North Vancouver School District

North Vancouver School District (School District No. 44) is one of British Columbia’s highest-performing public school districts, serving the City and District of North Vancouver. Located between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains, the district is known for its outstanding academic programs, exceptional outdoor learning opportunities, and strong focus on student well-being. The district provides education to approximately 17,500 students through 25 elementary schools, 7 secondary schools, and one online learning school, supported by more than 2,600 staff members.

Academic Excellence

North Vancouver School District is recognized for its high educational standards and innovative teaching practices. Students consistently perform well in provincial assessments, and the district has a graduation rate exceeding 99%. Schools emphasize academic achievement while also developing creativity, collaboration, leadership, and critical thinking skills that prepare students for university, careers, and lifelong learning.

Diverse Learning Opportunities

The district offers a broad range of educational pathways designed to meet the interests and abilities of every learner. Programs include:

• French Immersion
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme
• Advanced Placement (AP) courses
• Career Pathways and Skilled Trades
• Academies in sports, arts, and specialized learning
• English Language Learning (ELL)
• Outdoor and Environmental Education
• Indigenous Education
• Online Learning
• Early Learning and StrongStart programs

These programs provide students with opportunities to pursue their academic goals while developing practical and leadership skills.

Outstanding Learning Environment

North Vancouver schools are equipped with modern classrooms, science laboratories, libraries, technology resources, music facilities, athletic fields, and performing arts spaces. The district integrates digital technology into teaching while encouraging hands-on, inquiry-based learning.

One of the district’s unique strengths is its natural setting. Students benefit from outdoor education experiences that make use of nearby forests, mountains, beaches, and parks, helping develop environmental awareness, teamwork, and resilience.

Student Population and Diversity

North Vancouver welcomes students from many cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Schools foster inclusive, respectful, and welcoming communities where diversity is celebrated. English Language Learning support is available for students whose first language is not English, ensuring they can successfully integrate into classroom learning and school life.

Student Support Services

The district is committed to supporting every student’s academic, social, and emotional development through comprehensive services, including:

• Inclusive Education
• Learning Support Services
• School Counselling
• Mental Health and Wellness Programs
• Speech and Language Services
• Educational Assistants
• Indigenous Education Support
• English Language Learning Programs

These services help ensure that students of all abilities have access to the support they need to succeed.

Extracurricular Activities

Students are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of extracurricular programs, including:

• Competitive and recreational sports
• Music, choir, and orchestra
• Theatre and performing arts
• Robotics and STEM clubs
• Leadership and student government
• Outdoor adventure programs
• Environmental stewardship initiatives
• Community service and volunteer opportunities

These activities promote confidence, teamwork, leadership, and personal growth.

Parent and Community Engagement

Parents are valued as important partners in education. Every school has an active Parent Advisory Council (PAC), which supports school programs, fundraising initiatives, and community events. Schools maintain regular communication through newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and digital communication platforms to keep families informed and involved.

Tuition Fees

For Canadian citizens and permanent residents living in British Columbia, public education from Kindergarten through Grade 12 is tuition-free, as it is funded by the provincial government. Families may pay modest fees for school supplies, field trips, extracurricular activities, athletic programs, or optional specialized courses.

International students are welcomed through the district’s International Education Program. Tuition fees generally range from CAD $17,000 to $19,000 per academic year, depending on the program and current fee schedule. Additional expenses include medical insurance, homestay accommodation, application fees, transportation, books, and personal living costs. The district also provides orientation, academic advising, and English language support for international students.

Safe and Healthy Community

North Vancouver is consistently recognized as one of Canada’s most desirable places to live. Families enjoy safe neighbourhoods, excellent healthcare, outstanding recreational facilities, extensive public transportation, and easy access to downtown Vancouver. The surrounding mountains, parks, beaches, and forests provide year-round opportunities for skiing, hiking, cycling, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

University and Career Preparation

Graduates of North Vancouver School District regularly continue their studies at leading universities and colleges in Canada and internationally. Through rigorous academic programs, career education, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and dual-credit opportunities, students are well prepared for higher education and future careers.

Why Choose North Vancouver School District?

North Vancouver School District combines exceptional academics with a supportive learning environment and a spectacular natural setting. Students benefit from experienced educators, innovative teaching methods, diverse academic pathways, comprehensive support services, and a strong sense of community. For families seeking a high-quality public education in British Columbia, North Vancouver School District offers an excellent foundation for lifelong success, helping students become confident learners, responsible citizens, and future leaders.