Highlands Elementary

About

Highlands Elementary is located at 3150 Colwood Dr, North Vancouver, BC V7R 2R6. The school emphasizes inclusion and self-regulation, with a focus on acceptance, social-emotional learning (SEL), and teaching self-regulation strategies. Highlands also prioritizes improving students’ literacy and numeracy through explicit daily instruction and research-proven strategies.

At a Glance

School type: Public School (North Vancouver)

Education language: English

Religious affiliation: None / Secular

Grades: K-7

Phone: 604 903-3540

Email: highlands@sd44.ca

Principal: Deborah Wanner

Programs and Services

Library / Library Learning Commons (The Commons) The Commons is described as a hub for learning, exploration, research, and social connection, and it emphasizes inclusivity and student agency. It supports reading, research, inquiry, and leadership, and provides access to both physical collections and digital resources (including BC Digital Classroom and library catalogues). Music / Band & Strings Band and Strings are district fee-paying instrumental programs for intermediate students (Band: Grades 5–7; Strings: Grades 4–7). The program provides school-based instrumental instruction and complements the BC Ministry of Education’s Arts Education curriculum. Student leadership and service Students’ Council plans events and special functions to enhance the school, with elected members meeting bi-weekly. Peer Counsellors (Grades 6–7) support younger students on the playground at recess and lunch and are trained to help solve problems. Gifted Program The district offers programming for students who are academically gifted (identified through testing and screening), described as serving approximately 2% of students. Athletics and extracurricular sports Highlands describes its sports as an inclusive program with no try-outs, with students assessed and placed at an appropriate team level when needed; the school also notes the possibility of house team programs for younger grades. Awards and recognition A Grade Seven Awards Program recognizes and celebrates student excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, and service.

• Basketball
• Cross-Country Running
• Volleyball
• Track and Field
• Kilometre Club

School Culture and Expectations

Highlands highlights inclusion and self-regulation as core goals, emphasizing acceptance and explicitly teaching social-emotional learning (SEL) skills and self-regulation strategies. The Library Learning Commons also states a focus on inclusivity and providing a safe, supportive environment where students feel supported in learning and skill development.