Bowen Island Community School

About

Bowen Island Community School is located at Po Box 220, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0. The school is situated in an idyllic setting a short walk from Snug Cove and serves students from Kindergarten to Grade 7. BICS describes its mission as meeting the educational needs of its Community of Learners so members are inspired to pursue lifelong learning, supported by diverse, stimulating learning experiences in a supportive environment that fosters mutual respect and shared responsibility. The school also describes itself as a hub for the island, offering community services and programs alongside its K–7 learning environment.

At a Glance

School type: Public School (West Vancouver)

Education language: Bowen Island Community School and West Vancouver Schools offer English Language Learner (ELL) supports and services; families are directed to the district ELL brochure and district contacts for current information. No bilingual or immersion language-of-instruction program is described for BICS in the provided sources.

Religious affiliation: None / Secular

Grades: K-7

Phone: 604 947-9337

Email: lmagrath@wvschools.ca

Principal: Laura Magrath

Education Languages

Bowen Island Community School and West Vancouver Schools offer English Language Learner (ELL) supports and services; families are directed to the district ELL brochure and district contacts for current information. No bilingual or immersion language-of-instruction program is described for BICS in the provided sources.

Programs and Services

Place-based / environmental learning BICS highlights place-based learning experiences supported by Bowen Island’s natural setting, with school and community working closely around conservation and stewardship. Music / Band The school provides music classes to all students in Grades K–7. Intermediate Band registration is available to students in Grades 6–7 through the district’s elementary band registration. Athletics and extracurricular sports After-school care An After School Day Care program is operated by the Bowen Island Children’s Centre and is located at BICS for children in Kindergarten through Grade 6; it is open to all elementary-age children whether or not they attend BICS. Homework Club Homework Club is an after-school program for BICS students in Grades 3–6, offering adult support for reading/research/homework and a free snack. Student support / special education Student Support Services are provided through a range of school- and district-based professionals. The School-Based Team includes the Principal, Learning Support Teachers, Gifted Resource Teacher, School Counsellor, and district specialists (Speech and Language Pathologist and Educational Psychologist) who consult with teachers, develop strategies, and recommend resources; parents are notified of referrals and consent is required for formal assessments and/or pull-out support. Technology BICS reports having mobile technology devices available for students (supported by the PAC), wireless projectors in classrooms, and encourages students in Grades 4–7 to bring their own digital device.

• Cross Country
• Basketball
• Volleyball
• Ultimate Frisbee
• Track & Field

School Culture and Expectations

BICS states it aims to provide a supportive environment that fosters mutual respect and shared responsibility. The school’s mission emphasizes meeting the educational needs of its Community of Learners and inspiring lifelong learning.

Transportation, Parking, and Getting Here

West Vancouver Schools asks families to submit an online request form for student transportation services. The district notes that busing is provided in accordance with Ministry guidelines for students beyond walk limits to the nearest public school where there is a grade for the student, with route information available through the district transportation page. Visitor parking is available at all West Vancouver schools, and public parking is typically available in school lots after school hours unless otherwise marked.

Enrollment

West Vancouver Schools uses an online admissions application. Families are instructed to gather required documentation, complete the correct school-year application form, attach documentation for the application to submit properly, and look for an automated email confirmation; incomplete applications may be removed after two weeks. The district notes it accepts applications from families residing within and outside the district, and that BC education funding and district procedures require documentation supporting a BC residence address.