Educational Programs & Services

In the following pages you will find a range of educational resources from preschool to post-secondary. For more information about these programs, please refer to the advertising in this issue.

Preschools

Carrot Seed Preschool—Play Paves the Way! Open House Saturday, February 13, 10am-1pm. All of our ECE certified teachers are dedicated to the philosophy of play and demonstrate their love of teaching every day. Our Head of School is Dianne Bentley, an award-winning educator who has been with Carrot Seed since it opened in 1988. We provide a wonderfully rich, inclusive environment for children to play, explore and “live in the moment” so they can grow into independent and self-directed individuals. Discover a place where children wonder, discover, imagine, construct and learn, through play. New afternoon session time 12:30-3pm. www.carrotseedpreschool.com.

Cloverdale Preschool celebrates learning through play. Our qualified early childhood educators offer an emergent curriculum to 3-year-olds and pre-kindergarten children. Located at Cloverdale Traditional School, 3427 Quadra Street, where preschoolers wear the school uniform and enjoy a smooth transition into their kindergarten year. The preschool is operated by Cloverdale Child Care Centre, which also offers daycare options to school-age children. For more information, attend our Open House on Friday, February 19 from 3:30-5:30pm. Contact Peg (preschool) at 250-858-3095. cloverdalepreschool@yahoo.ca or Cindy (child care) at 250-995-1766, cloverdalechildcare@shawbiz.ca. Learn and grow with us!

Emmanuel Preschool is a welcoming and inclusive Christian preschool, where students with special needs have the support of an additional teacher. Our morning classes are offered either two or three days per week. Both programs are for 3- and 4-year-olds and include stories, games, singing, arts and crafts, science activities, free play (indoors and outdoors) and some field trips. Each class is licensed for a maximum of 20 children and has two qualified and experienced teachers. Our staff strives to teach and model Christian attitudes and values, and to maintain a warm, caring and safe environment in which children can create and explore. Our facilities include: a bright, attractive classroom with large windows and two child-sized washrooms; an accessible, fenced playground with a large sandbox, bike area, playhouse and new playground equipment; a large gym area equipped for active play on rainy days. 250-598-0573.

Montessori Educare, Saanichton This beautiful little preschool situated in the heart of Saanichton is open from 8:30am-4:30pm. The program follows a Montessori curriculum in the morning, followed by an afternoon play program in our delightful Rainbow Room. A spacious, safe and well-equipped garden playground provides ample opportunity for outside exercise and free activity. 5-, 3- or 2-day preschool, all day kindergarten, and a Summer Play program are offered. Open House February 14, 2-4pm. Montessori Educare, Broadmead, offers a morning-only program. For more information, phone 250-881-8666 or e-mail montessorieducare@shaw.ca. www.montessorieducare.com.

Neighbourhood Junior Kindergarten has extended its dynamic curriculum, adding an afternoon 3-year-old Stepping Stones program this term. The preschool, which shares its facilities with Lakehill School in Saanich, has developed a unique approach to early literacy, beginning with a small 3-year-old program taught by accredited and enthusiastic staff. The morning Junior Kindergarten program actively participates in whole school activities through mentoring, gym time, library visits and Christmas concerts. Director Jane Hamm (B.Ed, ECE) has crafted a program based upon her 20 years of experience working in early childhood. 250-479-4410.

The new Oak and Orca Bioregional Pre-primary School is open. Founded on over 10 years of experience in bioregional programming for children, this licensed facility offers an early learning experience based on child-directed learning, individual awareness and choice. Natural learning is supported through investigation, experience and play. Building relationships and developing communication skills are supported as educational priorities, providing a focus on meeting needs to help create harmony and self-awareness. Regular out-trips connect youngsters with the natural world while at the school they enjoy experiences in science, math, language and more. Info: oakandorca.ca or 250-383-6609.

Located in the heart of Oak Bay for over 25 years, Oak Bay Parent Owned Preschool offers the opportunity to be involved in the first years of your child’s school experience. Our philosophy of learning through play is evident in the various activities offered in this social, emotional, intellectual and physical program. Our experienced and dedicated ECE leads classes for 3- and 4-year-olds. Register now for 2010/2011. Attend our Open House on Saturday, February 13 from 10am-12 noon and tour our permanent, allergy free facilities. 1701 Elgin Street (lower level, St. Mary’s Church) or call 250-592-1922 for more information. www.oakbaypreschool.com.

