence within their campus. In the digital realm, Heritage Christian has an additional 1700 full time students enrolled in Heritage Christian Online School, 2500 part time students in BC Online School, and 500 students from around the world enrolled in the International Christian Online School.

It is a dynamic and strong platform, with unique strengths not found anywhere else. Students on campus receive their own netbooks in Grades 10, 11, and 12. Teachers have the support and experienced administration to deliver culturally relevant, transformative education in a digital environment.

Heritage Christian Secondary School Principal, Paul Kelly, says the ability of Heritage Christian to meet the needs of the digital economy is exceptional, “We are going digital. It’s the way of the future and we are trying to lead the way. That’s where skills are needed, so we are infusing our campus experience with our online technology and curriculum. Teachers and students are saying that this blended approach really highlights the best of both worlds.”

In the midst of technology, the student as a person of character is not neglected. Heritage Christian works to explore the gifts of each student in alignment with the understanding that each person has God given gifts, and a call to service in his or her life. The climax of this effort is the Global Citizenship Program. The entire Grade 12 class travels to Mexico on a six-week trip to help in a school for disabled children, work with local missionaries,

and serve the people of southern Mexico. Academics are brought with the students and they are expected to maintain coursework while in Mexico.

“It’s like a school transplant,” explains Kelly. “It’s the apex of our students’ HCS experience.”

Heritage Christian is evangelical, accepts students from churches across Kelowna, and has a generous tuition assistance program. The first priority is meeting the needs of the community in Rutland and greater Kelowna. “We consider ourselves a private school for the

public, rather than the privileged,” says Kelly.“Parents often describe HCS as a big family,

on our campus everybody knows everybody. Discipleship is key to everything we do. Our parents know that HCS is an extension of the Christian home. What is happening at home is being reinforced at school, so everyone is on the same page,” says Kelly.

“As a Christian School we are very committed to academics and we are also very committed to God. It is our goal to see our students grow in both these areas of their lives.”

COMMUNITY. DISCIPLESHIP. LOW TUITION. PRE-12.Check us out online!

www.heritagechristian.ca www.onlineschool.ca

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Aberdeen Hall Preparatory SchoolAberdeen Hall Preparatory School is located on a spectacular campus on the hills beside UBC Okanagan. As a university preparatory school the location is apt. The school promotes individual attention, excellent academics and a focus on strong character development.

Aberdeen Hall has 220 students from Preschool to Grade 9, and will be starting Grade 10 this September, with plans to graduate these students from Grade 12 in 2 years time. Construction on a new high school will commence this spring and be ready for the middle of next school year.

The school’s mission is to best prepare its students for success at university and beyond. Aberdeen Hall’s faculty includes an experienced administration, and talented,

caring teachers. The school provides an inspiring physical campus and resource rich classrooms.

In addition to providing high-level core instruction, there is a large selection of co-curricular activity in athletics, music and drama. Aberdeen Hall focuses on students’ academic, social and emotional development. Specialty teachers in music, physical education, science and math ensure high quality instruction.

“Our teachers are excited to be at the school, there is a contagious enthusiasm about being at Aberdeen Hall,” says Leitha Cosentino, Director of Advancement. “A benefit of our size is that everybody knows everybody, so when our teachers are greeting parents and students in the parking lot, they know each other and take a personal interest.”

Teachers at Aberdeen Hall have the time and availability to work one on one with students. Students are challenged and happy to be at school. Enriched opportunities include French starting in Kindergarten, violin in Grade 3, robotics in Grades 6-8, and character and leadership opportunities.

The beautiful campus overlooking the Okanagan Valley has further learning

opportunities, including a relationship with UBC that includes numerous site visits and the sharing of a tremendous intellectual capital.

Athletics are an important aspect of Aberdeen Hall. The new athletic centre includes tennis courts, basketball, volleyball and more. The extracurricular program also includes the option of riding lessons at a local stable, golf teams and martial arts.

“Aberdeen Hall is the right fit for so many students. Parents know that we have a safe and secure campus. They also know

Aberdeen Hall works to deliver the right mix of opportunities and activities to provide a successful and balanced education.”

January 26 Kindergarten Open House 8:45-10:00 amFebruary 8 Vernon information evening 6:30-8:30 pm at the Prestige InnFebruary 18 Open House and Buddy Day (Scholarship exams written)May 7 Aberdeen Hall Gala May 14 Celebration of Education Open House

ImportantUpcoming

Dates:

Join us to experience the Aberdeen Hall difference.Scholarship and entrance exams can be written February18 during our Open House and Buddy Day.

