Whole School

About

The Whole School is located at 5614 Highway #6, P.O. Box 240, Winlaw, BC V0G 2J0. The school offers a K–7 program and says it nurtures individuals who are confident in their potential and place in a changing world. It emphasizes honoring each child’s social and emotional needs, curiosity, imagination, and enthusiasm in a safe, non-competitive environment. The school highlights artistic expression, environmental stewardship, experiential learning, social justice, and strong parent collaboration and volunteering.

At a Glance

School type: Independent School (Kootenay Lake)

Education language: English

Religious affiliation: None / Secular

Grades: K

Phone: 250 226-7737

Email: wholeschool@gmail.com

Principal: Sumika Motoki

Programs and Services

Outdoor Leadership Program (experiential outdoor learning) Fridays are reserved for the Outdoor Leadership Program (OLP), with students outdoors all day at various locations in the West Kootenays. The program is designed as extended experiential learning with enhanced physical education, and focuses on safe exploration of the natural world, self-direction, organization, teamwork, leadership, and environmental stewardship. Arts and enrichment (Music / Art / Theatre / Gardening) The school offers enrichment classes in Music, Art, Theatre, and Gardening for the entire school. Kindergarten readiness (Ready, Set, Learn!) The school hosts a yearly free Ready, Set, Learn! event described as a kindergarten readiness program that welcomes children to the school and introduces components of the school program. Student support / learning support The school describes small class sizes (15 or less), individualized instruction, and teachers working one-on-one with students to set ongoing, achievable goals. The staffing listed includes two BC-certified teachers and two Education Assistants.

School Culture and Expectations

The Whole School describes a small, multi-age, non-competitive and non-graded approach intended to create a secure, nurturing environment where students can become risk-takers and express their opinions openly. The school emphasizes self-evaluation and self-motivation, individualized non-graded learning plans, and “continuous progress.” The Circle of Courage model is integrated into curriculum and is described through four core values: belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. The school also highlights community-minded learning through an annual Generosity Project in which students organize fundraisers and/or volunteer around issues they care about.

Enrollment

Families are directed to contact the School Coordinator to receive an introductory package and admission application, and to submit the application as early as possible. The school encourages arranging a class visit to help determine fit and suitability. Enrollment is space-available and depends on whether the school can meet the child’s needs; new students have an automatic six-week trial period. Contact: wholeschool@gmail.com or (250) 226-7737.