Ross Bay Preschool. Our program is designed to make a positive contribution to your child’s intellectual, social, emotional and physical development. A well planned and flexible program includes teacher-directed activities based on interests of the children as well as time for individual exploration and free play. At Ross Bay Preschool, the learning process is always in a happy and stimulating environment. Our teachers are highly qualified and highly motivated educators who recognize the importance of addressing all children and their caregivers with fairness, compassion and respect. For more information please visit www.rossbaypreschool.com or phone us at 250-383-7445.

Be involved in the first years of your child’s school experience. The Vancouver Island Cooperative Preschool Association (VICPA) has 15 parent participation preschools involving hundreds of families every year. Fully qualified, experienced ECEs (Early Childhood Educators) provide high-quality, well-rounded programs where children learn through play. Parents have the opportunity to have hands-on time in the preschool and monthly parent education is offered free to registered families. February is Open House month, so come and visit the VICPA preschool in your area (see ad on page 18). VICPA also presents the 33rd Annual Making Tomorrow Conference, the Island’s largest conference for parents, educators, and child and youth care workers, on Saturday May 1 at UVic. This year’s theme is Inspiring Young Minds. For more information visit www.vicpa.org or call 250-598-2667.

Do you want a unique and innovative early education for your preschool child? We at Victoria Montessori Preschool and Childcare have combined the best of Montessori and “Learning Through Play” which enables children to explore all domains of their development. Victoria Montessori will give your child a solid foundation in a respectful and beautiful environment. Our school is open year round which is perfect for working parents requiring full-day care. We provide a program that starts in toddlerhood (30 months) and progresses through the kindergarten year. Call us for further details at 250-380-0534 or visit our website at www.victoriamontessori.com.

Schools

Christ Church Cathedral School. One of the first questions parents ask of a school is “How big are your classes?” They hope, especially when they are sending off their first child to kindergarten, that he or she will not be lost in a large class, just one face amidst a sea of faces. Smaller classes mean more—more resources, more teacher time, more space, more interaction with the teacher and classmates, more opportunity to learn, more opportunity to express your opinions and ask your questions and more chance of having them answered. At Christ Church Cathedral School, we cap our class size at 20/21 for Grades 1 to 8, and 19/20 for kindergarten. When they finally find themselves in university in the lecture theatre with 300 other students, they may not immediately remember those small classes, but the thinking, the writing, the discussion and the learning that they will be doing will have been shaped by that early experience. www.cathedralschool.ca. 250-383-5125.

The Conseil scolair francophone de la Colombie-Britannique (CSF), also known as BC’s Francophone School District (SD 93) was created in 1995 to serve Francophones across the province. Since its creation in 1995, the CSF has offered educational programs and services geared towards the growth and cultural promotion of the province’s Francophone learners. An active partner in the development of British Columbia’s Francophone community, the Conseil has presently in its system, and distributed across 78 communities in the province, over 4,350 students and 38 schools, which includes 21 homogeneous schools. For more information visit www.csf.bc.ca, call 604-214-2600 or 1-888-715-2200,e-mail info@csf.bc.ca.

In many ways Discovery School is like any other school. We are Ministry inspected and have bright cheerful classrooms where children study the B.C. core curriculum. What makes us unique is that we are dedicated entirely to helping students with learning disabilities, and have a proven track record in using the latest advances in brain research to the benefit of our students. Here, students from age 7-16 work at their own pace in small classes under the direction of skilled, experienced teachers. We would be happy to show you our school. For more information, please visit www.discoveryschool.ca or call 250-595-7765.

Elizabeth Buckley School is an independent K-6 school located at the Cridge Centre for the Family on Hillside Avenue. EBS offers a solid academic program based on the B.C. curriculum, and enrichment programs to enhance students’ learning. EBS has three classrooms with a maximum of 16 students per room. Kindergarten is a full-day academic program. At EBS, experienced B.C. College certified teachers and knowledgeable education assistants support each student on his or her individual journey to success. Low student-to-teacher ratios ensure that each child’s unique needs are addressed within a secure, nurturing environment. EBS’s hands-on, individualized approach to education creates flexible thinkers and lifelong learners. Book a tour today to see what we can do for your child. www.elizabethbuckleyschool.com. 250-995-6425.