We will have a Vernon Information Session from 6:30pm - 8:30pm on February 8, at the Prestige Hotel, Vernon.

Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School 950 Academy Way, Kelowna BC, Canada V1V 3A4

The Okanagan’s Newest High School

available

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Glenfir SchoolGlenfir School in Summerland makes its mark with small class sizes and its mission to imbue students with intellec-tual character. Glenfir has a balanced approach; academic excellence is combined with physical well-being, the arts and citizenship.

“Parents appreciate our small class sizes and individual attention to each student,” says Craig Dunbar, Head of School at Glenfir. “We seek and value parental input and there is a real sense of community within the school.”

The average class size at Glenfir is between 10 and 15 students in Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school also provides a vibrant Junior Kindergarten program for three and four-year olds. There are specialist teachers in different academic subjects, and teachers often work in teams to develop concepts through multiple intellectual disciplines to enrich and deepen student understanding.

Interconnected learning between subjects allows students to appreciate the meaning and scope of what they are learning. The teaching approach encourages students to understand the subject matter and build the skills to effec-tively process and apply their knowledge.

“One of our priorities is to have students that are fluent at oral communication and powerful speakers. The ability to communicate effectively with others is an important piece of learning and applying knowledge,” explains Dunbar. “That communication shows how students can think in a strategic manner and is a vital skill in today’s workplace.”

Academic achievement at Glenfir is bal-anced with attention to behavior and character. “We are actively creating the conditions for mind and heart development. Character devel-opment is a core focus at Glenfir,” says Dunbar.

A strong sports program is a part of build-ing character at the school. The Glenfir Soccer Academy is coached by former Vancouver Whitecaps FC player and Canadian National Team Coach, Chris Bennett. There are a variety of endeavors offered throughout the school year, relevant to the needs and aptitude of students.

The 17 acre Glenfir campus provides gener-ous opportunities for students to experience

nature as an integral part of their school life. Mountain biking and cross country running are enjoyed. On a wider basis, rock climb-ing, winter camping, orienteering, skiing, and snowboarding, for example are structured to promote personal growth, leadership skills and team building.

The campus has also inspired students to take a leadership role on environmental issues at Glenfir, says Dunbar, “The leadership capac-ity of students is amazing and we don’t just

pay lip service to students. We listen to them. Students own the ideas and see them come to life. The environmental group has made a real impact.”

Integrity, respect and achievement are the core values at Glenfir, and those values can be seen in the behavior and achievements of the students, says Dunbar, “Our students bring our values to life, they express those values through their behavior and with understanding of what those values mean.”

Contact Mary Taylor today: 250.488.3050250.494.0004 or 1.866.494.00057808 Pierre Dr., Summerland

A bright future for your child. Tuition now starting at $5,000.

Consider the options.

Make the choice.

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Kelowna Waldorf SchoolKelowna Waldorf School is celebrating its 29th Anniversary this year. The independent school on Collett Road in the Lower Mission, is thriving with 89 students currently enrolled in kindergarten through Grade 8.

Waldorf schools offer a unique approach to childhood education: a balance of the head, the heart and the hands, students are encouraged to use all three in all of their endeavors. The results are children who are independent thinkers who brim with self confidence when they enter the public school system.

Class sizes are kept small with 10 to 15 children per class. Waldorf schools are non-sectarian and non-denominational; the pedagogical method seeks to bring about understanding of the world’s cultures. Each day begins with the acknowledgement of body, soul and spirit. “We recognize that children

have a soul,” explains Gabriele Knodel, Vice-President of Waldorf School Association of Kelowna. “Waldorf School is accessible to all. No one is excluded due to religion, race or finances.”

The full British Columbia curriculum is taught with approaches based on the developmental stage of the child. The goal is to teach children to think differently about subjects, often through experience, such as touching and manipulating objects, personal movement and music. German and French are taught from an early age through songs, poetry and movement. Music is a daily part of instruction and the arts are integrated into all aspects of the curriculum and learning.

The Waldorf school philosophy is a very personal model of teaching. Typically a teacher stays with a class from grade 1 to grade 8. The benefits are enormous, teachers truly know and appreciate the students they work with and are able to meet the needs of students effectively.

