Gulf Islands School District
Gulf Islands School District
The Gulf Islands School District, situated in the Salish Sea, consists of five island communities: Salt Spring, Pender, Galiano, Mayne, and Saturna islands, and currently caters to approximately 1500 students. The district is well-known for its top-quality programming, which includes a successful Indigenous program, a thriving International Program, a performing arts academy, ecological and nature-based programs, and a late French Immersion program.
The Gulf Islands School District aspires to uphold the principles of trust, accountability, equality, sustainability, collaboration, and multiculturalism by putting kids at the center of everything they do. The Gulf Islands bask in Canada's most moderate climate, featuring cool and wet winters and warm and dry summers. The region is home to a plethora of artists, trees, marine life, and stunning scenery.
Programs in Gulf Islands School District
The Gulf Islands School District prides itself on delivering a plethora of high-quality programs that cater to the diverse needs and interests of its student body. The district is dedicated to placing students at the forefront of their mission, creating an inclusive and collaborative learning environment that supports student success and personal growth. The district offers an impressive array of programs, including a thriving Indigenous program, an internationally recognized program, a performing arts academy, ecological and nature-based programs, and a late French Immersion program. Whether students aspire to delve into the arts, the environment, or language acquisition, the Gulf Islands School District's programs offer a clear path to unlocking their full potential.
When seeking flexible learning options, Gulf Islands School District 64's K-12 online learning school, 64GO, is the perfect choice for students and families residing in the Southern Gulf Islands. The online school offers full-time and part-time enrollment options or students may combine an online learning program with classroom-based instruction.
64GO's individualized educational programs are designed to meet provincial learning standards and are created in consultation with students and families. By creating a Student Learning Plan, students are supported in reaching their educational goals through meaningful, personal, and flexible learning opportunities.
One of the primary reasons to choose 64GO is the approved BC Curriculum that is facilitated by BC Certified Teachers within SD64. This ensures that students receive a quality education that meets provincial standards. Additionally, students and families determine the time, place, path, and pace of their learning, allowing for greater flexibility and convenience. Students can choose from a variety of blended learning choices, giving them access to the resources and facilities of the Gulf Islands School District to improve their education and promote their achievement. Regular and ongoing feedback and assessment is provided to students, with formal reporting occurring three times per year.
Students, parents, employers and Career and Transitions Gulf Islands School District staff can all find information here about programs that cater to different interests, skills and values of students. The website aims to help students explore different career paths, including travel, work, university or college for academic, technical or trades training. The career and transition programs are typically best suited for senior students who are enthusiastic and possess good attendance and study skills.
The programs offered by the Gulf Islands School District provide an opportunity for students to learn fundamental skills required for a number of careers. Work Experience 12A and 12B are year-long 4 credit elective courses that provide students with the opportunity to participate in on-the-job training and learn about the tasks and responsibilities related to an occupation or career. These courses are a perfect way to enhance or deepen a student’s skill set regarding any career area. Similarly, Fire Camp is a week-long program that provides students with an opportunity to gain training in emergency services and leadership experience. The Junior Crew Program offers students the chance to learn marine first aid, electronic navigation, VHF radio operation, practical seamanship and the operation of a Fast Response Craft.
Another program offered by the district is TASK (Trades Awareness, Skills & Knowledge), which provides entry-level trades training in various career areas linked to the construction trade. With the help of the Work in Trades program, students in Grades 10 through 12 can begin working as young apprentices in one of the 140 skilled trades in British Columbia while still attending high school.
In conclusion, the Gulf Islands School District provides a variety of activities to meet the interests and requirements of various student populations. Whether students are interested in emergency services, marine navigation, or entry-level trades training, the district has a program that can help them achieve their goals and reach their full potential. These programs are typically best suited for senior students who are enthusiastic and possess good attendance and study skills. By participating in these programs, students can gain valuable work experience and learn about different career paths that may be of interest to them.
Gulf Islands School District recognizes the importance of a well-rounded education and values collaboration with families, educators, and community partners. This approach to learning allows for a comprehensive approach that helps children grow and develop into well-rounded individuals. In line with this philosophy, the district has created programs and spaces that cater to the needs of families and young children. From birth to age 8, Gulf Islands School District offers inclusive programs that support early development and create a foundation for lifelong learning. Our goal is to provide welcoming and nurturing environments that foster positive experiences and growth. The district takes pride in offering a range of programs for children of all ages. For those aged birth to 5, Gulf Islands School District have the StrongStart program, Ready, Set, Learn initiatives, Welcome to Kindergarten (WTK), and Strengthening Early Years to Kindergarten Transitions (SEY2KT). Meanwhile, for school-aged children (Kindergarten to Grade 3), Gulf Islands School District offers Roots of Empathy, Seamless Day, and ECEs in classrooms (September Kindergarten transitions).
At Salt Spring Elementary School, SD 64 provides a Late Immersion Program for grades 6-7, which is designed to immerse students in French language and culture. This program is an excellent opportunity for students to enhance their communication skills and develop a deep understanding of the French language.
For grades 8-12, Gulf Islands Secondary School (GISS) provides a Secondary School French Immersion Program. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes French language development and enables students to become proficient in written and oral communication. Through this program, students have the opportunity to enhance their cultural and linguistic awareness and develop an appreciation for French language and culture.
Enriching the education system with a focus on the performing arts, the Gulf Islands School District offers the Gulf Islands School of Performing Arts (GISPA). GISPA provides advanced education in music, dance, and theatre for students in grades 9-12 who have a passion for performing arts. Students enrolled in GISPA receive ongoing comprehensive training and master classes to develop their skills and talents. The program offers various performance opportunities, including showcases and main-stage productions, enabling students to develop their confidence and creativity.
With visiting professionals conducting workshops, GISPA students can learn from a range of experienced performers and educators, enhancing their education beyond the classroom. The program provides students with a unique and comprehensive education that prepares them for a career in the performing arts or further study in the field.
Accommodation
Gulf Islands School District is dedicated to ensuring that every international student has a comfortable and enjoyable stay during their time in Salt Spring Island, BC. To facilitate this, the school offers a range of lodging options to suit various preferences and budgets.
For those who wish to live on campus, Gulf Islands School District offers a homestay program where students can live with local families. The homestay program provides international students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Canadian culture while enjoying the warmth and comfort of a caring host family. The homestay program includes a private room, three meals a day, and weekly cleaning services. The cost for homestay is $1,100 CAD per month.
If living on campus is not an option, there are several off-campus lodging options available to international students. One popular choice is renting a private apartment or house. This option provides students with more independence and privacy, and the cost varies depending on the location and size of the apartment or house. On average, a one-bedroom apartment costs around $1,500 CAD per month, while a two-bedroom house costs around $2,500 CAD per month.
GIS also provides support to international students in finding appropriate housing options, and the school has a dedicated housing coordinator who can assist with the search and placement process.
Future Prospects
The Gulf Islands School District offers its pupils a distinctive educational experience that entails a thorough curriculum and instruction on elementary subjects, with the eventual objective being to prepare them for success in both their academics and future vocations. International students who graduate from one of the Gulf Islands School District are well-equipped to pursue further education in Canada or return home to continue their studies. In addition, after completing their college or university studies, they can apply for a post-graduation work permit that enables them to work in Canada for up to three years before seeking permanent residency. Ultimately, acquiring Canadian citizenship can provide numerous benefits that are worth pursuing.
In case, if you need help with Custodianship and Homestay in order to study in Gulf Islands School District or other schools in Canada, please fill in application below or contact us directly.