Glenlyon Norfolk School (GNS) is one of only a handful of schools in Canada accredited as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for students JK to Grade 12. Facilitating critical thinking and breadth of study, the IB provides an inquiry-based, engaging approach to learning. Our mission—“to challenge and support our students to do their best through truth and courage in learning and in life”—lies at the very heart of everything we do, establishing the values we live by every day. Please call the Admissions office, 250-370-6801, for more information and to arrange a visit to the school. We would be happy to speak with you. www.glenlyonnorfolk.bc.ca.

Greater Victoria School District is pleased to offer both Early entry (Kindergarten or Grade 1) and Late entry (Grade 6) French Immersion. The Immersion program enables students to achieve levels of learning in all subject areas equivalent to the English Program while becoming functionally bilingual. Functionally bilingual students can participate comfortably in French and English conversations, pursue further education with French as the language of instruction, be qualified for employment where French is required and gain insights into the cultures of French speaking countries. 250-475-4120.

Island Montessori House School was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori with the understanding that each child has a natural desire and ability to learn. Every child needs to feel safe, comfortable, cared for and respected in order to have the confidence and peace-of-mind to concentrate on developing and learning. The staff of Island Montessori is committed to providing a rich, safe, developmentally appropriate and caring environment, and to establishing rapport with each and every child. Our child-centred program promotes a sense of well-being, confidence and independence. Individual and group activities foster growth in all areas of development. We are proud to have children in our school from a variety of economic, ethnic and religious backgrounds, as well as a whole host of abilities and special needs. Our location at 5575 West Saanich Road is beautiful. For more information, please call the school at 250-592-4411. www.islandmontessori.com.

Lakeview Christian School, located across from Elk Lake, offers an excellent, affordable Christian education in a safe, family-oriented environment. This modern, well-equipped, B.C. certified school provides a comprehensive curriculum from daycare to Grade 9. Students come from a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds and all are welcome. At Lakeview, we believe that excellence in education is about more than academic achievement. We are committed to developing excellence in the whole person and qualities of character that will build a better, brighter future. Please call Rosemarie Welch, Principal, at 250-658-5082 to learn more about what Lakeview Christian School has to offer. 729 Cordova Bay Road.

Maria Montessori Academy offers children from preschool to Grade 9, with plans to expand to Grade 12, a Christian learning environment within a family-like setting. The traditional Montessori environment helps children learn at their own pace through self-directed learning while fulfilling the B.C. educational curriculum. The hands-on interactive approach and low student teacher ratio encourage children to reach their full potential and foster a love of learning. Visit our website at www.montessori.bc.ca to find out more about our school and the Montessori philosophy. Contact Brenda McDermitt, Principal, at 250-479-4746.

Oak and Orca Bioregional School offers an affordable option for elementary and middle school levels up to Grade 9. Our certified school offers the provincial curriculum in an individualized format for practical, engaging, child-directed learning. This ungraded program uses independent learning logs, conferences and workshop choices to provide children with the structure they need to learn at their own pace. Regular field trips encourage connections with the natural and cultural heritage of our home place. As part of a community of learners, children are able to communicate effectively, think and act creatively, and develop into responsible ecological citizens. Join a unique learning community. If you are curious about child-directed learning and bioregional education, see oakandorca.ca or phone 250-383-6609.

Pacific Christian School was one of the first independent Christian schools on Vancouver Island. For the past 50 years, PCS has sought to provide quality education from B.C. certified teachers for preschool through Grade 12. Today, Pacific Christian is a vibrant community of award-winning students and staff with an enrollment of more than 1,000 preschool to Grade 12 students, including international students from Japan, Korea, Taiwan and China. PCS offers programs that produce national award-winning students in the fine arts, academic and sports departments. It also offers global experience with mission and exchange trips to Mexico, Japan and Europe. PCS also prides itself academically with consistently having exam scores above the provincial average, as well as offering advanced placement courses in English, art, and calculus. To find out more about what Pacific Christian School offers, check our website at www.pacificchristian.ca, or give us a call at 250-479-4532 and come by for a visit.

At St. Andrew’s Elementary School our motto “To Build in Love” is in evidence in the classrooms, on the playing field and in the family atmosphere of our community. Students thrive in small classes offering innovative academic programs, award-winning fine arts and specialists teaching French, music and physical education. All faith traditions are welcome in our multicultural community. St. Andrew’s offers Victoria families a convenient downtown location, well-established preschool and out of school programs, reasonable fees and a long tradition in educational excellence. For more information, call Mr. Keefer Pollard at 250-382-3815 or visit www.standrewselem.ca.