KWS is located in a quiet residential neighborhood. The building is a rounded structure reflecting the Waldorf principle that design and architecture are important to the learning experience.

The large yard behind the school has play structures made of natural materials. KWS

chooses natural materials for equipment and supplies whenever possible as part of its school philosophy. Each class has its own garden, children learn in early grades the basics of nurturing plants, older grades learn botany and the basics of bio-dynamic gardening.

Each school day at KWS begins with the old fashioned school bell, rung by a student and a teacher. Children gather in front of their classroom doors and then are greeted individually by the teacher with a handshake

as they enter the classroom to start their day. “It is important that the day begins with eye contact, that the connection is made between the student and teacher,” explains Knodel.

KWS graduates have gone on to become health care professionals, engineers, teachers, award winning musicians, world class athletes and other diverse occupations. Waldorf education instills a love of learning in its students that the students carry with them through life.

Why A KelownaWaldorf Education?

Est. 1982

Education from the Inside Out

Prepares for a Changing World

Cultivates Freedom

Relationship Building

Ignites Life-Long Learning

What are the benefits?

We promise an inspired approach toeducation for life-long learning

Offering: Parent & Tot, PreSchool Program, After School Care, Kindergarten (1/2 day) to Grade 8

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Okanagan MontessoriNestled in the orchards of East Kelowna is Okanagan Montessori Elementary and Pre-School. The school calls a charming brick building home to 55 elementary students and almost as many pre-schoolers. Okanagan Montessori has been using Maria Montessori’s proven methods since 1992, and at the East Kelowna location since 1997.

Montessori schools use a three year grouping cycle to define their classroom composition. Each classroom has a younger, middle and oldest age. The progressions are defined by age and grade, typically ages six to nine study together and ages nine through 12 are together. Students mature through a natural progression of learning by being

involved with older students to leadership and teaching of younger students. Since the curriculum is rich in the areas of botany, zoology, history, geography, and Montessori Cultural Areas, it is advisable for children to complete each three year cycle in order to experience the full benefit of the program.

The approach fosters respect for others and a real sense of community and caring. Older children are expected to model learning and behavior to younger children. The practice of good habits is built through leadership.

Parents of children at Okanagan Montessori appreciate the cooperative attitude and kindness that is emphasized in the Montessori system. The Montessori approach is non-competitive and develops the intrinsic motivation that is present in children from birth. At Montessori children work for the joy of working.

The Montessori philosophy builds on the idea that hard work develops inner peace and that peace can spread from person to person. It also makes work its own reward, children enjoy coming to class and are ready to work.

Student activity is largely self-directed, children cannot choose to ‘not work,’ but

they can choose from various activities in a rich learning environment. The BC Certified, Montessori-trained teachers plan around the children’s interests, and also deliver lessons in a more formal way to small groups. The goal is for three hours of uninterrupted work time, focusing each morning in the areas of reading, writing and math, and more in the afternoon on the cultural areas.

The approach develops mastery and covers a tremendous amount of ground. Children naturally progress to more challenging material.

Assessment at Montessori is ongoing and delivered in an anecdotal format following long parent teacher conferences. Parents are given a complete picture of their child’s

progress. Children receive feedback on the level of their effort; hard work is praised rather than the result.

When a child has completed their Montessori education they take valuable skills with them, organization abilities, self-confidence and a fantastic work ethic. Student excel as they enter middle school, when they do something, they don’t do it half way.

Okanagan Montessori Elementary andPreschool on East Kelowna Road

EDUCATION. Applied Intelligently.Elementary SchoolPreschoolOut of School CareDaycareCare for Children 3-12

Cooperative LearningMaterials-BasedIndividual ProgressIndependence in LearningNon-Denominational

CONTACT ADMISSIONS FOR MORE INFORMATION

3439 East Kelowna RoadKelowna

250-860-1165okmontessori@shawbiz.ca

Preparation for lifelong learning, capitalizing on

children’s innate desire to learn.

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First Lutheran Christian SchoolIn a beautiful facility on Lakeshore Drive, First Lutheran Christian School welcomes children from preschool age to Grade 7. The continuum of care inspires and attracts parents from across the City to enroll their children in a learning environment that is collaborative and holistic.

First Lutheran offers seamless education and care with a concentration on children ages three to 12. It is a truly unique program, day care, preschool and before and after school care are each aligned with the elementary school.

“In a two parent, working professional family, they can be guaranteed care and education around the calendar year,” explains Karine Veldhoen, Chief Learning Officer at First Lutheran.

