Distributed for Pacific Educational Press
Insider’s Guide to K–12 Education in BC
Provides parents with the information they need to
- Navigate the school system
- Make informed decisions
- Access available resources and support
- Advocate for their child
Equips educators with the information they need to help parents make the right decisions for their child’s education
Key Questions Answered
- How does the school system work?
- What makes a good school good?
- How do I choose the right school for my child?
- What program options are available? Which one best suits my child?
- What if my child needs additional support or interventions?
- How is my child’s learning assessed and evaluated?
- What are the requirements for graduation?
- How can I support my child through school transitions?
- How can I become involved in my child’s school?
Table of Contents
Part 1: How the School System Works
Governance and Administration
Finance
How Schools Are Organized
How the School Year Is Organized
The Provincial Curriculum
Part 2: Choosing a School
What Makes a Good School Good?
How to Choose a Public School
How to Enroll Your Child into the Public School of Your Choice
How to Choose an Independent School
How to Enroll Your Child into an Independent School of Your Choice
Part 3: Program and Schooling Options
What Types of Program and Schooling Options Are Available?
Homeschooling
Distributed Learning
Francophone School
French Immersion
Other Language Immersion Programs
Community Schools
Advanced Placement Program
International Baccalaureate Program
Aboriginal Education Programs
Arts Programs
Sports Programs
Montessori and Reggio Emilia Programs
Challenge Programs
Multi-Age Cluster Classes
Vocational Programs
Other Programs of Choice
Part 4: Learning Support and Behaviour Interventions
Would Your Child Benefit from Additional Learning Support?
Does Your Child Need English Language Support?
What Can You Do If Your Child Is Being Bullied?
Understanding Interventions or Supports for Behaviour Issues
Part 5: Assessment and Evaluation
The Difference Between Assessment and Evaluation
Assessment
Evaluation
Parent-Teacher Interviews
Part 6: Frequently Asked Questions
How and When Will Your Child’s Class Placement Be Determined?
What Input Can You Have in Your Child’s Class Placement?
Why Do Schools Have Multi-Grade Classes?
What Makes an Effective Teacher?
What Happens on Professio