St. Margaret’s School is an all girl, non-denominational day and boarding school, offering full-day Early Childhood Education through Grade 12. Our strong academic tradition in both Junior and Senior Schools is complimented by fine arts, athletics, leadership and outdoor education. Small class sizes ensure that our outstanding teachers provide every student with a customized learning experience. We assist our students with university preparation and work closely with university admissions counselors to help our girls successfully enter the university of their choice. St. Margaret’s takes pride in empowering our young girls to be themselves and discover their true passions. www.stmarg.ca for more details or call 250-479-7171.

St. Michaels University School hosts two open houses each year. The next one is February 19, 2010. But did you know that the school welcomes visitors throughout the year? We encourage you to visit Junior School where you can watch our students rehearse for their June 3 production of the Barber of Seville. You can also tour Middle School to see students making short films in their exploratory classes. We accept applications for all grades, but encourage students in Grades 4, 6 and 9 to apply as soon as possible. Call 250-370-6170 or visit www.smus.bc.ca.

St. Patrick’s School offers a dynamic K-7 program that includes a high school preparatory program for Grades 6 and 7. We offer strong academics supported by specialist teachers in physical education, music and French. Extracurricular activities inspire students to explore their potential in athletics, fine arts and community service. St. Patrick’s School’s traditional value-based approach provides an education that fulfils each child’s intellectual, spiritual, physical and social needs. Our family of dedicated teachers, staff and supportive parents have established St. Patrick’s School as an outstanding school with over 50 years in learning excellence. We are a vibrant Christian community rooted in the traditions of the Catholic Church and we welcome everyone. Kinder-Care and Out of School Care programs are available. Phone 250-592-6713 or visit www.stpatrickselem.ca.

The Victoria School for Ideal Education (VSIE). Visit this wonderful little school where individual personalities blossom in a dynamic, peaceful, nurturing environment. With a maximum class size of 12, VSIE provides quality individual attention to each child from junior kindergarten to Grade 6. The curriculum goes well beyond the mandated B.C. curriculum by developing an understanding of how each subject area relates to broader principles. Daily meditation develops clearer thinking, creativity, happier relationships and improved self-esteem. In our Outdoor Education Program, we regularly study science, social studies, art, language arts and P.E. in beautiful, natural settings. In this school, “there is an atmosphere of calm respectfulness underlying a richly child-centered approach to learning.” (Quote from the B.C. Ministry of Education External Evaluation Report, November 2007). 250-383-6654, e-mail: vsie@shaw.ca. www.vsie.ca.

West-Mont Montessori School is an independent school committed to academic excellence in a caring learning environment. Our highly professional teachers are enthusiastic, flexible, and committed to meeting the varying learning needs of each child. The school offers a fantastic Montessori program from preschool to Grade 2. With our small multigrade classes at the intermediate level, students can progress through their academics at their own rate. All classes take full advantage of our amazing setting, including Witty’s Lagoon park, large playground and working garden. The incredible learning garden supports our educational program through hands-on experiences. West-Mont also has an outstanding outdoor education program that encourages independence and self-confidence. Come see what we have to offer your family. Private tours are offered every Thursday from 9-11am. Check out the website at www.west-mont.ca or call 250-474-2626. Open House is Saturday February 6 from 10am-3pm.

Distributed Learning

Hands-On Home-Learning For a Sustainable World is an elementary distance learning opportunity offered by Oak and Orca School. This certified program weaves local and global perspectives and the B.C. curriculum into holistic bioregional activities. The hands-on, child-centered activities are offered to enrich your own planning and to provide choices that allow each child to learn at his or her own pace. Certified teaching staff are available to support families in making their own educational decisions. Our program is free and includes an expense budget comparable to other programs to help meet your educational needs. Info: oakandorca.ca, 250-383-6619 (1-888-383-6619 outside of Victoria).

Home-based learning now takes two forms in B.C.: “registration” or “enrollment.” Wondertree/SelfDesign offers both. In the SelfDesign enrollment program for learners ages 5-14, parents and learners design a Learning Plan with the assistance of a Learning Consultant (teacher), then correspond with the LC using an innovative, observational style of reporting. The SelfDesign High School program extends the same educational philosophy into its graduation enrollment program. In the registration option (the Homelearners’ Network), the parent is solely responsible for the program of education, and there is no LC or reporting. All of our programs offer various services. See www.selfdesign.org.