Three main elements contribute to

the before and after school care at First Lutheran. Extracurricular activities, on site tutoring to support homework, and a comfortable routine are the three pillars of the integrated care program.

Veldhoen says the programming is chosen with a purpose, “We are intentional in our care programming. We approach it from an educational perspective, so when a parent has their child home at the end of the day, all that is needed is to cook supper and sign the child’s agenda.”

Extracurricular activities are extensive as there is almost no television or video screen time in the program. Games, Lego, baking, crafting and more are consistent activities. The onsite tutoring includes extra intervention for literacy from a credentialed teacher when needed. The routine is designed to mimic home life: there is snack, homework, and support from school teacher to caregiver.

The bright, open facility, with a gym and playground provides a wonderful setting for education and care. The approach to education includes a specific character development program. Children are taught to manage their emotions, solve problems effectively and work cooperatively; character forms as children learn the processes of maturity.

First Lutheran complements its character development programming with a huge emphasis on critical thinking and cognitive development. Students are taught from a young age to make reasoned judgments based on defined criteria. The goal is to develop intentional habits of the mind. At the end of Grade 7, each student leaves First Lutheran with a multi-year portfolio showcasing student work that demonstrates the progress and quality of their thought.

Athletics at First Lutheran are taught in

ten different modules per year, each taught by experts. There is an emphasis on individual sports; research has shown children will take those skills into adulthood. Swimming, skiing, martial arts and more are a part of the athletic program.

The school is fully inclusive, there are no requirements around religious affiliation. There are also students with a variety of disabilities. “We include everyone,” says Veldhoen, “At First Lutheran every child is a gift, we treat each other with dignity and respect.”

FIRST LUTHERANCHRISTIAN SCHOOL

4091 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna

Open doors

Open mindsfor

Discover First Lutheran School

We are a school of excellence and distinction founded in faith providing seamless

education and care for students preschool through Grade 7.

Book aprivate tour

& information session today!

Our Chief Learning O�cer, Karine Veldhoen, would love to meet

with you and answer any questions you may have.

The benefits of joining our school:

all

Accepting

Students Now!

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Kelowna Christian SchoolThe roots of Kelowna Christian School go back to 1978 when the school was founded as Evangel Christian Academy. Kelowna Christian still has a modern campus next door to Evangel on Gordon Drive for the Elementary and Pre-School, while the Middle School and High School are at the second campus on Benvoulin Road, with a student body of 783 students.

Kelowna Christian is known for its strong academic achievements, for the past five years the Elementary School has been the top ranked school in the region by the Fraser Institute. “The mix of small classes and our absolute commitment to the fundamentals of reading,

writing, comprehension and math help our students in elementary school succeed,” says Glen Madden, The Director of Communications for Kelowna Christian School.

The Pre-School is located on the Gordon Drive Campus. There is a seamless flow between pre-school and kindergarten. Parents are able to make the choice between all day and half day kindergarten.

At the Elementary School, children learn the beginnings of character development. Kelowna Christian has a ‘Me 3rd’ approach to character and teaches the concept from Kindergarten to Grade 12. “We teach children God first, others second and me third,” explains Madden. “We support that teaching with weekly chapel, and a focus on empathy and honor. The program is geared to the idea that the world doesn’t begin and end with ourselves.”

The ethos of service is carried into Middle and High School with myriad service opportunities. Locally Kelowna Christian students volunteer with Kelowna based social organizations to help the needy. Mission trips abroad to Mexico, Asia and Africa are made every year. At the older ages we have a Christian perspectives class that discusses

religion and has a large component of community service.

Academics remain strong in Kelowna Christian Middle and High School. The Middle School has its own wing in the campus and students’ horizons are expanded with electives including outdoor education, music, art and more. There is a full time school pastor and students form the bands for chapel. The High School routinely scores in the top 10 per cent for academic achievement province wide.

The athletics department plays in the ‘A’ division, yet teams routinely play against larger ‘AA’ and ‘AAA’ schools to hone talent and remain competitive.

Kelowna Christian welcomes all students, from any denomination, belief systems need to be supportive of Christian values.

Parents play a dynamic role at both campuses, the elementary school has a Parent in Action group and offers parent workshops on a regular basis. There is a sense of shared purpose between teachers and parents, says Madden, “Our caring teachers, high academic standards and small class sizes are some of the most commented aspects of our school.”