Ark Elementary

About

Ark Elementary Montessori Reggio School is located at 11371 No 3 Rd. 2nd Floor, Richmond, BC V7A 1X3. The school describes itself (along with Noah’s Ark Preschool) as an independent, non-denominational Early Years Specialist school serving learners ages 2 1/2 to 12, using a whole-child, family-centric approach that blends Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and traditional curricular practices.

At a Glance

School type: Independent School (Richmond)

Education language: English

Religious affiliation: None / Secular

Grades: K-5

Phone: 778 990-3520

Email: adinanoahsark@gmail.com

Principal: Adina Priel

Programs and Services

Preschool (Noah’s Ark Preschool) Noah’s Ark Preschool offers an early learning program that combines Montessori philosophy, the Reggio Emilia emergent curriculum approach, and traditional play-based learning, with “rich and varied resources” and opportunities for individual and group work. Elementary program (Ark Elementary School) The Ark Elementary program is described as a continuum of the preschool experience, emphasizing highly individualized, non-competitive learning, cooperative group work, critical thinking, communication skills, choice, and independence. Accessibility, inclusion, and supports The school has an Accessibility Committee (informed by the Accessible BC Act) and a 2023–2026 Accessibility Plan focused on removing and preventing barriers and promoting inclusion and accessibility for learners, staff, parents, and the broader community.

School Culture and Expectations

The school’s Code of Conduct emphasizes a safe, caring, respectful, and fully inclusive environment, with a responsibility to protect students from discrimination, exclusion, bullying, abuse, harm, or threats of harm. The Ark references BC’s ERASE Bullying Strategy and describes school-wide behavioural expectations taught and reinforced to support student connectedness. Student expectations include five core rules (e.g., follow directions quickly, make smart choices, be safe and honest, and show respect) and a “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.” framework that highlights responsibility, safety, problem-solving, communication, and including others.

Enrollment

The school states that applications are normally accepted January through February for placement the following September, with registration forms available at the annual January Open House. Families who miss the Open House may submit an application form with a $175 registration fee; the process includes a child interview and additional forms and a non-refundable one-month tuition deposit after acceptance. Elementary applicants are also asked to submit past academic records (where available) and a letter of recommendation from the most recent school; if vacancies are filled, applicants may be placed on a waiting list (families can contact the school by email for additional information or a tour).