Mid-Island Schools/Education Services

Aspengrove School is the first and only independent, non-denominational, co-educational, university-preparatory school in Nanaimo, offering classes from junior kindergarten for 3-year-olds to Grade 12. Aspengrove is one of only two schools on Vancouver Island that applies the curriculum of the primary years and middle years programs of the International Baccalaureate Organization, one of the world’s most rigorous and highly esteemed education programs (www.ibo.org). Our students are well prepared to thrive in a university environment and beyond, as lifelong learners, conscientious critical thinkers and caring, socially responsible adults. We also offer a fully licensed childcare centre for infants and toddlers to after school care. For more information, visit our website at www.aspengroveschool.ca or call us at 250-390-2201.

Evergreen offers small class sizes (15 maximum) and is committed to a philosophy that endeavours to develop the full potential of each child. We believe that children develop in different ways at different rates in different directions and that that development is best accomplished in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. We strive to instruct children in ways that best fit their individual learning styles. Our goals are to develop a love of learning and self-confidence and respect, to create skillful problem solvers, to foster creativity, encourage community involvement and seek academic excellence. Visit www.evergreenbc.net for more information.

Kool & Child in Nanaimo is a unique store with a product mix that meets the needs of teachers, homeschoolers and caregivers who want quality educational toys and supplies for their children. We have a great selection of teacher resource books and student workbooks as well as decoratives for the classroom: bulletin board sets, trimmers, stickers, charts and posters. Our Art & Science departments are well stocked with essential items and kits that make learning fun. At Kool & Child, you have over 4,000 sq. ft. of resources at your disposal. With our unique blend of educational toys and learning supplies, we are a store like none other. Prepare to be amazed! www.koolandchild.com.

Morning Glory School is an independent school, preschool to Class 8, in a lovely rural setting just outside of Qualicum Beach. MGS blends the best of Waldorf ideals with B.C. education curriculum offering small class sizes and individual attention. Academics are balanced with art, music, practical skills such as knitting, woodwork and gardening, and plenty of nature and outdoor activities that prepare students to be well-rounded adults. We strive to teach children how to think, not what to think, and to become lifelong learners. Special activities and events enhance the school community for both students and parents. Call or e-mail for more information, 250-752-2722, mgs@shawcable.com. www.morninggloryschool.ca.

Sunrise Waldorf School, founded 29 years ago, is situated on seven lovely acres in the Cowichan Valley and serves 200 children from early childhood to Class 8. Island Oak High School in Duncan carries Classes 2-12. We offer a safe and beautiful setting where your children will be allowed to unfold naturally, nurtured by the supportive wisdom of experienced teachers who are truly interested in your children. Students benefit from a multi-faceted liberal arts program that is B.C. accredited and shared by over 1,000 Waldorf schools worldwide. Waldorf School students learn to think independently, be self-directed and take initiative. Waldorf graduates have been long recognized for their social responsibility and ecological awareness. As well, Waldorf graduates are known for being emotionally intelligent, culturally literate, and academically advantaged. Tours available. 250-743-7253. enrollment@sunrisewaldorfschool.org. www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

Post Secondary Education

WestShore Centre for Learning & Training offers graduation and career preparation programs for youth and adults looking to complete Grade 12, upgrade for college or prepare for a career. With a focus on hand-on experiential learning, small classes and flexible learning opportunities, students can take one or more courses to fit their schedule and learning style. Programs are offered days, after school, evenings and online, or a combination of these. Attend full-time or part-time. WestShore Centre’s Continuing Education provides courses in medical terminology, medical office assistant, bookkeeping, computers, foodsafe, traffic controller and many other topics. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff help support your learning. Phone 250-391-9002. www.westshorecentre.com.

Educational Services & Programs

Dyslexia Victoria Online, based in Duncan, serves Vancouver Island from Victoria to Courtenay. The co-founder, a dyslexic mother of three dyslexic children, has spent the last 25 years developing teaching methods that work. Now individuals with dyslexia issues such as difficulty spelling, reading, writing, math, telling time, etc., can learn their way. These non-phonics based teaching methods are easy, inexpensive and give rapid positive results. The services we offer include: Screening for Dyslexic Issues, Dyslexia Assessments which include specific teaching recommendations, 2- and 6-hour Dyslexia Awareness workshops and individual tutoring on some of the latest “speech recognition” software programs. 250-597-3334 or 250-715-3034. thi.sales@dysexiavictoria.ca. www.dyslexiavictoria.ca or www.dyslexiavictoriaonline.com.

IMAX films provide students with unique and exciting opportunities to explore new worlds and new ideas. In fact, they can be so inspiring that scientists and explorers have cited IMAX for influencing their career choice. As NASA astronaut Susan Helms said of her decision to become an astronaut, “I first thought about it as an option for me after seeing the IMAX movie The Dream Is Alive.” Being a part of the education experience at the National Geographic IMAX Theatre in Victoria is important to IMAX, so the films are designed to meet recognized educational standards and offer educators a powerful teaching tool that is easily integrated into existing curriculum. Educator’s resources are always available online and in print and we are happy to make them available upon any group booking. 675 Belleville St. 250-480-4887. www.imaxvictoria.com.

Karen Murdoch, Therapeutic Tutor. Offering specialized tutoring for children with learning difficulties or those who are low-average students. This method is so effective that parents are guaranteed to see results within three months. I specialize in reading, writing, spelling and math using a hands-on approach, utilizing the student’s own learning style with aids designed to facilitate their learning style. The child’s self-esteem improves along with their confidence, language and math skills. I have worked successfully with children who are a little behind in one subject or struggling with several subjects, as well as those with ADD, ADHD, dyslexia or learning disabilities. To find out how I can help your child, call 778-430-3183 or 250-686-3183.

Kumon is an after-school math and reading program that empowers children to achieve more on their own. It helps children master the fundamental skills vital to their overall academic performance. Kumon’s individualized study approach develops not only solid math and reading skills, but also the self-confidence, self-reliance, focus and motivation that helps students succeed not just in school, but in life. More than 16 million children around the world have benefited from Kumon since it was founded in 1958. Visit www.kumon.com or call a Kumon Centre near you: Colwood, 250-474-4175; Saanich, 250-479-1800; Sidney, 250-656-6696.

Mosaic Learning Society’s mission is to provide innovative educational, recreational and social programs for children on the autism spectrum. Mosaic was founded by a group of parents who envisioned a centre where children could gather to receive individual educational support and experience programs geared to their unique strengths and challenges. Our centre offers a variety of programs for children and youth with autism, including drama, art, sports and fitness groups and more. Through our partnership with Self Design Learning Community, we also offer a daytime learning program for homeschooled learners who are on the autism spectrum. www.mosaiclearning.org.

Oxford Learning Centre is celebrating 25 years of helping children reach their learning potential. We offer programs for reading, writing, math, French, ESL as well as study skills for Grades 1-12. Our unique assessment pinpoints how each child learns. Based on these results, we design an individualized program that teaches your child how to learn more effectively while building a strong academic foundation. Your child gets better grades and feels more confident. Furthermore, our Little Readers Academy prepares 3- to 6-year-olds for school by teaching them how to read. For every age, for every need, Oxford Learning has a program to help your child succeed. Call 250-477-5550 or visit our website at oxfordlearning.com.

Sylvan provides personalized instruction to help students in K-12 meet their academic needs. Staffed entirely by teachers, we know how to motivate and empower your child to confidently meet the academic demands of school. In addition to our nationally recognized programs in math, reading and writing, we can also help your child study more effectively and be better prepared when quizzes, tests and exams come around. Each program is individualized to help your child develop skills to master new challenges with confidence. If you want your child to have report card success, then every day matters. Victoria: 250-477-3212, Westshore: 250-590-6211.

Read Now! For over 30 years the Victoria READ Society has taught students of all ages. We create individualized programs for our students that take into account their learning styles and academic needs in the areas of language arts, mathematics and study skills. We work with students in a caring, supportive environment designed to improve their confidence and self-esteem along with their skills. Students love coming to READ because they experience the results. We also offer programs for adult basic education and upgrading and English Language Services for adults. Visit our website, www.readsociety.bc.ca, or call 250-388-7225 to speak to Diane or Janie for program information and to register.

Other

Greater Victoria Teachers’ Association. Parents have the right to withdraw their children from the Foundation Skills Assessment. In some districts, almost half of Grade 4 and 7 students will not be writing the FSA this year. District 61 trustees have joined the Greater Victoria Teachers’ Association in calling for a two year moratorium on FSA testing. Teachers assess their students daily to determine a child’s mastery of concepts and to develop follow-up lessons if required. Students’ time to learn in the classroom is too precious to be given over to tests that do not help children in any measurable way. Thierry Ponchet, President, GVTA.•